Started on my Herritagecon 2025 project. Converting RFM’s 2A6 to a Canadian 2A6M, was originally planning to do it up as one in Ukrainian service but I figured the Canadian one is more interesting.
Using the 2A6 Kit with the separate Interior set.
Picked up the Leopard Workshop conversion kit, mud flaps and Real Model Canadian T Antenna mounts to aid in the conversion. The LW 2A6M conversion provides the latest 2A6M spec for Canada as of 2017. They are now undergoing upgrades to bring them to the “C2” spec.
Knocked off the first 10 steps. So far instructions are lacking in some areas when it comes to attachment points and there’s a lot of ejector pin markings on the plastic.
the hull ammunition bin seems bereft of any attempt at separation from the crew. The bulkhead scales at about 20-25mm, and the bin is really ann open rack. OOF! Or is there more after the first 10 steps?
I’v seen other commentary about detail in RFM instructions, and the plethora of ejector pin markings. Is this generally common? I’m acquiring a late-production RFM Abrams kit as a donor to another reject.
Your buildout looks excellent, despite your concerns. Well Done!
This was apparent during the Ukraine conflict when Leos were being taken out due to the practically zero armour protection for that ammo next to the driver. Not sure if more modern Leo’s have had upgrades in that area ?
I got to spend two weeks with the Bundeswehr in 2002 and when we got on a Leo2A4 we noticed the open ammo immediately. There are pics of Turkish Leo’s missing the front left after a hit in the front.
This really surprises me: a late generationMBT with direct exposure of ammunition to the crew.
The turret has a blast shield, and blow-off panels (BOPs). I’d have found ways to wet-stow that complex next to the driver. The Abrams has limited (3-4 rounds) in compartments low in the hull. These too have BOPs.
So far as I can see there is no additional protection for the driver. Seems like not the greatest position in the world to be seated next to 27 120mm rounds.
This is my 3rd RFM kit and this one feels the worst in terms of ejector pin marks. Same goes for the instructions but I think that’s due to the interior, the M4a3e8 with interior was similarly confusing although it was simpler overall.
Progress continues and the lower hill interior is mostly finished. The first bits from the LW conversion are used. Additional belly armour and the updated reverse cameras as well as attachment points for the rear bar armour mounts.
Hull is mostly finished. The Leopard Workshop kit is designed for the Tamiya A6 which was an earlier A5 hull. The RFM kit is much closer to the A6 spec Canada uses and requires less modifications to it which is nice.
