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Academy 1/35 M151A1 w/105mm Recoilless Rifle

By Michael Benolkin

Background

In May, we reviewed Academy's 1/35 M151A1 MUTT release and provided the developmental history of the vehicle. So that we don't repeat the same information, you can click here to see that review. Last month we looked at the Israeli adaptation of the M151A1, dubbed 'Shmira'. This month, we'll look at Academy's latest version of the M151A1 kit, this one sporting the famous 105mm recoilless rifle.

The Kit

This kit is yet another beautiful Academy rendering, comprised of 148 parts molded in tan styrene, 16 parts molded in clear styrene, and five rubber tires. All parts are flash free and also free of those annoying ejector pin marks in areas that would be visible after assembly. The only exception to this is the underside of the chassis/body which would have a few pin marks because it was cast without the usual tree around it. These pin marks are minor and will be easily removed.

As with the full-scale example, the chassis and body are one part. To this one part you'll be attaching a boatload of detail. Under the hood is a fourteen part flathead four-cylinder engine. The part count for the engine does not include the radiator, oil-bath air filter, brake reservoir and other details that are also included. About the only thing you can do to add any detail under the hood is add the ignition wiring, and radiator hoses. The detailing under the chassis is also complete with a detailed drive train and suspension system.

Unlike its two predecessors, this M151A1 version is equipped with two rear seats for the gun operators, a specialized gun pallet for the rear of the vehicle, a different radio installation, and ammo storage with six rounds and six round containers.

Markings

Decals are provided for two different M151A1s as they appeared in Vietnam in 1967.

Conclusion

As we said before, this kit is yet another example of Academy's attention to detail in its armor offerings. This kit is highly recommended!

My sincere thanks to MRC for this review sample!