USS Knox
In Progress
by Rusty White

1/350 USS Knox FF-1052 (White Ensign Models)

The White Ensign Models Knox class frigate is a wonderful kit to build.  However, due to its rather simplistic nature I wanted to do something to make the model "pop out" to catch the eye.  I decided to model the Knox in "extreme" water.  I talked to some guys who actually served on these small ships and they told me of many a time when the bow of their ship literally came out of the water in high seas due to their small size.  That was one of the major reasons the Knox frigates were replaced.  Their small size and beam made them very unstable in high seas which made them less than perfect platforms to launch missiles from.

I've done high seas before but I wanted to go the extra mile on this one.  This time I wanted to not only simulate realistic waves, but I also wanted to show the white water streaming down the sides of the vessel to enhance the look.  I used Sculpey Modeling Clay to make the big waves and covered the entire base with Artists Gel Medium (by Liquitex) to give the everything a similar texture.

I assembled the model without any photo etch and attached it to the base.  I'll leave painting the water until the last step.  For now, I went ahead and streamed the water down the sides of the ship using Titanium White acrylic straight from the tube using a dry brush technique.  I'll write a full article for FSM covering the entire process when I finish and I'll also send here as well.

I added a few shots of the JAG Collective warning circles so everyone can see how they look on a model.  I must say they are quite impressive looking and really add color to the model.  they were a welcome addition since the WEM kit didn't include these stripes with their kit.