West German Lfakpanzer Gepard Tank

This kit goes way back in the Tamiya line. This is a nice older Tamiya kit. It assembles easily with no major problems. The detail is not as sharp as the newer kits, but it includes more features than a lot of the older Tamiya kits. For instance: the rear of the turret opens to show the radar equipment and the molded on features seem sharper and more distinct, making it easier to detail paint. The tracks are the rubber band type that most glue won't stick to. You can follow the instructions and melt the posts to join the tracks. I also put a couple of staples across the join. To install the track, leave the drive sprockets off until you are ready to install the track. Place the track over all of the wheels, fit the drive sprocket into the track and press the sprocket into place on it's axle. That way you don't have to stretch the track to get it around all of the wheels and drive sprocket.

I built this kit about 25 years ago. It had great detail on the weapon barrels and the radar box on the rear of the turret even opens up for battle damage or a 'maintenance' diorama. Very cool looking, almost 'sci fi' addition to your collection when you're done. Radar antenna dish on back is an unusual feature which could be motorized for some animation if you wanted. I really enjoyed it.

Tamiya1/35 models best on the market. Hobbylync carrys the full line.