How do you fit so much detail into 1/72 scale — and bring it to life with paint? Brett Prusso from Hammerhead Model Making built our Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 in around ten days. His video takes you through the entire process, from detailing the cockpit to adding the final weathering touches to this Flying Tigers fighter.

Why was he particularly impressed with the landing gear alignment jig? How did he tackle the shark mouth decals around the complex contours of the nose? And why did he add more chipping to the backs of the propeller blades? Along the way, he shares practical tips and his honest impressions of building a pre-production kit.

  • Click the video above and join Brett at the workbench. You can explore the finished model in the photos below.

In the video, Brett recalls meeting us at the IPMS/USA National Convention in Fort Wayne, where he received a pre-production Hawk kit. Take a look at our report from the trip — it also includes his initial five-minute in-box review.

Arma Hobby na IPMS/USA National Convention 2026

Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 — Brett Prusso’s Model Gallery

Brett Prusso’s 1/72 scale Flying Tigers Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 — front starboard view Arma Hobby 1/72 Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 model — port side with number 21 and shark mouth markings Brett Prusso’s Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 — view from above and behind, showing camouflage and Chinese wing markings Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 model with number 21 — upper-surface camouflage and open canopy

Discover the History of the Flying Tigers

Where did those distinctive shark mouths come from, and how did AVG pilots exploit their Curtiss fighters’ strengths in combat? Carl Molesworth tells the story of the men and aircraft behind the Flying Tigers legend. It provides historical background to Brett’s build — and inspiration for your own project.

Dlaczego Hawk 81-A2 był najlepszym wyborem dla Flying Tigers?

Upper and underside views of the Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 model, showing paintwork and weathering Starboard and port views of the Flying Tigers Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 model with number 21 Arma Hobby 1/72 Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 — low front view showing the shark mouth and landing gear

Build Your Own Flying Tiger

Box front of Arma Hobby kit 70094, Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 Flying Tigers in 1/72 scale Decal sheet for Arma Hobby kit 70094, Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 Flying Tigers in 1/72 scale

The 1/72 scale Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 “Flying Tigers” is temporarily sold out in our shop. We expect it to be back in stock in around two weeks. If you would like to start your build sooner, look for it at good model shops.

Brett Prusso’s Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 model — low rear port view Flying Tigers Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 — front starboard view showing the wing undersides and landing gear Arma Hobby 1/72 Curtiss Hawk 81-A2 — rear starboard view showing the tail and radio aerial

Model and photos: Brett Prusso, Hammerhead Model Making.

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