Iron Stropped Blocks - Kate Cory Whaling Brig

[Capt. Kelso]

My current build is an old Model Shipways (yellow box) Kate Cory 3/16" whaling brig, built 1856. I have just begun the masts and have been researching rigging. When I bought the kit, I also purchased a set of comprehensive plans developed by Erik Ronnberg from the New Bedford Whaling Museum. The kit plans make no reference to the application of Iron Stropped Blocks whereas the Whaling Museum Plans contain details regarding the use of both rope and iron stropped blocks. I made the decision to stick with historical accuracy and plan to use iron stropped blocks. However, I found only one supplier that sells them. Fortunately, they have the sizes I need and placed my order. 

 

It appears the use of iron stropped blocks became fairly common in the 19th Century, yet I find little specific information regarding them and I'm not aware of any manufacturers aside of Bluejacket that includes them in their kits. I thought maybe I could just make my own, unfortunately, I could not find any "how to" posts on any modeling forums.

 

Our hobby in many respects prides itself on detail and accuracy yet I can find almost no information on the application of iron stropped blocks. Am I overthinking this?

 

 

 

 

 

 

[CPDDET]

For me, it's a struggle to keep a balance on how far to go with authenticity. I can tend to overdo.

[BANYAN]

Try Chuck's "Syren" online site (Rigging Blocks for ship models - scale boxwood blocks- swiss pear-2mm scale rigging blocks|3/32" scale rigging blocks and pulleys) as he had a range of internally iron bound blocks available. They are not shown on the  page above, but I bought quite a few from him a few years back.  He may be able to help you if you contact him (he is a MSW admin if you were not aware of it)

 

cheers

 

Pat

Edited yesterday at 12:51 AM by BANYAN