So , I was wondering if anyone had any experiences or preferences over the following kits. I have the opportunity to possibly add one to my stash, but times being what they are, I’d better just choose one.
If anyone has input, I would appreciate it! I must choose wisely!
Revell 1/96 Constitution–Everyone knows this kit, it almost seems like a rite of passage to build it. Lots of parts, good quality…not really my preferred style of ship, but it’s legendary.
Revell Cutty Sark–It’s the big one. Not sure of the scale, but the box says it measured out to 36"…I think this kit is generally well-liked, and I think it’s also kind of rare?? I’d really like to know how people regard this one.
Mini Craft 1/80 Chebec-- Another unknown kit to me…anyone know of the manufacturer’s reputation for ship kits? Or how this kit stands up to the other two on this list, in terms of quality, rarity, etc…from the box art, it looks like more my style, seemingly from an older era of sailing…
Anyway, I thought I’d ask the people for their opinions…please let me know what you think, and what you might recommend…
It’s safe to say we all probably are familiar with the first two. They are among the best of the best. The Cutty Sark AFAIK is also 1/96. No doubt others more experienced than I can describe the relative values of the various releases. My only advice would be to be sure that it you get it sight unseen you are sure of the scale, as Constitution has been released by Revell in I think three scales.
You will be a very happy man.
As far as the Chebeck, Heller made one in 1/50 and Imai in 1/80. If it’s the same Imai model in a Minicraft rebox, you can guess that it’s a good model. Several builds on the other forums seem to point that way. I’d really like to see you take that on.
Turns out both the Constitution(H398) and the Cutty Sark (H399) ARE 1/96, and I think I can get both of them , PLUS the 1/80 Chebec for $100 from a local guy clearing out some storage space…they are all new in shrinkwrap…Just wondering if I need them all…
I have built all three; the Chebek is the former Imai kit and it is excellent. The detail is crisp and consistent, the pieces fit well, and it is an enjoyable build. The real answer to your question depends on which ship you find to be the more attractive to you. Each is a quality kit.
I’ve arranged to buy the Chebec (which I’m very much looking forward to!!) and the 1/96 Constitution…a couple of fine additions to the stash!
I should have them in my hands next Monday, though I may not get to work on either of them for awhile… my intention is to start in on the Katy of Norfolk ModelShipways solid hull kit after I finish the Santa Maria…we’ll see how well I can handle a wooden kit!
Sounds like a great deal, although I would have picked up the Cutty Sark as well. She makes a beautiful build. I have all three in my stash waiting for me to get my chops up to snuff. As the others have told you, the Chebec is a great model with the expected fine detailing of Imai molds. I know you’ll do a great job on them.
One thing I like about the Imai Chebec is that it is smaller than the Heller Chebec so that it’s easier to transport but big enough to make into a fine model.
Some good news, Heller is reissuing their 1/50 scale Chebec this month, Hobbylink has it for about $190 and the list is about $250. Needless to say, I’m saving my pennies and saving my dimes so that I can buy a brand new Heller Chebec!
Oh get the CS if you can. It is really elegant. OTOH if you can find the Imai 1/120, which I have not built but have seen, that’s as good a plastic ship model as you can find. Not the metal one, the plastic one.
Hmmm…I didn’t even know Heller still made models? I haven’t built any of their ships, but they all seem to be impressive! Even the much-debated Soleil Royal holds a lot of intrigue for me…if I could only justify the 200.00 price tag, I may build it one day!
I’ve re-negotiated the deal to include the Cutty Sark, too…just can’t pass it up!
I’ve build all three. The Cutty Sark I’ve built for 4 clients now, just finished the Constitution and have built both of the Chebec’s. Sadly lost the smaller one to Katrina and ALMOST lost the bigger one. I have build albums on all Email me off BB and I can send you some pictures. I’m going to upload a few on facebook and link them to the next posting.
The smaller chebec was destroyed by Katrina, the big Cutty sark was the ONLY model out of 15 or so that survived - it was in a case in my office. The Connie, it being delivered to Hot Springs in the spring.
Here is how I do it. Go this tip from the old Les Wilkins’ book “How to Build Plastic Ship models”.
The lower hull painting /Corrosion detail was done in the follow manner: You must use FLOQUIL Brand Paints for this step.
Coat the hull with Floquil Copper (ONLY this brand of paint will work), let dry 24 hours.
Using a #2 size brush, use Floquil Lt. Green, streak the hull in from the top of the plates to the keel in downwards strokes only.
Using a #2 size brush, paint Floquil Ant. White directly over the Lt. Green, and then while the paint is still damp wash/wipe over the damp paint with a soft rag (I use an piece of t-shirt) You can only use turpentine, any other solvent is too strong. Let dry over night, the smell is not that bad, but if you work indoors on your models you will want to do this outside and let dry there
Nice…thanks for the tip. I tend to use lots of alcohol and inks for my weathering(from my train days)
I used a thinned green ink and then applied air downward to make the ink run in the direction I want…it then dried fast as the alcohol evaporates. I appreciate your tip…I’ll try it as well.
Jake- Sorry for your losses…what a shame to lose such beautiful pieces in the hurricane! They look awesome, though! Thanks for the pics, and the hull painting tips…that Wilkins book has some good info!
I haven’t got the kits in hand yet, but I’m hopeful the deal will go through without any problem…I’m supposed to meet the guy tomorrow…I’ll let you all know how it works out!
Sweet! Got all three for 100 bucks! Thank You, Craigslist!
The big Constitution, the big Cutty Sark, and the 1/80 Minicraft Chebec…all new in shrinkwrap! The Revell boxes are a little dinged up, but I suppose that’s to be expected for kits that were purchased many years ago.
Now I have another question: How many people out there like to open their stash kits and look over the contents, and how many feel it’s important to keep the plastic wrap on, so they’re in brand-new shape?
I find myself wanting to open the boxes and examine the parts!!
