by David Waples
1/700 USS Laffey DD-459 (Dragon)
I previously posted my model of the USS Woodworth DD-460 and this is the 2nd part of that Dragon 2 for 1 kit. This time it’s the full hull version modeled as the Laffey, DD-459. I thought the pedistols under the full hull boat in this scale was unique. The model does come with some photoetch parts but I decided it needed more and added the White Ensign Models Benson/Gleaves Class Destroyer Photoetch Set. It fit very well with the kit and I thought was a significant improvement. I scratch built masts from brass wire and rigged her with UNI-Caenis 20 den black nylon thread which was an improvement over the clear tippet material I used on the Woodworth model. The ship was painted with White Ensign Models Color Coats with about 20% white added to the base color for scale effect. The decals on this kit are amazing. If you look closely you can pick out the depth markings on the bow and stern. The waterline was made with a thin black decal from an Xtradecals sheet. I really enjoyed building this model and very pleased with the outcome.
