Model military vehicle
They range in size and complexity; from simplified small-scale models for wargaming, to large, super-detailed renditions of specific real-life vehicles.
In either case it conveys the notion that the replica or model is accurately scaled in all visible proportions from a full-size prototype object.
Modelers also build ordnance, military trucks, tractors, half-tracks, artillery, and lighter vehicles such as jeeps and motorcycles.
More elaborate bases may include scale scenery, intended to depict the setting in which the vehicle served.
Many vehicles of this time period may be considered to be experimental and few made major contributions to the few battles in which they took part.
Major tank engagements early on convinced governments on all sides of the need for more survivable and deadlier vehicles.
This encompasses a longer time span and very large number of armor designs from many countries.
Typically, a model kit consists of a set of parts, instructions for their assembly, and a small sheet of markings in decal form.
Parts are produced by injection of liquid styrene plastic under very high pressure into complex steel molds.
The focus of many manufacturers of late has been to increase the accuracy of their kits and provide alternative types of material such as photo etch details and turned metal barrels.
In the past, there was some tendency to view 'out of the box' builds as simpler or of a lower standard of detail than modified kits (see below).
However, recent trends in which kits contain over 1,000 individual pieces including parts from plastic, etched brass, and aluminum have given new meaning to the 'out of the box' build.
A scratchbuilding modeler should possess talents in the following areas: soldering, gluing, drilling, taping, grinding, sanding, cutting & shaping in metals and plastics, creating RTV molds (1,2 & 3 part types), painting & weathering, research of prototype material, casting in low temp metals, creating sketches and diagrams of what is being made, measuring in inches or millimeters, use of calipers and other specialized tools.
This display method is the easiest and cheapest, but has the disadvantage that the fragile model may be damaged when handled.
Bases may also hold a plate with some information about the model, such as its title or designation, or some historical background.
Finishes on bases range from painted plastic to stained wood to simple landscaping.
A diorama is a more elaborate base with landscaping to provide a setting for the model, and often includes a story with figures.
Several organizations and publications exist to support and promote the hobby of modeling military vehicles.
The Armor Modeling and Preservation Society or AMPS is an 800-plus member organization devoted to the hobby.
