USS Oregon BB3, Digital Navy, 1/250

[shipdad]

It is about time I post something instead of just lurking. I decided to print the DN USS Oregon. So far it has been a good build. For the most part the parts are a good fit. The frame was rather easy and I like the hull plates though it does have that "starving dog" appearance. Because of the instructions I believe this is not a beginner kit. The instructions get you started with the major steps but then fail to tell you every thing that needs to be done. Also you have to hunt through the pages to find the parts. The numbers are not in any order. So far I have found three parts which may be miss numbered or I have parts in the wrong place. I think I am correct though. My worst part has been the screws/propellers. Just did not work how I thought they should. I can live with it this time.
Now I have to figure how to add photos.
-Rich-

[Michael Mash]

I enjoyed reading your experience with Digital Navy’s Oregon. This kit was my first serious card/paper attempt. At that time (2002-2004), I failed in my attempt to make the frame and hull from card/paper. So I made it out of balsa, and sanded it to shape. Then, most of the rest of the model from the waterline up, was card and paper.
Mike

[shipdad]

I hope these show up. Good they show on preview.
-Rich-

[Don Boose]

Excellent work on the hull and main deck.

I really like ships of this period and look forward to following this build.

Don

[georgerutherford1861]

That is looking quite good so far, especially for such an advanced kit.

Doug

[Petestein]

Originally Posted by shipdad

It is about time I post something instead of just lurking. I decided to print the DN USS Oregon. So far it has been a good build. For the most part the parts are a good fit. The frame was rather easy and I like the hull plates though it does have that "starving dog" appearance. Because of the instructions I believe this is not a beginner kit. The instructions get you started with the major steps but then fail to tell you every thing that needs to be done. Also you have to hunt through the pages to find the parts. The numbers are not in any order. So far I have found three parts which may be miss numbered or I have parts in the wrong place. I think I am correct though. My worst part has been the screws/propellers. Just did not work how I thought they should. I can live with it this time.
Now I have to figure how to add photos.
-Rich-

The never ending problem with most card models: lack of good, precise, clear and easy to follow instructions to make the model. I still don't understand why such works of art like the USS Oregon and several other models out there that are really beautiful lack building instructions. Most designers get lazy after spending years designing a model and they conclude that any modeller building his designs, must either be an expert card modeller with years of experience or if the model is purchased by a beginner or by an ordinary chap, he must become a top magician guessing how the parts are cut and assembled. It is really a pity. Best wishes!!

[shipbuild]

Having useful instructions is quite important. A friend of mine made a career as a technical writer creating assembly and user manuals for many different products. The importance of this job was reflected in the very generous salary he received. Not quite as exciting as being the product designer but very lucrative.

[CMDRTED]

looking great so far. you might consider painting /coloring the edges so they don't show up so vividly

[shipdad]

Thank you all for your responses. I am trying to do touch-up coloring as I go along. I found some craft paint which is a good match with what my printer printed for buff. I am debating whether or not to paint the red hull. On my last ship it looked real nice. If I do it it needs to be now before too many details are added. I have been working on the air vents but will not add them until the last opportunity. Two photos added to show where I working.

[atwaterfalcons198992]

The hull and deck look amazing, I like the detail in the parts. Great job