“Models and Mods” is back, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of collectors who take our models to the next level. This month, we caught up with longtime friend Ken Rudenski to check out his exceptional 1:24 scale D11 paired with towed 651 scraper – an impressive display of detail and ingenuity, and a great example of how our collectors continue to push the boundaries. As with many standout modifications, it’s the subtle details that elevate the entire piece. Careful alignment, realistic positioning, and finishing touches all contribute to a model that draws you in the longer you study it.

We had the opportunity to ask Ken a few questions about his build:

1. Did you start with an existing model or build from scratch?  If an existing model, which one?

The model is a combination of two CCM models, the 1:24 scale D11 Dozer and the 1:24 scale 651 Wheel-Tractor Scraper.

2. What inspired you to pair the D11 with a towed 651 scraper for this build?

I love scrapers and have always been fascinated with “McAninch Corp’s” D11R’s pulling 651B bowls, so I thought it would be neat to do an updated modern Next Gen version.

3.  Any favorite detail or modification you’re particularly proud of?

I’d say the overall stance of the combination. Once everything came together and sat the way I envisioned, that’s when it really started to feel “right.”

4.  How long did the project take from concept to completion?

I’m not exactly sure how many hours it took in total, probably too many. I worked on the project over several months as time allowed.

5.  What advice would you give to other collectors interested in modifying their models?

Don’t be afraid to try something new. Start with a clear idea, take your time, and don’t worry if it doesn’t come together right away. The more you experiment, the better your results will be. Take your time and as hard as it might be do your best not to rush it.

6.  What’s next on your bench?

Always something… Right now, I’m currently finishing up a 1:48 scale “Peed Equipment Co.” Next Gen 6015 model with Xmor bucket.

Many thanks to Ken for sharing his amazing work. We must say we are extremely impressed with the level of his workmanship.

Do you want to be the next collector featured in CCM “Models and Mods” blog post? Send us a picture of your collection, or modifications done to a CCM model to us via email sales@ccmodels.com and you might be the next collector selected for an upcoming feature.

The post “Models & Mods”: Ken Rudenski’s 1:24 Scale D11 & Towed 651 Scraper appeared first on Classic Construction Models.

We are excited to announce the most recent addition to our 1:24 scale diecast model line, the Cat^® 395 Excavator. Two versions will be produced, a Mass Excavator (ME) with short boom and stick as well as a General Purpose (GP) with longer boom and stick.

The Cat^® 395 weighs in at 207,400 pounds (roughly 94 metric tons) and is powered by a Cat^® C18 engine producing 542 net horsepower at 1,900 rpm. The C18 is an 18.1-liter inline six with a 145 mm bore and 183 mm stroke. The machine is rated to work up to 9,840 feet above sea level without de-rating, in ambient temperatures ranging from -0.4°F up to 125°F.

With fast cycle times and powerful digging forces, bucket penetration is easy, and maximum digging depths range from 23.7 ft up to 38.5 ft depending on boom and stick configuration. Compared to the 390F it replaces, the 395 delivers 10 percent more swing torque and 10 percent more stick force, along with up to twice the structural durability. Booms, sticks, and upper and lower frames are reinforced with baffle plates in high-stress areas to improve the machine’s strength-to-weight ratio without adding unnecessary mass. The heavy-duty undercarriage features thick track links with large bolt joints, large-diameter track roller shafts, and grease-sealed track pins and bushings to extend service life and reduce travel noise. Bucket capacities run up to 6.8 cubic yards in standard-duty configurations or 8.5 cubic yards in mass-ex configurations, and Advansys bucket tips can be swapped with a simple lug wrench — no hammer or special tools required.

The 395 also carries the full suite of Cat^® next-generation technology. Cat^® Grade with 2D comes standard, along with Payload for real-time load weighing, Swing Assist for automated swing stops in trenching and truck-loading applications, and Operator Coaching to flag efficiency and wear-reduction opportunities in the cab. An integrated vehicle health management system alerts operators to service needs, and VisionLink remote monitoring provides fleet-wide data insights. Together these features help operators make informed decisions, improve jobsite efficiency, increase productivity, and return home safely every day. It is the top choice in its size class.

While it’s still too early to confirm pricing, production numbers, or availability date for these limited-edition models, we’ll be sure to share updates here as soon as we can. If you’d like to be among the first to secure one, or more, you can click here to add your name to the request list.

The post New Model Announcement: 1:24 Cat<sup class='superscript'>®</sup> 395 Excavator – Die-cast appeared first on Classic Construction Models.

First released in 1987, the Cat^® D10N Dozer is 6% heavier and 13% more powerful than its predecessor, the Cat^® D9L. To enhance stability and traction, Caterpillar^® introduced a 13‑inch longer extended track frame, allowing the machine to better harness its increased power for higher production in both dozing and ripping applications.

