VS TANK 1/24 M1A2 ABRAMS REVIEW

Backyard-Tanks sent along an RTR set of VS Tank's latest upgrade version of the M1A2 Abrams - Infrared Combat version in 1/24 scale. The M1A2 Abrams has been part of the VS Tank product line-up since 2004, since then it has been re-issued a number of times in order to incorporate improvements which VS Tank are always developing. In this case, this latest Abrams comes fitted with a recoiling barrel, now a standard feature on IR Combat versions of VS Tanks. Interestingly, VS Tank have decided not to incorporate an adjustable volume control as included with the KV-2 and Sherman, so for the Abrams, it's full volume only.

The window boxed RTR set comes with a factory pre tested M1A2 tank , controller, instructions and accessories which include a commander figure and 30 and 50 cal. turret mounted MG's, as well as a pair of antennae.

LIGHT LENSES

TRACKS AND SUSPENSION

The M1A2 comes fitted with detailed rubber tracks, the guide horns fit into slots along the middle of the drive sprockets and the tank does not therefore rely on the sprocket teeth to turn the tracks. The road wheels have individually sprung suspension arms with a mixture of resistance settings, probably with driving performance and track retaining ability in mind. Return rollers are not present except for moulded on representations however this does not affect performance and the missing rollers can't be seen under the side armour. Running this tank both indoors and on lawn I didn't experience any track throwing issues even during tight turns. Given the relatively heavy weight of this, the largest VS Tank reviewed here so far, I was impressed to find it held onto it's tracks so well.

IR COMBAT

The hide-away, clear, IR sensor receiver is visible in the photo
The positioning of the sensor on this particular tank renders it vulnerable to incoming IR fire from most all directions if the commander is removed and the hatches are closed. This is in contrast to the permanent shielding from some directions by fixtures on some other VS Tanks. The fact that various VS Tanks have different 'sweet spots' and shielded areas makes for a more interesting battle in my opinion, one must use tactics and understand the enemy!

The way the VS Tank IR combat system works has been described in an earlier review MORE>>
In the case of the flashing 'battle damage' light indicators, on the Abrams there are four lenses located around the underside of the turret.

I do have another note to add however regarding the 40 shot limit. Although a reset is required to continue firing the main gun after the 40 shot limit is reached, you can continue to use the machine gun weapon to inflict damage on enemy tanks, so don't surrender when you run out of main gun ammo!