M46, First Patton Of The Cold War

This looks to be a great kit but studying the instruction I get the distinct impression that the author has never built a model. The method of constructing fully detailed subassemblies and then assembling those (fragile) subassemblies into the final forms strikes me as a recipe for disaster. 

Maybe I am mistaken and the author is a master craftsman who produces award-winning models. I'm not though. I am a mere assembler of parts with a fair amount of skepticism who likes to have a firm base before proceeding to the next step. 

I want to see that the major components fit together before festooning them with delicate, awkward details that could be knocked into oblivion with one careless brush or bump. 

I can't remember why I took this photograph.  

Optional fabric-covered mantlet, all five pieces. 

Goes together surprisingly well. 

 

Assembled in 2019. It's a nice option that both steel and rubber chevron tracks are included in the kit. 

I think the key to these tracks is to start at the drive sprocket and work your way around to the front idler. The fit of the individual track links into the sprocket is precise. Placing the links around the idler is not precise and can lead to problems. I believe it's best to plan on assembling the entire track run in one sitting so adjustments can be made while the glue is still wet. 

Assembled in 2021 

The second track assembly was smoother. Extra cleaning around the points of contact between the tracks pays off. 

Careless cuts while removing parts from their sprues lead to divets along the bottom seam. 

 

Friction fit of the barrel into the mantlet.  

 

 

Tough photo to take. Another careless mistake has to lead to a divet on the face of the muzzle brake. 

Details, details, details. 

And more details.