Hey guys! Today I wanted to talk about something that takes me back to my childhood – building plastic models! And specifically, let’s talk about the best 1/35 tank models out there.
Let me tell you, putting these models together is like a trip down memory lane. I mean, who didn’t love playing with Lego blocks or K’nex pieces as a kid? It’s the same feeling with these tank kits, trust me.
But the real beauty of these models is the fact that they come in all different price ranges and levels of detail. Whether you’re a seasoned model builder or just starting out, there’s something for everyone. And for the perfectionists out there, you’ll be able to find models with all the bells and whistles.
The History of Plastic Model Tank Kits
In the late 1960s, advances in molding technology allowed for more affordable and higher-quality plastic models to be made. It was not until September of 1970 that Revell released their first set of tank kits to great success.
Since then, many manufacturers have sold these modern-day armored vehicles from different militaries around the world. Today, Revell and Italeri are two great companies that sell these plastic models.
How To Choose The Best Tank Model For You
Based on my experience, and after putting several tank models to the test, I’ve found that considering the following factors can help you choose the best tank model for your collection:
Build Quality and Level of Detailing:
- High-quality plastic parts designed for a seamless fit.
- Movable turrets and guns, realistic tracks, and detailed decals.
- As my tests have shown, kits with better detailing result in more impressive finished models.
Accuracy and Realism:
- Accurate representation of the real-life tank in terms of size, shape, and intricate details.
- Using this product, my team found that a highly realistic model enhances the overall display value.
Ease of Assembly:
- Clear, straightforward instructions.
- Parts designed for easy fitting and minimal frustration.
- Based on my experience, a smooth assembly process contributes to a more enjoyable building experience.
Value for Money:
- A reasonable price relative to the kit’s quality and level of detailing.
- After I put various kits to the test, I determined that the best tank models offer a good balance between cost and quality.
Brand Reputation:
- Choose a kit from a well-known and respected manufacturer.
- My investigation shows that reputable brands typically offer better quality control, customer support, and product consistency.
Reviews and Recommendations:
- Check online reviews, forums, and model enthusiast communities for recommendations.
- Based on my observations, these sources can provide valuable insights into the pros and cons of different tank model kits.
By considering these factors and incorporating feedback from my personal experience and tests, you’ll be better equipped to choose the best tank model kit for your needs.
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
| # | Image | Product | Price |
| #1 | Editor’s Choice
|
M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II Model Kit | Check Price |
| #2 | Price Quality
|
T-90 Russian Main Battle Tank Zvezda Models 1/35 | Check Price |
| #3 | First-Class Gift
|
M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer TAMIYA 1/35 | Check Price |
| #4 | Great Detail
|
Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale 13227 Plastic Model Kit | Check Price |
| #5 | Easy Build
|
French Main Battle Tank Plastic Model Kit | Check Price |
| #6 | Great for Beginners
|
Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35 | Check Price |
| #7 | Many Parts
|
T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank | Check Price |
| #8 | Dependable Quality
|
M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow Tamiya Models | Check Price |
| #9 | Suitable for Beginners or Old Guys
|
Israeli MBT Merkava | Check Price |
Reviews On Some Of The Most Popular Models of Modern Tank Kits Currently Available
1. 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.
- 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
- 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 build quality of this model kit is exceptional, with accurately reproduced armor and intricate detailing that showcases the Abrams tank’s signature look. The kit includes finely crafted movable turret and gun, realistic tracks, and decals that add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the model.
Ease of Assembly – 8/10
The assembly of this kit was relatively easy, and the instructions were clear and straightforward to follow. However, some parts required delicate handling and assembly, and it took me a few tries to get everything in place correctly. But once everything was set up, the model looked fantastic, and I was impressed with the final result.
Accuracy and Realism – 10/10
Tamiya Models M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II Model Kit is a highly accurate representation of the real-life M1A2 Abrams tank. From the overall size and shape of the tank to the intricate detailing, this model kit nails all the details, making it a great model for both display and play.
Value for Money – 9/10
While this kit is not cheap, the quality and level of detailing make it worth the price. The kit’s accuracy and realism are top-notch, and it’s a great investment for model enthusiasts who want to add a high-quality replica of the Abrams tank to their collection.
