2011 Die Cast Buys of the Week

[KG_Jag]

Our first two of three armor picks this week are from Toyeast. The first of these to reach the assembly area is the MINICHAMPS 1:35 scale SHERMAN M4A3 for $71.10.



Get your heavy metal fix here:

http://www.toyeast.com/v3/pdtdetail....t_id=A01400039#


From a few decades later, we offer the VsTank Pro Collector 1:24 scale Russian T72 M1 Desert for $59.90.



This is the latest version of the VsTank Pro!! featuring the ever-popular Russian T-72.

The 2007 VsTank Pro Collector Series is a perfect display model for all Military Fans and Collectors features a completely factory painted and pre-build model comes with a wooden base and metallic stands which ever seen before in 1/24 scale tanks. This VsTank Pro Collectors series does not have RC system

Features:
- Rotational turret up to 330 degrees
- Adjustable angle of cannon
- Individual wheel suspension system
- 1/24 scale with high details
- Complete set of accessories
- Comes with wooden base and name plate

One Set Includes:
- One tank
- Two antennas
- Pre-build Tank Commander and Machine Gun set
- Wooden Base
- Name Plate
- Full kit of accessories

Find yours in this sandbox:

http://www.toyeast.com/v3/pdtdetail....t_id=A02105695


Our final armor selection this week is the W. Britain 1:32 scale Panzer IV Tank #431 from BT Toy Soldiers for just $30.00.



Grab one of these long retired pieces here:

http://www.shop.btsoldiers.com/produ...5&categoryId=6


First to take off this week is a classic at a decent price from a line that is disappearing from dealers' shelves. It's a 1:48 scale Armour/Franklin Mint U.S. Army P-40 from Prestige Hobbies for $49.99.



The Curtiss P-40 was an American single-engine, single-seat, all-metal fighter and ground attack aircraft that first flew in 1938. It was used by the air forces of 28 nations, including those of most Allied powers during World War II, and remained in front line service until the end of the war. By November 1944, when production of the P-40 ceased, 13,738 had been built.

Product Features

Diecast metal construction with some plastic parts
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels
Pad printed markings and placards
Detailed cockpit interiors - no pilot figures
Sturdy fixed metal landing gear for static display
Authentic fixed ordnance loads
Accurately detailed underside

Get this metal heavy bird here:

http://www.prestigehobbies.com/P-40-...-Airplane.html


Our next selection is an encore selection from June, but is now dirt cheap. From the Monkey Depot for a mere $14.99. It is the Hobby Master 1:72 scale Avenger TBM-3E2 Dutch Marine Luchtvaartdienst, 1954.


Grumman TBM-3E2 Dutch Marine Luchtvaartdienst, 1954

Description: The TBF/M "Avenger" was the biggest single engine aircraft during the WWII. She was ordered into production in Dec 1940 with first delivery just in time for the Battle of Midway. The "Avenger" was characterized by its rigid and strong body and its versatilities. She started out as a torpedo bomber but it soon took the duties as a close-support bomber, a patrol aircraft and even a trainer. After the war the Avenger was also used as crop dusters and forest fire water bombers.

Fifty TBM-3 were delivered in 1953-4 to the Royal Netherlands Naval Air service and these were ex-planes from the US Navy. They were used as submarine 'killer' and some were deployed from the Dutch navy aircraft carrier “Karel Doorman”.

Description:
-Incredible detail
-Stand included
-Opening canopy
-Full armament


Grab one here while they are still in stock:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Hobby_Mas...0265-dd501.htm


Last to lift from the runway is another 1:72 Hobby Master. This one is the A-10A Thunderbolt II--45th TFS, Indiana ANG, Grisson AFB from Boomingisland for $39.95.

Invasion stripes are not optional here:

http://www.boomingisland.com/p-1307-...ast-model.aspx

[KG_Jag]

We celebrate the end of July knowing that our politicians in D.C. have reached a deal to avoid a default by the federal government (at least for a while). They haven't reduced the federal deficit, mind you. They have merely made a slight downward adjustment of the rate at which it will be growing each year. So for each dollar we will be "investing" (aka "spending"), we'll have to borrow at least 40 cents of it. Here's hoping that your financial position is superior to that of the feds, so you can "invest" in one of our picks this week.

Our first armor investment vehicle of the week is the long retired King & Country 1:30 scale Afrika Korps Panzer II from KingsX for $75.00.



