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The Best Plastic Models of Modern Tank Kits

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The Best Plastic Modern Tank Kits 1/35: Review and Tips

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Hello, fellow miniature enthusiasts! Richard here, and today, we’re diving into a delightful escapade reminiscent of our yesteryears – the art of assembling plastic model tanks, especially the top-notch 1/35 scale ones.

Assembling these mini marvels, my friends, is akin to a nostalgic jaunt down memory lane. Remember those halcyon days of piecing together Lego or K’nex? It’s that same jubilant spirit, but with these tank kits – it’s a blast, I assure you.

The true charm of these miniature tanks lies in their diversity – from pocket-friendly kits for the rookies to the intricate masterpieces for the virtuosos among us. There’s a whole spectrum to delight in, especially for the detail-devotees who crave every tiny bell and whistle.

The Evolution of Plastic Model Tank Kits

A Brief History

Let’s step back in time to the late 1960s. The world of molding technology was undergoing a revolution, paving the way for high-quality, yet affordable, plastic models. The watershed moment came in September 1970 when Revell unveiled their inaugural tank kits, capturing the hearts of many. Since then, brands like Revell and Italeri have been bringing us these miniature replicas of modern armored vehicles from across the globe.

Picking Your Perfect Tank Model

Based on a lifetime of tinkering and testing, I’ve cooked up a recipe to help you pinpoint the ideal tank model for your collection:

Build Quality and Intricate Detailing:

  • Expect nothing less than high-quality plastic parts that fit together as snugly as a hand in a glove.
  • Look for models with movable turrets, guns, lifelike tracks, and those little details that bring the model to life.
  • My experiments show that the finer the details, the more magnificent the model.

Accuracy and Realism:

  • Seek out models that are the spitting image of their real-life counterparts in size, shape, and minute details.
  • In my escapades, I’ve found that realism in a model significantly elevates its display appeal.

Ease of Assembly:

  • Crystal clear instructions are a must.
  • Parts that fit together with ease, reducing any unnecessary furrowing of brows.
  • From my adventures, I can vouch that a smooth assembly process is key to a joyful building experience.

Value for Money:

  • Seek a balance between cost and the kit’s craftsmanship and detailing.
  • My trials and errors have led me to conclude that the best models strike a fine balance between price and quality.

Brand Reputation:

  • Opt for a kit from a brand that’s renowned and respected.
  • My investigations reveal that such brands often guarantee better quality control, customer support, and consistency in their products.

Reviews and Recommendations:

  • Don’t shy away from scoping out online reviews, forums, and communities of fellow model enthusiasts.
  • In my experience, these are goldmines of insights on the highs and lows of various tank model kits.

By considering these factors and mixing in a dash of my personal experiences and tests, you’re well on your way to picking the tank model that’ll be the jewel of your collection.

Essential Equipment for Building a Plastic Model Tank Kit

Here’s a table of equipment that can be helpful when working with plastic model tank kits:

Equipment Purpose
X-Acto Knife Used for precision cutting of small parts and trimming excess plastic from parts
Tweezers Helps to handle small parts and decals more easily
Plastic Cement Used to bond plastic parts together securely
Paint Brushes For painting and detailing the model
Paints For coloring the model in a realistic manner
Airbrush Can be used for more detailed and smoother paint applications
Sandpaper or Emery Boards Used to smooth rough edges and rough up surfaces for better paint adhesion
Clear Gloss Finish Used to give a glossy and realistic finish to the model
Clear Matte Finish Used to give a more dull or weathered look to the model
Decal Setting Solution Helps decals adhere better to the model’s surface
Cutting Mat Protects work surfaces and helps with precise cutting
Magnifying Glass or Lamp Helps to see small details and parts more clearly

Top 9 Plastic Models Tank Kits – Comparison Table

Reviews On Some Of The Most Popular Models of Modern Tank Kits Currently Available

1. Tamiya Models M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II Model Kit

Tamiya Models M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II Model Kit
Tamiya Models M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II Model Kit

Put together an M1A2SEP Abrams Tusk II today and recreate the latest combat used in Iraq! This kit will give you a replica of our country’s workhorse tank with all the addons that increase fighting. It’s 1/35 scale for easy display, too.

