Metal Earth: M1 Abrams Tank

Powered by a gas turbine, which means it sounds less like a tank and more like a departing aircraft.

The Abrams has been the American main battle tank since 1980 and Australia has run them since 2007. The turbine engine is the oddity: smooth, very quiet on the move compared with a diesel, and monstrously thirsty. The angular turret is shaped the way it is because of what is inside the armour, which remains classified, so every model of it is a model of the outside only.

Flat armour surfaces make for a clean, quick build by the standards of this range. Laser-cut stainless steel, fold the parts, twist the tabs, no glue and no paint. The track runs and the turret basket are the parts that want attention. Tweezers recommended. Bare steel finish on a stand.

Perfect for: Anyone who has ever tried to explain to somebody why a jet engine in a tank is a reasonable idea.

Laser-cut steel | No glue required | Age 14+