See it at the bottom of this out of balance sheet:

https://www.kingsx.com/ecat/servlet/..._id=437&page=5


Next up this week is another long retired AFV. This one is a 1:32 scale W. Britain Russian T-34 Tank w Soldier (Edition 2) from from Ag Farm Toys for just $37.95.



This one is really in the Red:

http://www.agfarmtoys.com/scale/tractor/17497B.html


Our first high flyer this week is the Dragon 1:72 scale F4F-3 Wildcat of VMF-224 USMC Guadalcanal, 1942 from HobbyBuy for $26.99.



Features:
- 1/72 Authentic Scale
- High Quality Diecast Metal
- Historically Accurate
- Detailed Cockpits
- Pre-assembled
- Display Stand Included

Get is for far less than a government ordered hammer or toilet seat here:

http://www.hobbybuy.com/us/prodi.asp?pid=DRW50234#


Scouting for the often touted but almost never found pools of government waste is the Century Wings 1:144 scale A-6E Intruder Diecast Model (USN VA-35 "Black Panthers", AJ500, USS Nimitz, 1978). At $49.95 Warpaint won't wast your "investment" money.




Replicating an Intruder flown from the USS Nimitz in 1978, this beautiful model measures 4.5" long by 4.5" wide. This highly detailed 1:144 Century Wings model from their "Wings of Heroes" line sets the standard for detail and accuracy. It can be displayed "on the catapult" in its "carrier deck" display case or "in flight" with the included display stand.

Century Wings 1:144 diecast airplanes feature:
Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Selected movable control surfaces.
Permanently extended landing gear.
Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
Clear acrylic display case to protect model
This aircraft is limited to 1500 pieces worldwide and we have very few left in stock!

Put one on the asset side of your ledger by clicking here:

http://www.warbirdcollectibles.com/1...6173bce6128fac


Charging to end runaway federal spending and to draw a line in the with a still falling economy are the 1:32 scale Conte British Paratroopers Assault from BT Toy Soldiers for the "adjusting error" price of $15.00.



Although retired, they won't be getting any Social Security from us. Check to see if they are signing up for Obamacare here:

http://www.shop.btsoldiers.com/produ...0&categoryId=6

[KG_Jag]

This week's installment is a bit late, as I was off the grid while attending my 60th wedding anniversary celebration for my Aunt and Uncle at a small town in south central Illinois. The Uncle is a World War II combat vet and my Aunt's dad was an army doctor. Although the two vets did not meet until years later, they both found themselves in the Pilsen area at the end of the war. It was there that my Uncle shook hands with Soviet troops advancing from the east.

Our first selection this week ties to that time and theater. It is a Forces of Valor 1:32 scale D-Day U.S. M3A1 Half-Track (Normandy,1944) from OB's for $26.95.



Go for a ride here:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/inde...roducts_id=787


From the modern U.S. depot, we next feature a Forces of Valor 1:32 scale M2 Bradley--US Army from Bad Cat for $38.00.



Length 8 inches
Width 5 inches

Features:

• Diecast Composite Construction
• Real Rolling Tracks
• One 1:32 Scale Figures
• True 1:32 Scale Modeling
• Crisp Details and Panel Lines
• Realistic Weathering
• Pictured Diorama Pieces Included
• Includes Information Card

The M3A2 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) is the newest version of the fully tracked, lightly armored fighting vehicle that features many advances over previous variants. New fire control, communication, and identification systems give even more lethality to the mighty fighting vehicle. Designed to transport troops, the Bradley can transport up to six fully equipped soldiers, as well as the three crew members.

1:32 scale Bradley Fighting Vehicle by Forces of Valor is a composite of metal and plastic construction. The upper hull and turret are diecast metal with plastic parts being used for smaller, highly detailed pieces. The 360 degree rotating turret, along with opening crew hatches and rolling rubber tracks make this armored vehicle seem almost real. This Bradley has active suspension and the a rear door lowers to reveal a detailed interior. The lethal 25mm chain gun with articulating aerial gun sight pivots in unison with a 7.63 machine gun, and the turret-mounted TOW missile system has an articulating front seal and can be raised to firing position. Numerous battlefield and diorama accessories round-out this comprehensive package.

