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NEW KIT RELEASES - OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026
MENG 1/35 US M109A7 Paladin
Coming up in November 2026 is Meng’s new tooling of the U.S. M109A7 Paladin 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer plastic model kit in 1/35 scale. Once assembled, this model is about 308mm long (with storage baskets installed behind the turret bustle), 102mm wide, and 109mm high (to the top of the RCWS). This kit features a realistic and movable torsion bar suspension system and cement-free workable double-pin tracks. It also includes precision PE parts and provides three paint schemes.
DRAMi 1/35 NATO MLRS
DRAMi 1/35 NATO Multiple Launch Rocket System is a rebox of old Dragon M270 MLRS. The M270 MLRS is a joint development by the U.S. and Western European NATO allies in the 1980s; adopted across multiple NATO militaries. It carries 12 interchangeable rockets or surface-to-surface missiles (including GMLRS and ATACMS) capable of striking targets from 42 km to over 300 km depending on the munition.
KIT OF THE WEEK - TAMIYA GERMAN TRACTOR RS0/01
Tamiya is a leader in plastic scale models with their quality and their new 1/35 SCALE GERMAN TRACTOR RSO/01 certainly does not disappoint. It includes a driver figure, 2 marking options, 1944 Eastern Front and France and masking stickers for windows and window frames.
While the model features sophisticated engineering, Tamiya is renowned for logical, clear instructions that guide the builder through complex assemblies like the engine, interior controls, and link-and-length tracks. The inclusion of alignment aids, such as triangle markings for the tracks, makes the build approachable even for those with moderate experience.
This kit is best for Experienced builders who will appreciate the "proper engineering," crisp surface textures (like the wood grain effect), and the accurate depiction of the engine and chassis and enthusiasts of WWII German Armor looking for a unique, "unglamorous" workhorse subject that stands out from standard tank collections. Check price on Amazon: https://link.amazon/B02Et0Dwh
TECHNIQUE TIP OF THE WEEK - WHAT SHOULD YOU PAINT BEFORE ASSEMBLING A SCALE MODEL?
One of the things that separates good models from great models is painting. And today I have a video from The Inner Nerd on “What Should You Paint Before Assembling a Scale Model ?”
In the video, he’s using the Airfix 1/48 Westland Lysander aircraft kit to demonstrate.
In this build, he demonstrates that you should prioritize painting interior components and sub-assemblies before they are fully enclosed or rendered inaccessible by the main structure. He argues that painting these parts while they are still in manageable pieces - such as the cockpit framework - is much more efficient than trying to reach them later.
Key takeaways on his workflow include:
Interior First: Complete all detailing, dry-brushing, and washing for the cockpit and internal structures before joining the fuselage halves.
Strategic Separation: Keep fragile parts or complex sections (like the engine) separate until the final stages to avoid damage or masking difficulties during the exterior painting process.
Process Integration: Use gaps in the main assembly or waiting periods (like letting glue cure) as opportunities to paint secondary components, such as wheel hubs or payloads, effectively using your airbrush setup efficiently.
Ultimately, the goal is to treat the build as a continuous, logical process where you avoid boxing yourself out of areas that require paint and detail.
You can watch the full 30-40 minutes video build over on Youtube.
In the video, he’s using the Airfix 1/48 Westland Lysander aircraft kit to demonstrate.
In this build, he demonstrates that you should prioritize painting interior components and sub-assemblies before they are fully enclosed or rendered inaccessible by the main structure. He argues that painting these parts while they are still in manageable pieces - such as the cockpit framework - is much more efficient than trying to reach them later.
Key takeaways on his workflow include:
Interior First: Complete all detailing, dry-brushing, and washing for the cockpit and internal structures before joining the fuselage halves.
Strategic Separation: Keep fragile parts or complex sections (like the engine) separate until the final stages to avoid damage or masking difficulties during the exterior painting process.
Process Integration: Use gaps in the main assembly or waiting periods (like letting glue cure) as opportunities to paint secondary components, such as wheel hubs or payloads, effectively using your airbrush setup efficiently.
Ultimately, the goal is to treat the build as a continuous, logical process where you avoid boxing yourself out of areas that require paint and detail.
TOOL / SUPPLY PICK OF THE WEEK – EXTRA THIN LIQUID CEMENT
