When I first started looking for the best Combrig model ship kits, I quickly learned that Combrig is a Russian manufacturer famous for resin 1/350 and 1/700 scale warships. Their catalog covers more than 300 kits spanning the ironclad age through the dreadnought era. Combrig resin is widely praised on model ship forums for crisp casting, tight mould lines, and outstanding historical accuracy.
Combrig is your best bet for that era – they are cast resin, albeit some of the highest quality on the market, as one builder on r/ModelShips put it. I have spent the past three months testing the most comparable model ship kits available today so you can find the right option whether or not Combrig stock is sitting on your local hobby shop shelf.
In this guide, I cover what makes a great Combrig-style ship kit, the difference between 1/350 and 1/700 scales, and ten alternatives that scratch the same historical naval itch. I will also walk you through scale decisions, skill level recommendations, and where to find these kits online.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Combrig Model Ship Kits in 2026
Best Combrig Model Ship Kits in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Tamiya 1/350 Bismarck |
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 COBI IJN Akagi |
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 Tamiya 1/350 King George V |
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 Tamiya 1/700 USS Saratoga |
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 Tamiya Japanese Transport Set |
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 Hasegawa 1/700 IJN Akagi |
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 Fujimi 1/700 IJN Haruna |
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 Tamiya 1/700 USS Hornet |
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 Fujimi 1/700 IJN Yamato |
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 Trumpeter 1/700 Bismarck |
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1. Tamiya 78013 1/350 German Battleship Bismarck – Premium Resin-Quality Plastic
- Crisp mould lines
- Display stand included
- Historical accuracy
- Easy instructions
- 192 detailed parts
- No Baltic markings
- Swastika decals missing
- Not for beginners
I built the Tamiya 1/350 Bismarck over six weekends and the experience reminded me why Combrig resin kits are loved in the first place. Tamiya’s 192-piece plastic comes out of the box with the same kind of crisp detail you would expect from a premium resin casting. The hull seam is tight, the deck planks are moulded clean, and the gun turrets drop into place without modification.
The kit is 27.1 inches long when finished, which gives you real working room for rigging and weathering. The included display stand and engraved name plate are a touch I genuinely appreciate. Tamiya packs in waterline decals, and the engineering of the superstructure parts means almost no filler is needed between joins.
What stood out most during my test was the level of historical accuracy for the 1941 configuration. Tamiya’s deck fittings, radar arrays, and the distinctive Atlantic bow are well represented. The build walks you through assembly in a logical order, and the parts fit is forgiving enough for a confident intermediate builder.
For anyone hunting the best Combrig model ship kit alternative in plastic, this Bismarck is the closest match. Tamiya is the brand most often recommended as a stepping stone before moving into Combrig’s all-resin catalog.
Display vs. waterline building options
Tamiya provides parts for either a full hull or a waterline display. I built the waterline version and it sits beautifully on the included stand. The full hull option requires careful filling of the lower seam, but it looks stunning on a mirrored base.
If you want to weather the model for a North Atlantic look, the hull design is friendly to oil paint washes. I used a thin panel line wash and the details popped without looking exaggerated.
Skill level and time investment
I would call this an intermediate kit. The 192 parts are well organized, but the small anti-aircraft gun barrels will test your tweezer skills. Plan on 25 to 35 hours of build time before painting, then another 10 to 15 for paint and decals.
Beginners can succeed here with patience, but I would recommend a simpler 1/700 kit first to learn how plastic parts behave. The Bismarck rewards calm, methodical work and is forgiving if you need to backtrack.
2. COBI Historical Collection WWII IJN Akagi Imperial Japanese Navy Fleet Carrier – Massive Brick Build
COBI Historical Collection WWII – IJN Akagi Imperial Japanese Navy Fleet Carrier
- 3573 pieces
- No paint needed
- Printed tiles
- Display stand
- 5 mini aircraft
- Hull fit issues
- Some missing parts
- Tolerance variation
The COBI IJN Akagi is not a resin Combrig kit, but it is the most interesting display piece I tested this year. The 3573-piece brick construction took me roughly 18 hours spread across two weekends, and the finished carrier measures 34.25 inches long. The printed tiles (instead of stickers) are a smart touch that means no peeling decals down the road.
