Looks like Ace Models is sponsoring a model contest: http://www.smallafv.nn.ru/amve2/index.html.

Deadline to complete is between 1 September and 1 October 2005. Downside is that you have to actually build an Ace kit.

I've found Ace kits to be somewhat of an enigma (no pun intended). While I think they are well designed and well supported with decals, etched metal parts, vinyl tires etc., the quality control and fine detail are often poor. You can build a good Ace kit IMHO, but you had better have your file, Xacto knife, and a tube of body putty handy!

Chuckster

Limited run, low pressure moulded kits are like that but that's the challenge!

The main problem I have with ACE kits is the tracks on the smaller AFVs. The BMD/BTR series have etched tracks and they're fine, but I struggle with the MT-LB family.

Alexey says that the latest releases have better tracks with detail on both sides but I haven't tried them yet.

Actually, if you want a real challenge, try some of the MW kits.

David

My first Ace kit was a BMP command variant. I popped open the box and quickly traded it away. I held off buying any more Ace kits, even though many were very tempting to try.

I eventually was given one by somebody I bought a kit from (he tossed it in as a gift). I got a T-55 Enigma on eBay (thought I could use the armor on a PST kit) too.

I may attempt the one given to me, but it does look like a lot of work for such a small kit.

I like the different subject matter produced by ACE, but I find the soft styrene they make their kits from to be an "interesting" challenge.

I kitbashed the PST T55 and the ACE T55 Enigma for a somewhat ok looking Enigma. I used the PST tracks which were the wrong shape, but they weren't molded offset from each other as the ACE kits were! I have seen some work on an ACE kit that was absolutely amazing considering what he started with, so it can be done. The question is, do you want to take the time to do it. Thirty days, better yet "daze", because I think this is where you'll be when done, might not be enough time to tackle one and do it justice. MHO. Who knows? Interested to see who jumps in and what/how they do. "Q"

I'm glad I read the thread. I was debating on picking up an Ace kit but I don't have the patience the skill or the eye sight to do too much work on a "lacking" kit.


Cheers, Michael