Chinese UK Royal Navy DRUID Sections

[rraisley]

You may have seen these advertised on eBay: small Stern- and Mid-Sections (maybe Fore- as well) ship sections in 1:128 scale (pretty much fit in your hand) and are basic structural sections without a lot of detail. They interest me, looking for a new but simple project to work on. I know they are made in China, and know the opinion here about knock-offs, but don't see that they are copies of any other model. On eBay they sell for about $80 or so each, and are definitely shipped from China. I think I've seen Chinese sites offer them direct at lower prices, but they use the same photos, so if they both come from China, I would expect them to be identical kits and not, again, knock-offs. But I don't know that.

 

I searched here and found nothing, but was wondering 1) If there are thoughts against these types of kits, assuming they are /not/ knock-offs, and 2) Has anyone seen any or had any experience with them?

 

I could post links and pics, but haven't (yet) in case these kits are considered "no-no's".

[mtaylor]

I've PM'd Chuck on this to make sure he sees it.  He's probably the most qualified to answer you.   Not all Chinese kits are made by pirates but thanks for thinking ahead on this.

[James H]

The kit, I believe, is supposed to be based on Hahn plans. It's also produced by Unicorn, who are known IP thieves, so the subject matter is irrelevant. 

 

I'm afraid that if you openly buy that kit, then you will lose your MSW privileges/membership.

[bruce d]

6 hours ago, rraisley said:

I would expect them to be identical kits and not, again, knock-offs. But I don't know that.

Pat on the back for asking and trying to do the right thing.

[Chuck]

Jim is correct in that those cross sections are made by Unicorn which is one of the largest pirate mfg’s in China.  They have stolen designs from many others such as Amati, Panart, Mantua, Corel etc.  And yes the Druid kits you mention are copies and knock-offs of Harold Hahn’s Druid plans although reduced.  They are 1 to 1 copies actually.

 

Their kits are not allowed on MSW.   Purchasing them means giving monetary support to them.  
 

And yes they are cheap, as is typical of Chinese products.