Been raining here in Sydney and I thought I'd do some more to a kit I've had laying around partially build since I got back from Iraq in 2005 - the Tamiya JGSDF LAV.

It's a nice enough kit, but more reminiscent of Tamiya's 1/20 car kits with a lot of simplified or omitted detail. That said, the fit is outstanding, and no glue is needed to fit the top to the diecast floor pan.

I haven't been too fussed about detailing the interior, as you won't be able to see much through the windows or the top hole once the gunner is in place anyway.

I saw these vehicles from a distance, and everyone I saw had a spare wheel mounted on the back. I didn't get to look inside, but I reckon soldiers would not go anywhere in Iraq without ammo, rations or water, so I cluttered up the interior a bit.

As a project I'll see if I can't get a coat of dark green and some markings on it this weekend.

Looking good so far.

It is a nice easybuild and I actually liked the cast base. It gave it a nice solid feel....

Here's mine for what it's worth:
http://s213.photobucket.com/albums/cc69/35th-scale/?action=view¤t=LAV1.jpg
http://s213.photobucket.com/albums/cc69/35th-scale/?action=view¤t=LAV2.jpg

Must update the pics since I now have a good camera.

Cheers,
Sean

I loved this kit, and I got myself one more. It looks like you're doing it just. One thing i didn't like was the chassis riddled with pinmarks. Any thoughts on painting? the standard green or the green-brown camo?

I was just going to go the standard green, as were the vehicles I saw in Iraq. It is a nifty little kit, and a weekender build. I just need to add some details to the driver before I seal up the hull.

Nice build Mick. I have one waiting to be built, but will be doing it in the cammo. Cant wait to see yours finished!

It's looking very nice, Mick. I've got one half-built that's been on hold for a year as life has eaten into my modeling time.