First, thanks for the kind comments: I appreciate them.
This kit - for me - was *perplexing* to say the least. I build models for my own enjoyment (ie., not for contests, etc.) and my main goals are always to a) remain inspired throughout the project and b) to improve over my previous efforts. To wax a bit philosophical, this kit became my white whale. There were (many) times as I sat down to work on it that I actually dreaded it, while at the same time it represented a challenge to pretty much all of my modeling skills. It's too bad I had to spend so much time, effort and money correcting basic problems with the kit's workmanship.
Enough philosophy: this kit really let me down. Part of that may be because YMW did such a good job of overselling it with the (SolidWorks?) 3d models they released - I allowed my expectations to outweigh my experience (eg., USS Montana was of similar quality). I don't typically bag on manufacturers because I understand very well what it takes to go from concept to delivered product, but in this case, I would be remiss to not speak my mind. The kit was poorly executed, period. I'd rate the main elements as follows:
- hull - 8 of 10
- superstructure/other resin - 2 of 10 (I'd give it a one or zero but I was at least able to use some of it as patterns)
- photoetch - 10 of 10
- white metal - 0 of 10: should have left it out and saved me the money.
This project consumed 18-months, two of which were spent awaiting a replacement kit from YMW (and which you can tell from the photo below, wound up not correcting most of the problems anyway).
Having said all that, you are welcome to the below collection of parts if you can't find one on eBay
Note the #2 barbette in the box: once again I say "THANK YOU" to everyone who offered constructive criticism.
As for the gigs, I'm off on a new project (hint below - note the modifications to the transom actuators) and they are sitting there on the bench staring at me, so I'll probably get around to them.
Randy