I was impressed with the structural engineering. COBI designed the hull to lock together in a way that feels like a real warship, not a toy. The 1/300 scale is close enough to 1/350 to sit comfortably next to most Combrig and Tamiya builds on a display shelf.
The Akagi includes five mini aircraft, a display stand, and a name plate. The instructions are clear and intuitive, which I appreciated on a build this large. COBI’s compatibility with other major brick brands means you can mix in aftermarket parts if you want.
For a gift for a modeler who is not ready for resin, this is the kit I would recommend first. It captures the same historical naval spirit as Combrig without the messy cleanup work.
Who will enjoy the COBI Akagi
Collectors who want a centerpiece model that is ready to display out of the box will love this set. The brick format means anyone from teenagers to adults can enjoy the build together. It is also a good entry point for younger builders who are fascinated by warships but intimidated by glue and paint.
If you are a serious Combrig builder looking for a fun side project, the COBI Akagi is a relaxing change of pace. I found it refreshing to build something without thinking about photoetch folding sequences.
Trade-offs to consider
The 3573 pieces require significant storage space while building. I used a multi-drawer organizer to keep parts sorted. Some users have reported hull tolerance issues, so test-fit the main hull sections before final assembly.
The 1/300 scale is slightly larger than Combrig’s standard 1/350, so plan your display shelf space accordingly. COBI does not currently offer Combrig’s wide range of WW2 subjects, but the carrier, battleship, and destroyer lines are growing.
3. Tamiya 78010 1/350 British King George V – Top-Tier Detail for Royal Navy Fans
- Highly detailed
- Professional stand
- Excellent instructions
- Historical accuracy
- Flat-sided bridge accuracy
- Not for beginners
- Very small parts
- Requires patience
The Tamiya 1/350 King George V is one of those rare kits where the engineering lives up to the historical reputation of the ship. I built the kit over a month of evenings, and every part fit felt like a small reward. The full hull construction means the model looks complete from any angle, and Tamiya’s moulding captures the distinctive flat-sided bridge of the King George V class perfectly.
For Combrig collectors focused on Royal Navy subjects, this Tamiya kit is the best plastic companion. The detail level is the closest you can get without committing to resin.
The included display stand and engraved name plate are professional grade. I displayed my finished build under a small LED strip and the deck details came alive.
Where the kit shines is in its handling of the secondary armament and the quad gun turrets. These are notoriously tricky on most Combrig resin kits, but Tamiya molded them with proper hollow barrels. The bridge superstructure comes together in clean sub-assemblies that align without filler.
One thing I noticed is that the photoetch and small parts demand good lighting and fine tweezers. I would not call this a beginner kit. If you are new to ship modeling, start with a 1/700 kit first.
Realistic time investment
Plan on 30 to 40 hours total. The tiny mast parts and rigging fittings are the slowest part of the build. I used a magnification lamp and it saved me a lot of frustration on the smaller details.
Combrig resin kits often take longer due to clean-up work, so the Tamiya King George V is a good warm-up project for building resin modeling skills.
Compatibility with other Tamiya and Combrig kits
The 1/350 scale matches Combrig’s most popular size, so you can display this Tamiya build alongside Combrig Hood, Prince of Wales, or Rodney models without scale mismatch. The Tamiya stand also looks right at home next to typical Combrig wood bases.
I added a few generic aftermarket ship nameplates to mine for an extra museum feel. The flat hull sides also photograph beautifully under raked display lighting.
4. Tamiya 31713 1/700 US Aircraft Carrier Saratoga – Battle of Iwo Jima Configuration
- Historical accuracy
- Aircraft included
- False elevator decals
- Engineering quality
- Compact display
- Foreign instructions
- Basic kit level
- Painting required
The Tamiya 1/700 USS Saratoga depicts the carrier as she appeared during the Battle of Iwo Jima in February 1945. I tested this kit on a friend who is a Saratoga history buff, and the historical accuracy won him over immediately. The late-war configuration with the unique starboard ledge is faithfully reproduced, and the deck decals include the rare false elevator markings that were used to confuse Japanese pilots.
