Chicago Fire Department 1996 HME/Saulsbury Squad 1

I really wanted to acquire this 1996 HME/Saulsbury that served as Chicago's Squad 1. I already had the set of 3 Chicago Squads (Squads 1, 1A, 2, 2A, 5, & 5A) that CODE 3 produced. Even though I originally assumed that I would just be getting Fire Replicas version of the same Squad 1, further research revealed that Chicago had 2 Squad 1 rigs built on HME chassis. The CODE 3 version was based on Squad 1's HME/Central States from 2000. Not only are the bodies different, but the HME cabs are slightly different, as well. The HME cab on the Fire Replicas version is longer with bigger doors, a bigger crew cab area, & more windows in the crew cab area. Speaking of HME cabs, I've always liked the appearance of them. The fact that the windshield extends lower than most windshields must be a boon to drivers who are tasked with navigating their rigs through challenging road conditions, especially involving narrow streets & alleyways. From their introduction, I have considered Vector lightbars to have been an inspired solution for providing warning signals not only to the front of the vehicle, but also for providing enhanced warning signals to the sides, as well. I'm delighted with this latest addition to my growing collection of Fire Replicas models, in general & my Chicago Fire Department collection, in particular. As usual with Fire Replicas models, you frequently notice something new when you view the rigs. As I was writing this, I discovered the HAZMAT diamond under the windshield on the officer's side of the cab. Another nice detail that adds to my enjoyment of this fine model.

excited for the drop and hoping for fire replicas to come out with 5-1-1 hazmat and 5-12 hazmat