Hi guys, here's an in-progress indoor build I've been working on recently while my shed's been hijacked. It's a 1:24 scale display model of the 45 foot 6 inch Watson class RNLB K.E.C.F. from Rosslare. I've been thinking that although a 1:12 scale working/sailing model is very nice, they take a very long time to build and are difficult to display plus finding hull lines is difficult. For this though I'm using the lines found in J.R. Barnett's Modern Motor Lifeboats redrawn to 1:24.
My intention is to build one of every class of motor lifeboat and a couple of sailing boats (unlikely, but one can dream) For the 45'6" I could have built either a typical boat of the class or the boat that I've picked, which was significant in that it was not only the first twin-screw Watson but it was also the first lifeboat fitted with radio, hence an abnormally tall mast.
The hull's built from a 1/8th inch ply keel and frames, with a single layer of balsa planking and blocked in bow, stern and tunnels. This is covered in as much filler as necessary to get a smooth hull. The deck is similarly planked and filled, with the cockpits made from sheet balsa. I've made one error when building the hull but I don't think it's noticeable so if anyone thinks they can see it let me know. Hopefully updates will be regular. Enjoy!
Andrew
