3D model descriptionThis 3D printable model represents the iconic Hamilton-class U.S. Coast Guard cutter, recreated at 1:96 scale with an overall length of approximately 1.2 meters. The full package includes 200+ detailed parts, covering a wide range of deck equipment, sensors, and weapons seen on the vessel’s later configurations. These typically include the OTO Melara 76 mm main gun, Phalanx CIWS, .50 caliber machine guns, AN/SPS-40 or SPS-49 air-search radar, AN/SPS-73 surface-search radar, Mk92 fire control system, satellite communication domes, electro-optical sensors, and a full suite of communication antennas and mast-mounted systems, giving the model a modern and operational appearance.

Despite this extensive detail, the core ship is intentionally simple to build. The main hull and primary structure consist of only 59 modular parts, all designed to fit standard 22 × 22 × 25 cm 3D printers. This allows builders to quickly assemble a clean and accurate base model. The large number of additional components are fully optional, enabling users to either keep the build straightforward or gradually enhance it with more advanced detailing depending on their preferences. The result is a flexible model that works equally well as a clean display piece or a highly detailed showcase build.

This class served globally and continues to operate under multiple navies today:

Hamilton-Class Cutter Fleet (Original and Current Operators)

United States (original fleet):

USCGC Hamilton (WHEC-715)USCGC Sherman (WHEC-720)USCGC Gallatin (WHEC-721)USCGC Morgenthau (WHEC-722)USCGC Chase (WHEC-718)USCGC Rush (WHEC-723)USCGC Boutwell (WHEC-719)USCGC Mellon (WHEC-717)USCGC Munro (WHEC-724)USCGC Midgett (WHEC-726)USCGC Douglas Munro (WHEC-724*)USCGC Dallas (WHEC-716)(*Note: naming overlaps occurred during service transitions)

Current operators (transferred vessels):

Philippines (Philippine Navy):

BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PS-15) (ex-USCGC Hamilton WHEC-715)BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16) (ex-USCGC Dallas WHEC-716)BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17) (ex-USCGC Boutwell WHEC-719)

Bangladesh (Bangladesh Navy):

BNS Somudra Joy (F-28) (ex-USCGC Rush WHEC-723)BNS Somudra Avijan (F-29) (ex-USCGC Jarvis WHEC-725)

Nigeria (Nigerian Navy):

NNS Thunder (F90) (ex-USCGC Chase WHEC-718)

Vietnam (Vietnam Coast Guard):

CSB 8020 (ex-USCGC Morgenthau WHEC-722)

3D printing settingsThe model is fully RC-ready by design, with a hollow hull, generous internal volume, and carefully planned structure for installing electronics. Integrated features include motor mounting provisions, propeller shaft alignment channels, rudder mounting supports, servo placement areas, and accessible routing paths for wiring. Removable deck sections provide convenient interior access for installation, maintenance, and upgrades, making the model practical for real RC use.

All parts are optimized for reliable printing on standard desktop machines. Structural components can be printed at 0.2–0.28 mm layer height with 3–4 perimeters and moderate infill, while smaller detail parts benefit from finer settings. Builders can begin with a simple, quickly assembled hull and superstructure, then optionally add the included accessories to increase realism. This balance between ease of construction and high detail potential makes the Hamilton-class cutter an excellent choice for both display builders and RC enthusiasts.

This model is designed with a modular approach, including a range of optional components representing different configurations and service variations. These parts are not intended to be used all together, but instead allow builders to select and assemble their preferred version of the vessel. Many components can also be left unfixed or attached in a removable way, enabling easy swapping to represent different classes, operators, or time periods without requiring major modifications.

Our fully articulated Welin Davit and two dinghies are also included in this pack.