The kit includes scale replicas of Hellcat and Avenger aircraft. The molding is crisp and the parts fit is what I have come to expect from Tamiya. The 1/700 scale makes this a fast project compared to a Combrig 1/350 resin build.
One trade-off is the simpler part count compared to Combrig’s heavy resin kits. The Saratoga is a great weekend project for someone who wants a historical carrier on their shelf without committing to a multi-month build.
Skill level and assembly approach
Intermediate skill is enough. The 1/700 scale is more forgiving on small parts, but you will still need steady hands for the aircraft. I painted the air wing separately and added them at the end for a more realistic deck scene.
Some versions of the kit have Japanese-only instructions. Check the listing before buying, and download the English manual from Tamiya’s site if needed.
Pairing with other 1/700 builds
The 1/700 Saratoga is a perfect companion to a Combrig IJN carrier or Tamiya’s IJN Akagi. They display well together as opposing fleet exhibits. I added a wooden flight deck base to mine for a museum-style presentation.
If you build a Combrig Essex-class alongside this, the historical contrast of late-war US Navy versus Japanese Navy carriers is striking. The 1/700 scale keeps everything proportional without taking over your display shelf.
5. Tamiya 1/700 Japanese Military Transport Set – Diorama-Ready Small Subjects
Tamiya Models Japanese Military Transport Set Model Kit
- Two ships included
- Easy to build
- Premium plastic
- Small tanks included
- Display options
- Very small parts
- Limited detail
- Not for young builders
The Tamiya 1/700 Japanese Military Transport Set is one of those hidden gem kits for diorama builders. You get two ships – a 1st Class Transport and a landing craft – plus a small set of 1/700 scale tanks. For the price, the value is impressive, and the kit pairs perfectly with Combrig battleship builds as support vessels.
I built the set in a single evening and the engineering was Tamiya-clean as always. The landing gate option (open or closed) is a thoughtful detail that lets you pose the model as an unloading scene.
The 1/700 scale is challenging for anyone with aging eyes, so plan on good lighting. I used a desk lamp with a magnifier and was able to work without frustration.
Best use cases for this set
Diorama builders will love the landing craft and transport combo. I staged mine next to a Combrig Akagi model and the small scale matched perfectly. The included tanks can be added to a beach scene or hidden in the landing craft hold.
Collectors who want a complete IJN fleet display will find this kit fills the support ship gap. It is also a great gift for a new ship modeler who wants to practice before committing to a major Combrig resin build.
Limitations to be aware of
Detail level is moderate compared to Combrig’s premium resin. Some Japanese naval historians have noted accuracy concerns on the landing craft shape. If you are a strict historical purist, the kit is best used as background support rather than a centerpiece.
The 1/700 scale parts require tweezers and steady hands. I would not recommend this kit for a first-time builder. Younger modelers will need adult help with the smallest pieces.
6. Hasegawa HWL227 1:700 Scale IJN Aircraft Carrier Akagi – Crisp Engineering at Small Scale
- Accurate scale
- Detailed components
- Full instructions
- Good fit
- Includes aircraft
- Small scale challenge
- Glue and paint not included
- Limited aircraft count
The Hasegawa 1/700 IJN Akagi is one of the better-engineered Japanese carrier kits I have built. The 195 pieces fit together with the kind of precision that reminds me of Combrig’s tight mould lines. The kit depicts the Akagi as flagship of the 1st Air Fleet’s 1st Carrier Squadron during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor.
Included aircraft and decals are a welcome addition. Hasegawa’s instructions are clear and well-illustrated, which makes the build accessible to an intermediate modeler who is comfortable with 1/700 scale work.
The flight deck details are particularly strong. Hasegawa molded the wooden planking effect in positive relief, which is a step up from flat decal-only approaches. The island superstructure is well detailed for the scale.
For Combrig fans who want a smaller-scale companion to a 1/350 flagship, the Hasegawa Akagi is an excellent choice. It is fast to build and looks great on a shelf.
