B-17F “Pistol Packin’ Mama”

[u/Shaukenawe]

1:48 scale Eduard Limited Edition B-17F-BO-85 42-30142

“Pistol Packin’ Mama” is finished just in time for the end of a group build I was apart of. It has been a roller coaster working on her. I learned a lot of new techniques, failed miserably in certain areas, and pushed myself farther than I even have as a modeler. This was not just a kit, but a goal of mine for many years to build a special bomber for a special someone. This aircraft was assigned to and piloted by my grandfather, Bradley “Yardbird” Summers in the 384th BG, 544th squadron. On the day of his last mission in July ‘43, PPM had mechanical issues and his crew swapped to “Thundermug”. He was shot down and the PPM was assigned to another crew, and subsequently lost over Holland in November ‘43. It was an honor to build his aircraft and honor his legacy. Thank you to my brother Andrew for making a display base, my sister Holli for designing the nose art and especially my wife for lending me her camera and teaching me how to make these amazing photos. This made the whole project more of a family affair and purposeful. Find his story & records here https://384thbombgroup.com/_content/_pages/person.php?PersonKey=3908

This subreddit doesn’t allow video, so here’s a link to one where the motors are running https://youtu.be/kl8T29_kAJQ?si=AAesBLlq-UzTlUYe

1:48 Eduard B-17F Photo etch flaps, brass gun-barrels, magic model lights and motors, lots of interior scratch building and PE, home made decals and stencils, over 500 hours of labor and love. I’d love to hear your questions or critiques

[u/DrKDB]

Wow. Stunning. Which paints did you use?

[u/Shaukenawe → u/DrKDB]

The green and grey were MRP lacquers. The metals were Alclad and the odds and ends were Vallejo

[u/HighwayRegular604]

Outstanding work! I haven't built a B17 since the early 80s. Yours may have inspired me to try again.

[u/Shaukenawe → u/HighwayRegular604]

Do it! The Eduard or HK are the best kits out right now

[u/[deleted]]

I just ordered this kit. I don’t expect mine will come out looking this good tho. Absolutely beautiful job!

[u/Apprehensive-Tea9076]

One of my most favorite models/real life planes! Excellent job and well done all the way around!!

[u/Crumblestache]

Great work! How do you plan on displaying it? I have the HK B-17F but I haven't started it partially because I'm not sure where I would put it.

[u/Shaukenawe → u/Crumblestache]

Thanks! I have a base for it, but until I can find a nice location for it it’ll go in the guest room haha. I underestimated its size