A very atmospheric 1/24 scale model of an 86ft Steel Drifter as used by the Admiralty in both World Wars.
Having sold 2 kits back to the manufacturer when he needed them, it was time to get hold of another for a new build. I chose the Osprey due to its size ( 43 inches long is a nice handy size) and the sheer beauty of this boat.
So what is in the box ?
A nicely moulded hull with riveting and plating, a bit of flash and snots, but certainly not the worse hull supplied in a kit. . . . Yes , much better than what was supplied a few years ago.
A huge box of white metal fittings that are also better cast than previously. The very heavy windlass that used to be part of this kit has been replaced with a large resin casting ( still with the White metal working bits under the top cover) which to my eyes is a good thing.
The supplied Prop shaft is a nice brass one now, the 4 bladed Prop is now a brass Raboesh one, and the tiller arm is a proper brass collared plastic version. The supplied lifeboat is now much better cast. . . . . Nothing to relegate to the scrap bin anymore !
The printed deck overlay in my kit wasn't the best ( just like before) and my superstructure moulding was damaged by the delivery. . . . . All replaceable so no problem.
The drawings and instructions are as before, so a thinking cap is needed here and there, but should pose no problems to anyone who can read a drawing.
People have seen my previous Mountfleet kit builds ( yes I really like the finished models ) and cast doubts as to the quality of the kits. . . . .
. Fear ye not any more ! The current Mr Mountfleet is doing a fine job of restoring the good name of these kits in my honest opinion. ( and I'm a picky person when it comes to seeing what my £400 plus has bought)
