White Ensign Models 1/144 USN 20mm Single Oerlikon First Look
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | February 2007 | Manufacturer | White Ensign Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | USN 20mm Single Oerlikon | Scale | 1/144 |
| Kit Number | PE14406 | Primary Media | White Metal & Photo-Etch |
| Pros | This set provides some of the armament options needed to replicate other members of the Gato/Balao classes | Cons | |
| Skill Level | Intermediate | MSRP (BP) | £3.36 |
First Look
If you've purchased one of Trumpeter's great 1/144 USS Ga to early or late versions, you've got a nice start on a very well-done kit. The only problem with styrene is that you just can't replicate some of the finer details in stryrene. What's more, what if the submarine you want to replicate wasn't armed with the same weapons provided in the kit? White Ensign Models to the rescue.
This detail set provides a conversion that provided more anti-aircraft firepower than standard machine guns used initially on the Gato-class. The 20mm Oerlikon was fitted to later construction Gatos such as USS Tunny and retro-fit in the field to earlier boats. Check your references.
This set provides a detailed mount that can be positioned as desired, and a nice replica of the gun. In addition, the pintle, gun shield, gun cradle, and shoulder stocks are provided. There are two complete gun sets provided in this set.
As usual, White Ensign Models also provides a nice step-by-step guide to assembling your detail set and a key to identifying the various parts included in the set.
If you are modifying your kit to reproduce any of the other members of the Gato/Balao class, check your references on armament. If this isn't the right gun for your boat, White Ensign Models has produced quite a few different sets to help you properly arm your next project.
As you can see in the photo, the detail set consists of quite a few detail parts that will take care and experience to manipulate and install on your Trumpeter kit. If you're comfortable working in this medium or are ready to give photo-etch in 1/144 scale a try, this is the set for you!
My sincere thanks to White Ensign Models for this review sample!