My 1/200 Builds

[Rata]

Originally Posted by gomidefilho

Small scale. Big project!!!!

Sure is. Unfortunately my new employer is imposing more hours on me than I'd like which cuts into my spare modelling time. But I can devote more of that time to building than repainting for now.

Garry G

[papermate]

Don't put too much pressure on yourself. No hurry and no rush, just take it easy.

[Rata]

No worries. I've nearly completed a prior commitment to Don and my US Navy thread so after that I can give this project 100% attention.

GG

[Rata]

Off to slow start on the Murph's monster Antonov An-225 'Cossack'.
Even in 1/200, it's still a big and complex model so I thought before actually cutting anything, a good sitting down and study of the parts and instructional illustrations would be in order. Initially more confused than informed, it slowly dawned on me as to what Aaron is telling me and what bits go where.
Probably would be a lot more straightforward without the opening loading nose and vast landing gear, but I really want those features so it was worth the extra study time. Anyway, as I said in an earlier post, Aaron has gone to considerable trouble to include these features so it would be a shame to leave them out.
I decided to do the upward hinging nose first. Formers and other structural components I've laminated onto (depending on their purpose) two, three and even- as with the loading ramp- four layers.
I have full faith in Aaron's design ability, so any issues encountered will most likely be on me.

Because of pesky work commitments and the size of the model, this will be a long build. If 'single model fatigue' sets in, I'll build and post another small, quick model at points along the way.

Until the next post.........

[papermate]

It’s a very good idea and strategy to study and understand what’s s ahead of you before you start building. With this attitude, you’re the man if Murph should ever need another test builder. Murph, hear what I’m saying?

[Rata]

Thanks for looking in and thanks for the 'job reference' too papermate. But don't commit me to too much extra work!

Made some building progress yesterday and will post pics later. Verdict so far: super design work and would definitely recommend buying the kit but beginners should get quite a few smaller projects under their belt before tackling the building of this one.

Garry G.

[papermate]

Absolutely!

[Rata]

Here's some pics of progress. This is the fuselage section from the hinging nose back to about the wings.
Murph has provided a section of cargo hold which goes inside three formers and becomes a unit that I slid in from the rear. Formers are a tight fit but it all works so far and so good.
Currently working on the swing-up nose that hopefully will be functional.

More to come.

[Don Boose]

Outstanding work so far on this gigantic project.

Don

[Rata]

Thanks Don. I'm still floored with the size of this aircraft. Would love to have gotten up close to the real thing.