USS Phoenix/Helena

[Padre]

I have been building the USS Phoenix from the USS Helena model and trying to modify it to fit the USS Phoenix. Previous thread on http://www.papermodelers.com/forum/ships-watercraft/4156-uss-helena-phoenix.html

Have finished the 5" open gun mounts, 3 on each side amidships and one on each side on O2 level. The Phoenix did not have enclosed duel 5" mounts. Not having them means that it did not have hoists to bring up the shells, they had to be hand carried to the mounts exposing the handlers to danger as they were not protected. I had to change the blast shield to regular railings if you look back at previous pictures. I find that sometimes I have to change things (poor planning and rushing). I will attribute any differences to updates during different dry-docks. I will not glue them in place yet as they overhang the hull and I would probably damage them as I turn the ship during building.

 

[papastumpy]

Looking good, the gun mounts look very good. Did you use turned barrels for the mounts, if not, your paper rolling skills are just tops. Looking forward to more.:mrgreen:Rick

 

[Padre]

I used the brass barrels for all guns, on the 6" turrets they are kinda heavy and the ability to elevate wears out quickly and then need to be glued in place. The open 5" mounts I borrowed from the USS Arizona from Digital Navy.

 

[papastumpy]

Oh yea, like the idea of using other details that are usable from other kits. I find this is great in the area of life rafts, seems some get it better than others. just a foot note; cutting formers for the 1/72 Type VIIC, just felt like working on this after awhile of just looking @. I am building the re-color, but @ 1/72 scale, not enlarged. Have the first sub-assembly almost ready to cover.Rick

 

[Padre]

http://www.zealot.com/forum/showthread.php?t=157982&highlight=Type+VIIC

 

[jkrenzer]

The 5" open mounts are excellent, can't wait to see them mounted. I also love the hanger, never even knew the US cruisers had one till seeing this. Are you going to leave it open? I have never seen a photo of one of these ships with it opened.

 

[Padre]

Finished the cranes for the ships boats. They are not in the exact place as on the Phoenix, placed them where on the Helena the twin 5' mounts go. Doing modification as I go to change the Helena to the Phoenix. Also took a quick break and made a Skull for Halloween.