1:35 Leopard 2A7A1 (Model Set)

The real subject

The Leopard 2 is a German main battle tank that has formed the backbone of the armored forces of the Bundeswehr and of a number of other European armies since the 1980s. It carries a 120 mm smoothbore gun, has a crew of four and is powered by a turbocharged diesel engine. From the 2A5 version onward the family is recognizable by the wedge-shaped add-on armor on the front of the turret, which is meant to deflect a hit to the side. The 2A7A1 designation belongs to the newest modernization steps of this family.

What is in the box

The Model Set version is prepared so that you can start building right after opening the box: besides the plastic kit in 1:35 scale it also holds a basic set of paints, a brush and glue. The parts are attached to sprues; the builder cuts them off, glues them together and paints them according to the enclosed instructions. The finished model measures over 30 cm even with the gun.

Building and painting tips

Cut the parts off a little away from the part itself and sand the remainder down so that no depression is left in the surface. Paint the road wheels, the lower hull and the tracks before the side skirts and the tools cover them, because after that a brush will not reach in there. Apply the base shade in thin coats and only then add edge highlighting and a layer of dust on the fenders. Glue the vision blocks and the lights with a cement intended for clear parts.

Who it is for

Thanks to the equipment included, the set works as a first kit and as a gift, because the buyer does not have to add anything else to build and paint the model. Beyond the contents of the box, nippers, a sharp knife and fine abrasive paper come in handy. Putty, thinner and further paint shades are not included, unless stated otherwise.