Which Abrams model would be best suited to depict this battle?

I'd say the Tamiya M1A1 kit http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10000226

Thank you Jason! That certainly does look like it fits the bill.

Dragon has a couple of older Abrams kits (Not the AIM or SEP 3535 and 3536) I never had one of those but they might also work. Someone else can add their opinion of them

The Dragon M1A1 AIM is also a great kit!

One of the best, but I think the AIM came after the Gulf War

I actually have the Dragon AIM kit. It would work? What stuff would you not add to it, for it to be period correct? Or is it period correct with building with everything? If that makes sense.

This should help- it doesn't seem too complicated http://www.network54.com/Forum/47209/thread/1183570298/What's+Involved+in+Backdating+the+New+Dragon+M1A1+AIM-

If the Dragon AIM kit can be backdated, it definitely would be your best option

The Tamiya M1A2 comes with and shows you how to build M1A1HA variants.
http://www.tamiyausa.com/pdf/manuals/35269ml.pdf
It comes with enough parts for you to be able to build whatever specific variant you need. If you look through the manual you should see all the different ways you can build it, I would just compare this with photos.

Thank you all for the great comments. I appreciate it.

Having both the tamiya and dragon aim kits. I would go with the dragon kit as the options to back date are better than the tamiya offering. Also, the tamiya comes with no non skid surface while the dragon comes with it, which is a big plus.

Some tanks retained the old T156 tracks so check your reference. I think many of them had also the crew heater exaust on the left upper hull plate (near the left fuel cap). It was later blanked and finally deleted on last batch.

Thank you for the info fellas. Now I can look back on this thread for reference. I appreciate it.

If you still want to backdate the Dragon M1A1 AIM and want it to have the T-156 tracks, Trumpeter makes a very nice set of indi-link T-156 tracks.

Dustin,
To sum things up, sure, you can use 3535 AIM model to make up an Eagle Troop tank. The detail is better than the Tamiya M1A1 but it is going to need a bit parts swapping and some added PE to do things right.
- Use the hatches without the rims
- Do not use the external APU or its base
- Use some PE from an Eduard set for the M1A1 for the mesh in the bustle rack
- Use the smooth blow off panels for the turret
- Add the T-156 track (I have a bunch so let me know if you need a set)

I believe that 2ACR's tanks were late production M1A1s so the two access hatches in back deck are good. I can't think of any other changes off of the top of my head, so you should be good from there... I recommend a set of New Tiger Models designs US handles for the turret and hull storage boxes a s they are a nice touch.

Let me know if you have any questions

John

I believe you may have to swap out the armored cover for the gunner's primary sight. I think this was the older version which appears a little flatter and with a curve at the back. Also the smoke grenade boxes may have been the older type which appear smooth without the visible hinges. Both parts can be taken from a Tamiya M1A1. I have been unable to find good photos of Eagle Troop tanks There was a new book out about the battle in the last few months that had some pictures in it. Detail on markings is also scarce. The photos that I have seen show the miles velcro strips on the front and sides of the turret so you will want to add those and all tanks have the T-156 tracks as mentioned previously. It is also interesting to note that 2nd ACR swapped it's M3A1 Bradleys right before the ground war for A2s. However due to a shortage they actually took M2A2s, despite being a cavalry unit. I remember reading that they reconfigured the Inside to carry the additional ammo of the CFV. It is a very interesting battle but sadly very few photos exist of it and those that do, seem to be poorly captioned or from different units entirely.

Gino, John, DS,

Thank you fellas for the info. That is going to help me tremendously. It's very much appreciated.