As a builder of the beast I want to commend you on a great build and weathering of that Merkava IV! You capture the dirty look of Merks well-- reportedly the Israeli Armor Corps (IAC) is not allowed to wash AFVs due to water storages/restrictions.
Many choose the lighter color for Merks-- like sand, yellows, green/yellow, etc...; although I am not sure why (Humbrol Mid Stone 84 in my opinion is the best match for current IAC armor color). But, with your extensive weathering, the colors blend and everything darkened appropriately.
The only comment, I would provide is that the vehicle markings are all off. You may have used the Hobby Boss decal instructions as a basis, and following those results in markings that would have a IAC tanker scratching his head in confusion. Here is the correct guidance for IAC markings:
Battalion: The number is commonly on the front left and right rear fenders; usually inside a Brigade symbol. Also, the barrel stripes indicate the battalion.
Company: The horizontal bars on the fenders; one bar for First, two for Second, etc... Also the chevrons on the front skirts: Down= First, Forward= Second, Up= Third, Fourth= back, and 'Z'= Fifth.
Platoon: The Number on the rear left fender as well as the Number on the banner.
Platoon AFV: (Hebrew Letters) Alef = A, Bet= B or Gimel = C.
Still, only a crazy Merk/IAC nut, such as myself would probably catch the error.
Awesome build, paint, and weathering!
I might actually borrow a couple dirty weathering styles as I finish my 1/48 M51 Dalet.
This message has been edited by Zitadelle from IP address 65.222.202.205 on Jun 28, 2012 10:53 AM
