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Dragon WagonTamiya
Review and Images by Brett Green
This is not a model. It is a demonstration of power. Tamiya is flexing its considerable styrene muscles and claiming its place as unchallenged emperor of the military modelling world. "Who would dare…" the box seems to shout "to tackle such a subject in this totally uncompromising way". Tamiya and Dragon have been slugging it out over the last decade or so - to the great benefit of the modelling public. From my point of view, Dragon have had the edge in originality but Tamiya have reacted with higher quality products. However, Tamiya's subject matter has continued to tread safer, more conservative ground. Until today. Tamiya's Dragon Wagon is (almost literally) breathtaking. It is Tamiya's first truly multi-media military model - see the parts list in the table above. It is not a model for the feint of heart. The contents are daunting if only for their sheer volume. In summary, though, the Dragon Wagon shines with typical Tamiya class. Apart from replacing a few two-dimensional handles here and there, this is a model that all but the most dedicated detailer will build straight from the box.
Everything that opens and shuts can either be positioned, or actually operates. The latter include winches, hoists, ramps and even steerable front wheels. Detail is equivalent to Tamiya's best and most recent. Imagine their Greyhound multiplied by ten! The cab is beautifully equipped. Winches are mini-models in their own right. Sub-floor detail, including woodgrained stowage areas, is provided. Truly spectacular. A four-man seated crew is supplied. One GI is even equipped with a magazine for amusement!
Decals are another highlight. Four options are available. The colour "pinup art" supplied with one option really looks like its been painted. I'm looking forward to seeing this quality of production in Tamiya's future aircraft releases! The instructions maintain the remarkable standard. A 28-page book contains a few pages of history, a list of parts, 39 construction steps and five diagrams illustrating loading techniques and suggested loads. The only shortcoming I've found so far are some annoying ejector pin marks on the inside of a number of parts. Unfortunately, these parts include the armoured visors which will usually be posed with the inside facing out. Oh well - there's room for some modelling skill yet… The kit will almost certainly build up with the same level of logic and ease as all of Tamiya's recent offerings.
And think of all the diorama possibilities. So many possible loads - Panzer IV or Panther, two light tanks at once, Shermans. The list is endless. Finally, is this kit expensive? I guess it depends on your personal budget, but it sure is good value! How many of us have spent over $100 in accessories on a $30 kit? I hope its not just me…
Thanks to Ray Blythe for his selfless sacrifice in forwarding the kit for review! Review Text, Models and Images Copyright © 1998 by Brett Green
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Other innovations
include chrome inserts for headlights/spotlights, perforated brass wraparound muffler, and
the most realistic tyres I have yet seen in a model. These are not vinyl - they are real,
hollow rubber tyres. They even smell right!
This is simply the best
military model that I can ever recall seeing. Even if you are not excited by the subject
matter, you should at least look at this kit. It will be a long time until you
see a more powerful demonstration of the model manufacturer's craft.