French FT17 Light Tank (Riveted Turret)

This version of the FT comes with a Riveted turret with the options of large gun or Hotchkiss MG mounted. Rather than provide the whole interior, Meng provides the front portion which only includes the drivers seat and floor where the gunner stands, no engine compartment. Instead a detailed base depicting a trench is provided to make up for the lack of those parts. You also have the option of using a steel or wood style front idler wheel.

I gave it a 3 out of 5. Honestly was a bit disappointed in some aspects of this model, and very happy with others. The GOOD: the included diorama base is an excellent addition; the quality of the plastic and molding, lack of flash, etc. was quite good; detail in the plastic such as riveting, small hooks, handles, was impressive; included PE parts; the instruction book in its overall appearance and presentation and historical commentary; the tracks were great, individual links that snapped together with no gluing. Best I've ever dealt with in tracks. Maybe it's because of the smaller size and flat plate shape they were able to do this, but would love to see more tracks like this when possible in the industry. The BAD: The instruction book in the actual guidance I found to be quite vague. Parts drawn and arrows pointed to attachment points that were not clear. Not throughout the entire book, some of it was fine, but certain areas left much to be desired.; some of the parts particularly the top rail of track guide wheels just did not fit together well and I had to do my own engineering on the plastic to make it work and align with the little springs (another nice touch actually) that came with it. Maybe it was just me, and I did something wrong in the build up to that point, but it did not go together as I would expect without some work; lack of decal choice. The quality of the decals was fine, just absolutely no options. Overall, I got this at a good sale price and it was an interesting and fun build at times, at others it was a PITA. As always, everyone has their own opinions and experiences. On sale at a good price I'd give it a go. At full retail I'd pass.