USS San Francisco CA-38 1942

I enjoyed this model. Recommended. Pros: very accurate and well detailed kit; moderate size and complexity; good fit of most parts (except possibly some of the super structure -- but I was learning); cons: n catapults, cranes, radar, etc a little clunky in appearance; no handrails; ladders not very realistic, and the many small parts are a challenge to older eyes. This kit was my introduction to larger 1/350 scale warships. It was my desire to re-enter the ship building hobby after retiring, and the San Francisco was only my second effort. (First was Tamiya's Fletcher). This kit was a lot more complicated. It was challenging and rewarding and a great learning experience. However, I made a number of mistakes that were hard to correct -- I said it was a learning experience. Three things I think I did do right: I did not use the plastic stand provided but used a finished oak plank and brass finials and mounted the hull first and built it up from there. Provides stability and protection to the model as you build. Second I did most of the painting of the parts with an airbrush prior to assembly (parts still on the sprues). Model Master paints. This version of the SF has a simple Navy Blue/ Deck Blue color scheme that lends itself to that approach. I also used black racing stripes (1/8) for the boot top at the waterline. The lower hull is red plastic. No masking tape! Looked great. I would also suggest starting with the aircraft and get that out of the way first (put them aside for installation at the end). We had to move and I did not bring the uncompleted model to our new apartment, because I wasn't sure I would have the space to continue the hobby, but now that we have settled in, I am considering getting another and doing it right. A nice model of a valiant and historic ship. P.S. Where are the other USN WW II cruisers (such as Brooklyn, St. Louis, Atlanta, Cleveland and Baltimore classes) in 1/350 scale plastic?