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Scratchbuilt M1134 Stryker ATGM Variant

Painting

It was now time for painting this baby which was pretty much straight forward. I do not own an airbrush or any fancy painting apparatus. So I used Tamiya’s rattle cans, Nato Green, to be exact, to paint the entire model. Then to represent the splattered mud effect I used Desert yellow rattle can by Humbrol. After letting everything dry for about 10 minutes, I then went over the entire model with a well diluted mixture of artist black, water and some window cleaner. I waited until the first black wash dried then went over it again. I continued like this until I got the result I wanted. I am a person who likes simplicity. Not everything works for everyone and I think it is a hassle to read about long complicated procedures. I try different methods that are less elaborate with somewhat good results. At least I think so.

Weathering

Now it is time for the best part of building this model or any model for that matter. Weathering! There are many different opinions about how much weathering there should be on a finished model. For me, I like anything between moderate weathering to heavy weathering. I have got to have a model weathered otherwise it will not appeal to me. It has to have the used look. Something that says, yes, it is not just for show… but a piece of equipment that has been through hell, so to speak. My major weathering ingredients are real dirt, powder pigments (black, grey & brown) & real rust.

One thing I see a lot at shows is show weathering. Weathering that looks pretty. Do not get me wrong, they look good… that’s just it…It looks good. To me it is not real but who am I to argue. Everyone is different and if the judges like pretty weathering than I am never going to win anything. Everything becomes too perfect which is not real. I call it ‘Show weathering’

I gave the entire model a dusting of real dirt and brushed off the excess. I repeat this method until I get the look I am looking for. I try different blends and ease them into all areas to bring out the different details. Sometimes it is just a trial & error thing. Once everything looked the way I wanted it, I stood back and looked at the model…I was satisfied. Hope you enjoyed this short build article.