Most of the lengthened track frame is positioned toward the rear of the machine, which helps reduce front‑end rise while increasing the force applied to the ripper shank and improving dozer penetration speed. The longer track footprint also lowers rolling resistance, reduces compaction, and minimizes track slip by preventing the machine from sinking as deeply. Despite the dozers weight advantage, its ground contact area with standard track shoes allows it to exert 2.8% less ground pressure than the Cat^® D9L.

Total operating weight on the Cat^® D10N increased from 114,825 lbs. on the Cat^® D9L to 122,072 lbs. Flywheel horsepower from the Cat^® 3412 diesel engine was also increased, rising from 460 HP to 520 HP. The combination of higher power and greater mass allows the Cat^® D10N to move larger loads more efficiently, resulting in an easy 10–15% production advantage over the Cat^® D9L. In addition, main hydraulic pressure was increased by 12.5%, further enhancing overall machine performance.

The dozers “floating” bogie action, created by the suspended undercarriage, absorbs up to 50% of impact loads on undercarriage components. Tubular track roller frames provide superior resistance to twisting and bending compared with conventional box‑section frames. Proper alignment is maintained by a pinned equalizer bar and pivot shaft supported by sealed, lubricated bearings.

The Cat^® D10N Semi‑Universal (SU) blade is 7.5% larger than that of the Cat^® D9L, increasing capacity to 22.56 cubic yards, while the Universal (U) blade grew by 8.5% to 27.34 cubic yards. The cutting-edge angle was also sharpened, allowing faster and easier penetration and delivering a 13% improvement in traction effectiveness.

CCM’s production of the legendary Cat^® D10N in 1:48 scale will honor a machine that marked a major milestone in Caterpillar^® dozer history. Three highly detailed collector variants are planned—the U‑Blade, the SU‑Blade, and the C‑Blade—each engineered to faithfully represent its real‑world counterpart. We look forward to sharing additional details as development continues. Collectors who wish to request these models for their collection may do so by clicking here.

The post Iron Profile: Cat<sup class='superscript'>®</sup> D10N Dozer appeared first on Classic Construction Models.

The shipment of 1:24 scale die-cast Cat^® 651 and 657 models have safely arrived at CCM. We will begin emailing out invoices to customers with existing requests and orders will ship upon receipt of payment.

The Cat^® 651 and 657 machines are the largest Wheel Tractor Scrapers in the Caterpillar open bowl scraper lineup, and we wanted to make sure that was replicated equally as impressively in the world of scale modeling. Being 1:24 scale that equates to these heavy beasts measuring over 28″ long! Every detail has been replicated to look just like the real machine, from opening cab and engine compartment doors to reveal the incredible inner details, to fully functional cushion hitches and bowl ejectors.

First introduced into the Cat^® Wheel Tractor Scraper lineup in 1962, the 637HP front/479 HP rear Cat^® 657 continues to uphold its legacy as one of the Cat^® signature machines. Its twin power gives it the ability to boost productivity and utilize push-pull loading. Combine this ability with improvements in productivity, enhancements in operator comfort, and new safety features – Powered Access System and effective wet disc brakes – and you have a machine offering high returns on profit and time.

In 2022 the 651 rejoined the Cat^® Wheel Tractor Scraper lineup. Delivering high levels of productivity, the 651 single engine earthmoving system is a wise choice on numerous large scale projects by providing fast cycle times when working in lower grades and rolling resistance applications. First introduced into the Wheel Tractor Scraper lineup in 1962, the 629HP Cat^® 651 has also proven to be one of the Cat^® signature machines. Its single engine power provides the ability to work with a Cat^® D10 or D11 push dozer, delivering ultra-fast load times and the ability to work in abrasive or rocky conditions.

Total production numbers are just four hundred twin-engine Cat^® 657 scrapers and two hundred fifty 651 scrapers worldwide. As of this posting, fewer than eighty models remain available across both versions combined.

The post Cat<sup class='superscript'>®</sup> 651 & 657 Models Have Arrived appeared first on Classic Construction Models.

We’re excited to announce that the 1:24 scale Cat^® 651 and 657 model project is officially complete.

After months of detailed development and production, the finished models are now packed, secured, and on the move. The containers carrying these models are currently on the water and en route to our facility.

Based on current shipping timelines, we expect these models to be available to ship in late February to early March.

This project represents a significant effort from start to finish, and we’re thrilled to be nearing the moment when these models reach collectors.

Once the models have arrived and are ready to ship, invoices will be emailed to customers with model reservations.  As with all CCM releases, this was a short production run, and only a limited number of models remain available.

Thank you for your patience and continued support throughout this process. We’re incredibly proud of how these models turned out and can’t wait to get them into your hands very soon.

The post 1:24 Cat<sup class='superscript'>®</sup> 651 & 657 Models — Project Complete & In Transit appeared first on Classic Construction Models.

Keystone Diecast (https://www.keystonediecast.com) purchased all the remaining inventory of the models we had in stock, so we have officially moved all those models to “Closed Editions”.

