"How much rigging is enough? " Topic

So….I've been scratch-building masts for a number of ships in 1/600 and I've hit the wall when it comes to rigging. I generally do not 'hyper-detail' my models, prefering to keep them 'tabletop friendly' for gaming purposes. Not a real problem with ironclads and the smaller gunboats, but the current batch of steam sloops and frigates
all carry full ship rig.

How much rigging do I really need to model on these things. Sure, more looks better, but it a.) takes forever and b.) is very fragile on the tabletop.

Am I better off just leaving it at the masts and a portion of the standing rigging? I'm looking for your success and/or horror stories to help me determine which path to take.

Combat mode, or sailing mode (for ships with masts)?

Crews removed every part (mast, spar, sail, line, etc.) they could when going into combat. Take a look at the USS Ironside, or the steam frigates at New Orleans.

Dan

Dan is right, they removed a good bit. Therefore, what you put on is really for eye candy effect, particularily at 1/600.

Thanks gentlemen!

As the models are destined for the wargaming table, the 'cleared for action' look is preferrable. I generally omit the topgallant spar and the handling lines, but its good to know that a spartan stripped down look is reaonably accurate for the table.

Lots of pictures out there showing only the lower mast, ratlines and stays on a ship. Looks funny in a way, but these ships fought using steam power and did not need their masts and sails "up" to be damaged, catch fire and such.

I've seen several pictures of the New Ironsides that show her with no spars at all, but maybe 20 feet of mast sticking out of the main deck.

Dan

I would say that enough is enough.

Not trying to be a wiseacre, but do enough to look right to you… and then stop 'cause it is enough. You do have to have your models able to be moved without undue damage.