Hi Felix C
I have actually built the original Rhino models release that was mastered by Dave Runkle--I built it back in 1999.
( way before internet and computers in my house-- and way before access to the huuuge font of knowledge available at the click of a mouse .
As such it is not entirely fair to compare the present day plastic kits -coupled with the vast array of PR aftermarket available now
The kit at that time was actually pretty good-- some of the PE was ahead of its time , though I scratch built the launches-( the kit versions were of a generic US pattern)
and added the net shelves, substituted all the kits handrails for closer spaced WEM PE
IF.... I were to build another 1/350 Dreadnought-- I would probably build a model based on the resin hull from steel Navy-- for one very simple reason...
I do not like -actually loathe- on any model kit plastic or resin -the current fashion; the vastly overscale plank butt-ends .
I am not not over enamoured by the wood decks-- they seem to my eyes too much like they are creating a modellers model-- visually very appealing -as a model--but not actually a 'photographic' representation of the real thing--where the buttends are all but invisible most small scale model wood decks- though not all- have planks that are to wide--caulking lines that are too prominent... and those vexed butt ends!
With the resin hull --despite the hassle of waterling the full cast hull
viewtopic.php?f=4&t=18213&start=0I would then add the plating runs( as I did last time)
I would then buy either an Academy or Zveda kit ( or both) --and the best PE sets available ( North Star, Pontos, WEM et al) and build my usual hybrid model
Might not be cheap--but I would end up with the model I wanted!!
Out of the box .....
and with a little less obsession about plank butt ends -
-the plastic kits benefiting from modern technology and research will give you an easier result ...
here are some images of my Dreadnought model( shot just now this evening through the glass case especially for you ! )
ergo flash glare
Best wishes
Jim Baumann
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....I buy them at three times the speed I build 'em.... will I live long enough to empty my stash...?
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