Military Model Scene

The Crusader Gun Tractor made use of the hulls of the older Crusader tanks which were outclassed by the time of D-Day.  The hull was useful though as a towing vehicle for the heavy QF 17 pounder anti-tank gun.  Used by the Royal Artillery, the driver and the gun crew were protected by a simple 14mm armoured box superstructure, plus the ammunition supply for the gun which it carried as well.  Reportedly they were fitted with a governor which limited the speed to 27mph though veterans, who had come from the Royal Armoured Corps as drivers for them, say they removed these and enabled speeds of over 50mph to be achieved!

Cast in polyurethane resin this is an easy enough kit to assemble.  Things like the ammunition box, seating etc within the crew compartment are all moulded in place, as it most of the stowage on the engine deck.  Separate parts for things like the small dust shields front and back, front plate, visors, tarps and camo nets are all to be fitted.  A sheet of assembly instructions, including a helpful parts list, is provided in the box.

Once built, a coat of primer (grey) then sprayed with the British 'Tank Spray' from The Plastic Soldier Company.  A wash of dark brown for green vehicles from Ammo of Mig Jiminez.  The track is brush painted with Lifecolor 'Worn Track' colour and then given a darker Ammo Track Wash.  Road wheel tyres are done in the Lifecolor shade of 'Dirty Black'.  I just need to sort out some appropriate markings for it, then add some light weathering.

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Robin