I recommend staying five planes away from the 38. Fly at least four planes before trying that thing, and make sure each is a progression toward the 38. Tricycle gear trainer first, low-wing (I don't personally think the mid-wing is something you have to try), taildragger (get used to the torque because...), twin engine with the nacelles pretty close to the fuse, and then a triple tapered wing if you feel brave.
The 38 has a lot of vices, and on a single engine (especially large engines) it can be a pest. Build it as light as possible and that means small engines (not big) and low overall weight. When you get to big engines you might think it has the power to get you back home. Don't try it. It'll cost you.
As Mav says, the best equipment is the way to go. These days, spending eight bills on a radio isn't a bad idea. It used to be, in the .40-.60 engine range, for twins you wanted to get two engines that run identically. HB (Hirtenburger) used to fill that bill. These days I couldn't tell you. I tend to stick to ducts, heli's, and pattern types.
I used to hang out with the scale masters in south Florida. Some of those guys have been flying for 50 years or more (used to see the likes of Dave Platt, Greg Namey, Col. Art Johnson, and Frank Tiano regularly). A lot of them crashed 38's (when they flew them) once out of every three flights (some twice).
The absolute best version of the P-38 is the Royal kit. They have several versions, one of which is 70" or better. It's all wood, requires an experienced builder, and is as close to precise scale as you can make it. Precise scale, in models, means you will have a tougher time flying it then the real plane (wood comes in any size, but air comes in one). It ain't for rookies.
I think you need at least two Florida flying years under your belt before trying a 38 (if you live in Washington state that means at least three years). Magic thumbs can do it in less, but it isn't easy. Oh yes, I do have my prejudices!
That said, I wish you luck. Flying the plane of your dreams is a real kick in the grass! Just, not from your roof, okay? As an AMA member of over 25 years I couldn't let that go without comment.
Voss 13th T.A.S.
