by Rolfe Hedges
Several companies produce vehicles in this scale. We will concentrate on two which produce a large range of vehicles and whose quality, availability, and service is consistent and reliable. First of all: Ravensthorpe Miniatures, which produce the classic Fiat Dovunque @ £ 4.95, the Autocaretta tipo 36p personnel @ £ 3.95, Autocaretta 36dm mg carrier @ £ 4.25, Autocaretta 36m cargo @ £ 4.25, and Fiat Ter 4x2 @ £ 4.95. Skytrex includes the following in their range: Fiat 508 staff car @ £ 5.50, Fiat TL37 light truck @ £ 6.60, Lancia 3Ro @ £ 8.25 , (these prices may be out of date). As you can see, there is a variety of models available. The Skytrex models are of a bulky standard and compose of very few pieces - but they are a bit pricey and seem a little overscale, especially the Lancia 3RO which is huge and this appears to be reflected in its price. The Ravensthorpe models are ideal as they really cover the earlier Italian soft skins, with the Dovunque, Autocaretta, and Fiat Ter being 3 of the most widely used vehicles in Spain. The other the Fiat SPA P4/100 or Trattore Pesante Campale being unavailable as a model in this scale, and if anyone knows the vehicle - you will understand why. The Ravensthorpe models comprise of several parts, and will require careful gluing or soldering, with the Dovunque in particular needing careful attention and supporting whilst being completed - mainly around the wheel and axle assemblies. The Fiat TER is a delight but again requires care and attention during assembly. These are unlike the Skytrex kits which just fall together. The Ravensthorpe models cover the types you really need for Spain and are good value for money, however you will need to be patient and a little skilfull in their assembly. Skytrex cover models used more or less from 1937 onwards and are geared to the western desert 1940 onwards, they are more expensive but are easier and quicker to assemble. Skytrex are at all wargame shows and are worth inspection if you haven't already done so. Ravensthorpe are mainly mail order , but I believe may do a few shows in the North. Skytrex : 28 Brook St., Wymeswold, Leics, LE12 6TU
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Italian Tanks in Rompan El Fuego Italian Softskins in the SCW (Models) Back to Abanderado Vol. 2 No. 4 Table of Contents Back to Abanderado List of Issues Back to MagWeb Master Magazine List © Copyright 1997 by Rolfe Hedges This article appears in MagWeb (Magazine Web) on the Internet World Wide Web. Other military history articles and gaming articles are available at http://www.magweb.com |