John,
The Tamiya 1/350 scale "Rd-Bridge" FLETCHER kit is quite old these days and has issues. The Trumpeter "Sq-Bridge" FLETCHER kit is much newer, but in many ways isn't as sharp in quality of details molding as the Tamiya kit. But, I think the linked review was a bit harsh. The basic hull, deck, and deckhouses are useable as a baseline. Both kits can be improved without too much effort. With the advent of 3-D printed weapons and equipment, all the armament can be replaced and makes in my opinion a big difference. The 5-in mounts on both kits are ... sad ... for Tamiya undersized and for Trumpeter the multiple pieces for the mounts isn't necessary with current molding techniques. DML did a MUCH BETTER job with their BENSON-GLEAVES class units, admittedly at twice the per kit cost.
Trumpeter's modeling of the bridge has issues of inaccuracy. The shape of the open Navigation Bridge isn't correct. Model Monkey has produced a series of parts specifically as replacements for theses two kits. Including 5-in mounts, bridge variants, and bulwark options for 40-mm mounts. The link David posted gets you to Larson's products.
I don't know which specific Sq-Bridge FLETCHER class unit (or units) you are considering modeling, but studying that unit would tell you what needs to be modified. How accurate and detailed (anal
) you are will dictate how much work is required. Depending on which yard built the unit you are interested in modeling and the timeframe, "uniquenesses" in shape and construction of bulwarks around 40-mm and 20-mm mounts will show what needs to be done for upmost accuracy.
3-D printed 40-mm and 20-mm guns and several other pieces of shipboard equipment by Black Cat are amazing and can (should?) be used as replacements. They are pricey, but are "really" nice.
All of the "upgrades" will add up cost wise, but if an accurate and detailed kit is your desire, it will be worth it.