Japanese Tank Type 97

Tamiya's Type 97 tank kit was another excellent kit from Tamiya. It includes all the nice features that you come to expect from Tamiya, such as great detail and excellent fit, ease of construction, tools and of course figures (A full commander and half driver). This kit also includes the older style vinyl tank treads. You have to melt four pins to connect each track, but it was fairly easy. I'd rather have the type you can glue with regular plastic cement, or even the link and length type, but these weren't too bad as far as the old style goes. You can choose from six or seven different markings and paint schemes. Decals are few, but they went down just fine. You can choose to have the commander and driver hatches open or closed, and there is a single piece for the commander's hatch if you choose to leave it closed. Overall, an interesting subject and a very fun kit to build.

One of the reviews I came across praised the fit of this model. I got the one that was close but no cigar. Had quite a bit of flash to fix and had a problem getting the top of tank onto the lower body. Appeared to be slightly warped on one side of the top front, had to struggle to get it in and didn't fit flush. Other than that (and what model doesn't have problems like that) it was an easy build. Would still recommend this for any age modeler.

Historically, the Type 97 tank didn't stand up well against U.S. and Russian tanks, but as a model, it has some sparkling attributes that make it a winner. The design of the tank is asymmetrical, with good proportions and a pleasing aesthetic. The camouflage is such a neat pattern. A sweeping set of yellow lines breaks up clouds of brown, green, and khaki. This is absolutely a blast to apply. The tank has a Tamiya 1975 stamp, and it shows in the lack of overall refinement. Interior detail is absent, but you are given two figures (one full and one torso) and the option to open or close the hatches. I learned quite a bit about Japanese tanks building and detailing this model. More importantly, it was a relaxing and very enjoyable build. Goes to show you that 1975 was an okay year. . Try it, it is well worth the modest price-point.