Pros
  • It is flash-free and well-engineered
  • The figures are lifelike and in scale in modern uniforms
  • Kits are well researched and fall together with minimal fit issues
  • It will also provide a great start for the super detailer
Cons
  • Lacking detail in many areas
  • Plastic mesh for the rear turret baskets, which is fiddly to assemble
  • You’ll need to remove quite a few sink marks on the plastic parts

As an avid miniaturist modeler, I have had the opportunity to build and review a vast range of model kits, and the Tamiya Models M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II Model Kit is one of the best plastic model tank kits I have ever worked with. This kit is a perfect blend of high-quality materials, intricate detailing, and accuracy that any model enthusiast would love to have in their collection.

Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10

The craftsmanship of this kit? Simply superb. It’s like Tamiya took the essence of the Abrams tank, shrunk it down, and packed it into this box. The kit boasts an armor that’s a carbon copy of the real deal, complete with a movable turret and gun, tracks that look like they could tread through your living room, and decals that add just the right touch of flair.

Ease of Assembly – 8/10

Piecing this beauty together was a breeze, for the most part. The instructions? Clear as a bell. However, a few parts played hard to get, testing my patience a bit, but perseverance paid off. The end result was a model that looked so good, I had to stop and admire it for a while.

Accuracy and Realism – 10/10

If you’re after a tank model that mirrors its real-life counterpart, this is it. The Tamiya M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II is the spitting image of the actual Abrams tank. Every curve, every angle, every little nuance – it’s all there. This model doesn’t just sit on your shelf; it commands respect.

Value for Money – 9/10

Sure, it’s not exactly a steal, but remember, you’re investing in a piece of art. For the quality and attention to detail you get, it’s worth every penny. It’s an investment for those who appreciate the finer things in the miniature world.

Overall – 9/10

In summary, the Tamiya Models M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II is a must-have. Its superior build quality, meticulous detailing, and stunning accuracy make it a standout addition to any collection. Though it might challenge your skills during assembly, the end product is nothing short of awe-inspiring. I’m thoroughly impressed with this kit and eagerly look forward to more treasures from Tamiya.

This model isn’t just a kit; it’s a journey back to the essence of model building. Its balance of detail and ease of construction is a nod to Tamiya’s ingenuity. Building this tank is like baking the perfect cake – minimal fuss, with a result that’s both visually and satisfyingly perfect. The added touches, like the non-slip texturing I applied, make it a true showpiece.

This is a great kit for anyone wanting an accurate model of this unique vehicle.

Michael P. Malanaphy

2. T-90 Russian Main Battle Tank Zvezda Models 1/35

Zvezda Models 1/35 T-90 Russian Main Battle Tank
T-90 Russian Main Battle Tank Zvezda Models 1/35

The T-90 Russian Main Battle Tank is a historic 2007 release. if you want a large-scale and intricate metal kit with rare parts for intermediate and advanced builders that will look great on your shelf, then this is the tank for you!

Pros
  • Detailed and challenging kit
  • There are many small parts, mostly for the turret
  • To intermediate and advanced builders
Cons
  • The parts are very spread out on the molded part, and you have to search for them at every step
  • Poor faint instructions
  • Hard to read faint drawing
  • Corners badly warped out of shape

This kit, my friends, is like the cherry on top of a modeler’s sundae – a delightful blend of ease and finesse, perfect for both the greenhorns and the old hands in our world of miniatures.

Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 8/10

The craftsmanship on this little gem is commendable. It’s like Zvezda managed to shrink a real T-90 tank while keeping all its might and majesty. The turret swivels, the gun elevates, the tracks look ready to roll, and the decals… they’re the icing on the cake. Sure, it’s not as intricate as some highfalutin kits out there, but it still stands tall and proud on the shelf.

