Every serious model builder should have this book beside him as he prepares to take on building a replica of any American clipper ship or packet ship of the Great Age of Sail, as it offers hobbyists a true understanding of the workings of a fully rigged and appointed sailing ship. Davis, a well-known naval architect and seaman, describes various types of ship models and devotes individual chapters to the various aspects of the ship: masting and mastheads, standing and running rigging, foot-ropes, the blocks, steering wheels, the galley, pumps, ship ironwork, copper sheathling, ground tackle, gun ports, boats, and davits. This book provides a valuable treasury of information for any model builder, historian, or sailing enthusiast. An absolute must have!