Been almost a month now. The research is going slower than hoped, but still moving along.
I just picked up the 1/144 scale PE brass Type VIIC kit from Griffon Models. Obviously I cannot use all the parts, but many of them will work.
Resumed working on the limber holes/vents on the hull this weekend. I'm going to be making a couple of drill patterns for a few vents. Now that I have the PE kit I can make a step-by-step list of tasks required to complete the model!!
There are no 1/144 scale wooden decks that I know of, but I consider myself a fairly skilled wood modeller, so... ...gonna have a go at making my own. Hardwoods are surprisingly durable at that scale, and since it will be stained/painted dark, any light/medium colored hardwood should work.
Wish me luck!