Ease of Assembly – 9/10

Putting this beauty together was as smooth as a hot knife through butter. The instructions? Clear as day. The pieces fit together like they were long-lost friends, making the assembly process a walk in the park. Just a word of caution – some parts are like delicate china, so handle with care.

Accuracy and Realism – 8/10

This Zvezda model is a spitting image of the real T-90, I tell you. It captures the essence of the tank with a realism that’d make you do a double-take. It’s a splendid choice for those looking to add a dash of realism to their miniature battlefield.

Value for Money – 9/10

In terms of bang for your buck, this kit hits the bullseye. It’s priced just right – not too heavy on the wallet but heavy enough in quality. It’s a wise investment for enthusiasts wanting to add some Russian steel to their collection without raiding the piggy bank.

Overall – 8.5/10

To sum it up, the T-90 Russian Main Battle Tank Zvezda Models 1/35 is a stellar kit that gets my hearty recommendation. Whether you’re a newbie dipping your toes in or a seasoned pro, this kit promises a rewarding experience. It might not have the complexity of some top-tier models, but the end product is a sight to behold. A true treasure for any collection, this model is a testament to the joys of miniaturist modeling.

I bought two of these for the price of a MENG T-90, and still havent finished one after a month, no worries though as I dont get much time per day to build it. If you are truly dedicated to building this kit, it should take 4-15 days. I do recommend getting liquid mask and either clear dark brown or clear red paint from Tamiya. The only fiddly part is the turret and IRCM mounts, super accurate but tiny parts. Some unique things about this kit are definitely the antenna for the turret(which I’ve never seen in a kit before, super thin.), and a fabric/plastic screen for the engine bay.

Bradley G.

3. M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer TAMIYA 1/35

TAMIYA 1/35 M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer
M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer TAMIYA 1/35

This 1/35 scale M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer kit is a great option for modelers of all experience levels; you’ll feel right at home whether you’re new to assembling models or have some previous modeling experience. It’s built with high-quality parts, and the small pieces are simple enough for experienced modelers, but it still offers a lot of challenge, as they won’t be pre-molded into any set positions! The kit comes with many accessories and poses options for the crew members inside the car. Great if you want to add your own personal touch putting them in different roles. This product features good packaging from TAMIYA and fast shipping.

Pros
  • Good packaging and fast shipping
  • High-quality kit with a lot of accessories for the price
  • Small parts demand skill which makes it more fun to build
  • It also gives you the option to place parts such as tools, gear, etc..where you want. no preset holes
Cons
  • As installing minute parts can be frustrating without proper diagrams
  • The model for the driver isn’t sitting down like I was
  • Experienced modelers this kit will have fit issues due to old molds and tooling on some of the parts
  • Sprues hard to read some numbers of parts are not clear
  • Too many tiny parts; need tweezers to assemble them

This kit is a real showstopper, striking a perfect balance between quality, realism, and that intricate detailing we model enthusiasts live for.

Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10

TAMIYA has truly outdone themselves with this one. The M109A6 Paladin kit is a high-fidelity representation of its real-world counterpart. The craftsmanship is top-notch, with a movable gun and a chassis so detailed, you’d think it was about to roll off the table. The tracks are like miniature replicas themselves, and the instructions? Clear as a summer sky, making the building journey a pleasurable one.

Ease of Assembly – 9/10

Assembling this kit is a joy, akin to piecing together a puzzle where every piece is where it should be. Sure, there are parts that ask for a gentle touch and a bit of patience, especially the movable gun – but isn’t that part of the fun? The challenge adds to the satisfaction once it’s all put together.

Accuracy and Realism – 10/10

In terms of accuracy, this model is a masterpiece. TAMIYA’s M109A6 Paladin is the epitome of a lifelike replica, capturing the essence of the real howitzer in miniature form. The size, shape, detailing, coloring – every bit is meticulously crafted, making it a standout piece in any collection.

