Switzerland is a welcome addition to Peter Pig's ACW naval line. Though Peter Pig has a somewhat hit or miss history with their naval castings, they've been "hitting" more and more often. In my opinion, Switzerland is the latest hit.

One of the converted steamboats of Charles Ellet's self styled "Marine Brigade," Switzerland served the Civil War on western waters. Switzerland was engaged at Memphis, Vicksburg and Grand Gulf, as well as participating in the ill-fated Red River campaign. Given its service record, it's a wonder that a casting has not been produced sooner, but those are the breaks. Now for the miniature!

The casting is excellent for Peter Pig. Cast in resin, the kit consists of the ship and two pewter smokestacks. Flash was minimal, consisting of small pieces of resin that had adhered to the casting. The miniature is very close to scale in both length and width, no more than 1/1 6th of an inch off on either axis.

Detail on the casting is good and comes closer to achieving the level of Thoroughbred Miniatures than most Peter Pig castings. The popular photograph of Switzerland shot from over the port bow is excellent and allows for comparison to the casting. Planking, gun ports and doorways are all rendered with passable detail. Guide holes for the masts are clearly visible and easy to use. The casting includes the two "generic" stacks that seem to come with every Peter Pig casting. These require a bit of filing, but otherwise are fine.

Assembly proved a snap. Just add the two stacks and you are done. The advanced modelers out there can add the mid-ships mast and the bow sight pole with a little glue and either piano wire or styrene rod. (I use the styrene as it's a bit more forgiving).

Score one for the Pig, this casting is a keeper! Grade B+