USS Ethan Allen
Before seeing Dan Lee's build of the USS Thresher, I had not heard of MicroMir models. I've always had a fondness for modern subs (especially when needing a simple modeling recharge) and Dan's excellent job compelled me to order a kit. I decided to try the Ethan Allen, a ballistic missile boat that was later converted to an attack boat under the SALT II treaty.
It's a modern submarine kit. Doesn't get much simpler: two hull halves, three parts for the sail (four if you pay attention to the directions, unlike me, and add the center support piece), six for the rudders and diving planes, some periscope masts and finally a photo etched screw to be sandwiched between the hull and tail-cone. I did have a little work to do as this is has the qualities of a limited run kit. But it only took a little filler and sanding. Then it was on to painting!
I used Mr. Color Cowling Color for the topside black and Tamiya Hull Red for the bottom. Some oil dot filters and a light gray wash finished it up.
I liked it so much I ordered three more and a 1/144 USS Monitor. I'm looking forward to all of them!
Looks spectacular, Scott!
Thanks!
A fine looking submarine, Scott @guitarhack5
Thank you John!
The Ethan Allen turned out excellent! The weathering makes it.
Same with me. I started out with just one and then afterwards bought several more.
What 3 subs?
Thanks, Dan! The three subs are Nautilus, Skipjack, and Sturgeon (which is just about ready for paint as you can see). I also ordered a Virginia from HobbyBoss. I’ve gone all in! 😂
1 attached image. Click to enlarge.
I just finished the George Washington. Got the Nautilus, the HB Alfa and two GATOs.
They really are fun to build.
The early boomer subs had a lethal, frightening beauty about them. Great kit and great photos.
Thanks Bob!
Nice to see they did a Polaris boat. Great result on a simple kit that wasn't so simple.
Thanks Tom!
Nice work, Scott! So do you think 1/350 is a good scale for subs? Not too tiny? Lots available in this scale?
I think 1/350 is a great scale for subs. Except for one experiment I tried years ago in 1/700, I exclusively work in 1/350 for subs. MicroMir makes a number of sub kits in this scale. Hobby Boss does too.
Thanks. Just ordered a couple! Can I ask: are the markings on the periscope and radio masts some kind of camouflage?
No sub kits for me. The part counts scare me.
Great job Scott. The painting and weathering really brought it to life.
Thanks Dennis!