Best Type 23 Kit?

[Mike N]

Hi all,

I am brand new to ship models but recently ordered the Airfix Type 45 at a bargain price. I'm now thinking of getting a Type 23 to go alongside. I see the big H has 4 Trumpeter Type 23 kits, but a bit of googling suggests that some of them may be the same plastic despite showing a different fit on the box art, e.g. the turret.

I would like to get one that reflects the latest standard, which one (if any!) should I go for?

Cheers,

Mike

[AntPhillips]

Don't be deceived by the boxart, there have been 4 issues of the kit but all are subtley different, and the boxart doesnt necessarily match the kit contents, IIRC details are as follows:

HMS Kent - 1st issue - Mk.8 Gun (not Mk.8 Mod) & Lynx Helo

HMS Montrose - 2nd issue - Mk.8 Gun (not Mk.8 Mod) & Lynx Helo

HMS Westminster - 3rd issue - Mk.8 Mod Gun & Lynx Helo

HMS Monmouth - 4th issue - Mk.8 Mod Gun & Merlin Helo

I'm pretty sure the above is correct, but I don't have every issue.

Apparently the Merlin Helo in the Monmouth kit is overly long in the fuselage and is best replaced with an Airfix one, although on her recent Gulf patrol, Monmouth only carried a Lynx anyway.

Hope this helps.

[Mike N]

Cheers Ant, that's great. Based on that I think I'll go for the HMS Westminster release.

Many thanks,

Mike