Model Boat Mayhem
The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Navy - Military - Battleships: => Topic started by: Richelieu on May 15, 2018, 11:52:31 am
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Hello all,
I'm a newcomer here, so pls give me a chance to introduce myself. My name is Serge, I'm 49, and I am a Frenchman. But, I lived for over 15 yrs in Scotland, working for the oil industry. I am not sure if any of you guys know Richelieu battleship, but it's got an interesting history. It fled Brest for Dakar in Senegal in June 1940 when the Germans invaded. While in Dakar, Churchill, in fear of it being given to the Kreigsmarine by Vichy government, launched operation "Menace". Degaule tried to disembark with some free French Marines, but the locals would have none of it. At the end, HMS Barham & HMS Resolution were ordered to sink Richelieu. But she fought back even though she was moored. She scored a hit on HMS Barham and HMS Resolution was torpedoed by our sub "Bévezier" and the Royal Navy left to leek its wounds. The funny thing is 2 years later, she was based in Triconmalee in Ceylon, fighting alongside the Brits...
Anyway, This is a ship I dreamed of for the past 30 years, ever since seeing a model in the Marine Museum in Paris. I started it 4 years ago and it is now nearing completion.
(https://i.imgur.com/PHeiRVB.jpg)
It features functional turrets as well as blank firing guns. Since a video is worth a 1000 words, here it is:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7pjuD9dprw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7pjuD9dprw)
cheers
Serge
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Welcome to the Mayhem Serge!
Wonderful model. O0
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Very nice indeed - I always though this class were very fine looking battleships. How many shots do you get before you have to reload?
And to add, any pictures of her under construction?
Cheers
Geoff
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Hello Geoff,
well I get a single shot per tube before having to reload, so I get 8. On the video, I mis-wired the igniters somewhat and shot them two by twos... %%
Regarding the built, it is detailed on a French forum here: http://amis-model-naval-rc.forumactif.org/t37-construction-du-cuirasse-richelieu-automne-1943 (http://amis-model-naval-rc.forumactif.org/t37-construction-du-cuirasse-richelieu-automne-1943)
but since I am way too lazy to detail it here (it's 14 forum pages long!) here are some pictures:
(https://i.imgur.com/HYwwQEM.jpg?1)
I did not get much help from the cat.... %)
(https://i.imgur.com/vo7nKRx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TyDorEz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vXTaXnQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/t2B6NsD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KNQpPsM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7vD0Ksf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wZHFhvf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3YpF2d2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RquDijd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/z4DAV2o.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DcEq9h6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NeBPQOI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/upQJotl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XQCMsDu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vrfsnhQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/skVfotV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/azYKlk4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7v3KCCa.jpg)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C73zXU5qeSU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C73zXU5qeSU)
(https://i.imgur.com/xeiGKhX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XksyW9k.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1JPgofR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HUKng3h.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pB85uLp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/aYWU0rS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Bvygc1f.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pB85uLp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MX1llLe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ca70Edg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oyAuN6z.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TSHss4T.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/N1hmQ99.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NX19OTE.jpg)
http://www.shipcamouflage.com/measure_32.htm]http://www.shipcamouflage.com/measure_32.htm]http://www.shipcamouflage.com/measure_32.htm (http://www.shipcamouflage.com/measure_32.htm)
Light gray 5-O
Ocean Gray 5-L
Deck Blue 20-B
(https://i.imgur.com/QPoree6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tVGSrI6.jpg)
Cheers
Serge
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Another set of pictures of the build:
(https://i.imgur.com/01RladB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iOtPNfQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/AvS8zoW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BBWgXNt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/AgSUEE1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pl5sDQE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wKHdHHJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hSkfpNn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4t1ZiQQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/e5UxJDo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DHdifH1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Kg7MHTG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/X9s0VX1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/29oD7Bz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GyIfNgW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Mlb20ZN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lluDVsz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lApeXWN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/li0yLNM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cfrDvxH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PKB2Lej.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sSi3r2H.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/N26su1x.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6faPS6o.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Jn2tJGg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oDY0fEq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iQW5bIn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8GsHWp2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TtEZKRV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Im7vZyp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CxDxj8R.jpg)
[(https://i.imgur.com/YyBMqVW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pYPp7FJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VjovR7b.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5ZKvm9R.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xXavv88.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/aUyP7ve.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/47uoLaP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HMR0Uwz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JDBlaKY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mxZJaef.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gu29miS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iyne2iH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OBS7TW9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/G7qnQxQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pFIoARp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rREMiSJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xKFobhM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/o8KwbSQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MflcSw2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tnubR9l.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EwxNik1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DSMTPaI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ErWAVyz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ErWAVyz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/M04DGnH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FJqVFy4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rmEVgsJ.jpg)
Cheers
Serge
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Perhaps another helping?
