The PT-61 along with PT-59 and PT-60 were the only Elco 77 foot PT boats converted to gunboats while in the war zone in October 1943.  (Several Higgins "78 foot" boats were converted to gunboats after these three.)  These pages will help the viewer to understand how and why these boats were converted as well as research I did in order to construct the 1/20 scale model of the PT-61.  Some of this information is applicable to other PT Boats as well, such as the uniforms and canvas pages. (This site updated on June 21, 2017.)  

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"A Trio" of Gunboats - Information, Drawings and Original Photos

History of the "Trio"  (PT-59, 60, & 61):

Here is "A Trio of Gunboats" document from launching to deactivation.  This consolidates the information in one document. Previously, all of this information was scattered on various web sites, books, testimonials, and documents. You can download and print this.

Early Photos of the (pre-conversions) PT-61:

Photos of the PT-61 from being assigned to the PT Boat Training Station at Melville through on station in the Pacific until it was modified to be a gunboat in late October 1943.

Photos of the Gunboats (post conversions) PT-59, 60 & 61

Photos of the original PT-61 beginning after the conversion to a gunboat in late October 1943 through being reassigned as a "crash" boat (rescue) in the Pacific on February 16, 1944.  This also includes some photos of PT-59 and PT-60 as only a small number of photos of these gunboats are available. 

PT Boat Crews:

There enough photos of PT Boat crews out there. Many show the usual uniforms with the crews posed on the decks. But, is that the way the crews were dressed while in action? In most cases, NO. Here some unusual photos show what they actually wore.  Also, some tips on making figures from Tamiya pit crew kits.

PT Boat Canvas:

Again, there enough photos of PT Boats there. There are almost none showing the extensive :canvas" and supporting poles and rigging that was necessary in fending off the hot tropic sun. Here are a selection of photos showing exactly what the canvas tarps looked like on a PT Boat. Many show the usual uniforms with the crews posed on the decks. But, is that the way the crews were dressed while in action? In most cases, NO. Here some unusual photos show what they actually wore.

PT Boat Forum:

Lots of information on PT Boats by enthusiasts and experts.  Many topics on the original PT boats as well as tips for PT Boats modelers.  For comments on this particular model go to "PT Gunboats (PT59, 60, & 61) Elco 77 foot."

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PT-61 Model Build (construction photos):

Photos and details on building the PT-61 model that includes making parts and assembly plus information on customizing the model in chronological order.

PT-61 Model Specifications:

Details on the PT-61 model  includes an electrical schematic and assembly drawing for the R/C gear, motors, speed controllers, and batteries.  Information on materials and parts used (both purchased and made).   Also information on weights and dimensions.

PT-61 Model Photos:

Photos of the finished PT-61 model.  Not available at this time.

PT-61 Model Videos:

Video of the PT-61 model from the first time in the water (November 2015) to the latest.  This includes a test run to see how well the motors ran and maneuverability.   

Other Details:

Considerations on making the PT Boat model look realistic by adding various details often omitted by model builders. 

"There are two type of war boats in the water: PT boats and targets."

- (Unknown)

"I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast; for I intend to go in harm's way"

- John Paul Jones (Nov. 16, 1778 letter to Le Ray Chaumont)