Change vehicles here:

http://www.badcattoys.com/um3brtaopirf.html


For those of you who like two wings better than one, we feature the 1:48 scale Hobby Master 16th Pursuit Group, U.S. Army Air Corps, Canal Zone, 1934, P-12E from Pete's at just $39.95.



Your pick of oceans here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/dis...No=HA7902#item


Adding a the Brits to the mix, we next feature the Sky Max 1:72 scale Hawker Tempest Mk.V "B.F. 'Bud' Miller, No. 501 'County of Gloucester' Squadron, USAAF" from Diecast Direct for $26.57.



If you want it, quickly fly your mouse here:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_mod...tCode=SKYM4005


Last on the sheet this week are the Corgi 1:50 scale WWII German Paratroopers from the Airplane Shop for $11.95.



They've dropped here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productd...=CORGI&id=1454

[KG_Jag]

Many are aware that in the U.S. all of us worked until April 12th to pay all taxes. However according to the the Tax Foundation, it was not until two days ago, August 12, 2011, that we would have had to work to pay the entire cost of government (including the cost of deficit spending and regulatory burden). Before 2009 the latest such date was July 21st. Under President Reagan it held steady at July 4th--truly a double Independence Day.

Now that you have your own money to spend, you lucky devil, our first suggestion on how you might do so is, ironically enough, with Canadian vendor the Spitfire Emporium with Canadian dollars. For just $9.95 you can secure the 1:72 scale Corgi AA39301 - Boulton Paul Defiant, 141 ASqn, Gunner/Hamilton, 1940.




Find it in alpha order under "Defiant" here:

http://www.spitcrazy.com/corgipage.htm


Already aloft our next pick takes us back to the States in all respects. From Pete's it's the 1:72 scale Hobby Master Douglas A-1H Skyraider 39768, VA-25, USS Midway, 1964 for just $39.95.



Tailhook one here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/dis...No=HA2903#item


Meanwhile on the ground we select the Corgi 1:50 scale ADVERSARIES FORGOTTEN HEROES T34 85 TANK NORTH KOREAN 109th Tank Reg. from Past-Time Hobbies for $29.99.



Korea here we come:

http://www.pthinc.com/430/1728/-INTE...ORTH-KNREAN-02


Closing out this week's selection is the Hobby Master 1:48 scale M4A3 Sherman Doris, 4th Marine Tank Battalion, Iwo Jima, February, 1945 Ltd Ed 500 Pieces. Crossroads Diecast has it for $28.99.



Authentic Detailing Pre-Painted by professionals Accurate paint colors Markings Tampo (pad) applied Fully Assembled Die-Cast Model True to Scale (1:48) Insignias Turret turns Main gun elevates Metal chassis, hull, turret and main gun Realistic tracks

Because of the rugged dense jungle growth on many Pacific islands the use of tanks was limited. The tank did play significant roles on these islands as infantry support. The M4 had an escape hatch added to the floor but in the Pacific tank crews used it for the opposite purpose. They used the hatch to recover wounded infantry and return them for medical care. In the Pacific some units had many inventive means of trying to protect the tank and crew from the enemy. Some added track blocks to the sides of the turret, or on the glacis along with sand bags. Some added nails others added wooden planks or even heavy steel mesh domes placed over the hatches with about two inches of clearance. The domes were referred to as “bird cages” and along with the other innovations were meant to prevent the enemy from placing satchel charges directly on the tank especially the hatches that probably were the most vulnerable part of the armor. Some of the tank crews could’t decide one method so they employed just about all the various options. It was quite usual for tank crews to paint a name that started with the same letter as their Company on the side of the tank. Since this tank belonged to Company D that’s why “Doris” appears on this particular example.

