This will be the build log for my 1/35 RFM M1a2 Sep v.3 with full interior. I will be using the RFM v.3 kit with their M1a2 interior kit.
I intend to start cutting styrene in a few weeks but here is what I have been working on in the meantime.
The kits interior is decent but lacking much detail as well as all the v.3 unique parts. Originally I intended on scratchbuilding them but then decided designing them myself in CAD would be much easier.
Thanks guys! I am so excited to get this party started.
There are now new players in this game… @HeavyArty I am in contact with TREX Studio’s and I am providing him with my files to be made into new detail sets for the Abrams.
This also means I will be using TREX tracks, lights, loaders hatch, and the common upgrade set on my model along with all my printed parts.
I ascribe to the “Why buy when I can use someone else’s for free?” philosophy. I’ve got enough storage problems anyway, without introducing a whole new setup into the house.
One word of caution: when working with a vendor or retailer (whether it’s TREX Studio, Elefant, FC MT, Legend Productions, etc.), be sure you get paid first before sending over your CAD files, which you’ve put a lot of resources into.
I heard that at least 2 designers (one directly and another indirectly) provided a vendor with their designs, then the vendor did not compensate them, while the 3D prints based on their designs were sold by the vendor. Even having a written contract may not be enforceable if the vendor is located in a foreign country, where there is no reliable legal system. I am not saying that TREX would do this to you, but I’d lean toward caution.
Here’s my experience - three retailers approached me for my CAD files a few years ago - honestly, I was flattered because I’m more of a novice. I found out from a designer in Canada that one company had the reputation of not paying the designers, and the communication was inconsistent. The arrangement never worked out luckily, then I stayed away. Two other companies low-balled me too much - it was like 10% of the sale price each time they make a sale? Plus, who knows they’ll be honest about how many prints they would have sold and keep a good record of it?
In the end, it turned out to be less headache and more profitable for me to sell the files via cults3D - a passive income source, and beneficial to the modeling community who already have their own 3D printers or have a friend who can 3D print because many of the physical 3D prints are just outrageously expensive.