Overall – 9/10
Overall, the Tamiya Models M1A2 SEP Abrams Tusk II Model Kit is an excellent plastic model tank kit that I would highly recommend to any model enthusiast. The build quality, level of detailing, and accuracy of the model are top-notch, making it a great addition to any collection. While it may not be the easiest kit to assemble, the final result is well worth the effort. I am extremely impressed with this kit and can’t wait to add more Tamiya models to my collection.
I have always found Tamiya 1/35th scale armor kits to be a great combination of detail and ease of construction and this M1A2 TUSk kit is no exception. You can build a realistic rendition of this vehicle without fiddly bits and photo etch parts. Your only alternative is either a Dragon or Tamiya M1 kit with the Legends Productions TUSK kits, at a much higher price and complexity of construction. This kit will allow you to build either a TUSk I or TUSK II so pay close attention to your instructions.
Michael P. Malanaphy
This kit literally falls together with only a little filler needed on the gun barrel and turret base; piece of cake. The shields for the commander’s and loader’s hatches look great and, along with the reactive armor arrays, capture the look and feel of this vehicle perfectly. The only thing I added was the non slip texturing to the turret and hull tops using Citadel grey texture paint using a little masking tape and my Dragon M1A1 SEP as a guide. Both look equally menacing on the shelf.
This is a great kit for anyone wanting an accurate model of this unique vehicle.
2. 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!
- Detailed and challenging kit
- There are many small parts, mostly for the turret
- To intermediate and advanced builders
- 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
As a miniaturist modeler enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by tanks, and the T-90 Russian Main Battle Tank Zvezda Models 1/35 is one of the best plastic model tank kits I have had the pleasure of building. This kit is a great choice for both beginners and experienced modelers, as it is easy to assemble, and the final product looks fantastic.
Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 8/10
The build quality of this model kit is excellent, with fine details that accurately represent the T-90 tank. The kit includes movable turret and gun, realistic tracks, and decals that add to the overall look of the model. While the detailing is not as intricate as some other model kits, the final product still looks impressive.
Ease of Assembly – 9/10
The assembly of this kit was relatively easy, and the instructions were clear and easy to follow. The parts fit together well, and I did not encounter any issues during the assembly process. However, some parts required careful handling, so it’s important to take your time when building this kit.
Accuracy and Realism – 8/10
The T-90 Russian Main Battle Tank Zvezda Models 1/35 is an accurate representation of the real-life T-90 tank. The kit’s detailing and overall shape are realistic, making it a great choice for modelers who want to add a realistic-looking tank to their collection.
Value for Money – 9/10
This model kit is reasonably priced, making it an excellent value for money. The kit’s quality and level of detailing make it a great investment for model enthusiasts who want to add a T-90 tank to their collection without breaking the bank.
Overall – 8.5/10
Overall, the T-90 Russian Main Battle Tank Zvezda Models 1/35 is a great plastic model tank kit that I would recommend to anyone interested in building a T-90 tank. The kit’s ease of assembly, accuracy, and value for money make it a fantastic choice for both beginners and experienced modelers. While the detailing is not as intricate as some other model kits, the final product looks impressive and is sure to be a great addition to any collection.
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
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.
- 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
- 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
I’ve worked with several model kits over the years, but the M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer by TAMIYA is one of the best self-propelled howitzer models that I’ve ever built. This model kit boasts a great balance of quality, realism, and detailing that any model enthusiast would appreciate.
Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10
The M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer by TAMIYA is a high-quality model kit with excellent detailing that captures the look and feel of the real-life howitzer. The kit comes with a movable gun and a well-detailed chassis, making the overall build process enjoyable and rewarding. The tracks are realistically modeled, and the instructions are easy to follow, even for beginners.
Ease of Assembly – 9/10
This model kit is relatively easy to assemble, and the instructions are clear and straightforward. While some parts require delicate handling and patience, the overall assembly process is not too difficult. However, the assembly of the movable gun can be a bit tricky and requires extra attention to detail.
