Reviews : Trumpeter USS Texas BB-35 Battleship

This is an excellent model. It is very highly detailed model (consisting of over 800 parts, even with the relatively simple deck features and structures of the actual USS Texas). This is quantified even more by the relatively fresh plastic molds, leaving very little flash or excess plastic. However, the feature that truly raises this model over other, similar models is the inclusion of a full set of photo-etch parts. This includes gun shields, full railings and stairs, superstructure details (such as radar and the superstructure arms), and other details; compared with other models which only including limited photo-etch details. I would recommend this model to any experienced models who want a nice challenge that works up into a highly detailed model. I wouldn't recommend this model as anybodies first project, however. I recommend you build up your modeling skills on less advanced models first.

This model is not for beginners, but is approachable by a builder who has some experience with ship models and photo-etched brass. Out of the box it would make an outstanding model of the USS Texas. There are plenty of upgrades that will take the finished product to another level. Some upgrades that make the kit really pop are to replace the anti-aircraft guns with 3D printed parts ( I recommend Black Cat Model’s parts) and replace the radars with Infini Model’s offerings. The kit is designed to reflect the Texas as she appeared in the Pacific Theater, but the ship’s outfit is substantially the same for when the Texas was providing gunfire support at Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944; you merely have to change the paint schema. All-in-all, I quite enjoyed building it.

I picked this kit up on a whim while visiting a local shop. I hadn't seen this kit mentioned very often, and so had rather muted expectations about the build. For the money, this kit is one of the best, most detailed, challenging, and rewarding builds out there. While not as large as many other 1/350 battleships, the level of detail on this kit rivals what you would get from 1/350 kit plus aftermarket photoetch. The PE that's included here is extensive and really makes the build pop, but this also means that it's not for beginners. If you're looking for a long, detailed, rewarding build, this USS Texas will satisfy your needs

This model is definitely not for the impatient or beginner modeler. I would however recommend it to anyone with experience. The details,especially with the PE parts are superb. The hull is a two piece hull which needs putty and sanding to make a seamless hull. The parts on the sprue are held by thick plastic and requires much touch up after separating from sprue. This is my first real go at PE parts and they were nothing but tedious. Pictures to follow upon completion. Also can not wait for Tamiya to make this kit.

This model is a true test of your modeling skills and abilities. I consider myself some where between a moderate to skilled builder. Between my age (73) and my shacking, building this model was, at times, very challenging. A lot of first for me in building this model. This model is truly not for the beginner. But if you are up to it, take your time and be patient. If you do these two things you will be rewarded by having a outstanding display of the USS Texas.

This kit is no joke. It’s not very big, but every square millimeter is bristling with armament making some steps a grind. In the end, you’ll have built yourself an awesome piece of American history, representing a time when men where men and diplomacy was negotiated at the end of a barrel. My only gripe with this kit is that the hull seam lines are a little thick, I ended up sanding mine down.

This was a very challenging but enjoyable kit to build. It is very detailed especially the photo etch and the small AA guns. The only draw back was the front tower horizonal antenna (bents to easy). I had to reinforce it and had to fabricate a rear tower horizonal antenna that the kit does not come with.

I have built 4 of these models, for myself and 3 siblings. An extremely detailed model that should be tackled by only experienced builders. Very satisfying after completion. My Dad served on the Texas in WWII. Also constructed acrylic covers myself. Difficult but a lasting memory.