Value for Money – 8/10

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, budget-friendly model, but believe me, it’s worth every penny. The level of detail and accuracy you get is unparalleled, making it a sound investment for those who appreciate the finer details in model kits.

Overall – 9/10

To wrap it up, the M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer by TAMIYA is a stellar kit and gets my wholehearted endorsement. Its superior build, attention to detail, and accuracy make it a must-have. While it may challenge your skills a bit, the end result is a magnificent model that you’ll be proud to display. For anyone in search of a top-notch self-propelled howitzer model, this is the kit to get.

love this monster..i usually build tanks. this was my first field artillery piece. it also gives you the option to place parts such as tools, gear etc..where you want. no preset holes. be prepared to take your time on this bad boy. lots of detail and painting.went and bought another one..this time went deployed and added gear for 6 crew members.even did some modifications. the driver has a machine gun as well. and this time did the k-pots (helmets) first time doing helmets..lol. but this is such a great model, make sure you can spend time on it. also, great selller

mike grisham

4. Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale 13227 Plastic Model Kit

Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale 13227 Plastic Model Kit
Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale 13227 Plastic Model Kit

This Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale is a must-have for any military collector or model maker aspiring to make the perfect IDF diorama! It comes with highly detailed and accurate modeled parts, ranging from the main chassis to all of its tracks. With a realistic paint job and tiny details featured on thumb screws and more, this kit might be just what you need to put that hole in your ground floor filled up!

Pros
  • Well packaged
  • The tracks are link and the length
  • Good photo-etch detail parts
Cons
  • A lot of inaccurate parts
  • Tow cables are inaccurate

This kit is a miniature marvel, showcasing the Merkava Mk.IV LIC tank in all its glory, and it’s an absolute delight for modelers of all stripes.

Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10

The craftsmanship of this kit is nothing short of exceptional. It’s like Academy managed to capture the spirit of the Merkava Mk.IV LIC tank and distill it into this model. The movable turret and gun, the lifelike tracks, and the photo-etched parts come together to create a model that’s as realistic as it is captivating. Every nook and cranny is a testament to the tank’s formidable presence.

Ease of Assembly – 8/10

The journey of assembling this kit was mostly smooth sailing, with instructions that were as clear as crystal. A few parts played hard to get, requiring a tender touch and a bit of extra attention, but that’s part of the fun, isn’t it? The effort you put in truly pays off when you see the finished product.

Accuracy and Realism – 9/10

In terms of accuracy, this kit hits the mark. The Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC model is a faithful rendition of the actual tank, with a realism that brings it to life. From the gun to the turret and the tracks, every aspect is a nod to the tank’s real-life design, making it a showstopper in any display.

Value for Money – 9/10

While this kit isn’t the most wallet-friendly option out there, the quality you get is worth every penny. For those who value a high degree of realism and detailing in their models, this kit is a solid investment. It’s a piece that adds not just a model, but a story to your collection.

Overall – 8.75/10

Wrapping it up, the Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale 13227 Plastic Model Kit is an outstanding choice for anyone passionate about plastic modeling. The build quality, intricate detailing, and authenticity make it a remarkable addition to any collection. Though assembling it may have its challenges, the end result is a masterpiece of miniature engineering. This kit gets a hearty recommendation from me to anyone looking to recreate the Merkava Mk.IV LIC tank in miniature form.

This is a great model of this Israeli tank. It’s huge, actually bigger than an abrams. The tracks as I remember are link and length. Very crisp and no flash. Good photo etch detail parts. Not a beginners kit. Andy’s Hobby Headquarters has an online tutorial to mix Israeli gray paint. Recommended.

James c.

5. French Main Battle Tank Plastic Model Kit TAMIYA 35362 1/35

TAMIYA 35362 1/35 French Main Battle Tank Plastic Model Kit
French Main Battle Tank Plastic Model Kit

The TAMIYA 1/35 French Main Battle Tank Plastic Model Kit is easy to assemble with good characteristics. The kit has clear parts to recreate the headlights, taillights, and periscope lenses on the vehicle for a more realistic model. The Leclerc tank is perfectly replicated with an accurate 120mm smoothbore gun, and a thermal sleeve from French developed tanks in Series 2. Finally, details like stowage boxes, short and long snorkels, air conditioning units, air conditioning units, and air conditioning units and air conditioning units reproduced accurately while creating a fun experience building!

