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Update: Just some new photos with the digital camera
I had wanted to build a Crusader AA ever since I read the SAR Regimental history by Donald Graves. It took a few years to gather all of the parts and enough references but the kit is finally finished (except for some minor corrections and additional weathering) although it also took a small bet to get me to start building the kit. The next step in this project is the creation of a diorama.
Materials/Kits used include: Italeri Crusader III, Accurate Armour Crusader AA Mk III conversion, Friulmodel tracks, Ultracast SAR decals, styrene, rivets, MV Lenses and assorted spare parts.
For its age the Italeri kit is excellent and a number of errors (i.e. missing rivets) were easily corrected. Initially I had some concerns regarding the Accurate Armour conversion but extensive test fitting eliminated those concerns. In fact, except for the standard resin clean up (i.e. air bubbles) the I had no problems. As for the Friuli tracks they were great to work with although I do have some concerns regarding the long term effects of the their weight on the suspension.
The hardest part of this entire project was scratch building the turret basket and once I crew the model you won't even be able to see it. I think I might have gone a little over board researching and detailing the kit trying to get everything perfect but I never lost interest and I really enjoyed this project.
I would like to thank Geoff Winnington-Ball for supplying the SAR hat badge and Graham Tetley for a copy of his Crusader AA article.
References:
Osprey New Vanguard #14 Crusader Tank
Military Vehicle Workshop Series Crusader I/II/III
Ground Power #80 January 2001
Military Vehicle Modeller International: Crusader AA Mk III by Graham Tetley
Concord D-Day Tank Warfare
National Archives of Canada
SAR a Regiment at War by Donald Graves
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