1:35 M114 A1 CRV

M114A1, a tracked reconnaissance vehicle, 1:35 scale (Takom)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the American M114A1 light tracked vehicle in 1:35 scale from the brand Takom. The abbreviation CRV in the designation refers to the role of the machine as a command and reconnaissance vehicle. The model is supplied as a classic kit, that is parts on sprues that are separated, dressed, glued and painted.

The real subject

The M114 was a small amphibious tracked vehicle with an aluminum hull, developed for reconnaissance and command tasks. A low silhouette and a low weight were meant to let it move across country where larger armored personnel carriers looked too conspicuous. The crew was only a few men, and the armament of the A1 version rested on a machine gun in a rotating commander's station. The vehicle was used above all in the 1960s and 1970s and in the field it proved less capable across country than had been expected, which led to its gradual replacement.

Building and painting tips

Assemble the running gear and let it cure on a level surface, so that the model finally stands on all its wheels. Paint the inner surfaces of the open spaces before the hull is closed up. An aluminum hull suits a smooth base, so sand the joints carefully, as otherwise they show under the matte green. After the base color use a dark wash into the corners around the hatches and the lifting eyes, a lighter dry brush on the edges, and finally dust pigments on the underside of the hull and on the running gear. Assemble the tracks and let them dry thoroughly before you apply the mud effects to them.

Who the model is for

• For modelers of postwar and modern American vehicles in 1:35 scale
• For collections of light reconnaissance vehicles
• For those interested in less usual types outside the main run of tanks
• For builders of dioramas, where a smaller vehicle suits the foreground

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