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You might not expect this model to be as large as it is. In 1:24th scale, as most of Franklin Mint's auto replicas are, the diecast reveals the true size of America's most awesome fighting machine. Sixteen inches long, including the main gun, the model spans the length of two modern day Corvette models. You won't expect its weight and heft either.
What can you expect for $195? The detail, overall, is really good. First, the paint is remarkably well done. In camo, the blend is medium brown and black on light tan. All flat and non-reflective as it should be. The style of camouflage pattern is reminiscent of the battle tanks operating in the European theatre. The tracks and road wheels turn freely. The turret transverses 360° and the main cannon moves up and down with audible clicks. The manually operated machine gun moves up and down and can be rotated 360°. The commander's machine gun does not pivot but elevates and descends as the 1:1 does. This gun can be fully automated from within the tank on the real Abrams. Both turret hatches open. Unlike the FM's Sherman tank, the turret is not removable. Too bad, as that is one of the nicer features of that diecast, affording a nice view of the tank's interior quarters. Only a sparse view of the turret quarters is available through the Abrams' two operational hatches.
Good detail is offered with miniature chains on the automated machine gun, rear panels of the tank body, separately fashioned cables on either side of the turret and twin wire antennae. Additionally, wire grab handles are found on the tank and it does have a removable engine hatch cover. While some parts in the engine bay are plastic and not too lifelike, good wiring exists there and also on the commander's machine gun. The hatch is cleverly held in place by tiny magnets. The fender flaps, on the leading edge of the front fenders, are flexible, just like the genuine tank, a nice touch. I rate this at 4 stars.
The issue price is $195.
(09/28/2003)
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