1:35 JSDF type 73 Light Truck [shin]

Trumpeter 1:35 JSDF Type 73 Light Truck (shin)

This injection-molded plastic kit from Trumpeter captures the Japanese Type 73 light off-road vehicle in its second generation (shin, that is the new type), in 1:35 scale. The model holds parts in gray as well as clear plastic, a detailed chassis and interior, photo-etched items and decals. The kit is meant to be assembled and painted.

The real subject

The Type 73 Light Truck is a Japanese light 4x4 off-road vehicle of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. The second generation (shin) began to be built in the mid-1990s and serves as a general-purpose half-ton platform derived from an off-road chassis. The vehicle can be used to carry people and light materiel, and in some forms it carries weapon equipment as well. It stands out for its good cross-country ability and simple maintenance.

Building and painting tips

The chassis and the interior offer room for detailed work; finish them before closing the body. Glue the plastic with thin modeling cement, apply a base color and lay the final shade on with an airbrush. The look will be brought out by washes into the recesses and fine dust pigments on the running gear.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of modern Japanese equipment
• Anyone interested in light off-road vehicles in 1:35 scale
• Modelers with basic to advanced experience
• Builders of dioramas with a support vehicle

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