The Little World

The Academy kit of this truck has two build options, differing only in a winch and a machine gun mount on the cab roof. I eschewed this and opted for the version associated with the Red Ball Express. There are plenty of stores on the sprue trees and a big open bed in the back.

I have gone rather overboard with the cargo as the kit provides three fitted stands for 500 lb bombs. Plus machine gun ammunition in crates as well as gasoline drums and cans. Frankly, there is not enough space for it all… and It would be a nervous driver who sped over the bumps with what appear to be three fused 500 lb GP bombs.

I can say with glee that the military mojo has returned – or at least as far as I have it at any time. Other builders make tank after tank and soft-skin vehicles by the score. I would do so too if I could get kits of appropriate subjects. There are a few, but not as many Air Force support vehicles as you might think, and very few of them North American profiles. I would really welcome 1:76 or 1:72 civilian cars of the 30’s and 40’s – these I would build in great numbers.

Purists will note that the kingpins in the front axle of the Federal have gone. This is the result of driving the back roads of Alberta in the spring thaw. This kit does not sit on all wheels equally. I have realised than nothing I make ever will. Even the Wellington bomber I made turned out to be a tail sitter.

All flaws aside, this is perfect for the 40’s North American scene. I shall haunt the shops searching for companion pieces.