Handy

[fowler57]

After a long break from plastic model building, I'm excited to get back into the hobby and am now searching for a quality kit. I'm particularly interested in a World War II-era battleship—preferably an American or Allied vessel—that not only provides a rewarding build experience but also offers room for customization with carefully chosen add-ons. I've come across brands like Big Mo and The New Jersey, and I'm also planning a visit to my local hobby shop for more insights. Could anyone share their expert recommendations on the best models available and advice on selecting authentic and effective add-ons?

Your informed guidance would be greatly appreciated.

 

[the Baron]

Welcome to the Herd!

If it's your first build back after a long hiatus, you might want to try a simpler kit. Also, what scale are you interested in building? There are very detailed kits out there, like the ones from Trumpeter, for example, in 1/700 and 1/350, but with the addition of photo-etch, they can be a challenge. How much display space you have will weigh in that decision, too.

At the other end of the scale, Revell's classic (issued 1953) Missouri in 1/525, which has been boxed as each of the Iowas, and is much simpler. Revell's USS North Carolina falls into that category, too-simple kit that looks good when finished. You can choose to add detail if you'd like, too.

In 1/700, Tamiya has decent kits, and there are the old kits from the Waterline series, which was a collaboration among Hasegawa, Tamiya, Aoshima, and Fujimi. They build into decent kits, too, but will take a little less effort than a Trumpeter kit, for example.

Hope that helps, and I look forward to seeing your build!

Best regards,
Brad

 

[BarleyBop]

back into the hobby

Hi! If you want to introduce yourself and get a welcome from "The Herd", can go to to the Introductions thread.