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In-Box Review
135
T-55 AM2B
T-55 AM2B Conversion Set
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by: Jim Starkweather [ STAFF_JIM ]

This is the second conversion Legend released and recommends using the T-55 Tamiya kit as a starting point. This one also lists the Friul/Model Kasten T-72 track as a needed component for the full conversion. We reviewed the other T-55 Enigma release a few days ago. This kit is a little more complex and slightly more costly.

The T-55AM2B is a post-cold war export from the Czech Republic. It has several modern upgrades including turret brow armour, laser rangefinder over the main gun, rubber side skirts, and thicker front hull armour than the T-55A.

There appears to be a good amount of photo reference online for the AM2B, however not a lot of textual reference was found. There is a section in Osprey book Modelling the T-55 Main Battle Tank on this tank though. That section and model was done by Graeme Davidson. We actually reviewed that book as well.

The Kit

There is a considerable amount of resin in this kit. As you can see from the photos of the instructions below the side armor, back deck, turret, and front glacis plate are all replaced with resin. As with the other Legend conversions I have been reviewing this one is no different in terms of the quality of the resin castings. There is a lot of detail to be observed here and should be evident in the accompanying photos. I would like to point out that this is not likely a project for first-time resin modelers. However I think most of the challenges in this type of kit will be with more simple part prep. Meaning getting some of the pieces removed from their casting bits and getting them sanded and ready for use on the model.

This kit comes with a large photo-etch sheet. There are a lot of small straps and mounting parts for the extra fuel tanks and other add-ons. There are also several lengths of wire, and string for tubes, hosing and cables.This conversion has no decals.

The instructions are in two full color sheets (front and back). For the most part Legend shows the modeler the final location of parts without a lot of info about assembly or order of operation.

Conclusions

Since I am not seeing much in the way of alternate conversion kits for this variant, I am going to go out on a limb here and theorize that Legend has beaten everyone else to the punch on this one. If so this will obviously be a bit of a no-brainer for modelers interested in doing this one up. As with most Legend sets, cost may be an issue for some. But unless your goal is to scratch-build the conversion this kit will likely save you loads of time, money and energy on making an AM2B.

SUMMARY
Highs: Quality resin casts and details. The only game in town?
Lows: Cost may put off some modelers. Instructions could offer more assembly details.
Verdict: Overall another nice conversion set from Legend. If you want a distinctive T-55 this may be for you.
  Scale: 1:35
  Mfg. ID: LF1223
  Suggested Retail: $75 (USD)
  Related Link: T-55 AM2B at Prime Portal
  PUBLISHED: Apr 26, 2011
  NATIONALITY: Czech Republic
NETWORK-WIDE AVERAGE RATINGS
  THIS REVIEWER: 89.91%
  MAKER/PUBLISHER: 87.61%

Our Thanks to Legend Productions!
This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.

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About Jim Starkweather (staff_Jim)
FROM: NEW HAMPSHIRE, UNITED STATES

I started building models in 1971 when I was 6. My first model was a 1/32 P-40 Warhawk. Revell I believe. From there I moved onto the standard cars, Apollo spacecraft, and other kid orientated kits. I don't know what got me started on Armor. I must have seen a Monogram tank kit one day and said "Mom...

Copyright ©2021 text by Jim Starkweather [ STAFF_JIM ]. All rights reserved.



Comments

Looks like a nice set. It doesnt include the correct engine access doors though for a proper Czech vehicle. It would have been nice to have that as well. The Tamiya T-55 has the Russian set up. I have the Panzershop T-55AM2B set and its ok, but it was designed for the Esci T-55s and the details are clunky at best, the side skirts are a nice highlight of the set though. I bought the Type 59 II Iraqi (its not really a T-59 II) set and its sort of a let down for the cost. It doesn't include the correct gunsight or mantlet and the Chinese MG is different than the Russian Dushka by having the smooth barrel. I hope Legends will continue to do more with the Tamiya T-55 and maybe even the T-72?????? Chris
MAY 18, 2011 - 06:38 AM
Agree, but what's worse in my opinion is that the wading hatches for the engine deck is moulded shut. You can either build a vehicle prepared for wading or a museum piece. ... or you have to rebuild the deck yourself... Cherrs, /E
MAY 18, 2011 - 11:41 PM
Thats Type-69-II. I bought the Verlinden one and it is very nice. They used the old Airdale castings as the master (mastered by Andy Taylor) and changed a few things but all in all its very nice. They left out the Type 54 HMG and Chicom Mantlet as well opting to use the incorrect Tamiya parts. I've looked at the Legends one and am glad I went with the Verlinden set as it appears more complete and correct. The only thing about the Legends set vice the Verlinden one I liked was the forward turret boom armor. Verlinden left this out of their set so if you want to model this you are going to have to scratch it. As for this set reviewed I have the CMK set and will stick with it. It has problems but nothing that can't be fixed or seriously bothers me. Roy
MAY 19, 2011 - 02:51 AM
   
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