HMS M.1 Extra Model 1/100th Scale

[smithdr]

All,


Today I started this cool sub. I've never used laser-cut parts before but I splurged when thinking of all those important hull formers. I'm glad I did.


So far it's been a pleasure, but a lot BIGGER than I thought. My normal models are 1/72nd, 1/48th and 1/32nd aircraft so this will be a fun project.


Cheers,
Dan

[rifleman]

would you be so kind and post more photos as you go with this build of the m1 thanks

[smithdr]

Will do, RM. I've always been interested in subs and this guy is particularly interesting.



Here are some more shots of the hull skeleton in progress. Nothing has been glued at this point. My plan is to spot glue with super glue and then go over the joints with my normal tacky glue. The model fits extremely well so far with great laser cut parts. It is also very impressive to behold!


More soon...Dan

[smithdr]

Some skinning started along with the skeleton for the gun housing. You can sort of see how it's going to look on the hull. Pretty dang cool!
I also circled a numbering error on the plans. Easy to figure it out, though...

Thanks for looking...Dan

[Don Boose]

Looks great so far!

Don

[Doug J]

Looking good! It looks like laser cut makes things a lot easier.....

[smithdr]

The laser cut is just AMAZING. For me on this model, it's well worth it! I sort of think it's cheating, but there were so many cuts on those bulk heads and now that I've started skinning, things match so beautifully, so I'm pleased...


Here is the sequence of events for some of the gun area. I'll make the gun next and then try to get the tricky form around it. The only thing I've done extra is embosses some areas in case I end up repainting this guy. We'll see.


Thanks for looking!
Dan

[PAPER FAN]

Looks really good. As for cheating, model building is all about your enjoyment not about your techniques. Laser frames, turned barrels, etc. are all just a means to an end. You are the person who has to enjoy the final product and how you get there is just a personal preference.

I have been filling my frame work with balsa and sanding smooth before sheathing, it eliminates the skeletal look, actually takes way more time and is not pure. All fine by me.

Keep up the great work, this looks like a jewel so far. Interesting the Brits converted HMS M2 to a seaplane tender later in its life after removing the gun.

[rifleman]

your going to have a great looking model when your done good job so far well done

[smithdr]

Thanks everyone. I really like this kit and the fit is really nice.

I started the main gun and breach which has several rings/tabs and edge joins. I then added an aluminum tube in the rear breach that fits in a nice cradle to make the gun elevate. I couldn't see in the instructions how to fix it to the cradle so I added a couple of pieces of scrap to hold it in place. Now there is enough friction that it stays where you put it and it elevates like a champ! Looks really cool! Next will be the housing, which looks like a nightmare due to the convex nature around the barrel, and then the barrel itself. Any suggestions on how to make a neat barrel would be helpful. It's been hard to make it neat with the correct taper. Plus, it's a pretty small diameter (for me). We'll see how she goes!


Thanks for looking...Dan