Airfix GMC M10 Tank Destroyer 1:35 – build review

Full review with Ben Skipper

Airfix’s recent collaborative foray into 1:35 with Academy moulds is providing modellers with some great creative opportunities, especially those who familiarity with the brand is greater than their products awareness. As kits go I really do think Airfix’s procurement and marketing teams have played a blinder with the release of the GMC M10. The kit is a treasure trove of beautifully presented and cast parts; including masses of spares. Combined with the wonderfully designed instructions and decals, whose quality is becoming synonymous with Airfix’s burgeoning quality, the modeller is treated to a game changer.

Moulded in a dark green plastic the kits is spread over 12 sprues, including a small Photo Etch fret, as well as thread, vinyl tracks and two piece hull. On initially opening the box this can initially seem overwhelming, but after taking time to read the instructions your soon realise Airfix have included at least four build configurations.

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A quick note from Geoff C…
I shot an HD video review of this kit where you can see all the box contents and you’ll find that in Armour-Here Now-Kits-Airfix.

And here’s a sneak peek at how Ben’s M10 turned out – very well as it happens!

Over to you Ben…

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The moulding is sharp, but occasionally the inherited moulds are punctured with awkward sink marks. Whilst in no way detracting from the quality or ease of the build, and can be easily ignored, they can provide the enthusiast with an opportunity to experiment with filling techniques if nothing else. Some of the parts fit can be a little tight, but this is easily over come with judicious use of the emery board. My final observation is the proliferation of mould lines. Whilst for some parts, such as towing eyes, hook etcetera this works in the modellers favour, for others it means a few minutes of cleaning up prior to construction.

Construction, as you will, see is fairly straightforward and a great kit can be achieved by the modeller regardless of skill. Indeed this is a wonderfully forgiving kit upon which the novice can truly cut their teeth on without loosing interest. In fact, as the kit grows it really does draw you in, help in part by the wonderfully detailed interior.

Before moving onto the build shots I’ll say that this kit is a most welcome addition to Airfix’s Tank Park and sits beautifully with other releases, both current and planned. I’m secretly hoping Airfx keep the ball rolling with this range and I’m sure will add their own work soon enough.

Construction…