Hi guys, after a long time away from armor modelling I am coming back and in particular to modern-ish Canadian armor, I am particularly keen on the LAV and Leopard. To that end then, can anyone spare a minute or two to answer a couple of questions.

First, I have picked up a couple of cheap Italeri LAV 25 kits off ebay, one I intend to use to get back up to speed with building the other to build into the base vehicle in use today. Which/what are the better add on kits to use[Eduard/Real Model etc]? Or, which ones should I just not bother with and leave well alone?

Second, I have seen a couple of fantastic LAV III models on the forum which use the AFV Stryker as the base. Is this right? Is the Stryker the modern derivative of the LAV? [What does LORIT stand for?]

Third, what are the must haves in terms of add ons for modern Canadian vehicles?

Thanks for your help in this, please feel free to add anything you think I should know.

Your best bet for Canadian LAV III's and Coyotes is Real Model, bar non. For a currently deployed version of the Coyote use the Trump ASLAV as a base kit




Yes the Canadian LAV III is the same hull as the Stryker. The LAV 25, Bison, Coyote, LAV -R, LAV C-2, LAV -M are the same hull.




LAV Operational Requirements Integration Task




Which ones in particular? Real Models, Maple Leaf Models, and Storm Miniatures sell Canadian specific items.


cheers

Thanks for all that, appreciate the info and quick reply.

Hi Simon,

welcome back to modelling by the way.

As stated, you now know the Trumpeter LAV 25 along with the REAL MODEL kit is the way to go. The AFV Club and the REAL MODEL Upgrade is the way to go for a LAVIII.
I should also mention that I seen in a Trumpeter Catalogue a upcoming release of both the Coyote and the LAVIII. How good they will be is another story.
If you are interested in a Bison then modifying one of the Trumpeter LAV kits is the answer. Remember though, the wheels will need to be replaced with aftermarket items.

Good Luck

Simon

If you have any questions with the deployed Leopards let me know, send a PM and I will help you out.

Cheers

Anthony

All good stuff, thanks very much everybody.