The ËLAND was the first scratch-built model that became a resin kit and is probably my favorite model. During the fateful lockdown of 2020, and the hours spent putting my daughter to sleep in her crib, the idea began to take shape in my mind. Nights turned into hours of development, modeling, and experimenting with new techniques. Its construction took about a year, and my unique method of direct building—without plans or prior sketches—made the entire process a continuous trial-and-error journey. Additionally, I faced my first attempts at casting, which limited the geometry and complexity of the parts I was able to reproduce. Undoubtedly, it was a challenge, but the result left me more than satisfied.

A four-legged mech designed as a high-mobility support platform for carrying large artillery pieces. The legs provide excellent mobility for movement while also ensuring great stability and the ability to absorb the recoil from various artillery pieces. The feet and pads are capable of firmly anchoring to the terrain and the front counterweight on the chassis effectively balances the vehicle.

The mech is designed to be operated by a single pilot/gunner positioned at the front, with the option for remote operation. The front section housing the pilot is protected by reactive armor and can be ejected as a single piece if the mech is compromised.

In this 171/0 version, it is equipped with a high-penetration magnetic rail cannon designed for all types of armored targets. The weapon has demonstrated offensive capabilities, even against stationary objects in low orbit. The entire ammunition feed process is fully automated via an interchangeable drum system. Due to the considerable weight of the cannon, the mech features an asymmetrical design to optimize mass distribution.

A rotary mini nuclear reactor, configured in a scorpion-tail design, powers both the unit and the magnetic weapon while remaining reasonably isolated from the vehicle.

The model consists of 128 parts casted in high-quality polyurethane resin. Each piece is attached to a resin sprue, necessary for pouring the resin into the mold, which must be removed using a modeling saw. Each part is numbered for easy identification. Some key pieces are casted with a steel rod inside to enhance their strength and durability.

The kit includes an inventory of all parts, a step-by-step instruction manual, and a series of tips and tricks for building a resin model like this. Assembly is straightforward by following the manual's steps, although a thorough preliminary study is recommended. I always suggest using metal pins for joining key pieces or those that will bear some tension. The kit also includes a set of cables for additional detailing.

The model measures 18x25x25 cm and weighs approximately 615 g. The model is 1:35 scale, although it could fit perfectly in other similar scales. It is fully articulated but should always be treated as a display piece rather than a toy. Once the mech's pose is decided, each joint should be fixed with glue and, in some cases, reinforced with a metal pin. The rail gun can be mounted on either side of the vehicle, although the original design places it on the left.

The model is fully paintable. I strongly recommend using a high-quality primer as a base coat.