4 stars out of 5. Nice kit but the instruction sheet was conceived during a tequila binge. No parts map like their U-Boat, inaccurate placement in illustrations, and the decals leave a bit to be desired.
Tamiya paints used and airbrused on the model. Eduard PE parts were fun but tedious at times. Weathering done with AK light rust wash, Tamiya panel liner, and ground up oil based pastels.
No numbers or flags on this as it is “on patrol”. Crewmembers arrive in a few days and they will be added on the Con.
I had an uncle that served aboard a Gato class sub in WWII. I’ve been thinking of building one for a while but seeing your masterpiece I’m going to order one and get started as soon as it gets here.
Thanks! Definitely shop around. I snagged this one for around $150 at a hobbyshop in New Hampshire. I’ve seen prices of $300 on evilbay. Definitely get the 2 sets of Eduard PE. One set is the deck plating. You won’t need to do the wrap overs along the upper sides. The plating is thin enough that it won’t be very visible. Also, go over the instructions, which are out of sequence, and make note which areas/parts are replaced with PE. Time consuming but makes it a bit easier down the line. Looking forward to your build!!
Very nice, very clean work here. Almost looks like a sub that is in a tuxedo.
As much as I like it and other than carrying it around in the bed of my truck, I just don’t have the room for a three foot submarine anywhere… oh, but… maybe in the bath tub?
Stunning piece of work! I think to my eye the amount of weathering is perfect! I love the wear on the ladder rungs. Nothing will make it better than a small crew on the bridge.
I would love one but “She who must be obeyed” would never allow me to place such a big boat anywhere.
Beautiful work!! My grandfather served on the USS Drum as a Motor Machinist Mate. He was a plank owner on the USS Jack, and I hope to build one soon. I have the early model Gato and got it at a great price at an AC Moore craft shop, I think I paid around $35 for it. I saw it, tried not to look too excited, grabbed it, looked around, and snuck up to the check out line. I didn’t relax until I got out to the car. It felt like I was stealing it!!
I hope to build the Jack on patrol once I get a few more ship builds in. Where did you find the crew figures? Can’t wait to see them installed.
