I'm at the point of the building my Dragon 6160 Pamther and my question is should I attach the tools and spray my base coat or should I leave the tools off and attach later? Sorry for the simple question but I have not completed a build since the late 80's, due to family commitments, and health issues. Now we are empty nesters, and I have a very large stash to work my way through. I always come to Armorama for answers when I have none. Thank you to everyone

Personal preference,I like to leave the tools on,spray base and camo,then carefully handpaint
tools,cables,accessories.I slide paper under the tools to avoid slip ups.

Some feel that you can over spray the tools with base and camo and leave those colors on as it might have been in the field.

It's your preference,whatever works for you,I've seen builds both ways.

I don't like painting off the tank and trying to glue on after,for me more chance of marring the paint on the tank and the tools.

For examples check my gallery

That is a great question!! I have watched You Tube videos of it done both ways. And I have wondered what other builders have done. I have done tanks since the 1970's and now with the advent of Armorama and You Tube videos I have learned a lot.

Scott, welcome back to the hobby.

I say try it both ways and see what fits you best.

Hi mate. I paint all my kits with pretty much everything fitted. Have a look at Matt.E.Models on fb you'll see my examples or send me a message and I can send you some pics or talk you through it.
Good luck.

I agree with Anthony above.
Same method, same risks of damaging the paintjob with glue.
Slip paper or some aluminum foil under the tool handles to make the paint job easier. It requires a steady hand but glueing afterwards also requires a very steady hand ....
/ Robin

Thank you to all for your input. I will attach now and paint later