They look great John. I've got some Master Models gun barrels for a future project - how did you go about painting them?
I like to put primer over brass prior to paint but these are so small and finely detailed, I didn't want to put too many coats over them. I shot them with a base of Tamiya Gloss Black and then Alclad for the Metallic color. I can't remember but I think it was Polished Aluminum mixed with some Steel.
Ok... I'm ready for the next step, which will "salt chipping" or more appropriately, "salt fading". I want to fade the olive drab uppers but I want to also leave some wear patterns in the paint. It's a messy technique so I got prepared by draping a piece of recycled paper over the work surface to catch all of the excess salt.
After brushing on a coat of water using a large, soft paint brush, I sprinkle salt randomly over the wetted surface. Since I'll be spraying a lighter color, I've put more salt along the panel lines and less in the middle of each panel.
When the water is completely dry, I spray a highly dilute light grey over the upper surfaces.
After the salt is removed, you can see the effect that is left behind. Salt removal is a multi-part process. First, I remove the big chunks using a stiff bristled paint brush. I then brush water over the area to dissolve all of the remaining salt and then wipe up the moisture with a soft cloth. Dried salt turns white so you'll be able to see the spots you miss as the moisture dries.
The effect is quite stark but based on past experience, the effect will get toned down once a matte coat is applied.
Time to fix the landing gear. I've reattached the starboard main gear legs that came loose during the puttying/sanding process. I've also put in the nose landing gear legs.
Finally, this P-38 gets to stand on its own legs. Looks like I put in enough nose weights for the proper sit.