Over the last few years I’ve been posting build threads here, including HMS Tiger, with a specific goal in mind: lowering the barrier of entry into big-gun RC warship combat. Big gun has a steeper startup curve than it needs to. Hull construction, layout decisions, repeatability, and access to cannons all add friction before someone ever gets a ship on the water. This build was an attempt to remove as much of that friction as possible using modern 3D printing and a design that’s been built and revised in the open. Tiger is big-gun only. It’s not intended to be small-gun compatible, and it’s not trying to bridge formats. The goal is straightforward: make it easier for someone to build a historically grounded, combat-capable ship and actually get to their first battle. I launched a small Kickstarter this morning to release the Tiger STL kit. The scope is the 3D print files themselves, photo instructions, and a complete bill of materials. A few people have already asked why use Kickstarter at all. The short answer is visibility. This hobby doesn’t grow by staying quiet, and Kickstarter is a straightforward way to put a finished design in front of people who wouldn’t otherwise find it. Documentation and build notes are live on CombatWarships.com, which I’ve been using to organize the material as it’s solidified. I wanted to post here simply because this community has history, both for the hobby and for me personally. There’s no hard sell here. I'm just trying to do my part for the hobby. Kickstarter Link — Justin
If I may be so bold as to say Justin's design is absolutely the best for a beginner. I was able to build a complete working boat in roughly 2 months. The boat is laid out correctly from the get go, everything has its place. There is even room to spare. I highly encourage anyone that is considering building one to give it a shot.
Justin's Tiger is definitely something I am eyeing. I am an absolute beginner, haven't even seen a battle yet and I am already planning on the Tiger as a build for me. Big gun seems like a fun start too. I have been looking at the Victory ship files I got from him and they're great too. Plus.. the Tiger is just a good looking boat. This is coming from someone with a love for US Ships an ship designs...
NTXBG is active with build, battle, or BS sessions nearly every month and have grown by a few members in 2025. WWCC is active too; posting a full schedule of events in 2025. MABG, from what I have heard, is meeting but in the process of finding a new pond. A small group in Minnesota is forming as well. Most of the big gunners I know are active on our own chat, not this forum or Discord.
