I, too, purchased the Alan Model and was immediately impressed that it would probably not go together as easily or pleasantly as I had hoped. In fact, after looking at the quality of the sprues, I was impressed that they had used molds at all to obtain the quality of the molding achieved. In actuality, it was easier and less time consuming for me to build a full sized model of the gun out of match sticks than construct the Alan kit. Here is the result:

I think you will agree that it looks remarkably realistic...
Where to go from here? It is probably time to take a refreshing break from the hobby for a while to reassess, after this experience, why build at all? Maybe it would help to get another diversion for a while to clear the Alan memory from your mind and let things settle. I might suggest becoming involved in a personal philanthropy. Find a need in the world and fill it. There are a lot of people out there who are less fortunate than we, who might use a little help, or just a little caring and attention. We have been admonished to feed the hungry, help the sick, find home for the homeless...I bet right in your own area you could find someone to help...then, later, return to modelling a new and refreshed person, once again with goals and dreams. For example take a look at this poor creature. It appears that this poor girl could barely afford good clothing, wearing tattered and torn, suffering from the indignities of trying to just get by in a world full of such wealth and greed...help those like her!! It will do you good and provide relief from the angst and sorrow of the B4 Alan kit...reach out: you won't be disappointed...
I can't wait for the Trumpeter kit...have fun,
Matt

Marcos, I found this site a while back when I was researching the B-4. At least it will give you some reference. Hope it helps! Oh...and uh good luck!

http://rkkaww2.armchairgeneral.com/galleries/artillery/heavy.htm

Yeah, Marcos, if you are interested I can send you the M-Khobby article those plans are from.

Cheers
Scott

Marcos

You are a gifted writer, model builder and philanthropist. I take my hat off to you. In the photo that you put up of the gun being towed on parade in Red Square, it is interesting to note that the building in the background with the banner of Lenin is a very fine shopping mall,,,upscale...called GUM. I have been there...REd Square is an awesome place.

Matt

Hi

If you are looking for something to tow this beastie I know Miniart announced a Gun Tractor a while ago. Not sure if it's man enough for the job. It looks similar to to type you showed in the B&W picture but doesn't look quite so big. Isn't out yet but maybe soon as the image says.


Alan

My sympathies Sir...

I bought the Alan Bison II many years ago and it seemed fine. I also have the Bison I and Kataushka in the stash. I have a feeling that Alan's stuff may have gone downhill a bit as the B4 is only a few months old at the most.

Persevere good fellow and you shall succeed.. I wish you luck!

Regards
Warren

Great job Marcos on this pig of a kit.

I took the easy way and got the trumpeter one.

I do like the Tattered women though, a good idea to give them comfort especially in this day.

I will help this one. hope you do not mind me borrowing this very nice picture of a young lady in need of help.
If you tell me from Brazil my bags are packed

Can not wait to see this kit done up.

Great build on a plain waste of plastic kit.