1/350 USS Essex CV-9 (Trumpeter)
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by Brian Harrison |
1/350 USS Essex CV-9 (Trumpeter)
This is my effort to model Trumpeter’s USS Essex in 1/350 scale. I utilized Pontos Models complete detail set. This is an amazing set. The wood deck really enhances the model. The photo-etch was really excellent. (Though in a few cases was overly fiddly. The port-side elevator framework was insane. I ended up detailing the plastic part included in the set. Was very disappointed. Maybe it is just me, but a heavier metal or even a resin set might have helped. I also omitted the paravane framework under the front deck. It too was a bit fiddly, and I’m not sure it would have added that much.) The Veteran Model guns and accessories in the Pontos set were amazing as well, and are a massive improvement over the kit guns and directors. The masking worked well. The major complaint I have with Pontos is their instructions. They are sorely lacking, with very small pictures, missing some assemblies, and no rhyme or reason to how the sheets were laid out. That said, I would buy another Pontos set in a heartbeat. It is worth every penny. This is modeling after all.Except for a few stressful moments (and a crumbled up port-side elevator track), this was a fun and engaging build. I worked on this for nearly 15 months, but then I also have a busy full-time job.
In addition to the Pontos set, I also used the excellent Admiralty Models Carrier Ordinance and Vehicle sets, Eduard pre-painted deck figures (though I really don’t care for the 2-dimensionality), Alliance Modelworks Dynamic Propellors, WEM Floater Nets; and extra aircraft sets from Trumpeter to add to the air-wing. Paints were primarily Model Model Masters and Tamiya acrylics. Weathering (amateurish as it is) was done with weathering chalk and Model Master “rust”. Rigging was done with light nylon sewing thread.
