1:100 AMC35 French light cavalry tank

AMC 35, French cavalry tank, 1:100 scale, Zebranomodel

A model of the French light tank of the cavalry units in 1:100 scale from Zebranomodel. The small scale makes it possible to build a whole unit without it filling half a room, which is why it is popular both with collectors and with tabletop war gamers. The kit is supplied unassembled and unpainted.

The real subject

In French prewar terminology the designation AMC belonged to combat vehicles of the cavalry, that is to equipment meant for reconnaissance and for rapid movement in support of the cavalry units, not for escorting infantry. The AMC 35 belonged to what would today be called a light tank, and it was remarkable in its day in that its turret was laid out for a crew of two. That took the load off the commander, who in French vehicles of the time usually loaded, aimed and commanded on his own. The vehicle was built in small numbers only and some of the examples ended up outside the French army, which makes it a subject you will hardly ever meet among model kits.

Building and painting tips

A small scale forgives little, so start by carefully cleaning up the parts with a sharp knife and a fine file and test the fit dry. Lay the primer on thinly, ideally with an airbrush; a heavy coat would drown the fine surface detail. French prewar vehicles often wore multicolor camouflage with soft transitions, which in this scale is easier to do with a brush than with masking. Bring the detail out by dry-brushing the edges and with a dark wash in the recesses, and keep the weathering subtle.

Who the model is for

• For collectors of French vehicles of the late 1930s.
• For tabletop war gamers working in 1:100 scale.
• For modelers looking for an unusual subject away from the mainstream.
• For quick projects and for building whole units.

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.