Basic resin kit which is approx. 24" in length. (Hunley is at the back ) Clean up and sanding to fine tune resin which takes awhile. This resin kit has quality molding as some of the resin kits I have put together in the past were horrible to work work with. C.I. always has great resin molds and have never had a problem with them as other company's in the past. Main ship is 6 parts, the hull is extremely detailed and will make planking it a breeze. I have chosen to plank the hull in American black walnut instead of American cherry. Should have a better contrast for her, I will use pure Tung oil when model is complete for the water line planked hull.
As all resin kits this one was washed with warm soapy water and dawn detergent before sanding and cleaning. After all sanding and cleaning will be washed again. This makes sure that any surfaces to be painted are prepped and no oily residue is left from the cleaning and molding process. Also guarantees a solid bonded surface for all painted parts, regardless of paint types used.
Tools used for cleanup are to the right of the model parts.
1) Basic nail file with large git and small grit (Cheap)
2) 4 mini diamond files (cheap)
3) Stick file with medium and fine surfaces (Cheap)
4) Hand drill (Cheap)
5) #11 blade razor knife (Cheap)
6) Dremel tool with diamond tear dowel (not shown) (expensive)
7) Clean and prep parts (10 hrs)
Some modelers use sand blocks for speed, I like to take my time and detail the parts out to fine tune each one for assembly and painting detail down to the mm scale. This always makes sure the model is in perfect condition for displaying when totally completed. Also makes sure all parts fit tightly together for a proper gluing seal. One resin kit I had for a star ship was so badly warped and cluttered with resin it took me 2 months for cleanup! Least to say I never bought another one, the manufacturer went out of business so I couldn't return it or get another one. Case in point...... always deal with reputable companies when dealing with resin kits. C.I. is one of the best in my opinion for Civil war historical models.
Remember models are actually a work of art from the modeler to produce. A kit can be done many different ways per what the modeler is seeking to produce, another fine point is you also produce family heirlooms. If you have children it is also a wonderful way to introduce them to creativity and quality time spent together. Teaches them basic engineering and mechanical processes with patience along with pride in accomplishment. Plus it's fun! With computers trying to taking over our children's lives this type of activity I feel is extremely important.
Parts in process of cleanup:
Questions.....please feel free to ask, this kit is expensive at $249.00 plus shipping so is not for the novice modeler. C.I. has many historical kits, ranging from $29.99 and up. For all stages of a modelers experience.