Strombecker YF-96 Thunderstreak

[PaulD]

There was one plastic part in this kit (the canopy) so I assume it barely qualifies for an IPMS forum. This is my build of Strombecker's 1953 vintage kit of the F84 Thunderstreak. The box is labeled "Thunderjet" but the kit has the swept-back wings of the Thunderstreak and the round cross section of the earlier Thunderjet. This is a combination of features that was found in the prototype Thunderjet the YF-96. (the production version was the F84F instead of F96 so that bean-counters wouldn't think of it as a new program. Except for the canopy the model is soft pine. The finish is 3 colors of Tamiya spray paint. I assumed the kit decals wouldn't work after 56 years so I used markings from the academy F84G and Woodland Scenics dry transfers. It is approximately 1/72nd scale.

 

Anybody else out there ever build any of these old kits?

 

Edited November 11, 2009 by PaulD

[David M. Knights]

Now that is neat.

[TimHortman]

Nice work with an old kit! Thanks for posting!

[Mark Deliduka]

Stunning work! This is awesome! I love the three-tone bare metal finish!

 

Did Strombecker make armor models? I got a wooden tank model from a friend once, I can't remember what is on the box though. I may have to pull i9t out and see what it is.

[PaulD]

thanks Mark,

I don't know if strombecker made armor kits but if you use the "search" feature on this website: http://smm.solidmodelmemories.net/Gallery/ the word "tank" will turn up some plans for wooden armor from kits and old magazines. The site is devoted to solid wood models and there is a lot of neat stuff to browse through there.

[ghodges]

That's an old-school beauty Paul! And by the way, modeling skills (like yours) are ALWAYS appropo here. Your manner of display also lends much to the overall impression of a fast 50's jet.

 

GIL

[VonL]

Wow - The Strombecker people would be proud!