Just three days into 2010, it is an appropriate time to pick our third annual die cast buys of the year--this one for 2009. While there may have been a few better selections among the over 200 recommendations from over 60 vendors we made in 2009, I'll end the year by giving the top picks of year, inspired by the selections made during the entire year and tempered by what is still available at year end.
We'll start with the AFV's.
Back on January 18th We were living large with the first selection. From Squadron for $93.99, it's a 1:24 scale M1 NATO Abrams.
Description: M1 Abrams Tank NATO Desert Camo
The definitive die-cast model of the backbone of the U.S. military's armored forces. Authorized and authenticated by General Dynamics, makers of the real Abrams Tank. Hand-assembled from more than 240 parts in 1:24 scale. Precision-engineered with such working features as pivoting guns, a turret that turns, opening hatches, and moving wheels and treads. Take charge, and enter your order for this powerful tribute to the awesome M1A1 Abrams Tank, and the soldiers who man it.
Approximately 16" in length with cannon.
Here's Lucy:
http://www.squadron.com/ItemDetails.asp?item=FM11E207
Our second pick is an Easter egg is from April 12th. In 1:35 scale from Tamiya, its the Panzer IV Ausf. H from Military Issue for $78.95.
Replicating the most common German tank of World War II, this professionally assembled and hand painted 1/35 scale plastic and metal model features textured surfaces, an opening commander's hatch, an aluminum 7.5cm KwK 40 gun barrel, an anti-aircraft machine gun, turret and side armor, detailed metal tracks, authentic 2nd Panzer Division markings, and more. Measures 7¾" long and arrives ready to display.
Grab one here:
http://www.militaryissue.com/product...category=Armor
On May 17th The Toy Federation and Forces of Valor took us to the North African desert with the 1:32 scale Grant, if you pony up the $32.00.
Forces of Valor 1:32 Scale U.K. M3 Grant - El Alamein.
The M3 Grant was a United States tank design that was modified for the British Army. The British Government had sought a complete British design, but had to accept a modified U.S. designed Tank. The British Army did not like the high profile of the standard U.S. turret, so they offered a lower profile turret with more crew space that would fit within the same turret ring.
Please note that all forces of valor which we sell are the “Enthusiast” grade, not the basic “action” grade available at mass market stores.
Meet Monty and the lads here:
http://www.thetoyfederation.com/prod...5&cat=0&page=1
On the last day of May, we spotted an item that was back on sale at Military Issue. This 1:35 scale Tamiya Materwork Sturmgeschutz III Ausf. G for $79.95.
Hand assembled and painted by expert modelers, this fully assembled 1/35 scale plastic and metal model of a World War II Sturmgeschütz III Ausf.G features an aluminum gun barrel with a muzzle brake, optional-position hatches, photo-etched engine grilles, a machine gun shield, removable side skirts, realistic metal tracks, plenty of tools and equipment, a camouflage scheme and authentic 237th Sturmgeschütz Brigade markings, and more. Measures approximately 7¾" long and arrives ready to display.
Assault this gun here:
http://www.militaryissue.com/product...category=Armor
Our next selection is for those of you with much deeper pockets and some significant display space to spare. From The Flying Mule's Labor Day sale, it is the 1:16 scale Unimax Forces of Valor 85007 M4 Sherman Tank Diecast Model US Army, Normandy, France, D-Day June 6th 1944. The September 9th asking price is $299.99, but with the Mule's coupon it could be had for $239.99 with shipping included. Today the asking price, including free shipping is $274.99, but only $247.49 with the coupon.
Length: 14.25" Width: 6.75"
The U.S. M4 Sherman was the most produced battle tank in WWII. Many variants were designed and manufactured to increase their effectiveness against German Panzer divisions. The M4A1 was quick, highly maneuverable, simple to maintain and was equipped with a 75MM gun. This large-scale model of the Sherman is bristling with features that make it highly collectible. The model itself is a real heavy-weight and includes details impossible to achieve in a smaller scale. The model also includes detailed figures of crew members. Arrives in an large, attractive package complete with history book and limited edition certificate.
The Unimax "Forces of Valor" range presents affordable, ready-made diecast models of military vehicles.
Unimax "Forces of Valor" diecast vehicles feature: - Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
- Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
- Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks on detailed non-rotating wheels.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
M4 Sherman Tank
The pilot model of the M4 was completed in September 1941, and the Sherman became the most widely produced tank of the war. The M4 Sherman defeated heavier tanks with superior numbers, and by using outflanking tactics to strike thinner enemy flank armor. Shermans also achieved success with progressively upgunned models and by working with tank destroyers. The Sherman tank--named by the British--was fast, maneuverable, mechanically reliable, easy to manufacture, and effective in its infantry support role. It served with the US Army and Marines during World War II, and the US transferred large numbers to the United Kingdom and allied forces of many countries.
Find her on the hunt here:
http://www.flyingmule.com/products/UM-85007