1/350 USS Essex - Early 1945

by Douglas Conrady

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I know this isn't the typical submission on this site, but I thought hey, if one plane is good, why not 100.  I finished this aircraft carrier back in late '05.  Why am I just submiting it?  I just got my eyes uncrossed and the doctor said it would be ok for me to be around people again. 

This is the Trumpeter Essex with a few modifications.  I added the Tom's Modelworks PE set to the ship.  The railings, radars, and ladders were the items I was after.  The planes are Trumpeter too.  I didn't PE the planes because I would've got stark raving mad.  Oh wait, I did anyway.....  Anyway, with the reasearch that I had done, there are 20 Helldivers, 20 Avengers, 30 Corsairs, and 30 Hellcats.  

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I chose the time of this loadout based on the arrival of the corsair.  It is my favorite WWII Naval plane.  Ten of the planes are "in reserve" and on the hanger deck.  I cut open enough doors so you can see them.  The planes are all out of the box, but with my own detailings.  

I did the math and there are an average of 12 parts per plane. They are a detailed kit within a kit.  Trumpeter did an outstanding job with these planes.  All the panel lines are recessed.  The fit was great, I didn't have to do anything except open the box.  They just fell into place.  I painted all the squadron markings except the corsairs' tail, they are decals that came in the box.

 

I used my trusty airbrush for the blue, but hand painted all the rest.  I've included a picture of how I painted them all in one fail swoop.  Some painted details are the wing fold areas, cowling band, squadron markings, and prop tips.  All the stars and bars are decals, and if you've never build these, there are 3 decals for each insignia.  Thats 12 / plane.  Since they all come in a box of 6, I've got some left overs.  My plan is to make a couple of each type with the PE.  I think I'm gonna wait a bit though, I need to get a few bigger projects done. 

It may not be the most accurate Essex out there, but as I like to say, "If you don't like it, then you can do it next time".  I will be working on a 1/350 Nimitz soon............ I should call ahead for a rubber room.  If you've got questions or comments or want more pictures, just email me.  Just don't throw rotten tomatos. 

Thanks for looking, 

Douglas

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Photos and text © by Douglas Conrady