Leclerc, Tank, 1/72 scale model
Leclerc, Tank, 1/72 scale model
Leclerc, Tank, 1/72 scale model

More images posted by Aaron Skinner on: https://finescale.com/product-info/kit-reviews/2024/05/academy-172-scale-french-army-char-leclerc-plastic-model-kit

The first thing that catches my eye in the photos of the Academy 1/72 scale Char Leclerc model kit is the paint job. The camo scheme looks great, capturing that iconic French military vibe. Aaron Skinner has clearly put a lot of effort into it, with a balance of sharp contrasts and blended edges that bring the model to life.

There’s a bit of weathering visible here and there, particularly on the turret. It’s subtle but effective, lending a touch of realism as if this tank has seen some action but isn’t overly battered. In the realm of model building, less is often more, and Aaron seems to have nailed that here.

Now, if we talk a bit about the real Char Leclerc, it’s one of France’s main battle tanks, known for its advanced technology and modular armor. As far as I remember, it’s been in service since the early ’90s and was a big leap forward in terms of mobility and firepower. This model captures that legacy quite neatly.

Another detail worth mentioning is the decals. They’re applied perfectly, aligning sharply with the model’s surfaces, which isn’t always easy, especially in this scale. It shows a steady hand and a lot of patience. I can only imagine the precision required to make everything so neat, especially on such a small canvas.

Seeing this model makes me think about the assembly process. I wonder how Aaron tackled the challenges that come with 1/72 scale models. Did the tiny parts cooperate, or was there a moment of frustration with a rogue piece?

Overall, what stands out about this Char Leclerc kit is its attention to detail and the thoughtful execution of its paint and weathering. It’s the sort of model that really holds up to close inspection, and I think that’s what makes it such a fascinating piece.