DML 1/72 Long Range Desert Group Patrol Car w/Lewis Gun Kit First Look
By Cookie Sewell
| Date of Review | June 2012 | Manufacturer | DML |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Long Range Desert Group Patrol Car w/Lewis Gun | Scale | 1/72 |
| Kit Number | 7439 | Primary Media | 63 parts in grey styrene |
| Pros | First injection-molded kit of this vehicle in this scale; nicely done body and cab | Cons | Wheels only half molded with no backs |
| Skill Level | Basic | MSRP (USD) | $19.95 |
First Look
For many years one of the most popular of Tamiya’s kits in 1/35 scale has been their LRDG Chevrolet truck, based on a cut-down 1941 Chevrolet light truck with military body and sand tires. It is one of the few older kits in their inventory which is still a good seller when re-released and for which companies still produce after-market upgrade kits and figures.
DML has now offered a brand new version of this vehicle in 1/72 scale. It captures the personality of the ‘41 Chevy (which once again due to trademark demands is now called a “Patrol Car” rather than a Chevrolet truck) and the British military pattern body. It comes with two Enfield rifles, a Lewis gun with cooling jacket on a pedestal mount with separate drum, a “flimsy” of gas (only one!) and the rolled tarps on the front fenders. No radio is provided but it also comes with the lockers as separate parts, a sand channel and tent poles for the canvas.
The cab is neatly done with the modified grille shell and a false radiator front that mounts behind them to be visible. There are no pedals in the control area, nor any engine or transmission upper bits.
The chassis is simple with a one-piece driveline, separate springs and front axle, and separate exhaust. But the wheels are only half-molded with no back sides, which is surprising in this day and age with the molding skills DML possesses. Oddly enough a back side and wheel rim are clearly evident on the directions.
Finishing directions are included for two vehicles: “Te Aroha”, T Patrol, Libya 1943 in overall sand, and “Rotowhero”, R Patrol, Libya 1943 in pink and dark green. A set of Cartograf decals is included along with a number jungle for census numbers for other vehicles.
Overall there are enough shortcuts taken with the chassis to make it seem more of a wargamer’s model than a scale model, which is surprising.
Thanks to DML for the review sample.
Sprue Layout:
- A 18 Body, storage bins, fuel can, Lewis Gun and mount
- B 31 Cab, details, kit, weapons
- C 14 Chassis, wheels, tires, exhaust