1:350 Type 23 Frigate. White Ensign Etch set

[Shar2]

Type 23 Frigate
1:350 Etch Set

To coincide with the release of the Trumpeter Type 23’s, HMS Kent, Montrose, and Westminster, White Ensign Models have released this etch set. Although looking like it was originally designed for their Type 23 model, this set has been modified to fit the Trumpeter kit with the inclusion of some additional parts. Several parts of the kit will need to be modified with the removal of plastic to allow the use of the etched parts.

The single sheet measures 262mm x 107mm and contains over one hundred parts. Aside from a full complement of ships railings, each shaped and sized to fit their specific positions, although some will need to be shaped to fit, there are also a full set of flightdeck netting which can be positioned folded or upright. Once the moulded plastic frames have been removed, the Harpoon launchers can be attached to the previously folded etched parts. In addition to these there is a new set of blast shields to be built up. The fore and aft 911 fire control radars get a new platform surround whilst the foretopmast receives a new top lattice and platform assembly, yardarms, aerial supports and wire aerial spreader, and the 996 radar is fitted with a new antenna plate. The centre section of the superstructure is fitted with new extension supports, gun platform netting, ships class crowns and small gaff, part number 43, not 41 as per the written instructions. The main mast also has three multipart yardarms, associated aerials and large gaff. Moving aft, the superstructure is fitted with a new vertical/guarded ladder, liferaft supports, flightdeck lighting assembly, new hanger roller door. The flightdeck is fitted with the helicopter harpoon flightdeck grid and the netting mentioned above. With the ship covered there’s still the helicopter to be suitably detailed. For this there is a new main rotor and tail rotor for the spread condition whilst for the folded condition the tail needs to be removed at the fold joint and the exposed bulkhead added. The etched main rotor needs to be modified by cutting carefully at the root of the blades which are then folded aft. The four blade support poles can then be attached to the fuselage and the blades fitted to their respective slots.

Conclusion

This set is exactly what we have come to expect from White Ensign Models. Comprehensive, detailed and delicate, just what the trumpeter kit needs to bring out the best in a build. As usual, care and patience are the order of the day when using etched brass, but it’ll be worth it. Recommended

https://www.whiteensignmodels.com/p/WEM+1350+Type+23+Frigate+Trumpeter+PE+35167/15946/'>

Review sample kindly provided be John at

[prowler0000]

Just went to the top of the "to be purchased ASAP" list... Thx Dave!