Recommendations for plans - first paddle build

[cosmic]

May I ask for your recommendation as to which ship to scratch build from good available plans? This will be my first foray into this kind of modeling, although I have extensive experience with static tall ship models. Accordingly, my criteria for a choice will be:
1) Availability of quality full scale plans
2) Larger model rather than smaller (minimum 3' or 900mm)
3) Structural complexity is probably not a problem, I'm experienced
4) A boat with character, lots of deck furniture
5) I prefer POB or POF construction, I'm open to other but hope to avoid fiberglas
6) Commercially available fittings &/or PE sets would be a plus
 
Many many years ago I dabbled in R/C, but I have zero knowledge of modern gear. In those days (before you could buy such in hobby shops) we used to make our own radios on the 27 mhz band, with miniature tetrode vacuum tubes from hearing aids, and rubberband powered servos. If the complexity of the R/C that's required will influence the choice of model, I'd also be grateful for that information.
 

[Stuart Badger]

Hi Rich and welcome to the forum. I hope we can be helpful with your new project!
First off modern Radio gear is, compared to the past REALLY simple - so don't give it a thought as that is one thing that won't affect your choice of prototype at all.
The first thing I guess is to decide what sort of paddler you are interested in ie. passenger  vessel or working vessel (tug etc).
There are many sources of plans in the UK spread amongst many collections - but our members are always willing to help out if they have a copy of something that you fancy (if you cover costs etc). How about this for example?
http://s185.photobucket.com/albums/x66/mjt60a/ps%20brighton/
http://www.swanseadocks.co.uk/Paddle%20S.htm
I have a set of drawings for her! Normally I wouldn't recommend something this complicated as a first build - but I know your work - so no problems!

All the best

stuart

[PeeWee]

Hi,
I have to totally agree with Stuart, modern radios and off the shelf electronic modules are very simple to use and configure.  on the style of boat again the variations are large.

for example you have these Mississippi style plans http://alan-bates.steamboats.org/modelplans.html  or a more european looking vesal like https://shop.traplet.com/product.aspx?c=1450

good luck with your hunting

[cosmic]

Hi Stuart. I guess I would prefer working vessels.
That one you linked to is a beauty. How big will she build to? I should have mentioned a maximum size. I couldn't accomodate something like your Connault!

[cosmic]

PeeWee, I hadn't thought about it, but upon reflection I think I prefer what you refer to as European style. However, my feeling about it isn't strong.
 
So let's say for now, working European vessels, 900 to 1700mm LOA, and see what comes up. Thank you both.

[Stuart Badger]

Hi Rich
Can I suggest you try and get a copy of 'British Steam Tugs' by P N Thomas, published by Waine Research isbn 0905184076.
This has many drawings and renderings of  paddle tugs.
Are you thinking of vessels like these?

All the best

Stuart

[cosmic]

Yes, that might be an example, or possibly something a bit more "elaborate".
 
But I would prefer, all things being equal, plans that are already lofted. I've had less than satisfactory results from local printers.

[PeeWee]

Hi,
There is always the Director class of Navy tugs.  plans for the Hull, Superstructure and paddles are here

http://www.myhobbystore.co.uk/product/17026/forceful-mm1292

[cosmic]

Yes indeed PeeWee, Forceful is a good candidate. I can get Metcalf's plans on CD for $7US from eBay.

[tonyh]

Harold A Underhill offers a detailed Iron Paddle Tug and Working Model Paddle Steamer. Not the cheapest plans to buy.
I have no personal experience of these plans, can anyone comment please.

http://www.skipper.co.uk/catsmp3new.htm

Tony

[andy]

These plans by H.A. Underhill are very fine. 30 years ago I built one of the paddlers, shown in the list.

http://picasaweb.google.de/a.heene/Leviathan#

Andreas

[cosmic]

How big is Leviathan? I like it too.
It's a virtual candy store, isn't it?

[tonyh]

Andreas

Thanks for showing the photographs of your extremely nice model. The photographs are excellent. I was very impressed with the B&W one's which are very clear and sharp.

Tony

[andy]

Hi Cosmic,

the Leviathan is about 80 cm long. Driven electric with gear.

Andreas