(https://i.imgur.com/SNfbwUT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DRUMXNg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/i9anBZn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/16LzRHm.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lcUryDZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5WgnROO.jpg)
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(https://i.imgur.com/HA3zJBS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0so8htF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/k6tfQoo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FW7Ats0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tUQzTwF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SgjeCvy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oN2KT6r.jpg)
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(https://i.imgur.com/OzuSrNY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HTBp6Io.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tRhBfJi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gJVnJL5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HIvfbQz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FnpeHSU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/yYWC5vY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TGCJcXu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ii2I5WN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ct38prx.jpg)
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(https://i.imgur.com/cPlwwoL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VEudnCC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vtfBKyQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hdDRxlD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8ixvMwN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wWR2xcG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UaIgCVb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/X1cDirL.jpg)
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(https://i.imgur.com/diEuYmK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ceVsTCK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jh6ZkBy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/z1OePU7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/yqeSyr0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/D9RQTSt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tCFs8St.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8TnV8W6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bHmXzDx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tCFs8St.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8TnV8W6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bHmXzDx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GclGxZE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FeEcHS1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KnQU7cH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zLiwH3F.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mnMYVs8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/k81wt32.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LombjLs.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SQhogrT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5GDmQBM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3hTFeVy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wKdtuLX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Z9Vyddi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/g4IM87o.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xFCES0H.jpg)
Cheers
Serge
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Top work, i have a hull the same scale. My hull still hasn't got past putting the foredeck on and ive had the hull for 7 plus years.
Jay
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Well, we asked and you delivered. I only have one thing to say superbe!
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Hi Serge,
Beautifeul ship the Richelieu. I have both the Richelieu and the Jean Bart 1/100. The ship's are 40 and 35 years old and in full working order. With the Richelieu we have won several champioenship in europe in late 70's and early 80's.
I have follow your building on the France forum and I have to say it looks great. How do you have let de 380mm kanon's working because i'm looking for something like that voor the my ship's.
Her are some pivture's of both.
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Hi Elza,
nice to see some Dutch Richelieu & JB! They both look great!
Regarding my functional artillery, I feel uncomfortable sharing it in details here, as regards to UK legislation on the use of pyrotechnics...
This a family friendly forum, and I could not live with myself if some kid hurt himself doing something stupid. Pyrotechnics used to be my former job so I hold a training license.
However, I am willing to share any details with you through private mail, so do not hesitate to mail me.
Cheers
Serge
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Very nice indeed. It is always fascinating to the models under construction.
For the other models looking at gunfire systems may I suggest you have a look at my thread on Iron Duke with its gunfire system as I am getting 300/350 shots a session without reloading and not using pyrotechnics. Full details and plans are on the forum.
I wonder if we could all organise a Battleship fest one day so we can all meet up and do fleet sailing!
Thank you for posting.
Cheers
Geoff
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Hi Serge,
Just had a quick look at your build thread http://amis-model-naval-rc.forumactif.org/t37-construction-du-cuirasse-richelieu-automne-1943
One word "Amazing"
Saw the video of your pyro firing guns https://youtu.be/C73zXU5qeSU - don't think we can match that sound!!!
C-3PO
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I wonder if we could all organise a Battleship fest one day so we can all meet up and do fleet sailing!
Cheers
Geoff
That's my dream! But we'd have to find some 1/100 scale HMS Bahram & HMS resolution for me to shoot back at in a re-enactment of Dakar Battle! :-)) :D
Cheers
Serge
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Hi Serge,
Just had a quick look at your build thread http://amis-model-naval-rc.forumactif.org/t37-construction-du-cuirasse-richelieu-automne-1943
One word "Amazing"
Saw the video of your pyro firing guns https://youtu.be/C73zXU5qeSU - don't think we can match that sound!!!
