GMC DUKW-353 »DUCK« Amphibian

kibri/ROCO 1:87 Scale Vehicle Review

This ready-to-play model of the DUKW-353 was originally developed for kibri, and it is now being distributed by ROCO. Anyone not particularly interested in the modelling aspect of the miniatures hobby will get quick results from the ROCO Minitank series. Serious modellers may use ROCO models as the basis for a super-detailing project. The small parts included in this kit need to be cleaned and glued to the vehicle, in order to prevent them from falling off when the model is handled. Painted and weathered correctly, the ROCO Duck is a valuable addition to any collection of military vehicles.

Contents

• GMC DUKW-353 with winch and crane

Evaluation

• Snap-together model with only 31 parts. The Duck is sold partially assembled, only small parts like mirrors, windshield, rudder, and crane need to be glued in place. Serious modellers will want to take the Duck apart, remove flash and glue the vehicle together permanently.
• Excellent surface detail. Visible rivet heads on the deck, wood panelling inside the cargo bay, and cast-on equipment items add visual appeal.
• Compatible with HO scale model railroad figures, vehicles and buildings available from Märklin, ROCO, Faller, Pola, Preiser, and Noch.

• The material thickness of the separate windshield is not to scale. The actual part should be a thin canvas splash cover with built-in windows. Serious modellers will want to built a replacement part from tissue paper an clear plastic sheet.
• The typical canvas tilt is not included in the kit.
• Wheel-well covers may not be removed.
• The tire surface is not detailed at all, and it shows on the spare wheel mounted at the rear of the vehicle.
• The model is sold without decals, and there are no painting instructions.

Wargamers interested in simulating any of the major landings or river crossings during World War Two will need a number of DUKW amphibian trucks to ferry troops and stores ashore. The partially assembled ROCO Duck is an attractive model and it can be deployed more quickly than a regular plastic model kit.

Frequently Asked Questions

For further information and updates, please join us on facebook or in the Miniatures Forum.

Return to the Index

– Published: 28.07.2000 – Updated: 19.08.2002
© 2000-2012 by IDL Software GmbH, Darmstadt, Germany. All rights reserved.