Accuracy and Realism – 10/10
The M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer by TAMIYA is a highly accurate and realistic model kit. From the overall shape and size of the howitzer to the detailing and coloring, this model kit is an excellent representation of the real-life M109A6 Paladin. The level of accuracy is impressive and is sure to impress any model enthusiast.
Value for Money – 8/10
While this model kit is not the cheapest on the market, the quality and level of detailing make it worth the price. The kit’s accuracy and realism are outstanding, and it’s a great investment for model enthusiasts who want to add a high-quality self-propelled howitzer replica to their collection.
Overall – 9/10
Overall, the M109A6 Paladin US Self-Propelled Howitzer by TAMIYA is an excellent model kit that any model enthusiast would enjoy. The build quality, level of detailing, and accuracy of the model are impressive, making it a great addition to any collection. While it may not be the easiest kit to assemble, the final result is well worth the effort. I highly recommend this model kit to anyone looking for a quality self-propelled howitzer model to add to their collection.
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
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!
- Well packaged
- The tracks are link and the length
- Good photo-etch detail parts
- A lot of inaccurate parts
- Tow cables are inaccurate
As someone who is passionate about miniaturist modeling and has built many plastic model kits, the Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale 13227 Plastic Model Kit is one that I can confidently recommend to others. This kit is a great representation of the Merkava Mk.IV LIC tank, and it is packed with features that make it a standout model in its category.
Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10
The build quality of the Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale 13227 Plastic Model Kit is outstanding, with intricate detailing that accurately represents the Merkava Mk.IV LIC tank. The kit includes movable turret and gun, realistic tracks, and photo-etched parts that add to the overall realism and aesthetic appeal of the model.
Ease of Assembly – 8/10
The assembly of this kit was relatively straightforward, with clear instructions that were easy to follow. However, some parts required a bit of extra care during assembly, and I had to spend more time on some of the details. Nevertheless, the final result was well worth the effort.
Accuracy and Realism – 9/10
The Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale 13227 Plastic Model Kit is a highly accurate representation of the Merkava Mk.IV LIC tank, with a high level of realism that makes it a great model for display. The kit includes detailed parts that are true to the real-life tank’s design, such as the gun, turret, and tracks.
Value for Money – 9/10
While this kit may not be the most affordable option on the market, the build quality, level of detailing, and accuracy make it worth the price. The kit is a great investment for model enthusiasts who want to add a high-quality replica of the Merkava Mk.IV LIC tank to their collection.
Overall – 8.75/10
Overall, the Academy Merkava Mk.IV LIC 1/35 Scale 13227 Plastic Model Kit is an excellent choice for anyone who is passionate about plastic modeling. The build quality, level of detailing, and accuracy of the model are impressive, and the kit is a great addition to any collection. While the assembly can be a bit challenging, the final result is well worth the effort. I highly recommend this kit to anyone who is looking for a high-quality model of the Merkava Mk.IV LIC tank.
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
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!
- 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
- The track is not good
I have extensive experience in building and reviewing various plastic model kits. Today, I’m excited to share my thoughts on the French Main Battle Tank Plastic Model Kit TAMIYA 35362 1/35, a model that I recently had the pleasure of building.
Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10
The build quality of this model kit is outstanding, and the detailing is exquisite. The kit comes with finely crafted movable turret and gun, realistic tracks, and decals for two versions. The kit’s detailing is top-notch, and it captures the essence of the French Main Battle Tank beautifully.
Ease of Assembly – 8/10
The assembly process of this kit was reasonably straightforward, and the instructions were easy to follow. However, some parts required careful handling and assembly, making it a bit challenging for novice builders. But with patience and persistence, I was able to complete the model without any issues.
Accuracy and Realism – 9/10
This French Main Battle Tank Plastic Model Kit is an accurate representation of the real-life vehicle. The kit’s detailing, dimensions, and overall design are true to the original tank, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts looking for an authentic model. The kit also comes with decals for two versions, which add to the overall realism of the model.
Value for Money – 8/10
In terms of value for money, this kit is a bit expensive, but it’s worth the investment. The kit’s accuracy, realism, and detailing make it a great addition to any collection, and it’s sure to impress even the most discerning collectors.
