Military Model Scene

This is a recent addition to the range of 1/72 kits from ModelCollect and it is an impressive result.  With the big 8-wheel MAZ-7410 tractor unit, plus the CHMZAP-9990 semi trailer you have a modern Soviet tank transporter in small scale to go with one of their equally good selection of modern Russian tank kits.

Fit of parts was excellent, though I managed to make a muck of one piece, just to prove perhaps that we can all make mistakes however long we have been modelling.  The trailer builds easily enough and is an impressive piece by itself.  The main work comes in building the tractor unit.  In the box there are two sets of the main chassis side members thanks to a set of sprues that are common with other kits in the range.  So do be careful you use the right ones.  Then, with the 8 drive units, engine, radiator, drive shafts, suspension units and the chassis cross bracing, there is a lot to do to get all this detail in place between the chassis side members. With some nice detail in the engine it is a pity that it is all hidden once the cab unit is in place.  One thing to be careful with in the instructions is that one of the cross braces at the front of the chassis is mis-numbered.  There is a cross-member in the rear section of the chassis, part D30.  The instructions show another to be fitted at the front (under where the radiator sits) but this should be shown a C13 (and not D30).  What confuses things is that thanks to two Sprue D's in the box, there is another D30 though it will remain unused.  If you use the wrong one, then the engine and radiator won't sit properly in place.

As for the cab units, there is basic detail inside them on both sides, so these need painting inside before you fit the cab unit in place.  The cab glazing is separate and a tight fit.  Some fit from inside and other elements from outside.  I made a mess of one of the cab side units but will get out of it by repositioning it folded down on the outside, as illustrated in the box art in fact.  There are also some fine etch brass parts, which I have not yet fitted, with protective guard frames to fit over the front lights and the spotlight fitted on the cab roof.

I really like the end result, a very impressive model in this scale.  With the complexity in the parts for the tractor unit in particular I'd suggest this one is not for a beginner to small scale modelling, and it will be helpful to have more experience under your belt.  The instructions offer three paint schemes, with an overall green (the one I preferred) and there are two camouflage pattern alternatives if you want them.  As there are a number of paint sets for modern Russian colours on the market these days, the camouflage patterns will be tempting.

Some good news also that Tiger Hobbies here in the UK are now importing the ModelCollect range.

​

Robin