C-3PO
Well, C-3PO there's actually quite a bit of science behind it. From materials resistance calculations, to generating a large fireball using a slug of paraffin which catches fire in contact with oxygen. one thing I got left to crack is making the smoke black.... >>:-(
Cheers
Serge
Serge
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Hi Serge,
Just had a quick look at your build thread http://amis-model-naval-rc.forumactif.org/t37-construction-du-cuirasse-richelieu-automne-1943
One word "Amazing"
Saw the video of your pyro firing guns https://youtu.be/C73zXU5qeSU - don't think we can match that sound!!!
C-3PO
Actually you can!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7pjuD9dprw&t=17s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7pjuD9dprw&t=17s)
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Spectacular. How long have you been working on her? I love the paint scheme, even though she did not wear it long.Well Done!
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Spectacular. How long have you been working on her? I love the paint scheme, even though she did not wear it long.Well Done!
I laid the keel down 4 yrs ago Akira.
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Hello all,
I re-edited my video last night to try to see what caused turret 2 to loose some 20mm ammo boxes when it fired with some slow-motion HD footage. {:-{
https://youtu.be/Wd__lvmcAgM (https://youtu.be/Wd__lvmcAgM)
all tubes are actually built with recoil springs but clearly, they weren't very effective on T2. One thing for sure is that I won't try to fire the tubes on the ship axis, as I'd probably "clean" the deck forward of T1.... >:-o
Cheers
Serge
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Hi Serge,
Last night I have make the final programming of the Jean Bart.
The next thing is to make them smoke afther firing ;D
Rotating and elevation of the 380mm guns
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWuoalmo670[/url)
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Elza...the turrets look good.......however we need to throw out scale speed representation of gun mounts
The train speed you show is approx. 3 times too fast...same with the rate of elevation
If we view many photographs of Richelieu or Jean Bart and other vessels of similar class, we rarely see the ships at turrets with Zero degree of elevation
Storing the turrets with - negative elevation was forbidden as the second mount pointed toward the FWD mount
+5 to +10 degrees of elevation was common
Derek
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Hello every one!
I finished the last bits and bobs for the rear deck. The flag pole is made out of 2mm brass tube wich I tapered. It is removablefor transport. The hardest thing to do was the support structure out of 1mm brass wire. When you solder one bit, another bit comes of, grrrr <*<
I alos cut the bulkheads for the rear of the smoke generators:
(https://i.imgur.com/zhBhlsA.jpg)
And I prepared the letters (extruded ones please!) for its name
(https://i.imgur.com/MyuNGg7.jpg)
I rather like the final result and that glorious tricolor (BEC flag from Cornwall Model Boat)
(https://i.imgur.com/Wd9qQZ6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1q4rz3y.jpg)
Next to come are the railings, which I will start at the rear (unlike what I usually do), to end up with the harder gun deck railings.
I'll take this opportunity to show you my collection of objects linked to the ship. It's all the different models of crew badges from 1939 to 1968 and the original 1946 sailors booklet about the ship. Forget the MG151 20mm shell, it's a German intruder (nothing we're not used to here in France! %) :D)...
Cheers
Serge
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Is this ship in the same family? - https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipNnDTEthQpz6vYjuL7gc09uZcAXHAXlmlseZqtHUFLog68XPXU9j63G_5rCJeHO5g?key=OXJHaWRWQjlTYlJKSlJ1Z2VYN1dmYzVRSHZzSndn
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Hello Martin,
They are all and the same one! including mine in the pictures!
Top notch, well done!
Cheers
Serge
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She's a beautiful model Richelieu. A tip I learnt for preventing soldered bits from becoming unstuck when soldering the next bits on is to lay a piece of wet rag or tissue paper over the soldered parts near by and the water absorbs excess heat. I have even done this whilst using a small butane torch but with a little singeing!
The little touches such as the practice guns on the turret sides (I presume that is what those are {:-{ ) make it a super model.
A question regarding the directors: Are they dual for each turret or does one control the man armament while the other controls the secondary armament in some way?
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She's a beautiful model Richelieu. A tip I learnt for preventing soldered bits from becoming unstuck when soldering the next bits on is to lay a piece of wet rag or tissue paper over the soldered parts near by and the water absorbs excess heat. I have even done this whilst using a small butane torch but with a little singeing!
