[spoiler]
Well, before I sink my teeth into the new Sazabi, I thought I would try something somewhat old school (that is an entire kit glued and painted). We forget how spoiled we are as Gundam modelers sometimes. Anyway, I've had a life long passion for aircraft. The first model I ever built was a monogram B-25 mitchell with my Dad in my Grandfather's workshop. It was a snap-tight kit. My Dad and older brother are former private pilots and I have about 20 years of R/C aircraft experience. The corsair has always been my favorite WWII aircraft. One of my favorite shows as a kid was Black Sheep Squadron. Pappy Boyington and of course Chuck Yeager were two of my heroes growing up.
Some thoughts on the build: The Tamiya 1/32 warbird kits are amazing. The parts fit so well. Gluing was very easy. This kit has a number of photo etch parts. It was my first time with photo etch. But I did my research and the processing of using them was quite easy.
The instrument panel is ingenious. You apply a decal on the back of a clear piece that is glued to the instrument panel and the gauges look real. Needless to say, the quality in detail is amazing in the plastic. There are however many tiny parts to this build. So, great care is needed in their application.
There isn't really any articulation to it. You have to choose how you want the control surfaces and wings displayed. But, you can choose to build it with the wings folded which is a cool option. Although the cowlings are removable to display the detailed engine.
The tires are actual rubber which is a neat touch.
The paint scheme I chose is a dark version of the Marine Squadrons flying in the pacific. The entire kit was airbrushed and hand painted with various Mr. Hobby and Tamiya paints.
Someday I might tackle the P-51, Zero, or Spitfire
Note to ISM: This was my first foray back into WWII modelling in about 15 years. I know I can do better.
great work 
