USS Vinton |
By Jeff Pollizzotto |
This is one of five models built using the out-of-production SFSM vac-formed "Survey" kits with the addition of the optional variations kit parts for each conversion. They were built with the help of Jackills' guides as the basis for the construction as well as for the naming of the ships. Parts were built as sub-assemblies and the project moved along easily this way. The only problem was that the parts took up a lot of space on my workbench! They were built pretty much stock, with the only change made to the “USS VINTON”. I thought the placement of the weapons pod looked funny “upside down” as in the drawings so I corrected it by putting it the way it is used on the Avenger class ships. I feel it looks much better this way. Each model was sprayed with Tamiya acrylic paints and weathered using Doc O' Briens weathering powers and various colors in the Tamiya paint pallet. Oil washes were also added to some areas for contrast. MV lenses were used for all the various colored running lights on each ship and under the right lighting they look like they are actually lit up. The final touch was the decals which I first drew using Adobe Illustrator. The art was then sent out for the usual excellent printing job by JT Graphics. Each model was given it's own name and Federation registry number. A lot of decals but the result was worth it in the end. the model is displayed on my standard wood base with plaques by Gotham Engravers. |