The little touches such as the practice guns on the turret sides (I presume that is what those are {:-{ ) make it a super model.
A question regarding the directors: Are they dual for each turret or does one control the man armament while the other controls the secondary armament in some way?
Hello,
thx for the soldering tip! Yes the guns on the side of the main turret are 90mm practice guns. The story goes that the joke on board when a new sailor boarded, was to tell him these were used to punch guide holes for the 380mm main guns into targets!
As for the directors, on the front the larger one is for the 380's and the top one is for the 152mm secondaries. The one at the rear is the backup director for the main artillery.
Cheers
Serge
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Ha! It reminds me of apprentices being told to get 'skyhooks' or in the case of Billy Connelly; Tins of Tartan paint!
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WOW. Makes my model look lame by comparison. Lovely work. At least I get more photos for reference. Will be looking at all pages on your forum post. Thanks for sharing.
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thanks Kiwi66.
at the moment I'm busy making guns for just about every Richelieu/ Jean-Bart I know as they all want the same...
(https://i.imgur.com/jYqFLlY.jpg)
One weekend of work left I guess...
By the way, if anybody is interested I can make any kind of guns for you, British, German, Japanes (I'm pretty open).
a+
Serge
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I will keep this in mind :O)
Those tubes look very good :-)) Did you do them by hand on the lathe or with CNC? Very skilled work either way Serge.
Amicalements! Ian :-)
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Thx Ian.
No it's done on a standard Multirex lathe. I use Carbide tools (goes quicker).
Cheers
Serge
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This is how I make them:
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/833661IMG10351667x2500.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/461874IMG10362500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/931701IMG10392500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/353109IMG10402500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/325230IMG10412500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/196497IMG10432500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/313427IMG10442500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/524903IMG10482500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/767916IMG10492500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/919640IMG10512500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/570321IMG10522500x1667.jpg)
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/267750IMG10542500x1667.jpg)
3.8 mm of noisy happiness!
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg4/pics/329648IMG10592500x1667.jpg)
Cheers
Serge
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Thanks for your run through of the model engineering Serge.
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Hello everyone,
well, I just started on the railings:
(https://i.imgur.com/h4hPi3y.jpg)
it's hard work...
Cheers
Serge
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Hi everybody,
well, I finally decided to drill the portholes holes in the hull. It was really hard for me, mostly for cultural reasons . Indeed, being a former paratrooper, we used to say "why jump of a perfectly good airplane? Well it's the exact same thing, why drill holes in a perfectly good and watertight hull?
Furthermore, a battleship is not a cruiseliner, so who needs portholes? I bet Bismarck didn't have any! >>:-(
mm It took me ages to mark the place of each portholes on tape and then drill 0.7mm guide holes.
(https://i.imgur.com/1MfqcBs.jpg)
then, I drilled the main 4mm holes using a wood drillbit
(https://i.imgur.com/XlFYQr4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EbNsHMK.jpg)
There are over 250+ portholes and I only had 200 so I had to order some more from my favorite Polish bloke at RB-model.com
Also, I carried on with the railings until I ran out of 0.5mm brass wire (on order as well)
(https://i.imgur.com/902zffZ.jpg)
Cheers! (it's beer time here)
Serge
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She is a lovely ornament for your lounge Serge! I made portholes to cast in pewter so they plug the holes drilled to accommodate them.
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Hello,
To illustrate Ballastanksian question on Kiwi Richelieu's thread next door about my cadet: I just can't drive my own ship when he's around... :police: :((
(https://redcdn.net/hpimg15/pics/407589IMAG0416.jpg)
As soon as I've armed the 380's... O0
(https://i.imgur.com/OBuWEhL.jpg)
It's a big baby!
(https://i.imgur.com/6eSa0gy.jpg)
Anyway, I started painting the 250 portholes...
