HM Brig Badger (Amati, 1:64)

The HM Brig Badger kit is an accurate scale model designed, developed, and produced by Amati in Italy. The kit was created on the basis
of the original plans of the Badger, used as the primary reference for the hull, frames, and deck details. The model has been specifically designed for the beginner/intermediate modeler and therefore represents an excellent first or second experience in the plank-on-frame construction technique, for those who wish to try a more substantial subject.

All of the fittings, masting, and rigging have been studied using contemporary sources and the most up-to-date documentation available, in order to make this kit as accurate and detailed as possible. Although the HM Brig Badger kit has been designed to be as simple as possible to build; basic woodworking skills (and a good deal of patience) are still required. Amati estimates the construction time to be between 40 and 60 hours; it will therefore be necessary to prepare a dedicated workspace.

The manufacturer does not recommend to remove the pieces from the laser sheet until they are actually needed for assembly, as they could be damaged or lost. Study the plans carefully together with the assembly instructions until you feel fully confident in tackling each stage of the work. Patience is the key element in the construction of any model. Consider each stage as a project in itself: the final result will be greatly enhanced by this approach.

Pay particular attention when detaching the pieces from the laser sheets and from the photo etched brass sheets. The sheet from which the pieces are to be removed must be placed on a rigid and perfectly flat surface. Use a sturdy cutter with a sharp, strong blade to cut the
retaining tabs that hold the pieces in place. Before removing the wooden components from the sheets, number them with reference to the identification drawings of the pieces. Amati recommends detaching the photoetched parts and cleaning off the retaining tabs with small files; secure them with double-sided adhesive tape to a support and paint them. Once dry, remove them and glue them into position.

Kit contains:

• Plank on frame construction with double planking
• Laser cut plywood and MDF sheets
• Amati ttings in wood and metal
• Photo etched details set
• 5 technical plans and color booklet

History:

The origins of the Badger, like those of many other small vessels acquired by the Navy during that period, are not entirely certain. It is
almost certain that she was a prize captured during the American War of Independence. The Badger was originally named Pitt and was purchased by the Royal Navy in 1777; it was also the first official command entrusted to Nelson.

Brigs were generally employed for coastal reconnaissance missions and for controlling trade through the inspection and search of merchant ships. They were also used to escort convoys and to carry dispatches. The Badger was armed with twelve cannons with carriage of 4-pounder calibre and a number of swivel guns, all installed on the main deck. She had a displacement of just over 137 tons and a crew of 90 officers and sailors.

Nelson, recently promoted to the rank of Commander by Admiral Parker, was assigned to the Badger on 8 December 1777; however, he actually boarded the ship only on 1 January 1778, when the vessel was at Port Royal for minor maintenance.

Nelson’s first orders were to ensure protection against American privateers along the southern coast of Jamaica. He carried out these orders with great effectiveness, intercepting and engaging numerous enemy vessels, further strengthening his growing reputation as a commander with extraordinary abilities. This is confirmed by his promotion to Post-Captain, which took place on 11 June 1779 while he was still in command of the Badger.

On Sunday, 20 June 1779, the Badger dropped anchor at Port Royal for another maintenance refit. Command of the vessel was then transferred to another officer who would later become famous, Cuthbert Collingwood (who, like Nelson, would later become an Admiral). The Badger continued to serve as an escort vessel for convoys under several commanders until 14 September 1781, when she was finally sold in Jamaica for 2,050 pounds. The relatively short operational life of the Badger was due to the fact that she was built of fir wood rather than oak. This was because she had not originally been designed and built for the intended naval role, but was later acquired by the Royal Navy; her fir structure tended to deteriorate more rapidly than those built from local hardwoods. Nevertheless, the Badger secured a place in naval history as the vessel that helped consolidate the reputation of two of the greatest commanders of the Royal Navy.