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The recent news of the US Navy on another frigate quest set me on one of my own. A search located a 1/700 Tamiya Mogami FFM for under $20, and nearby at Scale Hobbyist in New Hampshire. While another search then turned up the PitRoad 1/700 offering, I ultimately concluded I could be happy with the "basic representation" of the Tamiya. I was!

The plastic quality was great, and the fit was incredible. I honestly don't think I have had any other kit fit as well or better. After assembling the port and starboard hull halves to supporting bow and stern sections, the instructions have you make four assemblies, then "snap" them up into position from underneath. The stern-most pair of assemblies snapped in well enough. There is a "deck" over the hangar, then the hangar innards snap in snuggly underneath that, and the two help hold each other in place. However, the next two assemblies are upper, and have nothing else beneath them. I found they also snapped in a bit loosely. If they later did slip out and drop down, there was no way to get at them once the waterline base plate was installed. I decided that glue for these would prevent potential future grief. With glue, they are snug and secure, and I have peace of mind.

It was a delightful little build. Straightforward, with great fit. A subject I am very much a fan of. Altogether, one of those times this hobby was fully the enjoyment we're in it for. Would that they could all be like this! Very satisfying.