(https://i.imgur.com/D786Y6c.jpg)
I just got that feeling I am building a cruiseliner with 200mm thick cemented steel armor belt:
(https://aenigma.franceserv.com/images/dtfLjI7.jpg)
Ballastanksian, this is what happens when I try to melt pewter, so I'll try to keep away from it... {:-{
(https://i.imgur.com/0i1GplB.jpg)
Cheers
Serge
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Bloomin heck Serge :o Model boating isn't meant to be a contact sport (Secret Ten team look away!) You are meant to build up your heat resistance gradually and not in one go :}
Your Cadet looked deep in concentration there, which is a good sign. I think Steamboat Phil's Cadets are similarly skilled in the various sailing disciplines. Still, what you and Kiwi are doing is very interesting. She and her sister were very beautiful ships, the fig. goes to show that despite people's passion for super big and super heavy etc, the Allies were also sporting considerable armour thicknesses. Yamato wasn't the only battleship to sport 17inches of armour.
Anyhow, arrange a summit with your Cadet and work out a schedule so you can have some sailing fun as well!
Amicalement! Ballastanks
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Hello,
Announcement from Cardinal Travel Agency:
"Hello, we'd like to inform our kind customers that we have added portholes to our Richelieu cruise liner. Indeed, passangers who book a cabin outside the armoured coffre will from now on have a seaview. We remind or clients that the ship has been proof tested in Dakar against HMS Bahram & Resolution 16" AP shells *. To book, you must be at a 1/100 scale. Happy cruising! :}
* : Ship and cruise not garanred against Sopwith torpedoes"
(https://i.imgur.com/dzN5bCI.jpg?1)
(https://i.imgur.com/L0UhBrN.jpg?1)
(https://i.imgur.com/KUETNcA.jpg?1)
PS: we've also painted the railings:
(https://i.imgur.com/T5auraN.jpg?1)
Cheers
Cardinal Travel Agency
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Cor, 16 inch guns would have put the Queens and Sovereigns on a par with the Nagatos! But they only had 15's the same as Richelieu which are not to be sniffed at :} She looks great with her portholes :-))
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Cor, 16 inch guns would have put the Queens and Sovereigns on a par with the Nagatos! But they only had 15's the same as Richelieu which are not to be sniffed at :} She looks great with her portholes :-))
Thx, Ballastankstan! This explains that!
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Hello everyone,
having finished the railings:
(https://i.imgur.com/trWOk6M.jpg)
I now turn my attention to the 9 launches & skiffs:
(https://i.imgur.com/jDZiSSY.jpg)
There is one missing having broken my saw blade... <*<
It's going to take me some time to make all of them.
(https://i.imgur.com/IjuYEmX.jpg?1)
Cheers
Serge
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That is an excellent start Serge! I hope you manage to get a new blade soon.
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Beautiful job! She did look lovely after her refit. The added AA gave the bristling effect. I especially liked her camouflage scheme as well. Well done!
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Thx Akira & Ballastanksian
well, I haven't made much progress after a week on vacation without (scaled) ships.
I had started planking the hulls of all 7 largest skiffs. Being quite impatient, and furthermore nearing the completion of this build, I thought that instead of planking everything, I might as well (considering the number of skiffs), mould them using imprint in a silicon mould technique. Also, this will allow me to make some for friends making Jean-Bart & Richelieu. I know nothing about moulding techniques, but it's something I got to learn for my next project, Yamato.
So, instead of planking everything, I just need to make a print for each type of skiff used on Richelieu, and I experimented with the technique consisting of gluing blocs of balsa between members and then filling everything down to the proper shape (and I'm no artist nor scupltor!). Then I just applied some époxy mastic (SR5550 + Mixfill 10) .and voilà!
Besides being impatient, I am also an hopeless optimist, so I used my 4 year old époxy resin to make mastic which I applied:
(https://i.imgur.com/AdJr386.jpg)
Only that, after 4 years on my shelves, the époxy is not good anymore and never cured properly, with a rubber like consistency which I cannot sand down... <:( :-X
So, I had to start again, with freshly ordered époxy (SR5550+SR5505 & mixfill 10) which worked this time. After sanding the hulls down, I'm quite happy with the shapes which are nice and smooth.
(https://i.imgur.com/gkTMZlb.jpg)
Then, I just "varnished" the sanded down hulls with a brush and straight époxy, to give it a nice glassy finish.
(https://i.imgur.com/6tt3SNy.jpg)
Next step is the making of the moulds (my first ever).
cheers
Serge
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Hello,
well, since the époxy layer has finished setting, I made some sole out of plastacine for the skiffs as well as styrene frames. I had to work the volumes out just right since I only got 1 liter of RTV
(https://i.imgur.com/3WyRrOz.jpg)
Just placed everything within the frames.