Known as the “Fighting Fourth” the 4th Marine Division was comprised of many units. One of the units was “D” Company of the 4th Marine Tank Battalion. The 4th Marine Division was formed on May 12, 1943 and was made up entirely of reservists except for 2 officers. It also was the first Marine Division to go directly in to battle and to capture territory held by occupying Japanese forces. The Division fought in some of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific, Kwajalein, Saipan, Tinian and Iwo Jima. The assault on Iwo Jima began on Feb 19 1945. The 4th Marine Tank Division landings began at 0940 when LSMs delivered the first tanks on Yellow Beach. Because of the problems caused by the volcanic sand it was’t until 1300 before all the tanks were ashore. Landing on Iwo Jima was uncontested but when the beaches became congested with men and equipment that instantly sank in loose volcanic ash and became bogged down the Japanese defenders unleashed their big guns, mortars and snipers. The scene was one of carnage as men crawled along the shifting surface desperately trying to advance to the shelter of dunes or into shell holes made by the naval barrage that preceded the landing. Under the support of the tanks from the 4th MTB the Marines slowly worked their way toward their objectives. They encountered several long delays while engineers cleared mine-fields while under heavy fire. During their advance the tanks helped clear fortified caves and pill boxes and provided physical cover for the foot soldiers. The Japanese had definitely prepared for the invasion and intended to make the island their last stand with no surrender. On March 26, 1945 after five long bloody weeks Iwo Jima was finally cleared of enemy forces. The U.S. casualties totaled over 26,000 with over 7,000 dead while only 1,000 of the original 20,000 Japanese defenders survived. These sacrifices made it possible for B-29 bombers to make 2,400 unscheduled landings with 27,000 crewmen on their return flights from bombing mainland Japan. The 4th Marine Division was the first into action and they were the first to be sent back to the U.S. Where it was deactivated on November 28, 1945 and reactivated in 1966. For their actions in the Pacific Campaign the 4th Marine Division was awarded these medals and commendations:

4 Medals of Honor 111 Navy Cross 646 Silver Stars 2,517 Bronze Stars 17,722 Purple Hearts Presidential Unit Citation with 2 Bronze Stars Navy Unit Commendation Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with 4 Bronze Stars WWII Victory Medal

Of all the Medals of Honor that were awarded to Marines in WWII over 25% of them were because of their actions on Iwo Jima.

Specifications Manufactured by: Ford Motor Company Date first accepted: 1942 Total accepted then: 1,690 Crew: 5 – Commander, Gunner, Loader, Driver, Assistant Driver

Engine: Ford GAA 8 cylinder 4 cycle, 60° vee gasoline 450 hp @ 2600rpm Fuel capacity: 168 gallons Combat weight: 66,700 lbs Length: 232.5 “ Width: 103” Height: 108”

Armament 1 X 75mm M3 main gun in turret – 97 rounds 1 X .30 cal MG coaxial to 75mm main gun – 4750 rounds 1 X .50 cal MG flexible in turret AA mount – 300 rounds 1 X .30 cal MG ball mount in right bow - 4750 rounds 2” Mortar M3 (smoke) fixed in turret – 12 rounds


Your government paid Pacific island "holiday" transportation can be boarded here:

http://store.crossroadsdiecast.com/hm172.html

[KG_Jag]

We open this week with a Dragon Models 1:72 scale Armor Collector Series 60088 Krupp Sd.Kfz.161 Panzer IV F2 Display Model German Army PzRgt15 11.PzDiv, #12, Russia, 1942 from the Flying Mule for just $9.99.



Over 6,000 examples of Panzerkampfwagen IV tanks were produced between 1943 and 1945. Armed with a short-barrel 75mm gun and driven by a 250-horsepower engine, the Panzer IV quickly became the workhorse of Panzer Divisions. After the appearance of the Russian T-34—with its dominant guns and heavier, sloped armor—the Panzer needed design modifications such as thick side and turret skirts, a new gun (the KwK 40 75mm L/48) and a larger turret. With these upgrades, the Panzer IV proved equal to the Soviet T-34 and was also effective against British tanks and American M-4 Sherman Medium Tanks.

Dragon's 1:72 scale Panzer IV is constructed almost entirely of diecast plastic, which allows for the greatest possible level of detailing. Featuring a 360-degree rotating turret with elevating cannon, the model's hatches, hinges, welded amour plating and turret are all stunningly accurate, and the same level of detailing has been applied to the vehicle's track system. The model's underside features riveted armor plating and leaf-spring suspension. Subtle airbrushed weathering with hand-painted tools and equipment add a finishing touch.


The Dragon Models "1:72 Dragon Armor Collector Series" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made plastic models of military vehicles. Dragon Armor tanks require no gluing or painting. Each model is an instant display piece or diorama centerpiece straight from the box and is 100% true to scale... these don't look like model tanks, they look like tanks!. Color, camouflage and unit markings are carefully researched for maximum authenticity, marking the difference between and authentic scale model tank and a "toy" tank.

Dragon Models "1:72 Dragon Armor Collector Series" display model vehicles feature:

• Molded plastic construction (some releases include diecast metal components).
• Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
• Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks and 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.
• Clear acrylic display case to protect model.

