I'm starting a poll on "Who's Kits do you like the most?"
If you like, post a reply message here after you vote, and explain what is it you like or don't like about about certain kits. Please don't start a new topic.
If I forgot a manufactuer, just let me know. I'll add them to the list.

I don't know about the rest of you, but I've always been partial to Model Shipways Kits. The instructions are usually well written and the plans are well done. If I don't care for some of the cast parts that come with a kit, I'll make my own to suit.

Always liked Midwest and Model Shipways kits. A lot of the kits from Europe don't have very clear instructions, and sometimes the parts they give you don't seem the fit the era of the ship.

I have found most of the European kits to, well, not to be so good. If I do get one I have to go through it and change or remake a lot of the parts (mostly the cast ones). I don't do entire scratch models, but I will modify kits so they will be more historically accurate. As I said in another post, I like to research a ship as much as possible prior to starting construction. :wink:

Tried a few of the kits from Europe. But if I had my choice, I'd stick with Dumas or Model Shipways. I've also bashed some kits, used the basic parts and semi scratch built my own. I don't get down to making my own blocks and such. I'll order small parts like that from one of the hobby suppliers online. My local hobby shop (as with most) doesn't carry much in the way of ship parts.

Not much to say. This is my first foray into ships. I did model airplanes in the past. I'm working on the Bluenose by Amati right now. I have nothing to compare it to, but the translations could be a little better. Let you know more when I finish the model.

Being new to the wooden side of ship modeling I can't make an honest choice. But this is valuable info for selecting a kit. It lessens the chances of getting in over one's head right of the bat and causing discouragement with the hobby.

Hi tobee,
I've started the Model shipways Virginia Sloop and have the Bluenose waitng in the wings. The most difficult problem to date was getting the permission from my wife to take up space in "her" work area, LOL!

These two models look perfect for my first trek up Mt. Everest. Although, I do have some rigging experience with plastic models Cutty Sark and Constitution which turned out tobee respectible. :wink:

You just have to let her know who's the boss! ](*,) (Your head being smashed against wall after the afore mentioned discussion with wife)
What made you decide to switch over to wood? I tried plastic many years ago. Those old Revell Kits. I guess I found wood more of a challenge, and more authentic looking.
Did you ever see the photos of wirewolfs' shop? Look and drool! =P~
It's a whole separate wing of his house.

My experience with the Revel kits was a very pleasant one. But I always, for many years, wanted to dive into the wooden ships. They are much higher quality and allow for leeway to add more realizm. I'm a detailed perfectionist and I would build a model from scratch down to the last treenail if I could.

I don't know about anyone else but I feel like I'm on vacation when working on these tall ships. Who needs to go outside on sunny days!? Bahhh! Close the curtains! :x
I can only dream of a large shop, at least until I kick...er send the kids off to college. \:D/