(https://i.imgur.com/3WW0Tm7.jpg)
The dosage is 50g hardener for 1L RTV so I poured all the hardener in the bottle and mixed up for 20 min. I just hope it's well mixed as it's difficult due to the thickness of the RTV compound (just wish they'd stick some dye in the hardener)... >>:-(
Anyhow, I mixed it with a big stick for over 15 minutes.
then, I poured it in after spraying with release agent:
(https://i.imgur.com/shjLT1o.jpg)
20 hours to set, we'll see what gives tomorrow.... :P
Cheers
Serge
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Lovely intricate work.
Great idea to scratch-model one of each ships boat, then make a mould and cast them. :-))
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Lovely intricate work.
Great idea to scratch-model one of each ships boat, then make a mould and cast them. :-))
Well, as a confirmed agnostic, I am praying for that bleeming RTV to set by tomorrow...
Cheers
Serge
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Hi Serge, you can get colourants for silicone. It might be pricey though {:-{
Lovely boats by the way.
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Good evening everyone,
this morning, I tried to take the masters off the silicon moulds and guess what...
(https://i.imgur.com/kYAj9DC.jpg)
A blooming Wonder! Everything came apart nice and easy (thanks to the release agent). I've given the masters to my 9 years old to play with... %%
Even the wee bitty at the back of the skiff's keels and the negative angles, no problemo. :}
(https://i.imgur.com/EUxqwVg.jpg)
The only thing that's left is to produce actual prints from these beautiful moulds. I initially thought using 2 layers of 80gr/M2 of glass cloth and I prepared everything:
(https://i.imgur.com/QEBbSMx.jpg)
I quickly realised that it's not easy removing air bubbles from angles using the glass cloth squares, so I ended up using several layers of 1 inch bands. Another surprise I found after completing skiff N°2, epoxy polymerisation is exothermal, and once it heats up real good in the pot and it sets hard in a few seconds after 25 minutes (in the pot only though). I use SR5550 resin and SR5504 hardener from "Sicomin". I think I'm gonna get glass mat instead.
(https://i.imgur.com/csPbuct.jpg)
Anyhow, we'll see what gives tomorrow.
tata
Serge
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Hello,
I released the prints this morning:
(https://i.imgur.com/xTbBSFk.jpg)
and I am quite happy with them, a few bubbles here and there but they are internal, the external surface is perfect, despite the fact that it's hard to imagine more complicated a shape.
So I started a second batch using the same technique! I bought some glass mat, but it's so thick I haven't even tried it. I'll just carry on with my current technique and glass cloth.
(https://i.imgur.com/oOkMfrl.jpg)
Cheers
Serge
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Hello,
I managed to cast all the skiffs,
(https://i.imgur.com/H9eva78.jpg)
including the dinghys for which I used bi-composant RTV putty (having run out of proper liquid RTV) to make the mold.
Next comes the hard part, making the decks and superstructure out of styrene. There is not a single straight line on these Richelieu's skiffs... >>:-(
(https://i.imgur.com/ACmKQCo.jpg)
Anyhow, I got the decks on. One nice thing about moulded part is that once you've made a Template for each type of skiff (there are 3) the decks fits nicely (no need for custom parts for each one of them).
(https://i.imgur.com/gtOOy2U.jpg)
Cheers
Serge
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Hello,
no, in case someone was wondering, I haven't been inactive... I fact, I have been working on those bleeming skiff's superstructure to the point that I got the felling of having intercourse with flies (pardon my French). Just to show the level of frustration. >:-o
What a pity, at this stage of the build having to go into such levels of détails. At least, a Richelieu 15" turret, it's simple, it's massive, it make sense. These? The sheer number of skiffs just show the level of confidence headquaters had after our friends across the pond had finished tinkering with it!
Anyhow, here are the superstructures with their windshields:
(https://i.imgur.com/u1306IA.jpg)
made some little 3mm propellers and some little steps (all that's missing is a bunch of 1/100 scaled idiots). <*<
(https://i.imgur.com/4j52MJF.jpg)
I even manufactured some little steering wheels and seats, just in case the guys want to do some water skiing once the war is over and the ship has been sunk. :police:
(https://i.imgur.com/aRiOWVI.jpg)
In fact, I even had to work one of the decks free with a cutter blade so that I'll be able to fit them in...
