introduction

Plus Model, based in the Czech Republic, have released a 1/35th scale .50-caliber Antiaircraft Machine Gun.

Having not seen a kit of this type before, in any medium, I did some internet research. Ultimately, there were two very clear pictures of a similar AAMG found. Not being an expert on AAMG's I did notice some differences in the pictures and the kit. Neither picture showed the elevated front sight system or the protective armored plate. Additionally, the gunner's "frame" is dissimilar and the tripod was slightly different. Aside from these potential issues, everything else appeared to be in order.

Based on the photographs found, this little kit depicts a Browning .50-caliber water-cooled antiaircraft machine gun. These were used for airfield/beachhead defense and in conjunction with searchlights and radar.

Contents

The kit arrived in a small 3.5 x 4.25 x 1.5-inch thin cardboard box. Inside the box, the materials of the kit are protected by a bubble-bag. The resin parts are in their own plastic bag with the photo etch fret sealed in another bag and protectively backed by a piece of cardboard. There are 34 parts cast in gray resin, 10 PE parts and one piece of lead wire for the water hoses.

The Kit Parts

The resin is crisply cast showing very nice, sharp details. These parts make up the great majority of the MG, the tripod mount, and water can. Each part is clearly identified by number on the casting blocks. Flash and seam lines are minimal so clean up will be straightforward. Two very fine parts in my sample were broken off their casting blocks but will be an easy fix (and something I've become accustomed too when working with resin kits and conversions - regardless of company). The use of a razor saw will be the best way to remove the parts from the casting blocks.

The PE parts are well defined with exceptionally small attachment points. These parts make up the front sight system, gunner's armored shield, and some detailing for the MG itself.

The exploded-view instruction sheet is very small and very crowded. Careful study (and perhaps a vision aid) of the instructions will be the order when the build-time comes.

Conclusion

Plus Model has done a nice job of recreating an unusual subject. With only two pictures to refer to, I will not state that the company made errors in the design, nor does that affect the percentage assigned. Were a modeler to create a U.S.-based diorama of a beachhead, airfield, or small vignette in this scale, this kit could be invaluable.