My friends, it's done (Patreon)

Great news everyone! The big cat is ready for painting! 

The tracks were the usual bad Friulmodel quality, EVERYTHING had to be drilled out, but hey it's a straight-forward task, I spent about 2 hours doing it, just slumped back in my chair, feet on my workbench, listening to a podcast, so it wasn't the worst thing ever... and then the assembly was a matter of about 45 minutes for each track. 

Takom provides you with this black colored jig where you insert the sprocket and idler and it's to aid you with assembling the plastic tracks. This came in handy for determining the correct length of each track run. Now they might seem a bit on the stiff side, but I'm keeping myself some wiggle room for later, as they can "grow" in length after they're weathered. And of course, I'll be able to adjust their tension with the idler wheel if needed. 

Now, can we just appreciate what an absolute UNIT this model is with tracks in place??? 😁

Regarding stowage: yes, there will be stowage! Most likely even some camouflage from pine tree branches! But I'm keeping all of that for later, I'll most probably create and deal with stowage after the chipping stage, or maybe even after that. I'm gonna try a slightly different approach this time. 

Whew, anyway, super stoked on how this cat turned out!!! 

Now I need to put the video together, but before that, today is new bike day!!! 😊😊😊 I'm expecting the delivery man any minute... what a great way to start a week, finishing a model and getting a new sled! 😊