Hi chaps,
I've entered Tigerman's Steel Cat's GB but it seems my kit is on back-order and I'll have to wait but that's no problem - I'm patient (ahem)
My current Pz II wip will be finished by the end of the month and if the Tiger isn't in by then I'm going to hit the stash and build my Bronco Comet. I'll be building the Comet named 'IRON DUKE'. It's a fairly early Bronco kit now but a good one too-I've seen some AMAZING examples on display at model shows! My Dad and Aunt know that their Dad, my Grandad (obviously), drove tanks throughout WWII. He definately drove a Sherman in Noth Africa but they are sure that he drove a Comet. They are trying to fins some of war photos. If he did this build would be dedicated to him. If he didn't it would be dedicated to all British and Commonwealth Tank Drivers. Either way, this is having a base!
I have Friuls and the full Accurate Armour upgrade Resin set for it too which comprises of a moulded piece that totally replaces the Mantlet and barrel with a perfectly moulded resin piece that has moulded on Hessian netting. There are also the usual stowage items, again resin, that has the track links to hang on the side of the turret, smoke grenade launchers and plenty of other upgraded bits & bobs. Their moulding looks excellent and the new Mantlet with moulded Barrel looks particularly yummy!
Acurate Armour's Mantlet Cover & 17ib'er barrel and general upgrade set (links below):
http://www.accurate-armour.com/ShowProduct.cfm?manufacturer=1&category=4&product=1954
http://www.accurate-armour.com/ShowProduct.cfm?manufacturer=1&category=4&product=1953
It will make for a nice build imo!
Question:
I was wondering about something though. The road wheels are made of two parts and 'butt-up' against each other to make the whole wheel. If you recall your last Tamiya or Dragon build you will remember that when you build up wheels like this they have locating holes and pins i.e. male/female mating holes to ensure perfect alignment. These wheels do not have any sort of location holes and instead the insides of the two halves, where they meet, are totally flat-backed. I can only assume they need to be slid onto the suspension posts to align them and allowed to sit in place whilst the glue sets?
- Accurate Armour also do a replacement Resin Roadwheel/Return Roller set which are apparently the correct 'scale' size with improved bolthead detail but I'm not sure if I'll buy these yet? They will definately help with the builds appearance and may help or answer with my previous question re the kit wheels?
http://www.accurate-armour.com/ShowProduct.cfm?manufacturer=0&category=4&subcategory=192&product=1955
If anyone can think of any other helpful snippets of information I'd be most grateful.
Please take a look at the links and let me know what you think
Panzer II wip update tomorrow!
Take care guys,
Ben