How to Build Model War Submarines

Building model submarines can forge a personal connection with history.

The use of submarines in warfare dates back to the American Revolution, but until the 20th century they achieved little of real note and were considered to be curiosities more than serious weapons of war. Then World War I changed everything. The submarine, mass-produced and using the torpedo as a primary weapon, became an instrument of decision as never before. Whether employed in the task of sinking merchant shipping or destroying enemy warships, the submarine was ensured a place of honor in all future navies. The history-minded hobbyist can connect with the long history of military submarines with any of a wide variety of plastic kits available online and at hobby shops.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic submarine model kit
• Hobby paintbrushes
• Sandpaper (800 to 1000 grit)
• Model paints
• Hobby knife
• Model glue (for plastic models)

Instructions

1. Remove the parts and the plastic trees, or "sprues," to which they are attached from the plastic bags they came in. Inventory the parts according to the instructions to determine if any are missing, and inspect the parts for any flaws such as pin-holes or warping. Do not free the parts from the sprues. Wash the sprues with a solution of water and dish detergent, then rinse them by submerging them in water and let them dry on some paper towels before continuing. This will allow the glue and paint to stick far better.

2. Using the colors indicated by the instructions and/or the side of the box, paint the smaller parts like fittings, deck-gun components and anchors as well as parts that will be difficult to reach once the model has been assembled (the surface of a deck that will be below the surface of the top of the conning tower, for instance).

3. Begin to put together the sub-assemblies which will make up the model. For submarine kits, these are usually things like the conning tower, hull and (depending on what type of submarine) deck gun. Remove plastic parts from the sprues by carefully cutting them free with the hobby knife. Remove any excess plastic, or "flashing," with the hobby knife and use sandpaper to smooth out any mold lines or other imperfections. Small components that were painted in the first step should have any bare spots touched up when removed from the sprues.

4. Very lightly sand the surfaces of the completed sub-assemblies and paint them in the pattern indicated by the instructions. Allow the paint to fully dry before continuing.

5. Perform the final assembly in the manner indicated in the instructions, making sure to use glue sparingly.

Tips & Warnings

• If any of the parts of the model are warped, they can be straightened by gently playing a hair-dryer over them for a few minutes followed by bending them into the correct shape.

• Pin-holes are small holes formed by the molding process and can be sanded flush with their surroundings or, if too deep, filled with modeling putty (available at local hobby shops).

• For models that are painted with a waterline, use blue painter's masking tape to make sure it comes out straight.

• A thin layer of spray-on clear-coat can improve the appearance of many models. Use a gloss finish clear-coat to get a shiny, new feel and a matte or dull one to give the model a more realistic and weathered look.

• Work in a well-ventilated room as many model-building materials like glue and paint can give off harmful fumes.

References

• Scale Modelers Handbook: How to Build a Plastic Model Ship
• Hobby Hobnob: Steps In Building A Plastic Model Kit

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish