Bluenose from H.Leclerc, ENR, Canada kit

[Peso Pete]

...and so it begins.
I am in the research and study stage now, going over the instruction sheets and included full size plans.
I did measure and locate the mast positions, BUT as I have no drill press, I would appreciate advice, tips or tricks on how to drill straight aligned holes for the masts with just a power drill. Sempre Avanti!

 

[Kurt Konrath]

Use a small 90 degree square or other such block as a guide for straight holes, if you need an angle, use school protractor and wooded stick set at angle as guide.

 

[Peso Pete]

TKS Kurt

 

[Uwek]

...and so it begins.
I am in the research and study stage now, going over the instruction sheets and included full size plans.
I did measure and locate the mast positions, BUT as I have no drill press, I would appreciate advice, tips or tricks on how to drill straight aligned holes for the masts with just a power drill. Sempre Avanti!

Hallo @Peso Pete
we wish you all the BEST and a HAPPY BIRTHDAY

 

[Peso Pete]

Thank so much. Hopefully getting better,not older

 

[Peso Pete]

Pushing along with the Bluenose build. My first solid hull model, the initial stages moved quickly. The instructions in this old kit are vague,(to be kind). Several components were missing, but luckily leftovers
from previous kits come in handy.
I may be getting ahead of myself, but is there a source to purchase the bow filigree and bow port and starboard Bluenose names?
(The scale is not listed on my paperwork or the box, but best guess is 1:48 - 1:60)

 

[Peso Pete]

Working along. Doing hull and detail painting. Also working on after deckhouse assembly. Instructions are vague but there is so much information here, it really is not an issue. Found some actual pictures of the Bluenose and trying to replicate the after-deck house detail based on that. That includes the clam shell ventilator that seems to be omitted on many builds. I've also noted a stove pipe on some models, but don't see it in the original picture.
Still would appreciate advice on the bow name plates and filigree.

 

[Peso Pete]

My Bluenose taking shape now. As this is a 40-year-old kit, there were many missing parts. To add to the challenge, the building instructions leave a lot out. But, having said that, I've been fabricating various pieces with a pleasing degree of success. (along with some frustration)
Deck detail is nearly complete and I'm waiting on some fittings to come in. Worked on the masts today and got them assembled and stained.
Gathered a lot of old pictures of the Bluenose which have been a great help. One thing I've seen online is that almost everyone who builds a Bluenose incorporates their own interpretations. Many pictures of the old ship show a mess of barrels, boxes and ropes on deck...wide open for interpretation there!

 

[Peso Pete]

Opps, how'd the Mary Celeste pic sneak in there?

 

[Peso Pete]

Been working on and off but making headway. As I previously mentioned, this kit was 54 years when I received it. Many parts were missing, and some smaller wood parts were very dry and cracked easily. It's been a challenge. But I am happy with the progress. Got the detailed wooden wheel through Ebay.
I ordered the boom yokes from Modelers Central (a very good company) in Australia. They should be here by this week. Purchased the dories from PlaymoreLt3D. through Esty. They are laser printed and fit perfectly with the model.
I worked on some of the standing rigging but waiting now for the yokes. Some touch up and tweaking yet to do, so I can fill the time before the needed parts arrive. Sempre Avanti!

 

[Uwek]

Looking very good - you are on a good way to make a very good model

 

[Peso Pete]

TKS Uwek

 

[Peso Pete]

My Bluenose is almost complete. A few rigging tweaks and waiting for the other two dories to arrive.
I must admit that I prefer plank on frame versus solid hull. This model went too quickly for me. Health issues and commitments also have taken priority.
This may be my last build for a while. Sempre Avanti!