Military Model Scene

Title: Ship Models from the Age of Sail
Author: Kerry Jang
Publisher: Seaforth Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-5267-7753-9

'Building and Enhancing Commercial Kits' written by an experienced period ship modeller is a lovely new book from Seaforth. A 176-page hardback, though it is also available in both e-book and Kindle formats, but whichever format you prefer, this is packed with some beautiful, informative and inspiring modelling.
Spread across 12 chapters it starts by giving some general background on the fun to be had from ship models, including plastic kits as well as wood, which is the main feature of the book. Then some nots on resources, research, kits, timber sets and so on, before going over some essential tools, which includes a few more power tools than most plastic modellers will use. Then it gets down to the nuts and bolts of the book, using a different example build for each one, looking at Solid Hull (USS Perry), Single Plank-on-Bulkhead (Cutty Sark), Double Plank-on-Bulkhead (HM Brig Speedy), Semi-Scratch Double Plank-on-Bulkhead (74-gun Vanguard) and Plank-on-Frame modelling (French lugger Le Coureur). Not just building kits, but how to add your own additions and details to improve them still further. Then some final chapters on Masts & Yards, Standing Rigging, Standing Rigging before rounding off with a selection of models as inspiration.
I have long thought about building a sailing ship model, inspired mostly by being a huge fan of the series of Richard Bolitho novels by Alexander Kent. I've never plucked up the courage yet to actually do one, concerned if I have the patience (and skills) to do all the rigging. The clear explanation of both Standing and Running Rigging in here has made me think that one of these days I really must take up the challenge. Well written text, clear to follow, and accompanied by photos of some really beautiful models. Super book which I think will be good for beginners and experienced ship modellers alike.
Thanks to Seaforth Publishing for our review copy.

Robin