Hi David,

I concur with Ashley here. Having made many many carry cases/boxes in my time, for myself and others there are a few things I would consider first.

You can't make the box until you have the model in your hands.

For a model of this size I would use 10mm plywood for the top/bottom/and ends and 3 or 4mm ply for the front and back. You have a rough idea of the sizes probably required, so why not get those bits in stock ready. You'll also need a handle, a couple of catches and hinges (I like piano hinge) All the hardware I get from Screwfix and the ply is available at any good timber merchants, preferably one who will do some cutting for you. I reinforce the stressed corners inside with some square pine strips, just belt and braces. and you'll need a good wood glue, PVA or white woodworkers glue (I use Aliphatic resin glue, the yellow one coz I like it!)

Other people like to use great chunks of chipboard or old oak flooring by the look of it, and while their boxes are masterpieces in their own right, they can hardly lift them!…The secret it to keep it strong but light after all it is to protect the model from dust and things, carry it to and from the car and allow your next model to be stored on top of it saving space without killing you or breaking your back.

Get this stuff ready and build a stand for it first when you get the kit, which will alter the measurements, make the stand removeable, and when you know for sure the exact sizes of the model, with or without a folding mast, you can build your box.

Cheers…..RON.

Yes, you must have the model and stand to hand before you start making the box. If the model has a long mast or aerial then it's advisable to contrive some way of making it removable for transport, or you'll end up with a tall, heavy box which is half empty.
This is the box for my Huntsman. I made it from 6mm MDF on 18 x 28 PSE softwood strip frames top and bottom. 6 x 6 bass strips form the slides for the front, which has a D-section moulding along its top edge to act as a handle. The case handle on the top came from E-Bay. The whole thing was given several coats of exterior polyurethane varnish to keep out the wet stuff. There's an album of photos from various angles and Messrs Smith, Abell and Needham may notice that the model now has a driver…..

Dave M

Edited By Dave Milbourn on 13/03/2018 11:51:53

He's very shy, Ash……

DM

I find myself kneeling at the alter of superior carry cases!

​Mine are knocked together from 4mm ply and then splashed with emulsion paint. I cannot have fancy handles and catches on them as they must be able to stack and slide on top of one another on the shelf. I also write on the ends as to what`s inside so I can find the appropriate craft when needed!!

​They are functional, and I cant afford either the time or cost to replace 25+ boxes with something better…currently the flying boats are hanging up on the ceiling, and the larger boats do not have boxes as this would occupy more room, The large LCT has two other landers nesting in it to save space.

​Ashley