Good news for jeep fans from Best Value Model; part of the French company Azimut. They combine existing kits with conversion parts to make versions that are not available in kit form. They just announced an IDF Jeep Commando "Palmach"/ Israel 1947-48. This is a post-WWII civilian Willys CJ-2A jeep that was used by the IDF. The bonus is, this was the same basic jeep that the US Army used as an M38, with a few modifications. Until now, there was only the Plus Model conversion to make an M38, which only cosmetically changed the Tamiya Willys MB to look like an M38. I used it in making my USMC M38 conversion here on Armorama.

Willys CJ2A/M38 jeep.


The kit looks very nice and should make a great looking M38 by leaving off the IDF-specific parts, and adding a few parts such as the second battery box and cover onto the right side engine cowl and dash board, and adding towing shackles front and rear. It looks like they represented the new grill with larger headlights, left side esternal fuel filler, new floorpan layout, rear panel with tailgate, and larger wheels well. From the looks of it, you only end up using the frame and running gear, hood, engine cowl, dash board, and right body panel from the Italeri jeep kit that is included. You will also need to source the higher windshield frame if you want to fit one though.