It's an older book, but yes. I think it'll be a very good starter. Some of the materials and whatnot are dated compared to what's available today, but it gives a lot of good background into the thought process of doing such a thing.

Hi David,

Thank you for your service - in USMC and in law enforcement.

Welcome to the wonderful world of modeling: it's a big world yet it is made up of small neighborhoods and tiny yards. It is your choice how far to venture out and how fast. KitMaker is a great community, full of helpful people willing to assist and share what they know.

I haven't read all of the replies although the ones I have are helpful. I have some ideas of models you can start out with.

1/72 is a good idea to start out in because nowadays, you can get most anything in it, even submarines and some larger ships. That makes it exceptionally easy to mix and match a scene, i.e., troops pushing ashore with vehicles past captured aircraft. Today there are small figures with big detail! You can make a fine diorama scene in a compact space.

So here's the landing craft for you to consider:
Airfix Higgins LCVP

Dragon LCM(3)

Pegasus LCVP Landing Craft w/Soldiers

That should be good for starters.

I should add a thanks for your service on the side of democracy and the Western ideals we share. I always wanted to be a LEO so you have my envy there.


In all seriousness your shoebox idea is sound in premise. A dio the rough size of a shoebox's footprint is about right for a start
Maybe just a patrol, or a mortar position, something simple. The thing is:

Be prepared to be unhappy with your results.

That's sort of the condition of a modeler. Every time you get better. But every time you'll see what you know you can improve upon. It's a never ending learning curve. Just go into this expecting the worst but shooting for the best.

There's no replacement for experience. And you'll get that using USMC sticktoitiveness.

Now if you'll excuse me some old Milwaukee need drinking on account of your country being Canada's whipping boy when it comes to hockey

Thanks for all the help guys. I found a model store near by, (M & Model) good place. helpful people working there. Told me in a rough way what you guys have been saying "Go build something first" So I bought a 1/48 Model Tiger 1 late production and finished it the other day. Next step is to take it in the shop and he will give me insight on paint/supplies.

David,

Your callsign made me think that you were a former Army Special Ops aviator, not a Marine. Regardless, thanks for your service both with the USMC and the PD, not sure which line of work is/was more dangerous

Since you visited M & Models, I would surmise that you are someplace near Chicago. If so, I would recommend that look up the guys with Chicagoland AMPS, to get some "collective" assistance in getting you started and a bunch of like minded individuals to help you “grow” as a modeler and dio builder. .

Drop me a PM and I can get you in touch with some members of the Chicagoland Chapter . Another option is to attend some local model shows. You don't need to enter anything but go, look around, and ask questions. Folks in this hobby are generally friendly and like to talk about their labors of love. I personally would recommend that you attend an AMPS International Convention, if possible and get involved in the dio judging - it will definitely make you a better dio builder.

One last point is to keep in mind that good dios tell a story without using any words. Composition of the story in your dio is an art in and of itself. I look forward to seeing your efforts



John