Wood Cutaway Model of USS Allen M. Sumner (DD-692)

Wood Cutaway Model of USS Allen M. Sumner (DD-692)

Overall Size: 20½" x 9"

Made in the U.S.A., each cutaway is an accurate, three dimensional, architectural model. The pieces are multi-layer, micro-cut, wood cutaway constructions, reflecting the utmost in detail and attention to accuracy.

Original blueprints and period photographs along with hand measurements, if possible, are used for the creation of each design. Approximately two months is then devoted to drawing the original multi-layer template for each item.

Original construction blueprints, photographs, deck plans, books and even advertising brochures are used to guarantee the accuracy of each cutaway. Approximately two months is then devoted to drawing the original multi-layer template for each item. Once the design work is complete, a computer-controlled laser is then used to cut and mark specially selected layers of basswood. After a layer has been cut, it is cleaned and carefully mounted to a baltic blue matte board. A total of six layers of basswood are hand assembled for each cutaway. When the cutaway is complete, it is then sealed behind glass in a cherry finish hardwood frame.

The highest level of quality in both work and materials is maintained to ensure museum quality cutaways. This integrity in both design and modeling skill has brought endorsements by many of the nation's museums, historical societies and memorial associations.

We can also customize this cutaway as any ship of the Sumner Class for no additional charge. The design will remain the same as pictured but, will carry your desired hull number and nameplate. Please allow three to four weeks delivery on custom items as they need to be built from scratch.

The changes in the Sumner reflect the hard won lessons of the war learned from the Fletcher. The Sumner could turn tighter and better defend itself from air attack

Except for the rudders, the ships are identical from the deck down. The designers, Gibbs & Cox, added a second rudder so the ship could turn in tighter circles when engaging the enemy. This had the unfortunate side effect of making the ship about 3 knots slower than a destroyer from its predecessor class. The Sumner-class also has more guns than the Fletcher to better defend the ship from the Kamikaze attacks. For the crews, the Sumner-class Destroyers were big improvement over the Fletcher Class destroyers except when they were on their way home!

Today, one Sumner destroyer, the USS Laffey exists as a museum ship.