Hi everyone, again!
Starting a new model—I'm on a roll with Star Wars right now. I just can't stop and get back to armor models yet!
This is one I've wanted to build for a long time: the X-Wing designed by uhu02. Having already built his TIE Interceptor, I know exactly what to expect: a thoughtful, precise design with unique assembly ideas and minimal errors. So far, that is exactly what I've found.
This is the X-Wing "Red 3" cutaway version, so a lot of the inner systems will be on display. He also managed to design it with movable wings, just like the real thing. There is an incredible level of drawn detail here, including tons of pipes and internal machinery. Because of that, I still haven't decided if I will build it completely "as is" or add some physical greeblies here and there. I don't want any added details to pop out too much against the printed texture.
Since it is a free model, I printed it on Canon Matte Photo Paper (170 gsm) and coated it with Americana varnish. Interestingly enough, this is the exact same paper uhu02 used for his original build, so I am expecting a highly precise assembly. The model consists of 11 pages, plus one solid grey page meant to be printed on the back of pages 10 and 11.
As stated on his blog, this is the Red 3 version (Biggs Darklighter's fighter). There is a short article about this particular starfighter that you can read here.
Because uhu02 already has his original build thoroughly explained with assembly pictures, I won't do a hyper-detailed step-by-step build log. Instead, I'll just showcase the build from my perspective, sharing general notes and pointing out any template errors (though I don't expect many!). Additionally, I'll be using markers to paint the edges this time, as the model features a lot of solid colors that make edge-painting very clean.
The Assembly Begins
I went by the numbers, and first up were the front wing beams (parts 1–18). At first glance, looking at the instructions and pictures can be very confusing—there are just so many parts and numbers. However, once I cut everything out and followed the steps, it became incredibly smooth and logical.
In the end, I got two beams that rotate smoothly on an axis. It's a genius piece of engineering to design the mechanism in layers so the wings can remain fully movable. There is a lot of laminating involved, but once assembled, it creates a remarkably sturdy structure that is incredibly satisfying to hold and rotate.
In addition, central axis was built.
The back beams went together the exact same way. Overall, if you cut exactly on the lines and glue with precision and patience, everything fits beautifully. It is engineered right down to the millimeter.
I've just dry-fitted the assemblies onto the central axis to see how it looks!
There is a tiny error, that doesn't affect anything - no numbering for part 15
Starting a new model—I'm on a roll with Star Wars right now. I just can't stop and get back to armor models yet!
This is one I've wanted to build for a long time: the X-Wing designed by uhu02. Having already built his TIE Interceptor, I know exactly what to expect: a thoughtful, precise design with unique assembly ideas and minimal errors. So far, that is exactly what I've found.This is the X-Wing "Red 3" cutaway version, so a lot of the inner systems will be on display. He also managed to design it with movable wings, just like the real thing. There is an incredible level of drawn detail here, including tons of pipes and internal machinery. Because of that, I still haven't decided if I will build it completely "as is" or add some physical greeblies here and there. I don't want any added details to pop out too much against the printed texture.
Since it is a free model, I printed it on Canon Matte Photo Paper (170 gsm) and coated it with Americana varnish. Interestingly enough, this is the exact same paper uhu02 used for his original build, so I am expecting a highly precise assembly. The model consists of 11 pages, plus one solid grey page meant to be printed on the back of pages 10 and 11.
As stated on his blog, this is the Red 3 version (Biggs Darklighter's fighter). There is a short article about this particular starfighter that you can read here.
Because uhu02 already has his original build thoroughly explained with assembly pictures, I won't do a hyper-detailed step-by-step build log. Instead, I'll just showcase the build from my perspective, sharing general notes and pointing out any template errors (though I don't expect many!). Additionally, I'll be using markers to paint the edges this time, as the model features a lot of solid colors that make edge-painting very clean.
The Assembly Begins
I went by the numbers, and first up were the front wing beams (parts 1–18). At first glance, looking at the instructions and pictures can be very confusing—there are just so many parts and numbers. However, once I cut everything out and followed the steps, it became incredibly smooth and logical.
In the end, I got two beams that rotate smoothly on an axis. It's a genius piece of engineering to design the mechanism in layers so the wings can remain fully movable. There is a lot of laminating involved, but once assembled, it creates a remarkably sturdy structure that is incredibly satisfying to hold and rotate.
In addition, central axis was built.
The back beams went together the exact same way. Overall, if you cut exactly on the lines and glue with precision and patience, everything fits beautifully. It is engineered right down to the millimeter.
I've just dry-fitted the assemblies onto the central axis to see how it looks!
There is a tiny error, that doesn't affect anything - no numbering for part 15
