History and a Build: The Arma Hobby 1/72 FM-2 Wildcat

[@murraykriner9425]

Though these Grumman aircraft saw extensive use in combat, they were overshadowed by later procurements of more advanced designs as the war progressed. The Wildcat, and later Hellcat put a serious dent in the IJA/IJN air wings from 42 to 44, then relegated to escort and land squadron's as the island's were cleared by Pacific Fleet Marine units, after Midway and Leyte Gulf. I always see these finished in satin, near matte sheen, but have heard that enterprising aircrews would often slick their pilots birds with floor wax to remove form drag from the equation, giving the aircraft a couple of extra knot's airspeed, while lengthening it's ferry range as well. Not of any great amount, but when your over the drink, trying to find a sandy strip to land your perforated airframe it's something of a boon. The kits looks killer. Great job.

[@jonathanhudak2059]

Really liked the end result, very nice! I also really enjoyed the history, that's something you don't see that often in model build videos, keep that up👍

[@jeffallen3382]

What a great 1/72 build! I've never been a fan of this scale due to the lack of detail, but this one was nice! Great job!

[@marciomaiajr]

Really enjoyed the idea of mixing a bit of history with the building process. An excellent build and introduction to the Wright Cyclone powered Wildcat.

[@joeokabayashi8669]

Excellent build video!

[@georgewelch2366]

Chris, would love to see a History and Build on Japanese Zeroes. Wonderful work on the Wildcat.

[@ModelAirplaneMaker]

That is an excellent idea - Might do one for the Eduard Zero

[@joeschenk8400]

Just found this, an excellent build and the plane looks great.

[@marksixofone4104]

Great history chat and an excellent build of Arma`s stunning FM2. Looking forward to more like this. Thank you.

[@JamesJackson-dq2tj]

Great video.

[@davidp7414]

Thank you, just ordered this kit

[@bobb5219]

Thanks, very informative and a great build.

[@richardweiner6815]

Very enjoyable. Really liked the history.

[@jabonorte]

Nice build. FWIW, I had the same problem getting the fuselage to fit together on the first dry fit so took it apart and tried it again and everything fell into place so I just glued it up. Also recommend Hornfischer's book 'Last stand of the Tin Can Sailors' about the Battle Off Samar'.

[@ModelAirplaneMaker]

It is a kit that requires some careful fitting... but it will fit!

[@seamusmon]

Nice build!

[@jerrybaker9487]

Very nice build - love the engine detail! Have just bought this kit, and looking through it the u/c appeared very complex and fragile. Will take on board your advice. Thanks

[@stenalbertsen2440]

Great model great job 😎👍

[@TheScaleEngineer]

Beautiful work! I’ve been really enjoying your blog and videos, so keep it up!

[@ModelAirplaneMaker]

Likewise!! Your vids are very well done!

[@jackpenny1910]

what type of ca glue did you use for your photo etch?

[@ModelAirplaneMaker]

Hi there - I just use the standard Bob Smith industries stuff but any CA will do the job.

[@jackpenny1910]

@@ModelAirplaneMaker ok. Thank you for relying so quickly. Good luck for your future builds!

[@johnnoble01]

Can't understand why people use their airbrush for small parts. Properly thinned paint is fine and won't obscure the detail.