White Ensign Models Type 23 Duke Class Frigate 1:350

The WEM kit

I am not a ship modeller; I’ve never made one however, I know good resin when I see it and this is right up there with the best.

I’ve looked over all the parts and can’t see any pin holes which bodes well. The lower hull is separate and on my example slightly warped but this will be easy to fix with warm water, in fact glue will easily pull it into position as it’s not that bad at all.

All the parts have incredible detail on them and are extremely finely moulded. I’m really looking forward to painting this and bringing out all the detail with washes etc.

In addition to the resin parts are a number of white metal bits; I’m not sure why this was used and not resin, those familiar with these kits will probably know.

Regardless they are very well done, there is some flash present but this is standard for white metal and it will clean up easily.

There are a number of options as there have been various modifications during refits over time. The most obvious is the Kryton gun turret (called that as the angular shape resembles the robot character from the Red Dwarf comedy series).

Check your references as to which type you use as the instructions are correct up to 2007. I will be modelling HMS Somerset from my Op Taurus deployment so will using the Kryton turret.

There is also a very large photo etch sheet with all the guard rails and a great number of aerials and small details which are very well done. No decals are included, however they are available from Hawk Models from White Ensign Models.

All in all, this is a highly detailed and complex kit.

I know I will have frustrations along the way as I’ve never tackled this type of kit before, however we’ll see how I get on over the coming months. My main concern is painting the kit as I go along, getting neat demarcations between the deck and superstructure and the like.

I’m sure I’ll be tapping up Les V for advice along the way.

Jamie H.