USS New York

If you have never build a model ship before and are looking for somewhere to start, then this USS New York is not the model for you. The instructions are not entirely accurate at times, showing you to place a piece somewhere where it does not belong. They are also incomplete. Pieces of the kit will appear on the image of the vessel with no instruction of how they ever got there. There are many, many tiny pieces of the ship (including Photo Etch) that will disappear into the carpet...this will happen no matter how careful you are, so prepare for it. That negativity aside, the kit itself will make a terrific addition to any 1/350 collection. As I've said, the instructions can be incomplete and inaccurate at times, but they are easy to follow and are not complicated. The kit's over all fit and finish is excellent with most pieces falling into place without a problem. The PE is extensive and even includes anchor chains. Sprues and PE are in their own protective plastic bags ensuring they are not damaged in the box. Check for flash though, I did find some on varies bits and pieces that had to be cleaned up before they could be attached. Detailing is also excellent with a great array of decals and extra vehicles including helicopters and landing craft that can be built if you want them added to the completed ship. If you've completed a couple of 1/350 kits and want something larger for your shelf, then this USS New York is highly recommended. It's larger and more complex than something smaller like a destroyer, yet not too big to overwhelm which a Aircraft Carrier or Battleship could. Inexperienced modelers may want to give it a miss until they have a couple of builds under their belt, but everyone else should find it quite simple to assemble. There are lots of sub assemblies that may have your bench covered up as you progress, so be careful when it comes time for final assembly. Ensure everything goes where it's supposed to and you should end up with very few problems.