I saw this Brad during my last EX with the CF. what variant is it? I'm thinking 3A2. Where is a good start point to build it in 1/35? Thanks.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_NTXxG1KUhTZTFROGRTRjJHS1k/view?usp=sharing

Yes, it is a new-build M3A2 CFV. The best way to get one is using the Academy M2A2 OIF kit as a start. To make it easier, you will need a Meng or Orochi M3A3 kit as well.

Some changes that will need to be made to convert it into an M3A2:

You will need to swap out the top hatch with either one from the Orochi M3A3 or Meng M3A3 kits.

Fill and sand smooth the openings on the roof of the Academy kit for the three rear-facing periscopes as well since they are now relocated to the hatch.

The side periscopes on both sides of the angled hull rear plates will also need to be removed as they are not present on an M3A2 version.

You will also need to change the track since the Academy one is the older, triangle pad type not used since the mid-'90s. Either the Meng or Orochi track are correct, as is AFV Club's Bradley Bigfoot track (35133).



You can also add the newer ammo can holders and digital antenna on the turret bustle rack from the Meng or Orochi kits too.

Also, just remembered, the firing ports on the rear ramp need to be filled and sanded smooth as well. Or, you could also swap it out with the Orochi or Meng M3A3 rear ramp.

what about swapping the academy turret onto the Orochi kit?

The turret is not really the issue. The M3A3 has added armor plates on top of the rear hull that are not present on the M3A2. Both the Orochi and Meng M3A3s have this armor molded onto the hull top. There is also an added armor plate on top of the turret. Orochi has this molded on, while Meng's is a separate piece. There are more differences on the hulls too.

You could backdate the Meng M3A3 into an M3A2 in a similar manner as I did recently w/the Meng M2A3 backdated into an M2A2 ODS. It is more work though.

The easiest way, in my opinion, would be by swapping the top hatch and ramp outer shell as I described above.

great, thanks for the info Gino