Sci-fi modellers get a treat in Polar Lights’ new Star Trek USS Grissom… but they also have the means of improving it further thanks to aftermarket specialist Greenstrawberry, as STU FONE explains.
When it comes to Star Trek-related kits, US firm Polar Lights tends to favour two scales: 1/1000 and 1/350. The former are generally snap-together offerings, while the latter tenders towards the more serious/experienced modeller. One of its latest 1/350 gems is the Oberth-class science/surveyor vessel USS Grissom NCC-638 (item POL991) as seen in the film Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, where it had a brief appearance prior to being destroyed. At 34cm in length, it’s not a small model, and Polar Lights has replicated this ship’s unusual form accurately, with its boat-like sensor pod and the blended-type saucer section, warp nacelles and supporting structure matching studio reference photos. Parts are supplied on five styrene runners, with all hull windows supplied on the clear frame – ideal for those wanting to add lighting. Polar Lights’ standard hemispherical stand with metal pole is also included, plus a superbly printed decal sheet.
Above: The upper hull plate is well detailed, notably the war core segment (centre) with…
