newbie question

I'd pay the little extra and go with the Tamiya Fletcher since the fit and simplicity is excellent. This kit screams "professional beginner build". The instructions are also well written which is a void with other kit manufactuers. The Panda kit will be a bigger challenge since the decks and superstructure have very poor fits. That Banner Arizona would also be a nice kit for you if you want to take your time. The part fit is very good and it is well laid out.

Welcome to our world.

Scott

Hello welcome to the ship forum,

Tamiya's 1/350 scale Fletcher or Panda 1/350 scale Alreigh Burke, Cole, or Churchill would make a good first project. The all are over 15 inches long when complete. The Fletcher has over all better detail then the Panda ships. If you are really bold and adventurous try adding PE to them, just work slow and be patient. I am working on Banner's 350 scale Arizona with over 200+ hours invested so far. So depending on what you want the final project to look like, be prepared to invest some time.

Good luck and enjoy!!!