1:50th Scale Komatsu PC450LC Tracked Excavator

This is the new 1:50th scale Komatsu PC450LC tracked excavator with short boom from Universal Hobbies.

The first thing you notice about the model is the amount of detail. This model looks fantastic inside the box and it is only when you remove it that the dissapointment sets in. While I cannot deny there is an amazing level of detail on this model, the fact that much of the model is made from plastic is very dissapointing. The bucket looks out of scale for a large excavator (Possably a cost saving as it is the same bucket that is fitted to the PC210) and the entire boom is plastic, which, on my model is twisted out of alignment. The main body is metal with the detailing parts plastic while the undercarriage is plastic with linked metal tracks. The visible crosshead screws on the boom are a really bad idea, especially with all the detail as it just looks wrong.

Now that I have got that said, the hydraulic pipework from the pumps to the cylinders looks great with all the check valve detail added. The cab interior is finely detailed with all controls visible through the clear windows, including the Komatsu logo on the seat. The cab can be tilted to about 15 degrees although there is no resistance so it does not stay tilted.

The cab exterior has windscreen wipers, lights, grab rails, access steps and rear view mirrors fitted and there is a warning beacon fitted on the roof along with debris protection for the front and roof windows. The boom can be adjusted by removing the lower two screws (Pictures show the boom in a more conventional digging arrangement).

The paint finish is good with all warning and safety markings added, including inside the cab. While the model looks superb, the fact that so much plastic has been used really spoils what could have been one of the best and most wanted Komatsu models to date.