Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

I'm interested in any reviews of the Mamoli 1:75 HMS Surprise kit. ModelExpo recently offered this kiit for $299.99. Any feedback would be helpful.

Mozart

Re: Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

I purchused this model after having finished the AL Constellation. While AL leaves something to be desired in clarity of plans, the parts were much higher quality than the Mamoli parts. I was very disappointed in the overall quality of the parts, plans and general ability to tell them apart. trying to follow the color guidelines for the different types of wood was a best a guess. I found the color guidelines for the wood on a picture inside the side flap of the top of the box. I suggest you try some one other than E. mamoli to get a more enjoyable build.

Automerged Post:
I purchased this model after having finished the AL Constellation. While AL leaves something to be desired in clarity of plans, the parts were much higher quality. I was very disappointed in the overall quality of the partsand plans. Trying to follow the color guidelines for the different types of wood was at best a guess. I found the color guidelines for the wood on a picture inside the side flap of the top of the box. I suggest you try some one other than E. mamoli to get a more enjoyable build.

Re: Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

Are you still thinking of building this kit...
I did I have some tips if you need it

Re: Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

Hi, ModelExpo has had this kit on sale for $214.00 Couldn't pass it by but would be interested in your take on the kit in general and any feedback from friends who've built the kit.
Thanks!

Re: Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

Hello! I bought this kit from Model Expo at the end of last year when it was on sale for $225.00. The only problem that I have with the kit is that the keel piece is warped. Does anyone have a good idea for straightening this piece?

Thanks!

Bill

Re: Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

Does anyone know how to straighten a warped keel in a new kit?

Thanks!

Bill

Re: Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

A late response but you should be able to get a replacement keel from model expo for no charge.


Richard

Re: Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

Hi William. Do not try! I had this problem with a kit and had to recut my own keel! you could wait for ever for a new part as I have found.
If it was solid wood then a good soaking and pressure under weights would put it right but this cannot be done with plywood. In my experience it just falls apart. I think it disgraceful that a manufacturer should send out a kit in this condition. Even if the kit is left on the shelf for a long time ply should not warp. Anyway. Best of luck with it. Jonathan.

Re: Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

Gentlemen,

Thanks! I have been gently bending it and it is now almost straight. It is solid basswood not plywood. But, I think I will contact Model Expo for a replacement. As an aside, I also have been unable to find any critiques about the accuracy of this kit. Any ideas?

Bill

Re: Mamoli HMS Surprise
 

I built Mamoli's "Surprize" when it first came out about 4 years ago.

The hardest part was figuring out how to install the guns on the lower gun deck so that they were aligned with the gun ports.

you have to finish the gunwales FIRST with the metal portals flush to the hull. The little tabs at the bottom of the frames fit into precut slots in the gundesck to keep proper spacing. Why first? Because the carraige/gun assembly WILL NOT FIT THROUGH THE PORTAL !!!!!!!

The metal is soft enough that you can use a Dremel and then sandpaper to make the metal flush with the wood.

Position the carraiges w/o the barrels on the deck behind the portals. Place ( do not cement) the barrels on the carraiges to see if they all align properly...

if they do, use CYA to fix the carraiges to the desk at the wheel trucks. Then remove and stow the barrels for later..

Finish the rest of the model the last thing to do is insert the barrels through the portals so they rest in the caaraiges properly.. Then attach the portal doors and "hinges."


Good luck