HobbyBoss Akula 1/350

[SUBSIM]

This is my practice Akula, if I can get through it, I will try to take what I've learned and make another one better.

Right now the tricky parts were getting the PE hatches to stick, getting the long white decals to go on without breaking, and overcoming primer and paint coming off on the tape. \\















That's where I am now. Finish the decals, then attach the scopes and masts. Then I should paint it over with gloss clear or matte clear?

[HEADING=2]Tamiya USA TAM85013 Spray Lacquer TS-13 Clear[/HEADING]
or
[HEADING=2]TAMIYA TS-80 Clear Flat Spray ?[/HEADING]

thanks, looking for suggestions and critique. Next Akula I will wash the hull before priming and painting, plus I think I will do better with the PE hatches.

[stillp]

Looks good Neal. I'd use a matt varnish.
Pete

[spanner570]

Neat job Neal.
I'm with Pete...

Ron

[Dave Ward]

Neal,
just to be awkward, I'd suggest a satin finish, ie mix a gloss & matt varnish......................
Dave

[SUBSIM]

Awesome, thanks!

Edit: Man, I have to tell ya, when you can feel yourself getting better, it's a great feeling! I am getting much more comfortable laying down decals, not as much breakage or fishing them out of the cup of water !

[langy71]

I'm not sure if the Akula's were covered with a sound dampening rubber 'coat' or If they were just 'bare' metal...so I'd be inclined to use a lacquer coat to match the finish on the original ... Matt on a rubber coated boat, and satin for a 'metal' one..(if you get my meaning)

[SUBSIM]

Satin = Semi-gloss? Like this?
[HEADING=2]TAMIYA America, Inc Spray Lacquer TS-79 Semi Gloss, TAM85079[/HEADING]

https://www.amazon.com/Tamiya-Spray-Lacquer-TS-79-Gloss/dp/B000ZVV8UA/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3YF88JWBP49U&keywords=tamiya+satin+clear&qid=1651779964&sprefix=tamiya+satin%2Caps%2C119&sr=8-1

[Jim R]

Looks good. I would be inclined to go with a satin finish unless your research shows a rubber coat.

when you can feel yourself getting better, it's a great feeling!

It sure is :thumb2:

[langy71]

Satin = Semi-gloss? Like this?
[HEADING=2]TAMIYA America, Inc Spray Lacquer TS-79 Semi Gloss, TAM85079[/HEADING]

https://www.amazon.com/Tamiya-Spray-Lacquer-TS-79-Gloss/dp/B000ZVV8UA/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3YF88JWBP49U&keywords=tamiya+satin+clear&qid=1651779964&sprefix=tamiya+satin%2Caps%2C119&sr=8-1

yeah that's the one.. :thumb2: :thumb2:

[SUBSIM]

I ordered a can, should be in Tuesday. I couldn't wait so I went with the TS-80 flat for this model, I will definitely use the satin for the next Akula.