(https://i.imgur.com/5NTos0f.jpg)
In short, a complete nightmare.
Cheers
Serge
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Hello,
I made some progress on the skiffs and escape boats.
(https://i.imgur.com/8FH9sXv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/keTDm5h.jpg)
Here is the state of Richelieu's "Fleet"
(https://i.imgur.com/vN7ANPn.jpg)
composed of 5 launches, 2 large escape boats and 2 dinghys which equals to a total of 9 according to the Polish plans I have.
Only there is a big problem >>:-( . Indeed I dug up a naval monography from "LOS" magazine of the ship in '43 and it's 15 I need, not 9:
(https://i.imgur.com/M0A4I7c.jpg)
Here is the detail:
- 5 Launches of 2 types
- 4 large escape boats
- 4 dinghys
- 2 average size escape boat
I got no molds nor plans for the average sized boats, but I'll just modify one of the launches hull.
In any case, I got to make some new prints.... :((
(https://i.imgur.com/SpG3AyW.jpg)
a+
Serge
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I hate boats and do not begrudge anyone omitting some of them. Hey, she must have come under some attacks that 'accidently' destroyed some of the boats and she hasn't had the opportunity to have more shipped :}
Work on your excuses Serge!!!!
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When making the boats do please consider that sometimes the number shown was the maximum peacetime number and not wartime. If you look at where some are stored one 15" salvo and you will have matchsticks all over the place!!
When ships went to see they often landed some of their small boats and tied them up at their buoy. If they came back they got them back, if not it didn't really matter as they weren't going to need them again!
Oars - if you take a plastic card thin rod and squash one end in a vice you get an oar. It takes a little practice to get it right but its a very easy way to make oars. Think how many you will need!
I think this could also be done with thin aluminium rod as well if you want something more robust.
Cheers
Geoff
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I hate boats and do not begrudge anyone omitting some of them. Hey, she must have come under some attacks that 'accidently' destroyed some of the boats and she hasn't had the opportunity to have more shipped :}
Work on your excuses Serge!!!!
Thx Ballastanksian & Geof
It turns out I won't need to make any story up.... :embarrassed:
After a tip from a friend (my good friend Eric) ,I dug up a picture from Sarnet's book page 191 dated 26th of August 1943 taken during sea trials in Chesapeake bay.
It's always better than a magazine monograph.
(https://i.imgur.com/RkMvKD0.jpg)
If we zoom in:
(https://i.imgur.com/HIvcwmk.jpg)
One can see clearly that there are indeed 2 large motorized 15 M whaleboat, as well as three 10 M launches (type unknown as there are 2) between the fore and rear castles. Level with the fore castle are two of what looks like 8 M whaleboats on each side for which I have no plans. In front of the fore castle are one launch to port and a small skiff of undetermined size or type on both sides which I'll replace with my already made 2 M skiffs. As for the 8M whaleboats I have adapted launches hulls. So that's a total of 10 boats and I only have to make the 8 M whale boats... Can't see any Oars on the plans I have though but it's true most are motorized (apart from the 8M whale boat?).
Otherwise, I made progress on the 15M boats
(https://i.imgur.com/sAW36zZ.jpg)
and installed the rubber ring (6mm in diameter) and the engine housing
(https://i.imgur.com/8bmxllw.jpg)
as well as the 2 small staircases at the back
(https://i.imgur.com/AB02LGf.jpg)
Cheers
Serge
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They are really nice Serge.
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Hello everyone and thx ballastanksian.
I have at long last finished all 10 of the launches, skiffs that my Richelieu version features.
(https://i.imgur.com/5wX6pw3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/u3YJ83i.jpg)
Here for the details:
(https://i.imgur.com/sACAumh.jpg)
I installed them where they are supposed to reside, and it fills up the gap rather nicely. Unfortunately, I realized that all the little détails like steering Wheel seats and so on will never be seen by anyone. Only I will know they're there...
(https://i.imgur.com/voADnUz.jpg)
I've also installed the ones which goes on the deck
(https://i.imgur.com/vlmUW5S.jpg)
With the difference between port and starboard:
(https://i.imgur.com/ESM64MF.jpg)
All I've got left to do are some minor détails like the sky lookout chairs. I had some 3D printed ones, but I can't find them, only the binoculars, so I ordered somemore...
