USS Constitution 1:70 Scratch

[mtbediz1]

I'm back with a new project—a 1:76 scale model of the USS Constitution. As always, I'll be building it entirely from scratch. For reference, I’ll be using the Constitution book alongside the kit plans from Model Shipways. Although the Model Shipways kit doesn't include details for the gun deck, I plan to add both the deck and its details to my model.

At this stage, my intention is to fully rig the ship, except for the sails. However, since this will be a long-term project, I’ll see where time and progress take me. As always, I welcome constructive criticism, suggestions, recommendations, and general feedback.

The pictures show my progress so far, and I’ll continue sharing updates as the build evolves.

 

[Uwek]

Ho Ho - a new project by Mustafa
I am looking forward and will follow your progress with big interest

 

[Tobias]

It's unbelievable Mustafa, as soon as the ALERT is finished you start a new project. I'm looking forward to great pictures and reports from you again, I'll stay tuned.

 

[Tony H]

Hi I've just started my Model Shipways Constitution, I'll be following your build with great interest it will help me a lot with mine.
Tony

 

[mtbediz1]

Thank you so much for the likes and comments my friends.

I glued the bulkheads and put spacers between them. I always put these spacers as a precaution against warping the keel in later stages.

 

[The learner]

Great start! Looks like good thick bulkheads, will you need to add spacers?

 

[mtbediz1]

Great start! Looks like good thick bulkheads, will you need to add spacers?

There is always a risk of warping the keel due to its long length. I don't want to take risks because this is a hobby that we spend a lot of time and effort. These spacers will prevent the keel from warping.

 

[Kurt Konrath]

Do you use basswood or balsa wood for your spacers, or does it matter?

 

[mtbediz1]

Do you use basswood or balsa wood for your spacers, or does it matter?

I used plywood for the spacers. But you can use basswood or any other hardwood too. Balsa is not a good idea for the spacer, I use balsa only as a filler in the bow, stern or between the bulkheads if necessary. For example, if distance between two bulkheads are too much you may want to fill it with balsa.

 

[mtbediz1]

I continued with the bow framing, Before glueing the gun deck I cut the openings for the gratings, ladders and masts on it and started the waterways.

 

[Bruce Ritchie]

This is truly impressive. I don't think I have the skills to take on a scratch build of this type but I will be interested to see how it progresses.

 

[Patrick]

This is truly impressive. I don't think I have the skills to take on a scratch build of this type but I will be interested to see how it progresses.

I agree! I am not to that skill level yet but I do have the Model Shipways USS Constitution in a box ready to start this fall. I will following this build with great interest.

 

[viriato]

This is also a project that I want to materialize. I will follow this construction with great interest.

 

[shota70]

Mustafa my friend
There is no doubt that you create ships of the highest quality, the pace of your creation is most impressive.
I have no doubt that the constitution will also be extremely interesting!!
so I join the other dear members of the fan base and will continue to follow with great curiosity
Good luck and enjoy

 

[Danno71]

This is truly impressive. I don't think I have the skills to take on a scratch build of this type but I will be interested to see how it progresses.

Agree! I started a scratch build and was in way over my skill range. She’s in permanent dry dock.

 

[JSGerson]

Just discovered your build log. Very impressive. I too am building the Conny with a gun deck using the Model Shipways kit. Even though I am 5 years into the build, at the rate you are going, you'll surpass me within a year or two.

Jon

 

[Peter Gutterman]

I'm Overwhelmingly impressed and not just a fan but a student! Your work is is so instructive and informative. I'm glad and grateful to have found you and your work on this forum. It is of inestimable value.!

Pete G.

 

[Vfordyce]

She’s looking good, Mustafa!

 

[Jeff T]

Amazing start. I will be watching your progress.

 

[Hubac’s Historian]

Well, this is off to an excellent beginning. I really like your solution to cutting the plank rebate into the keel, stem and sternpost. Also, the use of locating pins to further solidify this assembly. I don’t wave American flags around too often, but I can’t suppress a certain sense of pride in our old girl, Connie. You will certainly do her justice.