LCM(3) + M4A1 (Deep Wading kit)

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LCM(3) + M4A1 (Deep Wading kit)
Ref. # 7360
Scale: 1/72
Manufacturer: Dragon
Price: Unknown
Material: Styrene, PE, DS100 Vinyl

Introduction

Although both of the kits contained in this set have been released previously, here they are in the same box for the first time, and it screams out to be built as per the box art illustration!

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The kit contents

The box this set is contained within is the same size as the more usual 1/35th scale releases, and inside you can find the usual Dragon 'card' with the 'goodies' attached to it, plus the necessary sprues and parts to make up the LCM(3) and a diminutive M4A1 with wading gear!

Although both of these models have been previously released, as #7257 and #7273, this M4A1 comes with wading kit, and not having built many 1/72nd scale kits before, I have no idea if a previous release of the M4A1 included this or not?

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So what do we get? The Dragon 'card' included has two PE frets attached to it, along with a set of Dragon DS100 vinyl one-piece tracks, and a decal sheet. In addition, inside the box there are two large sprues for the LCM(3) along with a separate lower hull, four sprues for the M4A1, along with a separate lower hull, a small sprue of beach obstacles, and one large sprue of 1/72nd scale US figures, along with a smaller sprue containing their small arms. At the bottom of the box is a pre-formed diorama base, representing the sea with a formed space for the LCM(3).

Whatever else, there's an awful lot in the box! Although most modellers would probably choose to discard the preformed base for one of their own making, it's a great inclusion for the beginner or youngsters, and simply needs mounting and painting.

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Not being an Allied modeller, I have no idea whether or not this particular vehicle 'fits' with the LCM(3), or the US figures are wearing the correct kit etc., but you know what? It doesn't matter! I still want to build it, whether it's 100% accurate or not. It's just a great idea for a great kit, and the detail on both vehicles and figures is amazing! Look at the close-ups of those figures, and remember they're 1/72nd scale! The fact that they have separate kit and rifles I find incredible!

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There are six US soldiers included, and a further three LCM crew in life vests, two of which are posed manning the guns.

The photo-etch included in the kit supplies the wading stacks for the M4A1, along with the gun shields on the landing craft. The decals supplied are for the landing craft, with none being supplied for the tank. The two painting options supplied on the instruction sheet are for an LCM from Normandy and another from Iwo Jima.

Conclusion

I think it's a fantastic idea to bring these two together! This one will literally run off the shelves of local hobby stores and should encourage younger buyers as well as those amongst us who just want a fun and enjoyable build. Very highly recommended!

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My Thanks to Dragon for the review sample

For full information on all Dragon products, please see their website, Dragon Models Ltd.