Reviews : Academy USS Indianapolis CA-35

This is a pretty descent model. I enjoyed putting it together. The plans were well marked and the plastic trees were very clean - that is always a plus - I chose to not put it on the stand and placed lead ballast in the keel - personal preference. The only issue I had was putting in the main antenna - the plans were a bit vague on how it attached to the tower and upper decks - a blow up view would have been nice & there was room for it. I figured it out after several test fittings - mildly annoyed. Also, the plans have you build a few sub-sections before tying them all together - again, a detailed, blow up view would have been nice. In conclusion: The plans could use a little more work, but All in all, a fun model to work on.

I am currently finishing up on this model and should have pictures within the next two weeks- hopefully. Overall this is my first model by this manufacturer and I have found that the fit was very good for the most part. I think that the instructions could do with a little refinement. Of particular notice the twin forty mounts were very good, there was some difficulty with the mounts for the 5 guns- I did replace all of the ladders and stairs with White Ensign stairs and ladders- Academy uses the Aztec type stairs- not great- Like I said I was fairly pleased with this product and will have pic posted in the not too distant furure.

I really enjoyed putting this model together. It is just perfect size – not too big to work move it around while putting together and painting, and not too small, so result is quite impressive. All parts were perfect match, and instructions were easy to follow. I used 2 Eduard kits to enhance details: railing kit and details kit. Together, entire built took a while, but it was well worth it. I'll post some pics soon as well.

The scale, 1/350, is large enough to yield much more intricate detail than other smaller scales and makes the finished vessel much more realistic. As an old salt I relish the size and detail of this model. It is a true memorial to the USS INDIANAPOLIS. On her fateful night she was sailing with no escort per orders from Washington, DC. She was struck by 4 or 5 torpedoes and sank wthin 15 minutes.