The annual Austin Scale Modelers’ Society contest is less than a month away – on October 6th – and I’m working feverishly to get a current, under-the-radar build finished in time to grace the contest tables. But beyond that…what to take?
One thing I’ve learned from my last two contests is…the more the merrier. But it really comes down to a compromise…I only have so much space in the car to safely transport completed builds, and I have to keep some room open for the haul I’ll undoubtedly be carting back from the vendor tables!
Here are the options on the table:
1/48 Tamiya P-51D Mustang – “Petie 2nd”
For some reason I still can’t explain, I didn’t take the blue-nose to last year’s show – or to ModelFiesta – though I still feel it’s probably one of my stronger builds. But…competition in 1/48 aircraft is fierce, and this is one more to pack.
1/48 Tamiya P-47D Thunderbolt – “Magic Carpet”
“Magic Carpet” took home 1st place among 1/48 Allied Props at ModelFiesta in February. Will it make a run at a repeat performance?
The Peevee is almost a lock, since it’s the only thing I have that would qualify for the multi-engine category.
Very proud of the paint and weathering on this one, and yeah, I’m taking it.
1/48 Tamiya P-51B Mustang – “The Hun Hunter ~ Texas”
See the D.520 comments above. Plus…you just know Texas in the name will be a crowd-pleaser, even if it doesn’t win squat.
1/32 Pacific Coast Models Fiat G.55 Centauro
I’m torn on this one. My (in my opinion better) Spitfire Mk.VIII was shut out in the 1/32 category last year, and this one has a few flaws that could really ding it (the two-part gear doors…ugh). But the camo is so striking, and it’s a limited run kit and subject you just don’t see very often. Perhaps…
1/35 AFV Club Achilles IIc 17-pdr SPG
I don’t have much in the way of armor to trot out this year, but the Achilles did take 3rd in open-top armor at ModelFiesta and probably deserves a shot to repeat, especially considering last year there weren’t even three entries to judge between.
I like this one, but it’s basic. And the spare track links are a bit too…rusty. Perhaps I can try to tone them down a bit before the big show…but solid-color WWII tanks always make for a crowded category.
Sound off in the comments! What should stay and what should go?
Doogs Models 
My vote is for the Hun Hunter, plus it is Texas…
Please take all of ’em except the T-34/85 as that one is sub par compared to the Achilles. The Centauro is a must due to it bein’ so special. Trust me that it’ll stand out in the crowd. The Peevee as as you say is a must with it bein’ your only multi engine bird. The Dewoitine is also a bird that’ll stand out in the crowded field so you’re doin’ right in takin’ it. Petie 2nd is a real beauty n’ a must but so is the wonderful Jug. the one left now is the Hun Hunter but that one will also stand out in the crowd due to it not bein’ a popular late Mustang build. If I’d have to axe one of your birds it’d be the lovely Jug.
Solution: Rent a bigger car…
/Urban
ventura for me.
Toss up for me between Hun Hunter and Magic Carpet
The D520.Maybe I was swayed by the tutorial? Daym they are all inspirational.Cannot tell you enough how ………try this……”comforting”……that’s a new one eh?…….your site is.Makes me smile daily. And thanks to you got David’s,and the New Zealand Classics. Thank you,
Matt, I happily volunteer my car to help you tote. Bring them all! You could sweep the competition with those beauties!
Scott – I may well take you up on that. Depends if I can get this secret project done in time or not…
whichever one you’ll take, don’t try to rush your secret project!
If it was me, I would consider the Ventura, G55 and the P47
About the tanks, I personally like the T-34 but your Achilles looks much more stunning!
It is a hard choice indeed…
With regards, Ninetalis
Doogs, I do have that weekend off. So if you need help let me know. I’ll be glad to swing by on the way and help.
Congratulations, at the ASMS. You’ll need more shelves just to hold the trophies. Well done.