Happy new year to all.
I’ve recently finished a Type-A midget submarine in 1/72 scale by FineMolds, and am now working on the Flyhawk USS Ward in 1/700 scale for a diorama of the first shots/ casualties of December 7th, 1941. On that day, U.S. naval vessels and aircraft on patrol outside Pearl Harbor spotted a partially submerged submarine trying to enter the harbor. Ninety minutes before Pearl Harbor was bombed by air, the destroyer USS Ward fired on the sub, sinking it with a 4” shell which penetrated the conning tower. The wreck lay undiscovered until 2002, finally confirming the USS Ward’s claim and, that by firing the first shots, it was Japan that suffered the first casualties of that fateful day.
I’ve completed the diorama base and working on a second level which will represent ocean upon which the Ward will be placed steaming, away from the action area. The great differences in scale of the two kits is to provide the perspective of the ward leaving the scene.
Both kids are greatly detailed, and as always Flyhawk certainly does not disappoint, providing three sheets of photo etch, as well as resin and turned brass parts, with this tiny destroyer ( measuring just over 5 inches) The fit and detail is excellent, with no flash or sync marks. I’ve attached a few shots of the Flyhawk kit here. Note the size of the deck gun barrels and the turned brass depth charges. There’s even turned bollards provided for those wishing to test their patience… and eyesight.
If you are interested in building this kit, I highly recommend a set of strong magnifiers, steady hands… and rum to “splice the main brace” when successfully completed. More photos to come.
Happy modeling in the new year!
I’ve recently finished a Type-A midget submarine in 1/72 scale by FineMolds, and am now working on the Flyhawk USS Ward in 1/700 scale for a diorama of the first shots/ casualties of December 7th, 1941. On that day, U.S. naval vessels and aircraft on patrol outside Pearl Harbor spotted a partially submerged submarine trying to enter the harbor. Ninety minutes before Pearl Harbor was bombed by air, the destroyer USS Ward fired on the sub, sinking it with a 4” shell which penetrated the conning tower. The wreck lay undiscovered until 2002, finally confirming the USS Ward’s claim and, that by firing the first shots, it was Japan that suffered the first casualties of that fateful day.
I’ve completed the diorama base and working on a second level which will represent ocean upon which the Ward will be placed steaming, away from the action area. The great differences in scale of the two kits is to provide the perspective of the ward leaving the scene.
Both kids are greatly detailed, and as always Flyhawk certainly does not disappoint, providing three sheets of photo etch, as well as resin and turned brass parts, with this tiny destroyer ( measuring just over 5 inches) The fit and detail is excellent, with no flash or sync marks. I’ve attached a few shots of the Flyhawk kit here. Note the size of the deck gun barrels and the turned brass depth charges. There’s even turned bollards provided for those wishing to test their patience… and eyesight.
If you are interested in building this kit, I highly recommend a set of strong magnifiers, steady hands… and rum to “splice the main brace” when successfully completed. More photos to come.
Happy modeling in the new year!
