1/48 Sword T-38A Talon

by Graham Symmonds

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Enclosed are photographs of my recently completed T-38.  this is one of my most favourite aircraft – the lines are perfect and it just screams speed.  I think that my fascination with the T-38 began in the early 70’s when I read Michael Collins’ biography “Carrying the Fire”.  To this day I can remember the caption under the photo:  “The T-38 – our teacher, transportation and toy”.

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While this has been one of the most successful aircraft in history, it took until last year for a good representation to be made in plastic – so I jumped at the chance of getting the Sword kit (two in fact, just in case they ran out!).  As a limited run kit, the fit is not spectacular, but the seams are pretty easy to fix.  The beauty of the kit, though, really lies in the resin portion – excellent wheel wells, and cockpit interiors.

 

I chose to use the Two Bobs Aggressive Talons sheet to finish the aircraft off – a few years ago I visited Hill Air Force Museum south of Salt Lake City, UT and saw the aggressor scheme – very cool.  I do think that maybe the Two Bobs forgot a couple of decals on this sheet – like the red stripe for the pitot tube, and the rear seat names – luckily, I had purchased all three of the Two Bobs T-38 sheets and simply made up the difference.  No harm done!  As usual, the two Bobs decals when on very simply.

 

One criticism I had of the Sword T-38 is the lack of antennae – although this is pretty simply made up from the ol’ spares box.

 

All things considered, I learned a lot that I can use on the next go around!

 

Graham

 

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Photos and text © by Graham Symmonds