Originally Posted by ausf

I would like to throw out something, take it for what it's worth...

I believe that every tanker should own at least one Tamiya and the M4 for $480 shipped is a great start.

Debate aside, they are the standard for a reason and the knowledge you will gain from assembly will help you so much with other conversions etc. as well as forcing you to paint too if you haven't, starting with a monochomatic scheme, instead of a camo pattern. Every part is easily replaceable and attainable, it truly is a great frustration free intro to working on a tank.

All that is said on the assumption that you don't already have a Tamiya of some sort, if you do, forgive me but I would think if you do have one now, your decision would be simple since the tired old 'Tamiya is too expensive' argument doesn't exist in this case.