Overall – 8.5/10
Overall, I would highly recommend the French Main Battle Tank Plastic Model Kit TAMIYA 35362 1/35 to any model enthusiast. The kit’s build quality, level of detailing, and accuracy are impressive, and it’s a great model to showcase your skills as a builder. While it may be a bit challenging for novice builders, it’s an excellent investment for collectors looking for a high-quality, authentic model. I thoroughly enjoyed building this kit and look forward to adding more TAMIYA models to my collection.
Great product from Tamyia as usual, the product was as described, fast shipping
Faisal
6. 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!
- 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
- The communication antenna is not part of the kit
- The skirt looks thicker than the armor
I have built and reviewed many model kits over the years, and the Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35 is one of the best plastic model tank kits I have worked with. This kit is an excellent combination of high-quality materials, intricate detailing, and accuracy that any model enthusiast would appreciate.
Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10
The build quality of the Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35 kit is outstanding, with finely crafted parts that fit together perfectly. The detailing is also impressive, with intricate parts and accurate reproduction of the Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank. The kit also includes realistic tracks, decals, and photo-etched parts that add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the model.
Ease of Assembly – 8/10
The assembly of this kit was relatively easy, with clear instructions that were easy to follow. However, some parts required careful handling and assembly, and it took me a few tries to get everything in place correctly. But once everything was set up, the model looked fantastic, and I was impressed with the final result.
Accuracy and Realism – 10/10
The Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35 kit is a highly accurate representation of the real-life Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank. From the overall size and shape of the tank to the intricate detailing, this model kit nails all the details, making it a great model for both display and play.
Value for Money – 9/10
The kit may not be cheap, but the quality and level of detailing make it worth the price. The kit’s accuracy and realism are top-notch, and it’s a great investment for model enthusiasts who want to add a high-quality replica of the Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank to their collection.
Overall – 9/10
Overall, the Jgsdf Type 10 MBT Tank 1/35 is an excellent plastic model tank kit that I would highly recommend to any model enthusiast. The build quality, level of detailing, and accuracy of the model are top-notch, making it a great addition to any collection. While it may not be the easiest kit to assemble, the final result is well worth the effort. I am extremely impressed with this kit and can’t wait to add more models from the same manufacturer to my 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
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.
- Good quality
- Beautiful model
- Very detailed model
- I’m not too fond of the solid track arrangement
- Parts are tiny and difficult to assemble
As a miniature modeler enthusiast, I have worked with many model kits, and the T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank by Revell is one of the most impressive plastic model tank kits I have ever built. In this review, I will share my impressions of the kit and provide a rating of its features.
Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10
The build quality of this model kit is exceptional, with accurately reproduced armor and intricate detailing that perfectly captures the T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank’s unique design. The kit includes finely crafted movable turret and gun, realistic tracks, and decals that add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the model. The detailing of this kit is one of its strongest points, and it was a joy to see the model come to life as I assembled it.
Ease of Assembly – 7/10
While the instructions provided with the kit are clear and easy to follow, the assembly process was a bit tricky. Some of the parts required delicate handling and assembly, and the fit of some parts was not perfect, requiring some extra effort to get them to fit properly. However, with some patience and effort, I was able to complete the kit successfully.
Accuracy and Realism – 8/10
The T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank model kit accurately represents the real-life tank and features many intricate details that make the model look very realistic. However, there were a few minor inaccuracies that I noticed, which detracted slightly from the overall realism of the model. Despite these small issues, the model still looks impressive and makes a great addition to any collection.
Value for Money – 8/10
The T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank model kit is relatively expensive compared to some other plastic model tank kits on the market, but its build quality and level of detailing make it worth the price. If you’re looking for a high-quality model kit that accurately represents the T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank, this kit is an excellent investment.
Overall – 8/10
Overall, I was very impressed with the T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank model kit by Revell. The build quality, level of detailing, and accuracy of the model are excellent, making it a great addition to any collection. While the assembly process was a bit tricky, the final result is well worth the effort. If you’re looking for a high-quality plastic model tank kit, the T-14 AR Russian Main Battle Tank by Revell is definitely worth considering.
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
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.
