This is one of Yankee's Classic Warships acquisitions. The feel of the resin and the casting quality is a bit different than what I'm used to with YKM, so I'm guessing these are actual castings from Classic.

Good casting overall. The hull has virtually no overpour or flash, but does have some blemishes on the sides that will require attention. I do like the very fine cast-in anchor chain, as well as the cast-in-place rudder. However, the upper and lower hulls don't match up; waterline length, in scale, should be 27.12"; upper hull is 27.06", and lower is 27.25"

The surface detail on the upper hull is really very nice. The deck planking is very fine and consistant, and all the deck detail is bubble free. I really like the lip on the deckedge to aid in application of the railing. The catapult pedestals and the turret rings are very clean, which is nice; those pedestals are one of Alaska's attention grabbers.

The superstructure parts are very clean, with little flash to remove and virtually no air bubbles. The white metal parts are what they are; two different types of seaplane are provided. The 12"/50 turrets are well cast, but the white metal barrels are unevenly tapered. These guns would greatly benefit from some brass upgrades.

The photoetch set is very full, and unlabeled. There will certainly be planning and puzzling to make sure everything is properly done.

The instructions also need an update; after seeing Yankee Modelwork's recent graphics filled sets, these older hand drawn ones seem inadequate. They're not, though. Taking the time to read through them- like we always should- demonstrates the instructions are sufficient to build this kit just fine. The kit also includes YKM's now standard 1/350 US decal sheet.

Another kit returns after a long absence! Another kit I'm very glad to see available again.

Purchased at Hobbyland, Columbus OH via Stevens International - $ 450