Pros
  • Easy to assemble
  • Good the characteristics of the kit itself are
  • The Leclerc is captured with exceptional detail, including Series 2 specific smoke dischargers, stowage boxes, short and long snorkels, and an air conditioning unit
  • French developed 120mm smoothbore gun with thermal sleeve is accurately reproduced
  • Clear parts recreate headlights, taillights, and periscope lenses
  • The rear hull includes a finely detailed engine grille and surface imperfections reproducing the non-slip finish of the actual tank
Cons
  • The track is not good

This kit is a masterpiece of miniature engineering, blending quality and realism in a way that only TAMIYA can.

Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10

TAMIYA has raised the bar with this kit. The attention to detail is simply mesmerizing – every inch of this model echoes the power and grace of the French Main Battle Tank. The movable turret and gun, the lifelike tracks, and the choice of decals for two versions make this model not just a display piece, but a narrative of history in miniature form.

Ease of Assembly – 8/10

Assembling this beauty was a journey of mixed ease and challenge. The instructions? Clear and helpful. But, be warned, some parts demand a steady hand and a dash of patience. It’s a bit of a tightrope walk for beginners, but for the persistent, the reward is a model that stands out in any collection.

Accuracy and Realism – 9/10

If accuracy is your cup of tea, then this kit is your teapot. It’s a spot-on representation of the real-life French Main Battle Tank. The dimensions, the design, the detailing – all are in perfect harmony to capture the essence of the original tank. The decals for the two versions are the cherries on top, adding an extra layer of realism.

Value for Money – 8/10

Now, this kit doesn’t come cheap, but remember, quality comes at a price. Considering the accuracy, detailing, and the sheer joy of building it, this kit is a worthy investment for any serious collector. It’s a model that will not only enhance your collection but also be a topic of many a conversation.

Overall – 8.5/10

In conclusion, the French Main Battle Tank Plastic Model Kit TAMIYA 35362 1/35 gets a glowing recommendation from me. Its build quality, detailing, and authenticity are a testament to TAMIYA’s mastery in model kit production. While it might pose a challenge to novices, it’s an absolute treasure for seasoned builders and collectors. Building this kit was a fulfilling experience, and I eagerly anticipate adding more TAMIYA models to my ever-growing collection.

Great product from Tamyia as usual, the product was as described, fast shipping

Faisal

6. Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35

Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35
Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35

One of the most potent and intimidating tanks ever to see combat, thisJgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank is yours on a realistic 1/35 scale. It has everything you need – from exquisite detailing to an easy assembly process. You get a booklet containing expert instructions for no-fail assembly! Reviewers are excited about its ability to show off detail: “No fit problems anywhere.” Switches can be showcased as either open or closed depending on your preference, while heat vents not included with the kit still look realistic when they’re put together according

The skid guards running along the treads receive special mention as well — giving this formidable machine even more realism than we could’ve hoped for!

Pros
  • 1 piece vinyl track shoes with excellent detail on both sides
  • Great rendition of the .50 caliber machine gun
  • Easy to follow instructions in booklet form
  • No fit problems anywhere
  • The “anti-skid” surfaces are rendered in great detail as well as the engine screens
  • The commander’s sight and the environmental sensor can be built to move.
  • The gunner’s sight, you have the option of having the protective covers in the “open” or “closed” positions
  • The front mud flaps and the mud flaps on the side skirts have some awesome detail – they have the appearance of “movement” instead of the usual straight/smooth appearance as in most other kits
Cons
  • The communication antenna is not part of the kit
  • The skirt looks thicker than the armor

Next today, we’re talking about the Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35, a model kit that’s like a fine wine in the world of plastic tanks – rich in quality and delightful in detail.

Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10

The craftsmanship of this kit is akin to a symphony in miniature – every part plays its role to perfection. The Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank springs to life with fine detailing and parts that fit together like a hand in a glove. Its tracks are a thing of beauty, the decals are the cherry on top, and let’s not forget the photo-etched parts that bring a dash of pizzazz to the whole ensemble.

Ease of Assembly – 8/10

Assembling this beauty was a dance – mostly graceful, with a few steps requiring a bit more concentration. The instructions were clear as day, but patience is key, especially with some of the more delicate parts. It’s like putting together a puzzle where each piece is more intriguing than the last. And the final reveal? Simply stunning.

Accuracy and Realism – 10/10

If you’re looking for a tank model that mirrors reality, this is your holy grail. The Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank model is as real as it gets in the world of miniatures. The size, shape, details – it’s all there, making it perfect for both display and those pretend battle scenarios we all secretly love.

Value for Money – 9/10

Alright, so it might make your wallet a bit lighter, but trust me, it’s a worthy splurge. This kit is an investment in quality and realism, a must-have for any enthusiast who values the finer things in miniature modeling.

Overall – 9/10

In sum, the Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35 is a triumph in the world of plastic model kits. Its build quality, attention to detail, and authenticity are second to none. While it may challenge your dexterity and patience, the final product is a joy to behold. I’m thoroughly impressed and eagerly await more gems from this manufacturer. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to add a touch of excellence to their collection.

Another first class kit from Tamiya – I must say one of their best in recent times – molding is state of the art. Unlike some of Tamiya’s recent offerings – this one has the anti-slip texture superbly rendered. The kit goes very well – practically no fit problems, easy enough to be enjoyed by a beginner and will make a gorgeous piece for the experienced modeller.

The tank itself is one of the very latest and advanced MBTs already in service anywhere in the world. It’s actually smaller than an M1A1 or a Challenger 2 but just as well protected, if not better, and just as well-armed (according to the Japanese, of course). Anyway – it does look very cool. And I’m pretty sure will give any Western tank a run for its money in (a hypothetical, of course) battle.

Karolus Magnus

7. T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank, Revell 03274 3274 Multi-Color

Revell 03274 3274 Russian Main Battle Tank T-14 AR, Multi-Color
T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank

The T-14 is a Russian main battle tank based on the Armata Universal Combat Platform. It’s an articulated, all-wheel-drive vehicle with active protection and massive “Bars” armor plating guarded by explosive reactive armor arrays.

This Revell model scatters great detail across its hull and comes in three colors to replicate various camouflage schemes; each set of markings is removable for customized looks. The kit has 410 parts that make it great for builds of all experience levels.

Pros
  • Good quality
  • Beautiful model
  • Very detailed model
Cons
  • I’m not too fond of the solid track arrangement
  • Parts are tiny and difficult to assemble

This kit is like a miniature adventure into the world of modern armor – impressive, detailed, and a tad challenging, but oh so rewarding.

Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10

The craftsmanship on this kit? Absolutely top-tier. It’s like Revell miniaturized the T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank with a magic wand. The armor is spot-on, and the detailing is as intricate as a spider’s web. The movable turret, gun, and those realistic tracks add a dramatic flair to the model. Watching this tank take shape was like watching a flower bloom – a process both delicate and fascinating.

Ease of Assembly – 7/10

Now, let’s talk assembly. The instructions were as clear as a bell, but the parts? They were like shy cats – a bit tricky to coax into place. Some sections needed a gentle, patient hand, and the fit was a game of millimeters. But with a dash of persistence and a sprinkle of effort, the puzzle came together into a stunning piece.

Accuracy and Realism – 8/10

In terms of accuracy, this model is a faithful reproduction of the T-14 AR, with just a few tiny deviations from the real deal. These minor quirks don’t take away from the model’s grandeur, though. It still stands proud and realistic, a true testament to the might of the T-14 AR.

