1/16 M113A1 / M113A1 ACAV 2 in 1 Kit

The M113 armoured personnel carrier is one of the most significant and widely used tracked vehicles in its class and is often regarded as one of the definitive armoured personnel carriers (APCs) of the second half of the 20th century. It was designed to transport infantry whilst protecting them from small-arms fire and shrapnel — hence the nickname ‘battle taxi’. Compared to the original version, the M113A1 featured a new power unit: the petrol engine was replaced by a diesel engine, which improved range and fuel economy whilst reducing the risk of fire.

During the Vietnam War, it became apparent that, under local conditions, the vehicle was often used more as an infantry fighting vehicle than as a mere transport. This need gave rise to the ACAV (Armoured Cavalry Assault Vehicle) variant: the main 12.7 mm heavy machine gun was fitted with a protected open emplacement featuring a shield for the gunner, whilst a pair of covered M60 machine guns were added to the rear. It is precisely this versatility that makes the original vehicle a rewarding subject — modellers can choose between a ‘pure’ transport vehicle and a combat-modified version from the battlefields of South-East Asia.

The Andy’s Hobby Headquarters kit in 1:16 scale (cat. no. AHHQ-009), produced in collaboration with Takom, is designed as a 2-in-1 model and allows you to build the vehicle either as an M113A1 or as the ACAV variant. According to the manufacturer and retailers, the pack contains a metal gun barrel, individual track links, a functional running gear (with movable suspension), an optional gun cover, photo-etched and clear parts, metal wire for detailing, a commander’s figure and several decal variants. The hatches can be assembled in both the open and closed positions, which facilitates the display of the vehicle and the possible recreation of the interior.

The large 1:16 scale provides scope for detailed surface work, highlighting rivets and panels, as well as for realistic operational soiling reflecting heavy off-road use — dust, mud and edge wear depending on the chosen environment. The pack does not contain the paints or adhesives required for assembly.