HobbyBoss 1/35 T-18/MS-1 Mod. 1927 tank

[Frank3k]

I've always liked early Soviet tanks, and this was the first. I tried building the unbuildable AER/Eastern Express version and ended up using it for parts. This HobbyBoss kit is pretty nice and unlike most HB kits, it's not over-engineered. This kit was built OOB, except for a rudimentary interior (which I didn't photograph). It's been sitting on my bench for months, waiting only for the tracks. I did a big push over the weekend and got the tracks done. The headlight is aftermarket as well.




The driver is from Miniart. I think this uniform wasn't in use in 1927.

[Jeffry Fontaine]

Including the figure certainly helps in establishing just how small early armored vehicles were at the time. 

Nice base and model.  Keeping it simple and uncomplicated really makes a difference. 

[Brian da Basher]

That's outstanding, Frank! Your talent is as limitless as those steppes the driver seems to be peering off into.

I can see the appeal of early Soviet tanks. This one's a real looker and brings to mind a well-muscled Renault.

Brian da Basher

[Frank3k]

Thanks guys - The T-18 was based on a variant of the Renault FT (FT-17) from WWI, so the similarities are real.

[GTX_Admin]

 

[Dr. YoKai]

 Very nice build, but the groundwork is incredible.

[Frank3k]

Thanks, Craig.
 The groundwork is a mat made/repackaged by Mig: http://store.spruebrothers.com/product_p/amm8351.htm

This is probably a train modeler's diorama base cut to size. Just saw the current price - it's double what I paid. Maybe looking for the train modeler material would be cheaper!

[Dr. YoKai]

 I didn't know that MiG was repackaging things, but I have heard they are expensive. I do know that some of the most useful things I've found for scratch/bash work have been some Walter railroad sets. Three or four good sized sprues for eight to ten dollars US. ( Their roof top ventilators and heating/cooling  set has a wealth
of radiators, for instance. )

[Camthalion]

very nice

[Frank3k]

I didn't know that MiG was repackaging things, but I have heard they are expensive. I do know that some of the most useful things I've found for scratch/bash work have been some Walter railroad sets. Three or four good sized sprues for eight to ten dollars US. ( Their roof top ventilators and heating/cooling  set has a wealth
of radiators, for instance. )

That's good to know - They sell (or sold) Solvaset as well and probably sell these diorama mats. The last time I looked picking out the right type was confusing because of the different terminology. The MiG stuff was cheap... not any more!