I can't believe I could have finished this ship TODAY! Well, it'll just have to wait till next weekend. Finishing it after 4 years of hard work will leave a big gap in my life, but my wife will be happy that I'm finished with it. At last she can recover her dining room and husband.
Cheers
Serge
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You can fill the gap neatly with another project! How about one of those French Pre Dreadnoughts, or one of your classic pointy armoured Cruisers?
Anyhow, Richelieu is gorgeous especially with those boats Serge :-))
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You can fill the gap neatly with another project! How about one of those French Pre Dreadnoughts, or one of your classic pointy armoured Cruisers?
Anyhow, Richelieu is gorgeous especially with those boats Serge :-))
Thx Ballastanksian,
I don't like pre-dreaghnouts, but I have identfied my next project: it will be the ultimate, it will be Yamato....
Cheers
Serge
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That will be an epic!
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Hello all,
well, I've finished installing the sky lookout chairs and the binoculars:
(https://i.imgur.com/4LQelSP.jpg)
And, I have also started making the molds for the blast bags. I am planning on using the "sock mold technique" which consist in dipping the shapes into latex several times. once set, I should get a thin, tough membrane of the proper shape. It's the same technique for manufacturing "French Letters" which we call "English condoms" over here (go figure... %))
(https://i.imgur.com/coiwXp7.jpg)
after having cut the shapes in balsa, I applied 2 layers of époxy, to remove any asperities.
(https://i.imgur.com/sNuP9Wb.jpg)
I'm not too sure on how I'll fix them to the turret, but see what happens.
Cheers
Serge
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Amazing build.
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Thx Kpnuts,
Well, I'll tell you what I did, even though I am not sure whether it will be a success yet or not.
So, I bought pre-vulcainised "esprit composite" Latex with black die (which looks alot like smoke black)
Then, I h=just dipped my moulds into the latex:
(https://i.imgur.com/pFU4aMk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/YA5INa7.jpg)
in between layers or dips, I wait for it to cure about 1/2 an hour. To go quicker, I stuck the moulds into my oven at 70° C. I have tried to take one of the socks off a mould after 4 layers and it came off nicely. The only thing is that the exterior was about 0.3mm thick and a bit sticky so that it just clumped.
I then learned that it takes 24 hrs for it to dry up completely.
So, in the end, I ended up applying 8 layers and I cut some of the excess off to control thickness which is about 0.7mm:
(https://i.imgur.com/2epzHwV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JyuZpiu.jpg)
The properties of Latex are as followed
-shore hardnessv80
-Elasticity 700%
These should make nice blastbags
We see what happens next Saturday as it takes 24hrs to cure completely. To take it off the molds, the exterior has to be coated in washing up liquit to prevent the sock sticking to itself.
Cheers
Serge
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Hello, well, being as patient as I usually am, I could not wait to try to unmould the socks:
(https://i.imgur.com/XUfyQ7n.jpg)
A quick try on the guns:
(https://i.imgur.com/V8jdc4s.jpg)
Of course, I still need to adjust them. The good news is I think I won't even need to build a frame or glue them. Just thread them on the tubes and voilà!
I'm very pleased that this stupid idea of mine actually works!
Cheers
Serge
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Whilst a bit large, the images were interesting to see. That is an interesting way to do the blast bags!
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thx Ballasttanksian! %%
Best Rgds
Serge
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Amazing build. I very much like your technique for bloomers. Well done!
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PS: There are some very nice photos of her following her overhaul in NY here: http://www.navsource.org/archives/01/00fb.htmScroll down the page a bit. Many are quite enlargeble.
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Hello Akira,the link does not work!to see the model in action see it here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7pjuD9dprw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7pjuD9dprw)
cheers
Serge
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Sorry,, my mistake. Try this: www.navsource.org/archives/01/00fb.htm
Scroll down. The images are very enlargable.
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Hello Akira,the link does not work!to see the model in action see it here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7pjuD9dprw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7pjuD9dprw)
cheers
Serge
Great to see you back and about! I look forward to see some new progress.
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I too am glad you’re back, this is certainly one of the different warships you don’t see modelled very often.
I look forward to your next instalment. :-))