ICM 1/72nd BTR-60P and BTR-60PB By Matt Bittner

The Kits

The ICM BTR-60s - BTR-60P and BTR-60PB - do have two sprue in common. The first, naturally, is the sprue that holds the tire halves. The second common sprue is sprue "B" that holds the smaller details, including the suspension pieces and wheels. Sprue "A" is the only difference between the two kits - in actuality both kits also share the same decal sheet.

All parts are exceptionally molded - everything to scale and quality is high with only a minimum of flash. In fact, you'll have to be careful with removing some of the smaller parts from the sprue, as they are thin enough that they will break with mishandling. You'll definitely want to use a razor saw instead of the traditional nippers.

Construction of both kits follow the same basic pattern - assemble parts on the lower hull, including the suspension, followed by adding the upper hull to the lower hull and finishing it all up with adding all the detail to the upper hull.

The BTR-60PB will actually be the easier kit to assemble as it is entirely enclosed and the only interior to add is the two, front seats. The BTR-60P is a bit more complicated in that the entire top is open, exposing the entire interior. For those who were wondering, these kits do come with all hatches being separate.

As I mentioned, all parts are too scale. Some people may want to replace some of the plastic pieces, such as handrails and the like, with metal rod. It may be easier to actually replace these parts instead of carefully removing them from the sprue and cleaning up the parts.

In addition to the separate hatches, all tools ("pioneer equipment") also come separate, which not only helps with assembly, but also enhances the appearance of the finished model. It's sometimes difficult to have molded-on tools appear realistic.

Now, I have heard there are some accuracy issues with these kits. Be that as it may - I don't have anything on these vehicles to check against - these kits shouldn't take that long to assemble, if building straight from the box. Especially with the BTR-60PB assembly is pretty straightforward and simple. These are definite kits to use to show off your finishing techniques.

Conclusion

All in all, accuracy issues aside, these are very nicely done kits. If you're adamant about accuracy then check at different small scale sites (such as On The Way!) for more information. However, if you are looking for a modern piece of Russian equipment, relatively easy to build, then look no further than the ICM BTR-60s. For that reason alone they are definitely recommended.

My thanks to ICM for the review kits.