About this Product
The NAM M42A1 Duster brings rapid-fire anti-aircraft capability and versatile ground support to your Vietnam War tabletop force. Originally designed as a mobile AA platform, the Duster’s twin 40mm Bofors guns proved equally effective against ground targets—especially in the dense jungles and convoy routes of Vietnam. U.S. forces deployed the Duster widely for base defense, convoy escort, and infantry fire support, where its high rate of fire made it a fearsome presence.
This 15mm-scale kit for Team Yankee: ‘Nam accurately recreates the M42A1, giving players both historical authenticity and powerful fire support options for their U.S. army lists.
Key Features
• Includes M42A1 Duster model(s) in 15mm scale
• Equipped with twin 40mm autocannons on open-topped chassis
• Flexible role as anti-air or anti-infantry fire support
• Historically accurate for Vietnam War U.S. Army forces
• Dynamic kit great for painting and diorama settings
Why Buy This Kit?
• Provides both anti-air and suppressive ground fire
• Perfect for defending key objectives or supporting infantry
• Historically rich vehicle with high tactical value
• Visually distinct model with dynamic weaponry for display or gameplay
Gameplay Role
The M42A1 Duster functions as a dual-purpose support unit in Team Yankee: ‘Nam. It excels at deterring low-flying aircraft and shredding light infantry formations. Use it to protect rear-line assets or deploy alongside infantry to suppress enemy advances. Its open-top design makes it vulnerable, so support it with cover or screening units.
Paint & Hobby Tips
Olive drab is the standard color, often faded from Vietnam’s heat and humidity—drybrush lighter tones for realism. Add weathering around the tracks, crew platform, and gun barrels. Extra details like ammo crates, crew figures, and foliage camo can give your Duster more battlefield character.
Historical Context Sidebar
The M42A1 Duster was originally introduced in the early 1950s and adapted for use in Vietnam despite its primary role as an anti-aircraft vehicle. In practice, air threats were limited, but the Duster proved invaluable as ground fire support. It earned a strong reputation for its ability to deliver sustained fire in convoy defense, firebase security, and infantry support, especially during operations like Tet and along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.
