HISTORY OF H.M.S. SKIRMISHER The Scout class of cruiser came from Vickers yard in 1905 and had a ram bow, three funnels, and a turtle back focastle. The four, triple expansion engines developed 17,500 h.p. giving a speed of 25 knots. The class were small fast cruisers referred to as scouts. They arose from the need for a fast ship to perform a scouting role in the North Sea to keep an eye on the increasing activity of the German navy in that area, Coupled to this role was the requirement for a flotilla leader to the smaller seagoing destroyers. These ships had to have the ability to work with their brood, but still provide for the captain and his staff. Whilst lightly armed compared with a third class cruiser they had a high speed which enabled them to scout in the knowledge that they could outrun any serious oppositon. A total of 15 "Scouts" were completed between 1905 and 1913 all with differences in construction. Skirmisher can be considered typical of the class. DETAILS OF THE MODEL The plated fibreglass hull is the base for this model,along with the superstructure from computer printed 1mm plastic for the main assembly. A sheet of .5mm printed plastic adds the final sharpness to this elegant model. To complete the detail over 450 light alloy and cast plastic fittings are included. Vacformed plastic mouldings take care of all the larger and more complex parts such as the many ships boats, funnels, vents and funnel bases. The many stanchions on this model are cast in light alloy to give the correct pattern of spacing, with 2 gauges of brass wire for the stanchion wires. Brass ladders add the finest detail and delicate touch to this model, one of the classics amongst warships. Although a large model by small ship standards the handling and sea-keeping qualities are outstanding. A comprehensive instruction book is included in the kit keyed to a FULL SIZE PLAN and large format exploded view. As in all the kits in the range, a full set of running gear is included. To add to the classic look of the ships of this era 2 colour schemes are included in the instructions. Black hulled Victorian livery gives a great presence and for an alternative scheme the China station livery is included, along with the standard Atlantic fleet grey. Tips are also given in the instructions for the use of the modern ACRYLIC car spray paints that are giving such outstanding results. | 
