ok, i have the M1 from academy, the older one. i was going to do a 1991 diorama, but at the last minute i think i might go with a OIF dio instead. now, i know i need the new bigfoot tracks, but what else do i need? im on a tight budget, so i just need the bare minimun you could say. thanks.
CIP panels included in the new Tamiya modern armor stowage set (35266). Cheapest tracks are the AFV CLub M1A1/A2 ‘Bigfoot’ tracks (AF3512). The stowage should run you about $10 and the tracks around $15. I am unsure how much an Academy kit goes for, I think around $20.
This project will run you about $45 (estimated) and folks complain about the cost of the new Tamiya Abrams. It’s really not bad when you account for the fact that it is a great kit OOB with no aftermarket accessories required. It runs $40.50 at Squadron.
Any thoughts on the AM barrel #35007 from Barrel Depot. The M256 120mm smooth bore barrel for M1 and K1 tanks. Other tank modellers replace kit barrels with aftermarket ones, so why not the M1 barrel?
I’ve got one and it is OK, not as nice as the Model Point one though. I was giving Rufio minimal upgrades to update the old Academy M1A1 into an OIF M1A1 (tracks & CIP).
I also added a comment that once a person adds aftermarket items to a cheaper kit, you might as well get the latest kit. It will build nicer and be less work (and possibly cheaper in the long run).
Thanks Rob
yeah i would get the tamiya, but right now i DO have the stowage kits, hence i have the CIPs. that was what my last post question was about. now im done with the tank, except i have not added the side skirts yet or finished the bustle rack. and since ive made the decision for the OIF now, i just needed the least. thanks guys, going to order tracks now!
I used the Tamiya Infantry accessories kit, and it fit the racks well.
Made it look like it was being lived in…i love that look.