Small-Scale Airbone

Ján Moravčík builds S-Model’s BMD-1.

Despite my general preference for World War II AFV subjects, I have recently found an interest in Cold War-era vehicles. One of the main reasons for this has been the appearance of some fascinating kits from companies such as S-Model. Having thoroughly enjoyed building their BMP-1 and BRDM-2 kits, I thought it a good idea to tackle ‘BMD-1 Airborne Infantry Fighting Vehicle’, released in 2015. Labelled ‘Quick Build’, the kit is of a modular design with relatively few parts, though the level of detail is quite acceptable in most areas. Another feature common to most S-Model products is the fact that you get two kits in the box. In this case, each model comprises 41 injection-moulded components, a small fret of PE details (my box had a spare fret, very useful if I happened to lose one of the tiny parts), and a large sheet of decal markings. Assembly instructions are by way of a four-sided manual, which covers the five-stage sequence using images (though no text). Painting notes are provided for a single Soviet Guards vehicle, the colours being generic without reference to any particular paint manufacturer.

My only real criticism with the kit is the way the running gear has been presented; integrally moulded tracks and inner wheels, and separate outer wheels. That said, the upper track run has a very convincing sag over the return rollers (often difficult to replicate with one-piece vinyl or link and-length tracks). For those who really want something better, Tankograd offer a resin set (with replacement drive sprockets), and ACE Model produce a vinyl set. Of course, using either of these would require careful surgery to retain the kit’s wheels.