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Academy Kit #1397 1/35 M10 'Duckbill' U.S. Tank Destroyer |
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Reviewed By Jack Bruno IPMS #25313 |
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Academy Models latest
Issue in the M10/M36 Series is the late
GMC M10 "Duckbill" Tank Destroyer. The cartoon name comes from the
rear turret counterweight that looks, appropriately enough, like a
Duckbill. Armor modelers can rejoice in the fact that not only does your
M10 come with a complete Interior, but Academy has also included a
magnificent looking diesel engine, made up from 12 pieces no less. With
this kind of attention, precious little else is being left out that can be
added to you model making extra expense a thing of the past. (Can the
inclusion of MV lenses be far behind?) From front to back, there is
everything needed to build a stunning model. The plastic is molded in dark olive green and like other past releases; mold marks are down to a minimum. There are 10 full sprues of parts with two of them being wheels for the VVSS suspension (two sets, hollow and solid spokes) not including the hull and the T-51 rubber block tracks. As with other tank destroyer in this series, you have an option of transmission covers. The "Duckbill" itself is a two piece molding that really distinguishes the profile of the kit. One of the nice features of this M10 is the additional/optional 3 piece armored turret cover that fits over the fighting compartment. The twelve page instruction booklet is informative and features some great blown-up drawings that are easy to understand. There are also painting color keys that are easy to follow. Although the box art features the M10 having additional personal gear such as helmets, bedrolls and rucksacks, none are included. The only drawback is that I wish Academy did not include are the raised outlines for tool placement. You'll have some minor sanding here. It's more of an annoyance more than anything. A very nice sized decal sheet is included that features marking for four vehicles. All of them in the standard olive green finish. May I suggest a nice winter of '44/'45 whitewash scheme? The box side flap features the built up and should be used as a guide for your interior painting. There are several reference books out there to help build this magnificent offering. One of the most available references is the Squadron Publications US Tank Destroyers In Action. The next release from Academy is going to be the M4A2 Sherman in Russian service. The M4A2 was also well represented in U.S. Marine service in the Pacific. All indications are pointing to a great future for Academy judging from these fine new additions!!! I would like to THANK John Noack and Academy for this stunning review sample. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. |
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