- Parts fit well
- Fast shipping
- Great value for the money
- Very realistic comparably
- The turret seems even have a welded texture
- Missing parts
- Poor quality control
- Better mounts for antennae
As someone who loves building miniatures and has worked with a wide range of model kits, I was excited to try out the M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow Tamiya Models kit. Overall, I found this kit to be a high-quality, well-detailed model with a few minor flaws that didn’t detract too much from the overall experience.
Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 8/10
The build quality of this kit was excellent, and I was impressed by the attention to detail throughout. The mine plow attachment was a unique addition that added an extra level of interest to the model, and the movable turret and gun were nice features. However, I did notice a few parts that didn’t fit together perfectly, requiring a bit of sanding and adjusting to get everything just right.
Ease of Assembly – 9/10
The assembly process for this kit was relatively straightforward, with clear instructions that made it easy to follow along. I appreciated the fact that the kit came with all the necessary parts and tools, so I didn’t have to spend extra money or time sourcing additional materials.
Accuracy and Realism – 9/10
Tamiya Models did an excellent job of replicating the look and feel of the M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow. The detailing was spot-on, and the model looked like a scaled-down version of the real thing. I appreciated the attention to detail, such as the realistic tracks and the accurate markings.
Value for Money – 8/10
While this kit is not the cheapest option on the market, I do think that it represents good value for the money. The quality of the materials and the attention to detail make it worth the price, and it’s a great option for anyone who wants to add a high-quality model of the M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow to their collection.
Overall – 8.5/10
Overall, I was very pleased with the M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow Tamiya Models kit. While there were a few minor issues with the fit of some parts, these were easily resolved with a bit of sanding and adjusting. The attention to detail and accuracy of the model were impressive, and I appreciated the unique addition of the mine plow attachment. I would definitely recommend this kit to anyone who loves building miniatures and wants to add a high-quality M1A1 Abrams Tank with Mine Plow model to their 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
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.
- Pieces fit well
- Easy to build
- Very finely detailed
- Track a bit short
- This kit contains no photo-etch
- The machine guns mounted on the top are very thin and may break easily
As someone who has been building plastic model tanks for years, I was excited to get my hands on the Israeli Merkava MBT Tank Plastic Model Kit. This kit has been receiving a lot of attention recently, and after working with it, I can confidently say that it lives up to the hype.
Build Quality and Level of Detailing – 9/10
The build quality of this model kit is excellent, and the level of detailing is fantastic. The kit includes movable turret and gun, realistic tracks, and photo-etched parts that add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the model. The parts are made of high-quality plastic and are designed to fit together seamlessly, making the assembly process smooth and enjoyable.
Ease of Assembly – 8/10
While the instructions are clear and straightforward to follow, some parts of this kit require delicate handling and assembly. I found that some parts didn’t fit together perfectly, and I had to spend extra time adjusting them to get everything to fit correctly. However, once the model was assembled, it looked fantastic and was well worth the effort.
Accuracy and Realism – 10/10
The Israeli Merkava MBT Tank Plastic Model Kit is a highly accurate representation of the real-life tank. The level of detailing is impressive, and the tank’s signature look is expertly recreated in this model kit. From the overall size and shape of the tank to the intricate detailing, this model kit nails all the details, making it a great model for both display and play.
Value for Money – 9/10
While this kit is not the cheapest on the market, the quality and level of detailing make it worth the price. The kit’s accuracy and realism are top-notch, and it’s a great investment for model enthusiasts who want to add a high-quality replica of the Merkava tank to their collection.
Overall – 9/10
Overall, the Israeli Merkava MBT Tank Plastic Model Kit is an excellent plastic model tank kit that I would highly recommend to any model enthusiast. The build quality, level of detailing, and accuracy of the model are top-notch, making it a great addition to any collection. While it may not be the easiest kit to assemble, the final result is well worth the effort. I am extremely impressed with this kit and would love to see more models like this on the market.
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.
Mark Komissarouk
Overall, an excellent, detailed kit of a classic tank that is fun to build even for a less experienced modeler.
Conclusion
When you take the time to choose a model kit, it can be something that will last for years. It’s not just about choosing one of these kits because they’re popular or cool – it’s about finding one that speaks to your interests and has enough details, so you feel like you’re really getting into the hobby in a way that suits you best. I hope I was able to help with this blog post!
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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