Prix : 92 Euros

The renaissance of the French military navy at the time of the American War of Independence was preceded by a great deal of research in the field of naval architecture and artillery. The 12-pdr frigate is the direct result of this effort. 104 such ships were built between 1748 and 1798.
The 12-pdr frigate is the typical ship of the American Revolutionary War, subsequently the 18-pdr will take its place during the wars of the First Empire.
There were many 12-pdr frigates from which to choose, but the Belle-Poule was the obvious choice since she distinguished herself along with the lugger Le Coureur, as the first ship to be involved in combat action on 17 June 1778 during the Revolutionay War.
The direct account of this battle by the parties involved will give readers an immediate feel for the period. History buffs and ship's model builders alike will be captivated by this narrative that documents an actual artillery duel between two ships of comparable strength.

117p. booklet, 24x31cm format, including :

- The history of the 12-pdr frigate
- Comparative plans of several frigates
- Interior accommodation of the frigate
- Protection of the underwater hull
Monograph of the Belle-Poule
- Construction
- Artillery
- History
- Technical commentary on the plates

Set of 22 plates at 1:48 scale including :

1 Schematic view
2 Horizontal sections
3 Vertical sections
4 Building the bow and the stern
5 Plan of the ship's battery
6 Plan of the forecastle and quaterdeck
7 View of the hull
8 View of the bow and stern
9 Cross-sections
10 Longitudinal section

11 and 12 Fitting
13 Coppering
14 Masting components
15 Fitting for the masts
16 Square sails for the foremast
17 Square sails for the mainmast
18 Square sails for the mizzenmast
19 Longitudinal sails
20 The ship under full sail at 1:72 scale
21 Belaying plan
22 Schematic view at 1:72 scale