She's hunting T-34's and KV-1's here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/DM-60088


Some like it hot and for you we have the CORGI 1:50 scale US51003 HVSS POA-CWS-HS Sherman Flame Tank – USMC--FORGOTTEN HEROES – Korean War Series from notatoy for $36.00.



This flame throwing Sherman Tank featured co-axial with a main gun flame-thrower and an upgraded suspension. It is accurate, very detailed model with an excellent paint job.

It comes in an attractive box with certificate of authenticity (LIMITED EDITION) and a booklet with pictures and stories from the veteran Corporal Jerry Ravino, Marine Corps tank loader in First Tank Battalion.

Fire one up here:

http://www.notatoy.com/product_info.php/products_id/898


Flying around at 3000Toys is the Corgi 1:72 scale British Aerospace Hawk T.1A - No. 4 Flying Training School, RAF Valley, Anglesay, 1995 for $24.99.



The Hawk has now been in service with No. 4 FTS for over 30 years and has been a landmark in RAF history. Today, No. 4 FTS's training course is split between two reserve squadrons, No. 19 adn 208. This Corgi model represents a Hawk T.1A from No. FTS in the red, white and blue training colors utilized during the 1980s and 1990s, before being replaced by a more somber overall gloss black color from the mid-1990s, color scheme to date.

School yourself here:

http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item...d=CORGIAA36002


Our final selection for this week is the Hobby Master 1:72 scale Air Power Series HA3301 Northrop F-5N Tiger II Diecast Model USN VFC-111 Sundowners, NAS Key West, FL from the Flying Mule for $34.99.



VFC-111 (Fighter Composite Squadron) was originally VFC-13 and was renamed in November 2006. VFC-111 assumed the name, insignia and callsign "Sundowners" when VF-111 was disestablished as an F-14 squadron. The "Sundowners" are a USN Reserve squadron based at Naval Air Station Key West Florida. It operates 12 of the 41 Northrop F-5N Tiger II aircraft in operation. Their role is that of an adversary to help train pilots in air combat tactics. The F-5N is supposed to see service through to 2015.

Designed partly to meet a US Navy requirement for a low-cost, low-maintenance fighter to operate from Escort Carriers, the F-5 first flew on July 30, 1959. Development of the F-5 continued even after the Navy withdrew its Escort Carriers, and the aircraft eventually evolved into the light, supersonic "Freedom Fighter," serving US allies during the Cold War and as a supersonic trainer in the US. The second-generation F-5 ("Tiger II") also served US allies, but because it was small and maneuverable like a MiG it was also used by the US military as a training and "aggressor" aircraft, acting as the opposing force during military wargames.

Hobby Master’s 1:72 scale F-5 Tiger II is a sleek and fast looking model that uses a clever mix of metal and plastic components with near-seamless construction. The solid metal wing has sharp-edged plastic leading edge root extensions appropriate to the variant being modeled. The removable canopy provides a clear view of the cockpit’s interior features such as the pad-printed front and side mounted instrument panels. Landing gear and doors have been included as one piece sub-assemblies that allow for quick and easy configuration for ground display. The series covers both fighter variants with optional ordnance configurations (see photos) and the long nose reconnaissance variant.


The Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft.


Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature:

• Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
• Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
• Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
• Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
• Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.

The sun sets here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/HM-HA3301

[KG_Swampfox]

Being a fan of 11th panzer, the F2 peaked my interest, it looks correct for a F2 but the discription is way off. nice piece for the money...

[KG_Jag]

It's the last time around for August and our first armor selection is the Corgi 1:50 scale M48-A3 Patton Tank - U.S. Army from OB's for $25.95.



Get one here:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/inde...roducts_id=461


Our final armor pick for this August is the 1:35 scale Dragon Tiger I Initial Production, s.PzAbt.502 "100" from DiecastAirplane for $49.95.



Features:
- Open window display packaging
- Highly popular and collectible item
- True to 1/35 scale
- Fully accurate mold
- Fully assembled
- Includes protective display case

Tame one here:

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store...100-1-35-.html


The skies of World War I provide us with our initial aircraft pick this week. It is the Carousel 1 1:48 scale Nieuport 11 Norman Prince, Verdun 1916 - LTD to 1200 from Great Models for $34.95.