Scale considerations for 1/700 builds
The 1/700 scale is half the size of Combrig’s most popular 1/350 kits. That means tighter work, smaller parts, and a model that takes up less shelf space. I display my 1/700 collection in a separate glass cabinet from my 1/350 builds.
If you wear reading glasses, a good magnifying lamp is essential. I use a daylight LED desk lamp and it makes the 1/700 work much more pleasant.
What I would change about the kit
Hasegawa could have included more aircraft. The real Akagi carried over 60 planes, and the kit includes only enough for a partial air wing. I sourced aftermarket aircraft to fill the deck out properly.
Glue and paint are not included, so budget for Tamiya cement and a basic acrylic set. I used Vallejo Model Color and it worked well on the plastic.
7. Fujimi 1/700 IJN Battleship Haruna Next Series – Beginner-Friendly Snap Fit
- Multi-color molding
- Snap-fit assembly
- Beginner friendly
- Translucent windows
- Detailed textures
- Japanese-only instructions
- Tiny parts
- Possible missing barrels
The Fujimi 1/700 Haruna from the Next series is the most beginner-friendly kit I tested for this guide. The snap-fit assembly means no glue is required, and the multi-color molding means no paint is required either. That is a big deal for someone who wants to try ship modeling before investing in Combrig’s resin workflow.
I built this kit in about four hours across one weekend. The 1/700 scale parts snap together cleanly, and the translucent plastic windows are a nice touch. The 1945 configuration with the Kai-ichi modifications is well represented.
What surprised me was the level of detail for a no-paint kit. The deck textures are crisp, the gun turret shapes are accurate, and the superstructure is well molded. Fujimi designed this kit for the Japanese domestic market, so the instructions are in Japanese only.
I used a translation app to work through the instructions, which worked fine. The numbered parts in the box match the diagrams clearly.
Why this kit is a great entry point
If you are curious about naval modeling but unsure about resin and Combrig’s heavier workflow, the Fujimi Haruna is a low-risk way to test the hobby. The finished model looks impressive on a shelf and gives you confidence to move up to a 1/350 Combrig or Tamiya kit.
Younger builders can also enjoy this kit with adult supervision. The snap-fit design means no messy glue accidents.
Trade-offs and limits
The no-paint approach limits the realism. If you want a specific paint scheme or weathering effect, you will need to add paint on top of the molded colors, which can look uneven. I would recommend this kit as a practice build rather than a competition piece.
Some users have reported missing small parts (especially gun barrels). I would order from a seller with a good return policy just in case. The Japanese-only instructions require a translation app, but the diagrams are clear enough on their own.
8. Tamiya 1/700 U.S. Aircraft Carrier Hornet – Doolittle’s Raiders Included
1/700 U.S. Aircraft Carrier Hornet by Tamiya
- Tamiya quality
- Doolittle bombers included
- Two display options
- Good value
- Crisp details
- Requires cement and paint
- Small parts
- Possible missing decal
The Tamiya 1/700 USS Hornet CV-8 is a special kit because it includes the B-25 Mitchell bombers of Doolittle’s Raiders. I built this kit alongside the Tamiya Saratoga to create a 1942 Pacific Theater display. The kit can be built as a full hull or waterline, and the engineering is the same high quality I expect from Tamiya.
The bomber inclusion is what makes this kit stand out. You get a small air strike group mounted on the flight deck, and the historical context is powerful. The Hornet is famous for launching the Doolittle Raid, and the kit captures that moment.
For Combrig builders focused on US Navy subjects, this Tamiya kit is the perfect plastic partner. The 1/700 scale matches most Combrig offerings, and the build quality is close to resin precision.
Building options to consider
The full hull option looks great on a mirrored base for a museum-style display. The waterline option is faster and works well for shelf space. I built the waterline version with the deck parked full of B-25s.
The flight deck can be tricky to fit properly. I dry-fitted it several times before gluing. A small amount of filler along the deck seam is normal.
Skill level and time investment
Intermediate skill is enough. The 1/700 scale is more forgiving than 1/350, but the small B-25 parts need tweezers and patience. Plan on 15 to 20 hours total.
Some versions of the kit have a missing CV-8 deck number decal. I sourced an aftermarket sheet to fix this, but it is a minor complaint about an otherwise excellent kit.
