Meng Model 1/72 Merkava Mk.4M w/Trophy Active Protection System **review and compare** by Erhan Atalay

 

Hello friends,

The Merkava series of tanks has always intrigued me. But as a model, I certainly don't approve of their current use.

When Meng Model released the 1/72 scale Merkava 4D model, I wanted to review it. During the review and assembly process, I made comparisons with the HobbyBoss Merkava IV kit. It's definitely the best molded plastic model kit ever. I highly recommend it. I'll share my impressions below.

Erhan.. 

Summary of parts on diagram..

Sprue A parts...

Sprue B parts

Chains and balls.. A characteristic detail for the Merkava. This detail was previously only available on the Revell Merkava III. For example, it's not available in HobbyBoss kits. Alternatively, only the PE aftermarket kit is available.During the assembly stage, I compared Revell and Meng.

Barrel..

Comparison with HobbyBoss Merkava Mk IV barrel (bottom barrel is HobbyBoss)

Sprue C x2 

The details of the tracks are very nice and easy to assemble...

The turret mold is of very high quality, the details are striking...

HobbyBoss turret for comparison...

I liked the tank hull..

HobbyBoss hull for comparison..

Decal...

We started the assembly.. Suspension system in detail...

The Meng suspension is made of 12 parts, while HobbyBoss provided it as a single piece attached to the body. Easy and quick assembly.  Result: HobbyBoss on top, Meng on bottom...Which one do you prefer?

Wheels and tracks...You assemble it with 58 parts in Meng. Only 18 parts in HobbyBoss. Most importantly, the track comes in one piece in HobbyBoss.

Chains and balls.. Meng on top, Revell on bottom...

and the result.. Meng molded a nice kit, well done...

4D Model 1/72 ZTD-05 Amphibious Infantry Fighting Vehicle *review* (by Erhan Atalay)

 

Hello dear friends,

4D-Models is a manufacturer from China. They usually released  price-performance kits. Cheap and simple. This is an example.. The molding is detailed but rough, you need to make additions (or maybe the opposite) for a good model..

I finished it out of the box. But I am not comfortable, it needs to be reworked before painting.

Erhan...

Description :

The ZTD-05, also named ZLT-05 VN-16 in the export version, is an amphibious light tank designed and manufactured in China by NORINCO, especially for naval infantry units. The ZTD-05 is armed with a 105 mm gun. The ZTD-05 belongs to the series of amphibious vehicles developed by China. It is the fastest and most advanced medium-sized AAV. The ZTD-05 was designed for China by the Russian Tula KBP bureau, using the fighting compartment of the Russian BMP-3 armored infantry fighting vehicle as to starting point. The Kurgan machine-building plant was involved in the development of the rest of the vehicle, as well as the launch of its mass production.

in-box ... 

The combination of wheels and tracks is terrible.

Yes it's a hinge :)

It's Chinese but the schemes are universal..

I separated the wheel and the track.

competed ? 

Comparison with Zvezda 1/72 TBMP T-15 Armata.. for size not for quality