Firefly Vc
Here we go!
The kit includes a good number of runners, PE, metal and 3D printed parts.
There are no less than 3 runners just for the tracks.
The wheels are always the time consuming bit on tanks!
Loving the way the wheels build.
The detail here is beautiful.
Wheels ready for fitting look like little motorbikes
Having built dozens of these over the years it’s amazing how familiar the Sherman is to me. This is very fortunate as Dragon Models instructions are somewhat questionable, with important bits and steps overlooked, incorrectly numbered parts and a distinct lack of clear guidance on where some pieces even go!
The main elements of the Firefly are now together ready for painting.
I still have the tracks of which there look to be over 100 pieces, but that’s for later!
I still have the tracks of which there look to be over 100 pieces, but that’s for later!
I know I should probably have just gone with Olive Green but I want this to look 100% British and thus US Sherman colours are out. I've, therefore, gone for AK11373 Khaki Green No.3. This is the green that the British Army used during WW2.
Time for the tracks. These are the most detailed I have ever attempted and there are no flexible track alternatives!
I first made up the tracks in batches of 5 sections made of 13 parts.
164 parts and this is just one side!
Day 3 on these tracks and the build goes on!
I have never known anything like these from Dragon models. I’ve not counted all the bits needed but I can’t think there will be less than 300.
It took around 500 pieces over 5 days to construct these tracks. While, I’m all for adding a bit more realism, I think Dragon Models lost the plot here. ?♂️
The instructions were less than helpful and eventual fitting around the rear and forward drive wheels appears all wrong.
The instructions were less than helpful and eventual fitting around the rear and forward drive wheels appears all wrong.
Well, I couldn’t leave those tracks looking like that after all ?♂️
Another couple of hours stripping them down and using fuse wire, superglue and a lot of trimming I’ve created a more realistic look.
I’ve also interviewed a 3DGizmo figure for the tank commander role. The Dragon Models figure is built, but I’m not sure he’s going to make the grade. Will see how both shape up as the build continues.
Decals applied and next, the fun weathering bit.
Finally! Dragon Models 1:35 scale British Sherman Firefly Vc in the markings of 13/18th Royal Hussars, 27th Armoured Brigade, Normandy 1944.
3DGizmo figure
Using Vallejo and AK Acrylics, Abteilung 502 oils, MIG Pigments, 3DGizmo figure and scratch built camo netting, apart from the 500 piece track design, this has been a joy to build!
I think that camo netting works ?
This completes my 1:35 scale D-Day80 AFV model collection … what next ?
Kommentare
18 22 May, 13:25
Carlos CisnerosWhen standard Sherman's were rebuilt into Fireflies in British workshops, they would have been repainted into the British Olive Drab SCC 15.
24 May, 02:38
Jonathan Read-BoneIt looks like my workshop only had tins of the Khaki Green available 🤷♂️. Ive not come across British Olive Drab. How did it compare to the US Army's version? Then again, I note that my bottle of Vallejo Olive Green has no nationality. Either way, I'm so far liking the different look and feel of this Khaki tone and when sat alongside a US Sherman it will stand out as being a little different which is definitely what I want 😊
24 May, 07:56
Carlos CisnerosThe British version is greener in color compared to the US shade. I know that lighting will change how it looks.
AK makes Olive Drab SCC 15 in both their Real Color and 3rd Gen lines, as does Mig Ammo. But yes, it should certainly look different next to a US Sherman in color. What paints are you using? You mentioned tins…. Humbrol? Revell? Xtracolor?
I must add that your Firefly is looking real good so far!
24 May, 15:49
Jonathan Read-BoneThanks Carlos. My go to paints are Vallejo, but for the khaki green, I've found a WW2 set of AK paints which have sprayed really nicely.
24 May, 18:04
Carlos CisnerosI've been looking at trying those AK acrylics when I can find some. Nice to hear some firsthand feedback on them. Their Real Color line is fabulous for airbrushing when thinned with Mr Leveling Thinner.
24 May, 20:31
Album info
Dragon’s 1:35 scale Firefly Vc
