Fisher Model and Pattern 1/400 Virginia-Class SSN Kit First Look
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | September 2009 | Manufacturer | Fisher Model and Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Virginia-Class SSN | Scale | 1/400 |
| Kit Number | Virginia-Class | Primary Media | Resin |
| Pros | Beautiful casting, simple build | Cons | Nothing noted |
| Skill Level | Intermediate | MSRP (USD) | $45.00 |
First Look
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The Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine was developed as a lower-cost alternative to the Seawolf class boats. The Virginia-class is smaller than the Seawolf and incorporates a number of innovations that weren't available for the initial Seawolf design.
Designed for a wide array of missions, the Virginia-class was built with the capabilities to embark and deploy special forces, a capability performed by some of the Los Angeles-class attack boats, though these had to be modified to support the special forces' mission equipment. Like the Los Angeles-class, the Virginia-class boats still retain the ability to go anywhere in the seven seas undetected as well as locate and neutralize adversary submarines if required.
Many of us know well about Fisher Models' superb line of 1/32 and 1/48 scale resin aircraft and conversions. Many also know of the interesting array of resin racing car kits. Not many know about the line of resin submarines that also pass through the Fisher Models production floor. Submarines?
Submarines. Have you seen some of those really nice-looking factory desk models that retired skippers and many admirals have in their offices and/or studies? Fisher Models is one of the companies that produce the solid resin submarines from a variety of classes for special order from the military. After lots of arm-twisting, Fisher Models is releasing this first of many examples to the public.
This is the ultimate modeling project. No assembly required and simply apply a paint job and your own display base. This 1/400 scale Virginia comes as one solid part just as you see in these photos with the rudders, bow and stern planes, and sail all molded nicely into this bubble-free casting. If you click on the images above, you'll see larger photos to show some of the detailing cast into the model. Remember that these castings are designed with the same level of detail found in the ship-builders' display models.
At $45.00, this is a nice model that will look nice on your own desk or shelf. You won't find this on the Fisher Models website (yet), so if you're interested in one of these beauties, email or call Fisher Models (contact information on their website) and they'll fix you up with one.
This model is definitely recommended!
My sincere thanks to Fisher Model and Pattern for this review sample.