Le Requin-Zebec-1750 POF 1:48 (ZHL)

[Peter Voogt]

So, my question became what to do first, install the copper nails then sand or sand then place the nails.

Many years ago I used soft brass wire to make nails on the hull planks of my Le Mirage. After after inserting and cutting I filed them first down to the wood with a fine flat curved file, like Paul mentioned. The front one on this couple of files:

After that it was no problem to sand the nails together with the wood.
Regards, Peter

 

[GIG1810]

Many years ago I used soft brass wire to make nails on the hull planks of my Le Mirage. After after inserting and cutting I filed them first down to the wood with a fine flat curved file, like Paul mentioned. The front one on this couple of files:
View attachment 570868
After that it was no problem to sand the nails together with the wood.
Regards, Peter

Hey Peter,

Where can you get arrows like that? I could definitely use some. They look like my dentist's tools.

 

[dockattner]

Many years ago I used soft brass wire to make nails on the hull planks of my Le Mirage. After after inserting and cutting I filed them first down to the wood with a fine flat curved file, like Paul mentioned. The front one on this couple of files:
View attachment 570868
After that it was no problem to sand the nails together with the wood.
Regards, Peter

Yup. Exactly as Peter has shown.

 

[dockattner]

They look like my dentist's tools.

Time for a new dentist...

 

[Daniel20]

Aren't you worried about the difference in hardness between copper and wood?

Hey Johan, this was my primary concern and why I prompted for discussion. I had not considered using riffler files which is a great idea, but I have come upon a good working solution. Prior to installing the copper wire nails, I pre sanded to even up all the planks and at the same time remove the thin coat of varnish that came pre applied on the decking sheets. Next, I drilled the 0.60mm holes (3 to 4 mm deep) then inserted the wire and with a good set of side cutters, nipped the wire even with the deck which left the wire just slightly above the deck. Then using a 3mm punch and small hammer, lightly tapped the nails even or slightly below the deck surface then sanded everything on down. This had the effect of smoothing the wire head even with the deck. Problem solved, I think. Here are some close ups.



You can see where I have drawn a pencil line using a kit supplied template that represents the central portion of the deck that will be exposed. The remaining port and starboard sections outside the lines will be covered with the gun deck planking set upon its own support system. this will allow me to experiment a little with the deck finishes since it will be covered.

 

[Daniel20]

Many years ago I used soft brass wire to make nails on the hull planks of my Le Mirage. After after inserting and cutting I filed them first down to the wood with a fine flat curved file, like Paul mentioned. The front one on this couple of files:
View attachment 570868
After that it was no problem to sand the nails together with the wood.
Regards, Peter

I am going to add a set of these to my tools, I can see where they would come in handy.

 

[Loracs]

Great Progress @Daniel20, following your log with great interest. I really appreciate that you outlined the difficulties/discrepancies as you progress. This really help other builders down the road.... likely me. I really like the "curves" of this ship. Just waiting until there a clear definition on US-China tariff before making the jump. My bluenose is still in early stage; I can be patient. I can't wait to consider a full interior addon like with the bluenose, IF I can find information. Cheers,

 

[Daniel20]

Great Progress @Daniel20, following your log with great interest.

Thanks, Loracs. I was lucky to have purchased my ship just 1 month before our tariffs on China went into effect.

 

[oldflyer]

Great log - as an asside I sure like your plank weights

regards

 

[Daniel20]

Great log - as an asside I sure like your plank weights

regards

Thanks John, those weights are 1x2x3 inch machined blocks that can be used to check for or hold items square. Amazon carries them.

 

[GrantTyler]

I was lucky to have purchased my ship just 1 month before our tariffs on China went into effect.

True story Daniel. I say join the club with some sadness for you guys. We have had a 60 to a 100% import duties since I can remember and it makes for expensive modelling. You should see the prices of our cars….and they don’t have huge import duties. I tell my kids don’t waste money on car rather buy a house or invest. (In crypto ). Cheers Grant

 

[Daniel20]

I tell my kids don’t waste money on car rather buy a house or invest.

Unfortunately, some form of transportation is a requirement here in Houston, Texas. Here's one of our busier freeways.

 

[oldflyer]

Unfortunately, some form of transportation is a requirement here in Houston, Texas. Here's one of our busier freeways.

View attachment 572809

Daniel,

Haha you guys need to catch up to us - with both sides in gridlock at the same time. West Los Angeles 405 "freeway"



Weekends - HOME, BBQ and that's it for us, and

 

[Daniel20]

with both sides in gridlock at the same time. West Los Angeles 405 "freeway"

Ohhhh, I'm so glad I'm retired and don't have to deal with traffic.

 

[GrantTyler]

Daniel,

Haha you guys need to catch up to us - with both sides in gridlock at the same time. West Los Angeles 405 "freeway"

View attachment 573168

Weekends - HOME, BBQ and that's it for us, and

That is insane. I’m very glad I live in Melkbosstrand- longest traffic wait is around 5 min on weekends when “non locals” invade our beautiful beach and restaurants Cheers Grant