Physically the details are nicely done. The best piece of realia I could find online to compare it to was a Stuart (in service late'42) being restored. FOVs tank agrees with most of the visible details on the real thing. The real stuart lacked the hedgerow device (obviously). One interesting detail was the band that holds down the shovel. Spot on! The original did not have its' tools in place, but otherwise, every tiny visible detail was identical. The hand rail on the engine deck might be a little tall. A neet detail is that little periscope like thing on the hull deck, to the right rear of the turret, faceing left. That's the pull start for the engine! Just like your mower! The one on the FOV appears to be facing the wrong way, the real one faces forward and slightly outboard. There was a picture of a guy starting it, cool. The restored Stuart had less track on the turret, not something wrong just different. I like the weld beads. Good detail on the INTERIOR of the hatches, they realy look like the real thing! Nice bored out 37mm gun. Mantlet looks goofy, but so does the real thing.
The one really bad spot is the MGs. The hull and coax MGs are made of soft rubber!? Thus both are NOT straight and true. The M2 is fair but I coldn't get the mount to sit right in its' bracket on the turret side, suggestions anyone? My tank sits without its' M2 (I do this as a rule anyway as my cats knock off or break AAMGs).
The paint scheme is basic US Army Green with white stencils and star. A bright yellow C-34 on both sides. Zero weathering, which is expected on an Action Series vehical. THis is Ok with me as I think solid color US vehicals look great showroom clean! Note to FOV, please NO more unpainted tracks! If nothing else give 'em a coat of red-brown. The running track is bad enough, but all that shiny gunmettal rubber links on the turret side look lame.
I bought this tank because I need every solid green tank I can get so my display doesn't get to Tuetonic. I think the earlier "Honey" in British livery would have been a much better choice, or maybe a M24. Especially next to their excellent Grant and Matilda, makes me shake my head. However I'm very pleased with this little dude!! FOV at its' best! If you can't stand unweathered tanks get the enthusiast model.
Forgot the figure
One guy, Nice, US tanker helmet and gogles. Posture is relaxed standing in a turret hatch. He's good enough to be displayed in the tank, nuff said.I like it, excellent US light tank!
David
