Promising start Don

On such a large scale, you'd think they would have gotten the detailing a bit better. Good job on the refitting/repairing so far. Hopefully the rest of the kit isn't as bad, otherwise you've got a serious long term project on your hands.

Speaking of scales, does anyone have any idea why they didn't make this in 1/16? 1/18 makes about as much sense as Bandai's early efforts in 1/30. I just can't imagine any business person thinking that using a scale that doesn't match anything else on the market a good idea.

You're correct. Once sighted, the gun captain would remove the sight and stow it. The mount would be left in place (and often covered).

Good work. I may have to get this kit! It's not too expensive whatsoever.

My guess is that they are tying into the GI joe scale and also those collectible military toys from 21st century, forces of valour etc. Which got really hot and sort of died down a bit.

It's large enough for articulation of figures and small enough to collect tanks and even planes.
Here's what seems to be a popular forum: http://www.warbird-photos.com/gpxd/