White Ensign Models 1/700 USN Doors and Hatches First Look

By Michael Benolkin

First Look

White Ensign Models continues to turn out some very interesting detail sets in their 1/700 scale range. Their photo-etch detail sets add levels of detail and fidelity to a variety of ship subjects, and this release is definitely no exception!

This set is designed for virtually any 1/700th scale WW2-era US vessel from any kit manufacturer. This set has several different pattern watertight doors and hatches designed in a rather innovative way. Since photo-etch technology currently supports etched detail on only one side of the part, WEM has etched the interior of the doors and hatches with the door and hatch frame attached. In this way, you can pose the watertight doors open with the door against the bulkhead or even partially open. In the case of partially open doors or with any of the hatches, you can see the plain (blank) outsides of these parts. WEM has also etched detailed exteriors for the doors and hatches - simply laminate the exterior surface to the door/hatch and frame part, bend to the desired pose, and you're all set.

This interesting detail set allows you to add more life and random detail you your static ship model and will dress up everything from a Destroyer Escort to the Essex-class aircraft carriers, all from Trumpeter. Let's not forget the wide range of waterline models from many other manufacturers.

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 kit. If you're comfortable working in this medium or are ready to give photo-etch in 1/700 scale a try, this is the set for you!

My sincere thanks to White Ensign Models for this review sample!