Value for Money – 8/10

Sure, this kit might have you digging a bit deeper into your pockets, but it’s a worthy treasure. The quality, detailing, and scale of authenticity make it a solid investment for anyone serious about their miniature military hardware.

Overall – 8/10

Wrapping up, the T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank model by Revell gets a hearty thumbs-up from this old modeler. It blends quality, detail, and a slice of challenge into a rewarding building experience. While it may test your modeling mettle, the end result is a magnificent addition to any collection. So, if you’re on the hunt for a high-quality tank model, this kit is a must-have.

Beautiful model, very detailed, even too much: some parts are really small and difficult to assemble. The color of the plastics is grey, green once painted

Sara Di Bartolomeo

8. M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow Tamiya Models

Tamiya Models M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow, Model: TM35158
M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow Tamiya Models

The Tamiya Models M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow, Model: TM35158, is a great value for any model builder looking to get started. The turret seems even have a welded texture, and the detail on this kit is better than you would expect from an inexpensive tank. It’s worth noting that there are some missing parts – like antenna mounts – but the parts fit well together, and it builds fast.

Pros
  • Parts fit well
  • Fast shipping
  • Great value for the money
  • Very realistic comparably
  • The turret seems even have a welded texture
Cons
  • Missing parts
  • Poor quality control
  • Better mounts for antennae

This kit is like a treasure in the world of military miniatures – mostly shiny with a few rough edges, but a gem nonetheless.

Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 8/10

The craftsmanship of this kit is akin to a skilled artist’s brushstrokes – mostly precise, with a few strokes needing a gentle nudge into place. The mine plow is a stroke of genius, adding a unique twist to the classic Abrams design. The turret and gun move with a grace that belies their size. A few parts played hard to get, requiring some sanding diplomacy to fit into their roles, but nothing a seasoned builder can’t handle.

Ease of Assembly – 9/10

Assembling this miniature beast was a smooth sail for the most part. The instructions were as clear as a well-polished lens, guiding me through each step with ease. The inclusion of all necessary parts and tools was a pleasant surprise, saving me from the scavenger hunt for extras.

Accuracy and Realism – 9/10

Tamiya Models has done a commendable job in shrinking the mighty M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow without losing its essence. The detailing is meticulous – from the tracks that seem ready to roll out on a mini mission to the markings that speak of authenticity.

Value for Money – 8/10

Sure, this kit isn’t the most budget-friendly soldier in the ranks, but it stands tall in terms of value. The quality of materials and the attention to minute details justify the price tag, making it a worthy addition for those who appreciate a high-quality miniature.

Overall – 8.5/10

In summary, the M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow by Tamiya Models left me quite impressed. Despite a few minor skirmishes with fitting some parts, the kit was a joy to assemble. The attention to detail and the authenticity of the final model were remarkable. It’s a definite recommend from me for anyone looking to add a distinguished piece to their miniature collection.

This is a release from over 20 years ago, so it isn’t as involved or detailed as say a kit from Dragon. On the other hand it looks great assembled and there aren’t a million parts or tedious individual track links. I had no problem with any fit issues and no putty or filler was needed. I would rate this as appropriate for the intermediate builder. The mine plow is fully articulated and the chains aren’t that hard to install. This is the 69th armored piece I have built since getting back into the hobby. I’ve seen bad kits and this isn’t one of them. Great value for the money. Highly recommended for fans of modern armor.


James c.

9. Israeli Merkava MBT Tank Plastic Model Kit 1/35

Tamiya 35127 1/35 Israeli Merkava MBT Tank Plastic Model Kit
Israeli MBT Merkava

This Tamiya model kit will let you build your very own Israeli Merkava MBT for all you tank enthusiasts. With no photo-etch, the track may be a little short in this particular design, but the many other features more than makeup for it! Pieces fit well, and the material is sturdy enough.

