Off the Bench - Patrol Air Cushion Vehicle

 

Well after some time, and frustration, the Gecko Models Patrol Air Cushion Vehicle is coming on the bench.  Overall it is a very nice kit, there are some finnicky bits, and I did lose one of the propeller blades, but was able to 3D print a set to replace them all. 

The model was painted with AK Real Colors and weathered with AK Pencils and Ammo by Mig shadders, with a little bit of enamel washes included.

On the Bench - Takom SpPz 2 Luchs A1/A2

 

This is a side build I have had going for some time, the Takom SpPz 2 Luchs.  The kit from Takom is not one of their greatest.  The sprues have lots of flash, there are some parts with weak detail, and the fit for a lot of parts is not great.

The kits does provide option for both the A1 and A2 versions, I chose the A2.

The kits does have some nice details, the suspension and running gear are well done, even though at times trick to assemble.  But if you take your time you can get the steerable wheels to work.

Unfortunately I would not recommend this kit, though I would be interested in how the Revell kit of this vehicle builds.

On the Bench - Patrol Air Cushion Vehicle - Part 2

 

Work on the Gecko Models Patrol Air Cushion Vehicle continues with paint applied.  I used AK Real colours, have to say my favorite paint.  The model was pre-shaded prior to painting with light grey, black, yellow and brown.

With two coat of Future, yes I still have some and use it, ready for decals.

On the Bench - Patrol Air Cushion Vehicle

Started back a little while ago, the Gecko US Navy Patrol Air Cushion Vehicle(PACV) or as some may say, a hovercraft.  The kit is well molded with lots of details, including a well done interior with options to model the front door in the open position.

Probably one of the trickiest parts of the build is the machine gunner stand on the interior, there are no real attach points for strength, and lining up the bars to fit into both the slots in the floor and roof are tricky.  I used Testors liquid cement to "tack" the bars in place, then dry fitted the roof to line up the bars.  Once lined up, I put a couple of drops of CA on the joints and left to dry.

I was also concerned with painting, so I pre-painted some of the areas that may be tricky for the airbrush to reach once I start final painting.

It is a good kit, and I would recommend it.