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French Rescue Goose

Final assembly

The main work being done, it was time to finish the model. I noticed on my reference picture that the plane's tyres had treads and the kit ones none. I tried a new technique (at least for me) and used thin stripes of Tamiya masking tape (picture 21 and 22). The result was very convincing for a first try! As it is a relatively easy method, it's something I will do again rather than buying expensive resin replacement wheels. The remaining parts where then glued in place: engines, engine cowlings, landing gears, propeller, antenna mast, access doors, position lights etc... (picture23)

While looking at the model I thought it was a pity to see all the rivets disapearing under the dark paint. I decided, using my smallest brush, to paint them one by one on the plane! I know it's a little bit masochistic but the result, after another coat of blue tinted future, was worth it (picture 24 and 25). Needless to say that I painted the rivets in several sessions so's not to go crazy! Usually, when you do this kind of boring job, you want to go faster and faster and you mess up everything after a while... so my advice would be: "Chi va piano, va sano!"

Last touch was to add light grey pastel powder behind the engines to simulate the dirt produced by the exhausts (picture 26).

Conclusion

Was it an easy kit? Certainly not! Was it a good kit? Definitely yes!

Signifer's Goose was one of the most challenging kits I've built so far. I wouldn't recommend it to a beginner as some modelling skill is required that one can only gain after a few years of practice. But once finished, the model will be a masterpiece to display in your collection. Higher skilled modellers can even make a "Museum Quality" model out of it! But before you give it a try, ask yourself that question: "should I open Pandora's box or not?"

I would like to thank Tigercat (David Moulden) and Polarbear for their support while building the kit for the "Medics" Campaign! They both were of great help!