HMS Victory Models

Model Ship Links

A model ship is facsimile or replica of a ship embodying its superficial characteristics and proportional dimensions. Models were made as visual aids to help people understand what a new ship would look like. These are called exhibition models. When a warship was designed, several types of models might also be made to test different characteristics.

This traditional type is popularly called a "builder's model." So-called builder's models are executed to a specific degree of scope and accuracy. Usually only the exterior is represented. Other kinds of models include: designer's half-hull models and World War II identification models in 1:250, 1:500, and 1:1200 scale.

Official Navy models are mostly "scratch-built" from wood and metal. Big portions of the model, like the hull and superstructure, are usually made from large pieces of pine, mahogany, or basswood. Smaller parts are made from aircraft plywood, brass, and copper. Plastic is rarely used.

"Museum Quality"

The term "museum quality" is sometimes used to describe a model which, in the speaker's opinion, is an example of superior work. "Museum quality" is a subjective appraisal with no official definition within the museum community. The following are some elements associated with this term.

Workmanship should be in accordance, in every respect, with the best model-building practices. Hulls should be smooth, fair, and symmetrical; without blemishes, sap pockets, or tool marks, and should be scraped and sand-papered to smooth surface. Machined parts should bear no tool marks. Castings should bear no visible mold marks. In no case should glue alone be deemed sufficient to hold deck houses, fittings, or other appurtenances in place. Mechanical fastenings such as screws and pins should be used in addition to adhesives.

Models should consist of the whole exterior of the vessel from keel and appendages to the top of the highest antenna or fitting, and should include interiors of such enclosures, conning stations, deck house topside stations, gun and missile stations, hangars and bays as are accessible to weather without opening watertight doors or ports.

Generally, all items on the prototype twelve inches or larger for 1:96 scale (six inches or larger for 1:48 scale) will be reproduced.

Running and standing rigging and cable antennas should be represented. Windlasses should be wound with appropriate cable or line. Large windows should be indicated on the model by clear acrylic plastic. Ports should be transparent, and should have a hole bored behind them to give an appearance of depth. Gun turrets should have the openings in face plates required for elevation of the guns. Where required, gun shrouds should be represented. Where appropriate for the mission of the actual vessel, and visible on the model, scale aircraft or vehicles will be provided. Landing pads should be provided with at least one representative scale aircraft.

Small boats should be mounted on davits or otherwise as actually carried and should show all details, motors, and equipment twelve inches or larger in actual size. If represented with weather covers, gripes and all fastenings visible are to be shown. Landing craft and whale boats should be without covers and should show all exposed details and equipment. Special functional features peculiar to the vessel (for example: stern doors, towing devices, special antennas, fire fighting gear, etc.) should be shown.

Propellers should be cast in bronze. If another material is used it shall first be copper plated and then brass plated. Fittings and accessories shall be of metal or other suitable material which will permanently hold its shape and will not deteriorate from temperature, humidity, light or chemical reaction with other parts, paint, or the atmosphere. Lead or lead-bearing compounds are not suitable for any component. No ferrous materials shall be used.

Painting of models shall receive careful attention. Special care shall be given to select compatible paints that demonstrate the best resistance to color changes, cracking, peeling, and fluctuations in temperature and humidity. All parts of the model shall have a surface treatment representing the appearance of the actual vessel if reduced in scale.

Classes of Models

The level of detail and craftmanship of model ships can range from crude "primitives" to more detailed models that achieve true museum quality. Most of the people that see a model really don't see the minor errors.

Ship models are proliferating on the internet in ever growing numbers, and all claim to be of the highest "museum quality". The old saying "you get what you pay for" holds true in most instances. The price of a model does generally reflect the quality of the workmanship and level of fidelity. But it takes some practice to judge which models are worth their price. This is difficult with only photographs to go by, but a trained eye can tell spot critical differences. Look at photographs carefully. Quality models show a faithfulness to the original builder's plans.

Some experienced model-makers build their models from kits (bashed to the point that they are nearly scratch built). Novice model-makers discover the world of model making through kits. These construction kits contain everything necessary for building the model. All components, whether wood, brass or other materials should be designed and manufactured using sophisticated technology. But some kits are lacking in detail, and some manufacturer provide kits of fictious ghost ships.

Kits generally divided between Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced kits. Another standard division is between up to six skill levels.

Skill Level 1 kits can be built without prior building experience, using simple hand tools. Some parts in Skill Level 1 kits require cutting and fitting.
Skill Level 2 kits require slightly more skill and some prior experience using hand tools. Some parts in Skill Level 2 require cutting, fitting and shaping.
Skill Level 3 kits are intended for the person having some prior building experience building wooden boats. Skill Level 3 kits contain parts that require cutting, fitting, shaping and fabricating.
Skill Level 4 kits are intended for experienced modelers. Kits in this series feature plank-on-frame construction. Before building a Skill Level 4 kit, modelers generally construct a Skill Level 3 Apprentice kit.
Skill Level 5 - Experienced period ship builder.
Skill Level 6 - Expert period ship builder

The three most important things that make for a successful modeler are patience, patience, and yet more patience. It is supposed to be a hobby, not another job, but it is not for everyone.

Almost-ready-to-run (ARTR or ARR) boats are among the hottest radio-control products on the market. These quick-to-build models are perfect for beginners who are looking to get their "feet wet" and for enthusiasts out for a nice, relaxing day on the water. ARR kits require some assembly before operating the vehicle, such as installing the engine. Ready-to-Run [RTR] boats come minus the radio and a 6- or 7-cell battery pack. Most models include radio gear, so assembly is simply a matter of applying the decals and charging the batteries.

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Military

Model Ship Links

"Museum Quality"

Classes of Models