Seagrave Rear Mount Ladder FDNY #43

This is Amercom's version of the Code 3 model of the FDNY Ladder 12740.  It's the second model in their Giganty series of Fire engines.  From a distance it looks like a reasonable facsimile, however upon closer inspection, you'll notice a number of differences.  The extending ladder and rotating turret still work, but are made of flimsy plastic instead of diecast.  Best to be very careful as the ladder does not move easily.

On the real Code 3 model, the hydraulic stabilizers extend out from the body and lower, whereas the Amercom model does not.  The tampos and graphics are fairly decent except the flags behind the front doors are a little fuzzy and some of the details are already starting to rub off.  I do appreciate the fact that the body is all die-cast while the chassis is plastic.

There are certainly some paint flaws on the right side of the vehicle towards the front roof line, and the light bezels are sloppily added on the front of the the vehicle.  However, you have to consider that the retail price of the actual Code 3 FDNY ladder was $109.99 whereas this model was about $14, a huge difference.

The Code 3 reference model can be found here: http://www.code3firetrucks.com/code-3-fdny-ladder-34312740.html

Brand: Amercom
Series:  FireTrucks Giganty #2
Model:  Seagrave Rear Mount Ladder
Year Issued: 2012
Scale: 1/64

Mack Hazmat Operations Truck

This month's Amercom model is the Mack Hazmat Operations Truck, which faithfully copies the Code 3 FDNY Hazmat vehicle (12555).  While it looks like the real deal with all the appropriate detailing, it is probably the lightest model put out thus far by Amercom.  The chassis, body and cab are all made of plastic, although you might not be able to tell from the pictures.  This is number twelve in the Gigant Fire truck series, but it's only number ten of Code 3 clones, as there were two non Code 3 substitute fire truck models that Amercom added to the lineup late 2012.

Brand: Amercom
Series: Gigant Fire Trucks
Model: Mack Hazmat Operations
Released: 2013
Scale: 1:64

Link to the actual Code 3 model: http://www.code3firetrucks.com/co3fdhaoptr1.html

E-One FDNY Heavy Rescue #1

Today, I direct your attention to this model of the FDNY Heavy Rescue #1.  You might think this is a Code 3 model but it's not.  Although it bears a striking similarity to Code 3 model 12695, it's actually made by Amercom.  Here's a link to the real Code 3 version: http://www.code3firetrucks.com/co3fdehere11.html

The Amercom version is much lighter in weight than my other Code 3 Heavy Rescue models, given that the rear of the truck is plastic.  The main difference is the fit and finish or the lack thereof.  The Amercom model has a bit of sloppiness in it's paint and trimwork.  The diamond plate on the top doesn't have the same metallic sheen as a real Code 3.  And the antenna mast doesn't extend like the original.

Even with the deficiencies, this model shows quite well on it's own.  And the price was a fraction of what a Code 3 would cost.  I don't think I would have ever afforded the real Heavy Rescue, so I'm very happy to have this one in my fire truck collection even if it's not the real deal.  Anyways, feel free to compare the pictures of this one vs the real one and you be the judge.

Brand: Amercom
Series: Giant Firetrucks
Model: E-One Heavy Rescue FDNY #1
Scale: 1:64
Year Issued: 2012
Cost: $12