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Funded! This project successfully raised its funding goal on March 5, 2012.

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      Creator Gwenaël Jacquet on April 27, 2012

      Just receive mine today. Everything seems perfect but I don't know how to build it. Where is the instructions ?

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      Creator Paul & Wesley on February 19, 2012

      Wow, that's great Stacey! Thank you.

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      Creator Stacey on February 19, 2012

      You're going to make it! I just raised my pledge. ;)

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      Creator Paul & Wesley on February 18, 2012

      Wow... yea, really cool, actually! I just received a personal email from a representative from Ubisoft telling me that our project got chosen for Fan Appreciation this Friday. It's an incredible endorsement and we are so appreciative for the Ubisoft Team for taking notice of our project. Assassin's Creed is such an awesome game and I love how they incorporated da Vinci's character and his awesome inventions into the game play.

      Because of Ubisoft, the number of pledges basically doubled overnight and I'm just $200 away from reaching our funding target!!! I just think it's really cool that a high-tech game and an old fashioned model kit can come together because of the da Vinci bond... truly an amazing feeling.

      Maybe kickstarter should give me some kudos and select our project as their staff pick of the week? LOL...

      I'm typing a FAQ list on the Barrage Tank and will post that by tomorrow. Thanks everyone.

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      Creator David Gaipa on February 17, 2012

      The Assassin's Creed fan page on facebook just linked to your project as a nice replica of the tank that is actually used in a level of the game. Pretty cool to be featured there!

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      Creator Paul & Wesley on February 17, 2012

      Thanks Harry. I think you're on the right track. This is definitely a niche product that appeals to very specific markets. I was thinking about attending shows like ToyFair (NYC) or Western States Toy & Hobby, but they're mainly about getting hooked up with licensing and distribution. Perhaps word of mouth would make a good start. I'm not looking to make millions; just want a business I can call my own, so I can spend more time with my family. If I can get to the point where I can afford some hire to do production, I would love to focus on design & product development.

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      Creator Harry Ewasiuk on February 15, 2012

      On further publicising the project, history focussed magazines, history teachers associations, Leonardo Da Vinci clubs, Renaissance aficionado societies, museums, universities, colleges, schools, departments of Education would be just a few places to contact. Certainly geek orientated societies would also be worth contacting as well.

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      Creator Paul & Wesley on February 15, 2012

      ahhh I see. for historical reference... a great idea. adds a nice touch too. now you got me thinking!

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      Creator Harry Ewasiuk on February 15, 2012

      Thank you, Paul. I was looking at using the two sketches as part of a display base on which the Barrage Tank would rest - removing it would allow the Da Vinci admirer to compare and reason through what Leonardo was thinking, hands on, from the sketches as well as the model.

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      Creator Paul & Wesley on February 15, 2012

      Yes; the kit will include a step by step instruction booklet that includes photos and tips. The only tool you'll need is a pair of scissors and some wood glue. Depending on your skill level, assembly can be challenging, but not difficult. Modelers will have a lot of fun putting the kit together! I'm currently putting together a FAQ sheet which will be posted soon.

      The two sketches of the tank by da Vinci are the only surviving documents which can be found in the Codex Atlanticus collection. Therefore the entire Barrage Tank design is based on my best interpretation of the drawings. Designing the lantern gear transmission system was particularly challenging... one can only truly appreciate what went through da Vinci's mind, having gone through the entire reconstruction process in close detail!

      Your comments, suggestions and criticism are very helpful and valuable, and I welcome all feedback. I'll certainly keep making continuous improvements as this product goes through its product life cycle.

      More than anything, I'm really happy to see that there are Leonardo enthusiasts like me out there who share the same admiration over his awesome inventions. Kickstarter.com has provided important insight into what the ideal target market is for this product. And If there are any marketing gurus out there who can provide some suggestions on how to get this product out there, I'd be very grateful...

      Stay tuned...

      Paul

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      Creator Harry Ewasiuk on February 14, 2012

      Just wondering if the kits will include a copy of Da Vinci's original plan to use in assembling the kit (cool idea!). Otherwise, would expect to see a modern assembly plan to build the kit. Paul, what do you say?

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      Creator Jinho on February 6, 2012

      This is such a fantastic idea! I know Revelle makes DIY Da Vinci kits but they haven't made the Barrage Tank -- one of my favorite inventions.

      Are you guys planning on releasing different models in the future?

47
Backers
$4,052
pledged of $2,500 goal
0
seconds to go

Funding period
Jan 31, 2012 - Mar 5, 2012

  • Pledge $5 or more

    1 backer

    One SOUVENIR WHEEL from the Barrage Tank. They make great coasters because of the minimal contact with the table surface.(International shipping: add $15)

    Estimated delivery: Mar 2012
  • Pledge $12 or more

    4 backers

    A pack of three wheel coasters. (International shipping: add $15)

    Estimated delivery: Mar 2012
  • Pledge $79 or more

    38 backers

    BARRAGE TANK kit: Get our flagship model kit at a special kickstarter price of $79. (Retail price = $99 + S/H). Plus we'll include one Gear Gadget for free! (Canada & Mexico add $17, International shipping add $35)

    Estimated delivery: Mar 2012
  • Pledge $300 or more

    2 backers

    BARRAGE TANK (assembled): We'll ship you one fully assembled, beautifully stained, painted and meticulously finished display model of BARRAGE TANK. Ready to be admired and displayed straight out of the box. Two Gear Gadget kits are included for free with this reward level. (Canada & Mexico add $25, International shipping add $45)

    Estimated delivery: Mar 2012