Includes decorative display base with clear cover. Removable pilot figure, Authentic gray not black tires. Simulated wood grain on propeller. Detailed cockpit.

Grab one here before they are gone:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcar...em_num=CAZ6141


We close with two 1:72 scale Gemini Aces P-51's. AirlineMuseum has the P-51B Mustang Ferocious Frankie for $26.50.



GeminiAces is a new premium line of highly detailed, historically accurate 1:72 scale die cast warbirds and military aircraft!


Following in the footsteps of our ever-popular GeminiJets line of civilian airliners, we have brought serious collecting to the military realm with our new GeminiAces. Featured details include:
- Optional landing gear up/down positions
- Movable control surfaces
- Optional under wing fuel tanks
- Photo etched rotating metal propellers
- Superior quality graphics

The Mustang transformed the air war over occupied Europe and allowed the systematic destruction of Luftwaffe fighter units. The 'Yellow Nosed' Mustangs from Bottisham supported D-Day operations and were given the familiar black and white identification markings to aid Allied spotters. 'Ferocious Frankie' was the mount of Wallace E Hopkins, who named the aircraft after his wife Frankie. He flew this aircraft, before transferring to the later D and K models, ending the war operating from forward airfields in France and Belgium.
Hopkins combat career ended with the title 'Ace', as 8 enemy fighters (and 1.5 damaged) fell victim to his guns!

Here's his plane:

http://www.airlinemuseum.com/catalog...oducts_id=3227


A good wing man would be P51B Hun Hunter from Texas, which Aviation World has for $27.95.




Find it here:

http://www.aviationworld.net/aw_usa/...nter-1-72.html

[KG_Jag]

Sorry that this week's installment is a couple days late. However due to central Texas wildfire mandatory evacuations in multiple areas, including one where we live, made it next to impossible to post until today.

Our first pick is at least 45% contained. It is the Dragon 1:35 scale DRR61020 Tiger I Late Production Pz.Abt.301 Köln 1945 from Great Models for $39.95.



Features:
- Open window display packaging
- Highly popular and collectible item
- True to 1/35 scale
- Fully accurate mold
- Fully assembled
- Historically accurate markings and insignia
- Includes protective display case


It took 300,000 man hours to produce just one Tiger I tank (approximately double that required for a Panther), but what a tank it was! Its two principal strengths were its main gun – an 8.8cm KwK 36 L/56 – and its armor of rolled homogeneous nickel-steel plate. Responding to popular demand, Dragon Armor has announced another spectacular fully built-up Tiger I tank in 1/35 scale. This new arrival is a Late Production variant, meaning it has characteristic features like steel road wheels and a monocular sight in the mantlet to the right of the gun barrel. This amazing model shows tank number 213 of Pz.Abt.301.

This tank unit supported Heeres Gruppe B in the Ardennes offensive in late 1944, where it paid a heavy toll in vehicles destroyed. Numerous Tigers were lost in the fighting in late December through to early January, before the remainder withdrew to refit in the Köln area of Germany. The unit remained on the Western Front until the war ended. This large-scale model from Dragon Armor sports a distinctive “stripy” three-color camouflage scheme. It has also received a light layer of weathering - this is especially obvious in places like the spare track links hung on the turret sides, as well as the metallic-looking track runs. This scale model is made to the highest standards of accuracy and craftsmanship, completely ready to defend its territory as Allied units threaten the Fatherland.

Here's the hot spot to order:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcar...m_num=DRR61020


Waiting to burn a small hole in you wallet is the 1:72 scale Dragon DRR60260 Firefly VC, captured and converted to use by the German Army.
Great Models has it for $8.95.



Main Features:
- Open window display packaging
- Highly popular and collectible item
- True to 1/72 scale
- Fully accurate mold
- Fully assembled
- Unique camouflage scheme w/ weathering
- Includes protective display case

Blaze this trail to get one:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcar...m_num=DRR60260


Aim Higher Jets fires up our picks with the 1:72 scale Century Wings Wings of Heroes 910720, Lockheed YF-12C Blackbird Diecast Model, NASA, 60-6937, Edwards AFB, CA, 1971 for $118.00.




