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Model-making chains
Chains are an indispensable element of 19th and 20th-century units. They were used on ships not only as anchor chains but also for securing shrouds at the deadeyes and during the installation of yards on masts or around the dolphin striker.
How are chains used in ship models?
Model chains come in various diameters; when building a model, they must be carefully matched to the scale and, above all, the historical period. One sometimes sees chains on models of 17th-century ships—or even older ones—where such chains did not actually exist.
Chains for sailing ship models are usually made of brass (less frequently steel) and require painting, as the originals—unless serving a purely decorative purpose—were invariably made of iron.
Unlike rigging thread, chains are not knotted; they must be cut precisely to size during installation. While the originals were attached using shackles, on a model they can be secured with cyanoacrylate glue. Side cutters are used to cut the chains.