Friedrichshafen G-III: the Model

As indicated in my earlier post, I'm trying my hand at the Reviresco paper/metal model of the Friederichsahfen G-III. Here is a photo of work-in-process:

For me, this is really difficult. I have not made a 1/144 model ever and my last 1/72nd plastic Airfix model was probably 45 years ago.

So what I have learned so far is:

1. Cut with an Exacto Knife, new blade, on a cutting mat against a small steel ruler. Do not try using scissors.

2. The curve of the airfoil wing is very difficult to achieve in this scale. Fortunately the model it is so small that older eyes may not notice.

3. I am using white glue. Let it sit awhile to get a bit tackier before trying to glue the paper parts together.

I have no idea if I will finish this model or abandon the project. I'm looking at this as a learning experience. It was very clever of the makers of Wings of Glory/Wings of War (currently Ares) to make their aircraft in plastic, ready painted and ready to go. If gamers had to make all their airplanes out of kits, I doubt this very successful franchise would ever have launched! As it is, I have a lot of WofW/WofG planes. Now I can add a few specials...maybe.

Friedrichshafen G-III

I just received my first Reviresco 1/144th scale kit: the Friedrichshafen G.III German bomber from WW1. I now have a good collection of Wings of War/Glory 1/144th scale aircraft, including the Gotha referenced in an earlier post. I was looking for another "heavy" bomber. Also after Jeff told me he was familiar with Reviresco, I wanted to examine the kit for myself. This model is interesting in that only the front fuselage and a few parts are cast in metal. The rest of the kit is made of pre-printed card stock with the German-style lozenge camouflage already nicely presented. Nevertheless it looks like a daunting task to assemble correctly and I may be asking Jeff for more than just advise!

This will make an interesting addition to our already exciting WW1 tabletop battles.

The Reviresco web site is well worth a visit. They sell 1/144th scale pilots and observers for their WW1 aircraft which I also ordered and look very good. I see a lot of Wings of Glory fans use these metal castings to re-equip their model aircraft.