1/350 Liberty Ship Details
Photo etch set by Gold Medal models
The new Trumpeter 1/350 Liberty Ship was a pleasant surprise for 1/350 modelers. Not long after it hit the market Loren Perry of Gold Medal Models went to work on a set to upgrade it. Working with the actual kit he came up with this fret that will allow you to do most any version of a Liberty Ship. This set is custom fitted to the Trumpeter kit so you will not need to measure and cut railing to size. That has already been done for you, just follow the extensive instruction sheet for details. Actual input from members of the Jeremiah O'Brien and John W. Brown crew was used to produce this set.
click for a larger view
The fret is relief etched  with some really nice raised detailing. The set is extremely well done, and is typical of the quality that Gold Medal Models has come to represent. Take a look at the close ups below to see what I mean. To me the most important feature is the extensive block and tackle gear. All kinds of cargo handling gear is included. You even get some really well detailed potato lockers.
Additional detail shots of the photo etch fret.
click images to enlarge
Included on the fret:
  • two complete and distinctive sets of custom fitted stern railings
  • pen bridge platforms with sunshades and related equipment
  • special life raft racks for both the S.S. Jeremiah O/Brien and S.S. John W. Brown
  • after steering station with helm and related equipment
  • replacement bulwark and stanchion assemblies for the sides of the lower superstructure
  • correct pattern inclined and vertical ladders
  • lifeboat davits with simulated rigging that can be assembled in stowed or deployed positions
  • boat davit rigging reels, lifeboat oars, rudders, propellers, and stowage chocks
  • simulated wooden cabin doors in two styles
  • watertight doors in five styles with open and closed versions of each six styles of deck hatches
  • a full set of detailed skylight covers in two sizes
  • two accommodation ladders with rigging that can be assembled in stowed or deployed configurations
  • one leadsman's platform with brace and simulated chain rails
  • detailed pulley block assemblies in four styles including two styles for heavy lift blocks
  • ammunition handling davits
  • large and small cable reels
  • gun sights, seats, and rails
  • armor, and related details for all ship's armament
  • grilles for cowl vents
  • simulated wooden grating for both bridge wings
  • mast top platforms
  • rigging fittings, and lookout platform with positionable access hatch
  • potato bins in two sizes with positionable access slats
  • four Stokes litters
  • twelve life preservers
  • oil tank vents in three styles
  • simulated anchor chains with hawse pipes
  • correct pattern cargo hooks in two styles
  • eight fire hose racks
  • replacement bilge keels with correct dimensions and detailing plus a drilling jig to aid in installation
  • late war antenna mast; "mersig" convoy signal light mast
  • two screw hub spanner wrenches in two sizes
  • detailed turnbuckles in two sizes (one size for the lower ends of the mast shrouds)
  • a set of eyebolts for securing rigging to decks and bulwarks
  • Extra parts of many of the smaller fittings are also provided in the event of loss or damage.
The instructions as usual are well written and illustrated. They show the assembly process for the PE as well as how those parts fit in with the kit itself. Several variations are shown where appropriate.

If you choose to build a full hull ship you will appreciate not only the new etched bilge keels, but the drilling template that will help you safely remove the old one and locate the new one. A real nice touch.
click to go to Gold Medal Models website
Conclusions:

This is an excellent set for anyone who want to do a quality Liberty Ship build. It has a retail price of $36.00 US and is available direct from Gold Medal Models or wherever fine ship accessories are sold.

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