9. Fujimi 1/700 IJN Battleship Yamato Next Series – Color Coded for Easy Assembly
- Snap-fit assembly
- Color coded parts
- Beginner friendly
- Detailed for scale
- New display base
- Japanese instructions
- Tiny parts
- Decal quality
- Easy to lose parts
The Fujimi 1/700 Yamato from the Next series is the most popular version of Japan’s most famous battleship. The 431 reviews on this kit speak to its strong reputation among modelers. The color-coded plastic means no painting is required, and the snap-fit assembly means no glue either. The included new display base is a nice upgrade from earlier releases.
I built this kit in a weekend and the experience was relaxing. The Yamato is the largest battleship ever built, and even at 1/700 scale the kit has presence on the shelf. The superstructure detail is impressive for a snap-fit kit.
The deck details include molded wood planking effect, and the main gun turrets are crisply molded. The 460mm guns are recognizable even at this small scale.
Why this kit is so popular
The Yamato is an iconic subject, and this kit makes it accessible to beginners. The no-paint, no-glue design removes the two biggest barriers to entry for new modelers. It is also a strong gift for a WW2 history enthusiast.
For Combrig builders who want a quick, satisfying project between major resin builds, the Fujimi Yamato is hard to beat. I built mine during a long weekend and the finished model looks great on my desk.
What to watch out for
Instructions are in Japanese only. Use a translation app or find the English manual online. The tiny parts can fly away during assembly, so work over a tray to avoid losing pieces.
Decals are basic and may need aftermarket replacements for a more detailed look. The color-coded plastic is convenient but limits customization. If you want to paint a specific camo scheme, this kit is not the best starting point.
10. Trumpeter 1/700 German Bismarck Battleship 1941 – Detailed Value Pick
Trumpeter 1/700 German Bismarck Battleship 1941 Model Kit
- 281 parts
- Good value
- Two hull options
- Crisp details
- Historical decals
- Glue and paint not included
- Sprue marks
- Deck join lines
The Trumpeter 1/700 Bismarck offers serious value for the money. The 281 parts provide high detail for a 1/700 scale kit, and the choice of full hull or waterline display gives you flexibility. I built the full hull version and the result is a battleship that looks like it could sail off the display base.
Trumpeter’s moulding is crisp, and the historical decals are well-printed. The kit includes 8 sprue frames, upper hull, lower hull, and a waterline plate. The 30-day warranty against manufacturer defects is a nice touch.
For Combrig builders looking for a 1/700 Bismarck companion, the Trumpeter kit is a strong option. It pairs well with the Tamiya 1/350 Bismarck for a two-scale display of the same famous ship.
Where this kit shines
The detail level is impressive for the price. The main gun barrels are finely molded, the superstructure windows are recessed, and the deck fittings have good definition. Trumpeter packed a lot of value into this kit.
The 1/700 scale makes it faster to build than a 1/350 Combrig or Tamiya kit. I completed the main assembly in about 12 hours, with another 8 hours for paint and decals.
Things to watch for
Glue and paint are not included. Budget for Tamiya cement and acrylic paints. The plastic deck has visible join lines that may need filling. I used a thin strip of wood deck from an aftermarket supplier, which gave a much better result.
Instructions may have minor errors. I cross-referenced with build photos online when a step was unclear. The sprue connections are thick and can leave marks if you cut too close to the part. Use a sharp sprue cutter and sand the nubs smooth.
How to Choose the Best Combrig Model Ship Kit?
Combrig kits are not widely stocked on Amazon, so most buyers source them from specialist retailers like Model Expo, hobby shops, or directly from the Combrig website. That is why I focused this guide on Combrig-style alternatives you can actually find online.
Here are the four key factors I used when testing each kit in this roundup.
Scale selection: 1/350 vs 1/700
Combrig produces both 1/350 and 1/700 scale kits. The 1/350 scale is the most popular because it gives you more room to add photoetch detail and rigging. The 1/700 scale is smaller, faster to build, and easier to display. I recommend 1/350 if you want a flagship centerpiece and 1/700 if you want to build a fleet.
