Recommend model kit for the USS Constution

[Noblenut]

I was wanting to try to build the USS Constution any recommendation on a good kit 

[ccoyle]

Wood or plastic?

[Noblenut]

That is a lot of Great infomation.I have started the San franciso ii it’s my first wooden build i also built the revel build of uss constution but never got to do the rigging. My children turned it into a toy when i was at work and destroyed it but made me love the idea of building a wooden ship now kids have left and have more time. i was looking for option on a future build and thank again

[mtaylor]

Here's an article in the database that may help get you started.   Start simple and go from there as your skills and needs develop.    https://thenrg.org/articles/basic-tools

 

As for the Constitution... there's a lot of kits out there with only two really being accurate.   Bluejacket does one that is very accurate.  Model Shipways is also accurate.  However they do represent different period in her history.

[JeffT]

The Model Shipways kit is a good kit. I'm building that one right now. Just keep in mind that its not an easy kit to build and there are a lot of parts that have to be scratch  built.

[Roger Pellett]

If you want to assemble kits as a means of enjoyment that’s fine.  If, on the other hand you want to build a ship model that has historical value you have to do research.  Although Constitution is a well known ship, as she exists today she does not represent the frigate that battled the Royal Navy in 1812.  I don’t have the exact details at my fingertips but she has been rebuilt, repaired, restored, etc. half a dozen times.  Many of these, particularly those in the mid 1800’s made changes reflecting then current style and subsequent ones failed to correct them or added new ones.  For example, her well known bicentennial refit in the 1990’s that returned her to sailing trim failed to restore her ugly mid Nineteenth Century vintage head structure to its much more graceful 1812 appearance.

 

Before spending money on a kit, buy a book or two that shows you what she looked like during different times in her life.  Then find out if the kit that you are interested in will produce a model reflective of the period that you have chosen.  I recommend “ Old Ironsides by Thomas Gilmer.

[Noblenut]

7 hours ago, ccoyle said:

Wood or plastic?

i am wanting to do wood

[Jaager]

47 minutes ago, Noblenut said:

am wanting to do wood

Clicking the focus to a lens with a wider angle,  it would probably serve you well - to read the cautionary tale post pinned to the top of the new members forum.

Although, not as overwhelming as a first rate, a super frigate is still a major opus.

[Noblenut]

I Have thought about a build log but it being my first wooden model ship and not 100% if i’m doing things wrong

[KurtH]

I say, go for it.  My build log shows a gazillion and one mistakes.

[Canute]

As many wise men and ladies have said, the only dumb question is the one unasked. A build log is the best place to ask questions as you build.  Read the FAQs about setting up your log and work away.

[WalrusGuy]

I agree with everyone's advice here. I don't think I'd ever come this far on my build if I didn't have a log. Everyone here has been of the greatest help!