Beaverette Mk.III
IMA Set #35010
1:35th Scale
Review by Terry Ashley
This full resin kit from International Models Asia (IMA) consists of 23 parts
in light grey resin which is cleanly cast with the casting blocks already removed
prior to shipment leaving only the odd small area needing extra cleanup.
This is most helpful as the resin used is quite hard and removing all the casting
blocks yourself would have need quite a job so kudos go to IMA for doing the
job for you.
The resin details are crisp and well defined such as the wheels, grills, radiator louvers and bolt heads on the body which has separate vision flaps and rear doors.
The kit includes two upper weapons rings/turrets for either a single Bren or twin Vickers K guns but the guns are not included in the kit and you will have to source these elsewhere.
The front wheels can be made movable by trapping the front brake drum between the separate suspension parts for a simple but effective system.
The body has a full lower chassis with basic sub frame and drive train details included with separate brake drums for the front and wheel wheels while the single upper body is cast perfectly square which is helped by the hard resin reducing any warpage.
On the inside is just a driver’s seat although this was missing from my set and a couple of extra visor flaps included instead but this isn’t a problem as you have it all buttoned up in any case unless you wanted to scratch a full interior yourself.
Assembly was very straightforward and quick with the assembly of the front steering done in seconds and all other parts fitting perfectly, especially the fit of the lower chassis and upper body which is spot on.
Fitter your choice of turret was also easy but as mentioned you will have to find the weapons elsewhere which shouldn’t be a problem.
A simple instruction sheet is included with text notes on the construction and basic line drawings but as mentioned the assembly was very quick and easy but there is no painting guides included but I presume painting in overall dark green would be the go.
Conclusion:
A well cast and simple kit of this unusual early war vehicle with the easy
construction meaning you will be reaching for the paint quite quickly.
Recommended for those wanting that something different. A full build review and painting article will follow shortly.
Thanks to LionMarc
Model Designs and IMA for the review set.
IMA sets are available through the LionMarc website.
Page created October 10, 2005