Operation Shelf of Doom: Let’s Clear That Backlog!
Hey ModelGeeks, it’s D-Ran here!
Happy New Year, everyone! Can you believe it’s already 2025? It’s been a hot minute since my last post, and I’ve got to say, I’ve missed connecting with all of you. Life—you know how it goes. Between family, work, and everything else, bench time has been scarce. But here we are, ready to tackle what I like to call Operation Shelf of Doom and get those unfinished projects across the finish line!
This year, I’m committed to clearing out the backlog of models gathering dust on my shelf. If you’ve got a similar situation at home, consider this your sign to join me in clearing off your own “Shelf of Doom”, let’s make 2025 the year we finish what we started!
What’s on My Shelf of Doom?
For this operation, I’ve selected five contenders to prioritize and work through. Each of these projects has been sitting in various states of completion, and it’s time to get them onto the display shelf where they belong. Let’s dive into the lineup:
1. Kinetic MQ-9 Reaper (1/48 Scale)
First up, we’ve got the Kinetic MQ-9 Reaper. This project is tantalizingly close to being finished. The paint and decals are done, and it just needs a little weathering and detail work. However, I hit a wall with those fiddly bits—you know, the kind of things that sap your mojo.
The intakes and exhausts were a particular challenge. I’ve had to make custom covers to address the lack of interior detail. The wings were another sticking point, as they arrived severely warped. I reinforced them with wooden dowels, which worked beautifully, but it was a process. The final steps include:
- Adding remove-before-flight (RBF) tags
- Finishing ordinance details
- Polishing the wingtip lights
2. Meng F-4E Phantom II (1/48 Scale)
Next is the Meng F-4E Phantom II. This one’s been a love-hate relationship. The decals and painting are coming together nicely, but I’ve run into some snags with the wheel wells and smaller details. Here’s what’s left to do:
- Complete decaling (most walkways and stripes are already painted for realism)
- Assemble and detail bombs, drop tanks, and pylons
- Scratch-build the F-4’s unique locking collars for the RBF tags—a must for accuracy
This one’s shaping up to be a real showstopper once it’s done, and I’m excited to share the progress.
3. P-47D Thunderbolt (1/48 Scale)
The P-47D was initially planned for last year’s Overlord Group Build. It’s already sporting a solid base coat with multiple shades of olive green for depth. Unfortunately, a combination of time crunches and failed decal experiments set me back. I’ve since decided to cut custom masks for the invasion stripes and roundels, which should take this build to the next level. Other steps include:
- Fading the greens with oil washes
- Adding subtle chipping and weathering for a realistic, battle-worn look
This one’s going to look incredible once it’s finished, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.
4. Kitty Hawk MH-60R Seahawk (1/48 Scale)
The MH-60R is a beast of a project. This helicopter has seen its share of challenges, from misaligned fuselage sections to the painstakingly detailed rotor head—a kit in itself. This build has been a labor of love, and here’s what’s left:
- Fix a few seam issues, particularly on the nose
- Finalize sensor and FLIR installations
- Complete painting and decaling
I’m aiming to finish this one for Nationals in Tidewater this year, so I don’t want to rush it. Patience is key to ensuring this build meets its full potential.
5. Monogram Pro Modeler F-86D Sabre Dog (1/48 Scale)
Last but not least, we’ve got the F-86D Sabre Dog. This project is all about natural metal finishes, which is both exciting and intimidating. The bodywork is nearly perfect, but natural metal reveals every imperfection, so a little more refinement is needed. My plan includes:
- Final polishing and surface prep
- Experimenting with various metallic paints for a realistic finish
This is going to be a standout addition to the collection once complete.
How You Can Get Involved
I’d love your input on this journey! Let me know in the comments or via email which project you think I should tackle first. Your feedback will help shape the order of these builds and keep the momentum going.
In the meantime, head on over to the YouTube Chanel and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications. There’s a lot of content coming your way, and I don’t want you to miss a thing. Grumpy Modeler YouTube Link
March Madness Group Build
Speaking of upcoming content, March Madness is just around the corner! Hosted by Justin Lintz, this annual group build is a highlight for the modeling community. I’m planning to participate with the Hasegawa A-7E Corsair II. With all the Reskit goodies I’ve ordered, this should be a fun and engaging build.
The March Madness updates will intertwine with Operation Shelf of Doom, so expect plenty of variety in the content coming your way. March Madness Facebook Group Link
Final Thoughts: Let’s Build Something!
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for model builders and creators everywhere. Whether you’re pulling kits off your shelf of doom or starting fresh, the key is to keep building and enjoying the process. Let’s make this year one to remember.
Until next time, be good to each other, and for the love of God man, build something! Peace out, and I’ll see you in the next update.
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