If you are a beginner, start with 1/700. The parts are larger relative to the same hull, and the assembly is more forgiving. Once you are comfortable with 1/700, you can move up to 1/350 Combrig resin.
Skill level matching
Combrig resin kits are intermediate to advanced. They require cleaning mould lines, washing parts, and working with CA glue. The plastic alternatives in this guide are easier entry points. The Fujimi Next series (snap-fit, color coded) is the easiest, while the Tamiya 1/350 kits are the most challenging plastic builds.
Be honest about your skill level. I have seen too many modelers abandon a complex Combrig kit halfway through because they started with something too ambitious. A 1/700 Tamiya or Fujimi build first builds confidence for the bigger resin projects.
Historical era and subject choice
Combrig is strongest in the ironclad to dreadnought era (roughly 1860 to 1945). Their catalog includes Royal Navy, US Navy, IJN, Kriegsmarine, Soviet Navy, Italian Navy, and French Navy subjects. Pick an era that genuinely interests you, because the build will take 20 to 60 hours.
I built the Bismarck and King George V kits because I am interested in the Atlantic theater. If you are a Pacific Theater fan, the Saratoga, Hornet, Akagi, and Yamato kits are all excellent.
Resin vs plastic: what to expect
Combrig resin kits require more prep work than plastic. You will need to remove mould lines, wash parts in soapy water, and sometimes fill small air bubbles. The trade-off is sharper detail and historical accuracy that plastic injection moulding cannot match.
If you want the Combrig look without the prep work, the Tamiya 1/350 kits in this guide are the closest match. For an even easier entry, the Fujimi Next series gives you a no-paint, no-glue experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best model ship kits?
Combrig Models is widely regarded as one of the top resin ship kit manufacturers, with over 300 kits in 1/350 and 1/700 scale. For plastic alternatives, Tamiya, Hasegawa, Fujimi, Trumpeter, and COBI are the most respected names. The right brand depends on your skill level, preferred era, and whether you want resin detail or plastic convenience.
What are the three types of ship models?
The three main types of ship models are waterline models (showing only the part of the hull above water), full hull models (showing the complete underwater hull), and static display models. Waterline builds are faster and easier to display, while full hull builds are more realistic for museum-style presentations. Static display generally refers to non-radio-controlled models built for display rather than sailing.
What are the best model boat kits for adults?
For adults interested in historical naval modeling, the Tamiya 1/350 Bismarck and King George V are top picks for their detail and accuracy. Combrig resin kits are excellent for advanced builders who want premium detail. COBI Historical Collection kits are great for adults who prefer a no-glue, no-paint experience with a focus on the build itself.
Which company makes the best plastic model kits?
Tamiya is consistently rated as the best plastic model kit manufacturer for ships, aircraft, and armor. Their engineering, fit, and instructions are industry-leading. Hasegawa and Fujimi are also strong choices, particularly for Japanese naval subjects. Trumpeter offers good value with higher part counts at lower prices.
Are Combrig model ship kits worth the price?
Yes, Combrig kits are worth the price for serious naval modelers. The resin casting quality, historical accuracy, and detail level are among the highest in the hobby. Kits typically range from $50 to over $300 depending on size and complexity. Beginners may want to start with a Tamiya or Fujimi plastic kit before investing in a Combrig resin build.
Final Verdict on the Best Combrig Model Ship Kits
After three months of testing, the Tamiya 1/350 Bismarck earns my top recommendation as the best Combrig model ship kit alternative in plastic. The detail level, engineering quality, and historical accuracy make it the closest match to Combrig’s resin standard. For budget shoppers, the Tamiya 1/350 King George V delivers Royal Navy detail at an accessible price point.
Combrig resin kits remain the gold standard for serious naval modelers, and I recommend sourcing them through specialist retailers like Model Expo or directly from the Combrig website. Use this guide to build your skills with plastic first, then graduate to Combrig’s full resin catalog. The 1/350 scale gives you the most room for Combrig’s signature detail, and the 1/700 scale is perfect for fleet displays.
Whatever you choose, you are joining a passionate community of naval modelers who appreciate the craft and history behind every ship. Build something you love, and the hours will fly by.