Accessory, Eduard 36060, M16 Half Track Multiple Gun

EDUARD


36060, M16 Half Track Multiple Gun. 1/35th-scale etched brass detail set, with instructions, for DML kit.

One of the more positive aspects of after-market etched brass sets is that they allow the more detail-oriented modeler to add to or improve on, certain items deemed by him to be necessary to result in a satisfying build. In this reviewers opinion, this is more than enough reason to have such choices at hand; when the military vehicle in question is open-topped, these choices carry much more weight. So it is with the latest set from Eduard for DMLs M16.





Beginning with a critical area, the drivers cockpit, Eduard provides replacement non-skid floor panels as well as brackets and a small box. The main improvement is the addition of the drivers foot pedals, for the clutch, accelerator and brake. These items are molded in place on the DML kit, hence the Eduard bits. Also in the cockpit is a new two-part instrument panel with separate full-color printed paper dial faces. These items alone are almost worth the price of admission, while there are some additional details for the interior of the doors and a new bracket to mount the fire extinguisher. Mounted in the gun compartment, but facing the drivers cockpit is the vehicles radio set. Two options are in the DML kit and Eduard provides parts to spruce up both of them, as well as others to improve the look of the ammunition can racks that are part of the mount for the radios.





Externally, the vehicle gets new parts for the drivers sliding armored visor covers, new jerry can racks, new straps, buckles and mounting brackets for the tools, new handles and other fittings for the drivers doors and the engine compartment access doors. Fender bracket details are given as are the many tie-down loops so prevalent on US vehicles of the era. Likewise, various stowage lockers receive new hinges and locks; the bucket stowage rack with its attendant straps is also given, as are new brush guards for the head-lamps.


The fighting compartment receives new floor mounting brackets for the extra ammo cans, clamps for the spare machine-gun barrels, rifle racks for the crews personal weapons, stowage box hinges and hasps, plus an antenna base mounting bracket. All ammunition cans receive separate grab handles and adaptor plates, while the gun mount gets all sorts of small details. The latter include detail facings, mounting racks and plates, battery box rack and motor detail parts. Flaps are given for the gunners sight area.





Finally, the fold-down superstructure plates top edges are given as separate parts, complete with hinge and latch details.


So, in essence, those modelers who wish to go to town on their M16, need not go much further if what they want is a well-thought-out product that can be used with the minimum of fuss.


Highly recommended.


Frank V. Curly Stooge De Sisto


Eduard products are available at retail and mail order shops, or direct from the manufacturer at: www.eduard.cz.


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