Hi guys,

I'm trying to finish the tamiya M1A1 kit with NATO 3 tone scheme as per the instruction.

Got the kit at one asset liquidation party for $1.50.

This is how it looks just after decalling. The glossy is from future


As this is probably one of my first modern tanks, my question is more on the wear and tear of the tanks. How can i weather it?? Should it be any rust, chipping on modern tank in NATO theater?

Basically, i was dying to do extensive weathering but i dont know any good reference.

I couldn't find any reference photo of the abrams in NATO cammo to show this.
I was hoping our brothers here can give a few inputs.

Thanks in advance....


Cheers,

Zaidi

would this help?

large picture's of a M1A1 in Germany
http://www.defense.gov/dodcmsshare/newsphoto/2005-05/050211-A-9866B-135.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/14/M1A1_in_Frankfurt.jpg

Hey Zaidi,

Modern tanks like the Abrams are not subjected to very heavy weathering like WW2 tanks. You can find photos of Abrams tanks completely covered in mud or sand. On some NATO camouflaged tanks there are also faded paint and re-painted areas where you can see a different tone of color. However, there are no large paint chips and heavy rust, since these vehicles are generally well maintained compared to WW2 tanks and the materials used have improved over the last 65 years.

I've seen photos of some battle damaged and rather worn tanks used in Iraq, but they are generally sand colored.

If you want heavy weathering, you can go with some light chipping and scratches, especially on the side skirts and around the areas where the tank crew would move around. Other than that, I'd suggest some heavy mud application as if the tank has passed through a field on a rainy day. That generally looks good on NATO camouflaged vehicles.

Ditto !

From Flickr :



Frenchy

Thanks guys... really appreciate the inputs...

will take this advised....