by Peter O'Donnell
1/400 HMS Rodney (Scratchbuilt)
With my last contribution I complained that there wasn't much scratchbuilding to do. I think I got carried away with this contribution.
I have always wanted to build a large scale model of HMS Rodney but apart from a 1/350 resin model there are none available. I tend to work in 1/400 anyway, because when I started in 1/400 there was more choice from a European perspective (although that has now changed). I figured a shortened KGV hull would be a good starting point but did not have any great scratchbuilding experience. Then Phil Reeder showed the way when he did just that to build a 1/350 Rodney (see gallery and link to his build details). So I decided to do the same on a spare Heller/Airfix King George V model, shortening the hull by 2cm or so and scratchbuilding the deck and superstructure. The KGV model provided the anchors, AA guns, funnel (widened), boats and the Walrus etc,etc. Everything else, including all turrets and superstructure, was hand-built. The steam pinnace was a whaler plated in Evergreen sheet and the cabin roofs were shaped plastic. White Ensign Models PE for KGV provided most of the needs for Rodney.
I originally wanted to build her at the time of the Bismarck engagement, but I made an early error so the model is more a composite of her appearance through the war, after all a model is only a caricature of a ship and hence this pastiche. She should perhaps be painted in camouflage, but I think this spoils the look of the ship. Rodney unfortunately was worn at at the war's end and had no post-war career, going to the breakers still in her camouflage so never appeared in grey with her last modifications. Please don't contact me with a list of the innaccuracies as I am aware of them all. I researced a lot but it is frustrating to find a picture after I had completed some aspect of the ship. I can sent photos of the build if there is interest.
Scratchbuilding is slow but empowering as you are not beholden to the manufacturers and can build whatever you like but staying in standard scales makes detailing easier. I found superglue wonderful stuff, it will stick absolutely anything - to your finger! I've got this idea for my next build...
Added construction pics
