1:35 Leopard 2 A8

Leopard 2A8 1:35 (Amusing Hobby)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the modern German Leopard 2A8 main battle tank in 1:35 scale from Amusing Hobby. It is a modern new mold completed by workable track links, photo-etched parts, 3D-printed components and a metal barrel. The box also offers alternative versions of some parts (turret baskets or hatches, for example) and a generous decal sheet for several user countries.

The real subject

The Leopard 2A8 is the latest development version of the proven German Leopard 2 tank. It brings strengthened protection, modern sensors and command and fire control systems and is intended for the Bundeswehr and a number of allied armies. It keeps the strong smoothbore gun and the high mobility that have long put the Leopard 2 among the best Western tanks. The angular turret with its wedge-shaped frontal armor is characteristic, and the model captures it faithfully.

Building and painting tips

On an armored vehicle, finish the running gear and the lower hull before you close it up; weathering is easier then. Assemble the workable tracks patiently, link by link, and leave them loose for a faithful sag over the road wheels. Glue the metal barrel and the photo-etched parts with cyanoacrylate glue and the plastic with thin modeling cement. Apply a primer before painting, lay the modern three-color camouflage scheme down with an airbrush and finish the whole with washes, dust pigments and fine mud effects on the running gear.

Who the model is for

• fans of modern armored vehicles
• collectors of Leopard 2 tanks in 1:35 scale
• modelers who appreciate a metal barrel and workable tracks
• builders interested in present-day NATO armies

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