LVT Tracks

Hard Corps Models, 1/35 scale

FirstLook

Hard Corps Models was a new name to me, but their debut track set is a truly remarkable offering.

Hard Corps Models has produced a 1/35 scale set of tracks for LVT kits. LVT track links are quite complex, and must be even more challenging to produce in scale due to the distinctive high, wavy grip cast onto the outside of each track link. This track was specifically designed to operate on sand and soft ground.

Despite the challenges, Hard Corps Models' 1/35 scale LVT tracks are uncompromisingly authentic.

The set is presented as eight pre-assembled strips of individual track links, each length sealed into individual plastic bags. The links are made of a translucent blue material. I could not tell if this was some form of styrene plastic or resin. The casting is perfect, with no waste material or moulding imperfections present on the samples that I viewed.

The links appear to click together. They are quite delicate though, as two links separated when I tried to gently persuade the length of track to return to its individual bag.

Detail is just stunning. Both sides and the edges of the track links are faithfully rendered.

These tracks must be mind-bogglingly difficult to produce, although I have heard that they have been created using "3D printing technology" - a technology I confess that I am not familiar with. I am sure that this is the reason for the price tag of USD$89.95. The price probably reflects the labour-intensity (or the cost of the technology), and will also self-limit the market to a level that Hard Corps Models can actually produce.

Even so, there is little doubt that the price tag will be no barrier to the true Amtrak tragic.

Luke Pitt now has these tracks. I can't wait to see them installed on his model and painted up!

Highly Recommended.

Thanks to Hard Corps Models for the sample