German Kampfpanzer M48.A2.GA2
ESCI 1:72 Scale Vehicle Review
The ESCI model of the M48.A2.GA2 is nicely detailed, and it may be further enhanced by adding scratch-built equipment items which are not included in the kit. Paper clips and pieces of brass wire were bent into lifting rings for the turret and gun mantlet. Antennas have been added, and the canvas cover for the gun mantlet was made from tissue paper. Headlight protectors may be built from thin plastic card or brass sheet, and rear lights, cut from plastic sprue, should be attached to the rear fenders. The kit comes with only one jerry can holder on the turret side. A second holder may be cut from paper and attached to the opposite turret side. Rucksacks and other items of personal gear may be attached to the rear stowage bins, and on manœuvres the vehicle will be covered with camouflage netting and fresh foliage.
Contents
- M48.A2.GA2
- Bundeswehr Decals
Evaluation
Excellent choice of subject. The M48.A2.GA2 was the most modern version of the Bundeswehr M48 Patton tank. Several of these upgraded vehicles remained in service just long enough to receive the new three-colour NATO camouflage pattern.
Scale model with nice detail. The M48.A2.GA2 is larger and heavier than the Leopard 1 tank, and it has a lot of small detail to please the eye. However, the ESCI kit is far from complete, and many small parts may be added to increase the visual appeal of this fine model.
Compatible with Atlantic, Hasegawa, Revell, Cooperativa, Eduard, AER, Toga, Reviresco, Rhino Models, PST, Mars, Model Group Dnepr and ITA.
No crew figures included, and the AA machine gun is not detailed enough.
The canvas cover for the gun mantlet needs to scratchbuilt from tissue paper.
The roadwheels may be difficult to align, they need to be checked and checked again during the drying process.
The camouflaged night driving light (part 80C) at the rear of the vehicle is mounted incorrectly. Original photos show the light panel to the right of the tow hook (part 36).
German M48 tanks were fitted with jerry can holders on both sides of the turret. Only one holder is included in the kit, the other needs to be built from paper or plastic card.
