I wanted to post an update on how this is going. I have been focusing alot on the L-33, but also on the Makmat.
Quite a bit of the L-33 is done. I am working on the gun right now. For the Makmat, i am modelling the mortar currently. I will continue to chip away at this and will periodically post updates. Once these two are done, i will start working on the M50, which i have not done much at all with so far.
Yes, 1/35. I am working to make them as accurate as i can. The issue is that i have not found great drawings of these vehicles, lots of photos and some dimensions yes, but not super accurate 3-view drawings. That is complicating it a little bit and forcing occasional rework of the model. They are a labor of love
Surely there are people here who can help? I look at some of the posts in Op Iron Swords thread, someone must have access to the museum vehicles. And ability to measure for you.
I have had someone reach out and offer a great walkaround of the L-33 and some help with the m-50 gun, but i have still come up short on drawings of the actual vehicles.
the best i have found thus far is this one form Hubert Cance.
The issue with this one is that it depicts a ‘Bet’ gun on a short hulled sherman (M4A1 hull). He states that but you can also tell by the distance between the wheel boagies. There is a common misconception that the straight rear hulled (Bet) guns were on short hulls, while the guns with the rear step (Alef) were on long hulls, this is wrong. Both versions were on long hulls, either A4 hulls or hulls with plates added to lengthen them to the A4 length. The Bet was created to make more room inside for the gun crew.
I just wanted to provide an example of what i am seeing when i look for information.
Another Update. I have been focusing on the Makmat more than the L33 lately. Alot of progress, but i am now into the nitty gritty detail work.
I have modelled the mortar in three positions, firing (shown), loading and transport. The rear and side bins are done.
I am working on some of the internal storage bins, and then will move onto the rear wall, the equipment mounts on the sidewalls, and then shortly thereafter on to test prints
OK, it is up. I will be posting printed photos to the listing soon, but the second print came out well. The only issue was that i went a little too aggressive on the hollowing of the ammo containers and some collapsed, which i can work with. I fixed that before posting the files.
If you would like a custom variation on this, let me know and i can get them together.