FineScale Modeler October 2003

Building Chuck Yeager's X-1
by Matthew Usher
Eduard's 1/48 scale X-1 is a great first-time multi-media kit. We unlock the mysteries of working withresin and photoetched parts.

Trouble on the Eastern Front
George Schachinger used older, less-expensive kits and refurbished a built-up model for this breath-taking German World War II armor diorama.

Hasegawa's big new Fw 190D-9
by Jim Zeske
Accurate, easy to build, and full of extras, it's a 1/32 scale detailer's dream.

Improving the Taney
by Tim Reynaga
Aftermarket parts and simple scratchbuilt detail transform Revell's old Coast Guard cutter into a showpiece.

Simulate spinning propellers
by Paul Boyer
Motorized props may be impressive, but here's a simpler and easier way to create a realistic effect.

Stuart tank conversion
by Ron Poniatowski
Turn Tamiya's M5A1 into the rare M5 variant of this tough little tank.

Revitalizing vintage kits
by James Green
Detail is skimpy on Airfix's old 1/72 scale S.M.79 bomber, but with scratchbuilt extras, it'll hold it's own against fancy new kits.

Kit Classics No. 57: Strombecker's Bell X-1B
by Matthew Usher
Chuck Yeager's historic flight prompted one of the first plastic kits.