P-38 Help Wanted

[Shane]

I would feel at home if I was converting a Bf-109 F-2 to an F-4 but this P-38 stuff has me puzzled.  I built the Airfix P-38 F a long time ago (and put American markings on it)  and at the time thought it was nice (OK 20 year ago and now rivets can be sanded and re-scribing lines are a pain, but when it comes to air intakes, size of the air coolers ....stuff that you have to scratch build, I wouldn't bother to attempt).  UMM has the G on sale and I may have to take the plunge. I wanted to do it on the cheap, and thought that the Hasegawa J/H or Airfix F could be converted.   In any case, Kora has captured markings for the G that are provided in the RS kit, so I can cut price corners there if needed.  Just wanted to know the best way to make a nice looking "G".  Thanks, I would never have guessed that Academy would make the best P-38.  As always, thanks!

Shane

[lgriffin]

I have not seen the RS kits personally, My comments about it were based on a couple of reviews.

Don't be scared off by the Airfix/MPC P-38F. For someone with scratchbuilding skills and "old-school" modeling mojo, it's a decent kit to start with. In the spectrum of old Airfix kits, it's probably in the upper third in terms of buildability. The modeler will need to add some detail, sand off the rivets and scribe if that suits you, maybe get a Squadron or Falcon vac canopy. I think there are a couple of cockpit detail sets out there, too.

Cheers,

Lee G.

[Shane]

I was surprised at you giving RS high marks.  Looking at the in box reviews, it looks a bit clunky, with to many interchangeable parts between the 4 versions.  You may be correct though.  I will keep an eye out for the G version.  Thanks
Shane

[lgriffin]

Hi Shane,

The P-38 F and G are pretty much the same plane with slightly different engines. The Airfix F will get you a G with the right markings. The Airfix kit is long in the tooth and requires TLC, but it's inexpensive and the main shapes are good. The RS kits are apparently pretty nice, though pricey and fiddly.

The H/J/K versions of the P-38 are very different from the F/G in a couple of areas: The front engine cowling intakes are completely different and the scoops on the booms are bigger and of different shape than those on the F/G versions.

If you want a later Lightning (H/J/K), the best choice is the Academy kit. 

Have fun!

Lee G.

[Shane]

I want to build a P-38G in 1/72 scale.  The only company that makes a G version is "RS".  I would rather use a Hasegawa H/J or even the old Airfix F version.  My question is, what are the external differences between the G and the F/H/J versions?  Which one should I go with to make into a G version or is it impossible and I will have to use the RS kit?  Thanks
Shane