Subject: Grumman F7F-3 Tigercat

Manufacturer: Monogram

Constructed in 1980

The Tigercat is one of my favourite aircraft. Not only was it successful but it looks stunning. It entered service just too late to see action in WW2 and was soon replaced by the early jet fighters. This Monogram kit dates from the 1970's and was excellent for the time. Although it suffers from raised panel lines which are lost when any sanding is carried out, the fit of the parts was to the highest standard and no filler was required. Cockpit detail was non-existent and the wheel wells were not enclosed but this was a small price to pay for such a competent kit, and easily rectified. Sealed in with a coat of gloss, the quality decals have that "painted-on" look.

Twenty-two years after making the model I have just made quite an eye-opening discovery. Turning it onto its back while removing it from the display cabinet to take a photograph, the cockpit interior took on the appearance of one of those cheap seaside water-filled "snowstorm" souvenirs where you shake the thing and watch the scene inside the transparent bubble fill with hundreds of "snowflakes". Guessed the origin of the "snowflakes" yet? Yes, lead ballast which has oxidised over the years to form white lead oxide powder! In future lead ballast will be given a coat of paint!