DML 1/72
M1045 TOW and M1046 TOW w/ASK

DML continues with its "one plus one" – double – kit of the HMMWV series with the M1045 or M1046 versions, better known as the TOW carriers.

This one consists of the two base vehicles from Kit No. 7294 but with all of the machine gun options removed from the sprues and in their place two new sprue sets, one for the TOW launcher and turret mounting and the other for the missile racks and stowage. The launcher is one of DML's slide molded parts, so it is hollow all the way through. This helps if you want to leave it unloaded, or a missile tube is provided for loading it. Four spare tubes (six are shown on the rack ends, but since only four will be seen, that's all you get) and the ground mount round out the TOW parts.

The kit provides two different versions of the HMMWV, so the modeler must pay close attention as it is difficult to tell them apart. The basic M1025 body is identical to the M1045, e.g. without winch, other than the internal bits for the TOW launcher and missile stowage. It has more slots in the lower rock panel body moldings than the M1046 with winch version fitted with ASK armor, so note that there are two body styles. Each vehicle has a separate set of doors and windshields as well. Most of the rest of the parts are interchangeable less the doors and roofs.

The chassis is well detailed but only takes a few assemblies to complete, and compliments go to DML's engineers for that work. Each vehicle has a shifter and case selector lever as well as a SINCGARS radio and KY-57 crypto box provided for it as well (part A13, one assembly in the front seat area.)

Some things from the earlier kits have been corrected. Originally the tailgate could be positioned opened or closed, but the "turtleback" hatch above was fixed. Now that part is provided separately (D2) so the interior can be displayed. However, the headlights still come as grey styrene even though separate parts; I personally recommend replacing them with MV Lenses or similar parts, but at least DML has been kind enough to have the mounts pre-drilled for you.

The tires are in a grey vinyl type plastic, so they will have to be painted. I do not have much experience with how well this works, but there have been problems with DML vinyl tires on their 1/35 kits when painted that appears to lead to cracking. However, given their recent DS vinyl product, this may no longer be a problem.

Finishing options are provided for two vehicles in Iraq , both in "Euro" tricolor, but the M1046 has sand color ASK upgrade parts. Note that there are two decal sheets with this kit, one for the missiles and one for the vehicle. Both are rather extensive for this scale.

Thanks to Freddie Leung of DML for the review sample.