Canadian Leopard C1 conversion, by Maple Leaf Models

by Graeme Davidson

Maple Leaf Models continues to add to their line of modern Canadian equipment with their release of the Leopard C1 conversion. Designed for the older, but still quite nice, Italeri kit, this multimedia conversion, released in conjunction with Track-Jam models is a quick fix to bring your Leopard 1 A4 kit up to Canadian Specs.

The conversion consists of 22 parts, and include resin, acrylic, and pre-formed brass parts. The bulk of the kit focuses on turret modifications – in fact it includes a completely re-cast welded turret.

The casting is terrific - anyone familiar with Hobbyfan will see that this is cast to the same standard. A great feature of this kit is the preformed and primed LLTV cover. I've included a picture here so you can see the detail of this fine bit of workmanship.

Too add to the detail of the LLTV itself, MLM have included a Grief Model's Lens (similar to MV lenses) which will definitely make for an eye catching detail. Arguably the most impressive aspect of this conversion are the instructions. At seven pages printed in full colour, and written by a modeler, they are without a doubt the best cottage-industry directions I've seen, and in fact surpass many mainstream kit manufactures in their comprehensive coverage of
the Canadian Leopard and the conversion itself.

Available from Maple Leaf Models for CAN$ 40. http://www.mapleleafmodels.com/Modern.html

TrackJam release available with HKCW individual track links, Modelpoint L7 105mm barrel, and Canadian Decal Sheet. http://www.trackjam.com/

Review and pictures by Graeme Davidson