Pros
  • Pieces fit well
  • Easy to build
  • Very finely detailed
Cons
  • Track a bit short
  • This kit contains no photo-etch
  • The machine guns mounted on the top are very thin and may break easily

Next today, I’m thrilled to share my experience with the Israeli Merkava MBT Tank Plastic Model Kit – a kit that’s been making waves and, I must say, for good reason.

Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10

The craftsmanship of this kit is like a masterclass in miniature modeling. The quality is top-notch, and the detailing? Simply stunning. The movable turret and gun, those life-like tracks, and the photo-etched parts – they all come together to create a model that’s a feast for the eyes. The parts, crafted from high-quality plastic, fit together as smoothly as a well-oiled machine, making the building process a real pleasure.

Ease of Assembly – 8/10

The journey of assembling this tank was akin to navigating a challenging but rewarding trail. The instructions were clear, yet some parts demanded a delicate touch and a bit of finesse to align just right. It was a test of patience and skill, but crossing the finish line was immensely satisfying.

Accuracy and Realism – 10/10

In terms of accuracy, this kit is a bullseye. It’s a faithful miniature replica of the mighty Merkava, capturing its essence in every detail. The size, shape, and intricate features are all spot-on, making this model not just a display piece but a slice of history in plastic form.

Value for Money – 9/10

Sure, this kit isn’t the most budget-friendly recruit in your model army, but it’s worth every penny. The quality, attention to detail, and the authenticity it offers make it a wise investment for enthusiasts who appreciate the art of modeling tanks.

Overall – 9/10

All in all, the Israeli Merkava MBT Tank Plastic Model Kit is a stellar pick and gets a hearty recommendation from this old soldier of modeling. Its combination of build quality, intricate detailing, and authenticity is a rare find. While it might present a challenge to assemble, the end result is a triumph – a model that stands tall in any collection. For those looking to capture the spirit of the Merkava in miniature, this kit is a must-have.

Having only a little experience building plastic models, I’ve heard about Tamiya’s great reputation for scale model kits, especially 1:35 armor models, and now I understand why. While more on the easier side (about 130 parts), this kit was very fun to build – the instructions were very clear, all parts fit perfectly together and were large and sturdy enough to be handled easily and forgive mistakes. The painting is not too difficult, but you can have a lot of fun weathering. One challenging part was making the antennas from sprues – the instructions say “heat a length of sprue then stretch”. The trick is to heat and pull very gradually. I ended up using a candle, but it smoked up the plastic (still looks OK). Another tip: the tow chain comes straight and needs to be wrapped around the turret basket. It snapped in one place when I tried to do it (glued it back together). I would suggest heating slightly to make it more flexible – I held it next to a light bulb to heat it just a little.
Overall, an excellent, detailed kit of a classic tank that is fun to build even for a less experienced modeler.

Mark Komissarouk

FAQ

What scale should I choose?

The scale you want is a good place to start because while most tanks can be made in different scales, they’re usually only available at one or two price points. The level of detail will also affect the cost and patience required for assembly.

Should I paint my model?

Painting a model will make it more appealing to the eye and may even be necessary for some models. A good paint job can also help you tell one tank from another, which is important if you display your collection with other people unfamiliar with military vehicles or want something pretty to look at.

Are plastic model tank kits suitable for children?

While plastic model tank kits can be a fun and educational activity for children, some kits may contain small parts that could be a choking hazard. Children should always be supervised by an adult when working on a model kit.

Can I customize or modify a plastic model tank kit?

Yes, plastic model tank kits can be customized or modified to suit the builder’s preferences. This can include adding extra detailing, changing the color scheme, or modifying the tank’s features to better match the real-life tank.

How should I display my finished plastic model tank kit?

Finished models can be displayed on a shelf or in a case to protect them from dust and damage. Some builders may also choose to create a diorama or scene around the model to give it a more realistic context.


Hey there! I’m Richard Baker, a miniature painter who’s been in the game for a solid decade now. I’ve been painting miniatures for ten years and I’ve got a ton of tips and tricks to share with you all. My website is a treasure trove of knowledge that I’ve gathered from both my own personal experiences and from reading all sorts of books.

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