Follow the smoke to here:

http://www.aimhigherjets.com/Century...p/cw910720.htm


Flaming down the runway is the Carousel 1 1:48 scale CAZ6101 P-40C Pappy Boyington also from Great Models for $41.95



Slide down the fire pole as if your pants were on fire to get one here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcar...em_num=CAZ6101


As a bonus to make up for our delay in posting this week's hot deals, we add The Carousel 1 CAZ4501 Kurtis Kraft Roadster #6 driven by Bob Sweikert in 1955 from Great Models for $47.95.



Light up your life with one here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcar...em_num=CAZ4501

[KG_Jag]

Today was the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the U.S. The attacks were the memory of a lifetime for my generation (and probably a few more), just as the attack on Pearl Harbor was for my parents and the greatest generation.

We open this week's selection with a salute to the U.S. and its greatest generation with the Corgi 1:50 scale M16 Quad .50 Half-Track--France '44 from Historical Aviation for $24.95.

When mounted like this in a group of four, machine guns were highly effective in both the anti-aircraft and anti-personnel roles. This limited edition, 1/50 scale die cast model of a Quad-50 Half-Track that served in Operation Dragoon - the Allied invasion of southern France in August, 1944 - features textured surfaces; factory-applied plastic detail parts such as supplies, tools and weapons; rolling wheels and tracks; a weathered U.S. Army camouflage scheme; three hand-painted pewter infantry figures; and more. 5" long.

Shoot down the bad guys with this World War II classic:

http://www.historicaviation.com/prod...y=Non-Aviation

Going the 1:35 scale, we next feature the biggest bad guy in the the field. It's the Dragon DRR61027 Kingtiger Porsche Turret w/Zimmerit, Command Version s.Pz.Abt.506 presented by Great Models for $42.95.

Features:
- Open window display packaging
- Highly popular and collectible item
- True to 1/35 scale
- Fully accurate mold
- Fully assembled
- Includes protective display case

Take command of you heavy tanks here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcar...m_num=DRR61027

First in the sky is the U.S. piloted Carousel 1 1:48 scale F4F-3 VF-41 Red Rippers from Great Models at a closeout priced $34.95.



Get one before the Japanese "visit" Pearl Harbor:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcar...em_num=CAZ6182


Our last selection of this special week is a Corgi 1:72 scale White 1, an Me 262 jet fighter flown by 133-victory ace Lt. Franz Schall - who, recruited by Major Walter Nowotny to Erprobungskommando in September, 1944, claimed all 17 of his Western Front victories flying the Me 262. Military Issue will fly it to your hanger for $26.95.



This limited edition, 1/72 scale die cast model features engraved panel lines; a cockpit with a glazed canopy and a figure of Schall; optional-position landing gear; authentic Kommando Nowotny markings; and more. 6¾" wingspan; includes a display stand.

Pick up your 30 mm cannon equipped first important jet fighter here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product...gory=Luftwaffe Aircraft

[KG_Jag]

Perhaps as little as 15 minutes after we left Stead on Friday, there was a horrible and tragic crash at the Reno Air Races. Today's newspaper reports that 9 have died and 69 were hurt. Of those 69 injured, 31 were admitted to hospital and 8 of those people are in critical condition. At least one helicopter on display at the show that might have seen action in Viet Nam was flown from the airfield to a local hospital with injured people. This week's picks are dedicated to those killed and injured in this tragedy.

Opening our selections this week is the Corgi 1:50 scale M4 Sherman "Team O' hara" from Buffalo Road Imports for $25.00.



After giving blood, click here:

http://www.constructionscalemodels.c...px?recid= 8081


In winter camo, we next feature the FORCES OF VALOR 1:32 scale WW2 KANONENWAGEN (HUNGARY) from Smalljoes for $35.99.





She's cold as cash for the victims' families--here:

http://smalljoes.com/cgi-bin/pgen.cg...&Item=FOV81510


Flying in salute to those left on the ground in the biplane class is the Corgi 1:48 scale Sopwith Camel RFC No 28 Sqn. William George Baker from Crossroads at $29.99.



Still flying here:

http://store.crossroadsdiecast.com/c248.html


Flying in the final heat is the unmodified Gemini Aces 1:72 scale U.S. Air Force P-51B Mustang "Berlin Express" from EZtoys priced at $27.99.



Photo-etched, spinning metal propellers
Rolling rubber tires
Movable control surfaces
Optional landing gear up/down configuration
Superior quality graphics
Stand included
All Metal


Wagging its wings here:

http://www.eztoys.com/u-s-air-force-...n-express.html