If you missed your chance to purchase one of these models through us while they were available, you can reach out to Butch Diggins (Butch@keystonediecast.com) he is happy to help track down any of the models you may be looking for.  

Happy Holidays and we look forward to releasing more exciting CCM news soon!

The post Inventory Update appeared first on Classic Construction Models.

Classic Construction Models would like to thank David Wylie of Earthmovers Magazine for his thorough review of the 1:48 scale Cat^® 6040 Hydraulic Mining Face Shovel. It is so great to see collectors taking the time to appreciate and really examine the details and hard work we put into creating these models. We hope you enjoy his comments and brilliant photographs below as much as we did.

“As you would expect from CCM, these two new Die-cast models are in highly accurate 1:48 scale, and this review model, in Face Shovel configuration, measures approximately 13.85″ long, 6.75″ wide, and 7″ tall!”

– David Wylie

“Eagle eyed readers will have spotted the new CCM Cat^® 6040 has the all-new Cat designed cab, first seen on the next-gen 6060 model and CCM were delighted to have permission to use the new cab on the CCM 6040 models before it’s been officially announced by Caterpillar^® for the 6040 upgrade!   Uniquely for a hydraulic mining excavator, the new 6040 cab can accommodate three people, which is great for operator training, and CCM has captured this in exacting detail with all three seats.” 

– David Wylie

“One of the many elements that sets CCM models apart from other manufacturers is the fine precision of the hydraulic flexible hoses and silver hose connection for added realism.  The G.E.T and wear package on this 6040 face shovel bucket – visor and backwall – is also finely detailed.”

– David Wylie

“CCM also went the extra mile for realism in several areas on the 6040.  Such as the exceptional and minute level of detail achieved in the hydraulic control valve block components on the back of the boom and is arguably the best detail in the die-cast business.“

– David Wylie

You can read more of David Wylie’s review of the 1:48 scale Cat^® 6040 Hydraulic Mining Face Shovel in the upcoming January 2026 issue of Earthmovers Magazine, on sale December 5th. In case you haven’t seen it before, Earthmovers Magazine is the magazine for owners and operators of plant and construction machinery.  Published in the UK, Earthmovers has significant readership across Europe and Australia.  Missed an issue?  You can pick up a copy of this one, or any back issues of Earthmovers, by clicking here.

Hopefully you were able to get your hands on at least one of these Cat^® 6040 Hydraulic Mining Shovel models when they were available, as they are now a CCM sold out “Closed Edition”.

The post Cat<sup class='superscript'>®</sup> 6040 Model Review by David Wylie appeared first on Classic Construction Models.

Last month CCM collector and Cat^® enthusiast Jason Jensen, the man behind @ConstructionCollectibles, stopped by to say hello and take a peek at the new upcoming 1:24 scale die-cast Cat^® 651 and 657 scrapers. While he was in our showroom we thought it was the perfect opportunity to interview him and feature on our Collector Showcase series. We hope you enjoy hearing about his phenomenal CCM model collection as much as we did.

1. How long have you been a scale model collector?

Since I was a kid—I recently dug up a photo of me grinning next to a Cat^® 988B wheel loader. The spark never left.

2. Do you have a favorite scale?

1:48/1:50 is my sweet spot. Tons of variety and easy to display. That said, 1:24 has real presence, and my lineup in that scale is growing fast.

3. Do you prefer brass or die‑cast scale models? Please explain why?

Both have a place. Die‑cast are my daily drivers, great for diorama poses and more accessible for many. Brass from CCM is on another level for realism; those are heirloom pieces I plan to keep forever.

4. How did you first find out about Classic Construction Models?

A late‑night Google search while hunting for a top‑quality Next Gen D11. One rabbit hole later… here we are.

5. When did you purchase your first CCM model and what was it?

March 2023—the 1:24 Cat^® D11 Next Gen Track‑Type Tractor. It set the bar.

6. Are there any CCM models that are missing from your collection that you are still searching for?

A brass Cat^® D9H is at the top of my list, along with a Cat^® D9T with ripper and the Cat^® 390D L ME excavator.

7. Have you sold any of your CCM models in the past and later regretted it?

Nope. My CCMs are keepers—I treat them as heirlooms and plan around them in my displays.

8. What advice would you give a collector considering purchasing their first Classic Construction Model?

Pick a machine you connect with in real life. Photos never tell the whole story. Once it’s in hand, the machining, hydraulics, and tiny markings really jump out. You’ll spot new details every time you look.

9. What piece of machinery would you like to see CCM model in the future?

A Next Gen Cat^® 992 wheel loader would be a home run and I’d love haul trucks to pair with CCM’s growing shovel lineup. I’m also big into paving; a 1:48 asphalt paver would be an instant add.

10. What is your first impressions of the new 1:24 scale Cat^® 651 & 657 scrapers?

If scrapers are your thing, keep an eye on CCM’s upcoming 1:24 Cat^® 651 and 657 Wheel‑Tractor Scrapers. They’re large, highly detailed, and limited runs so you won’t want to miss out on these and regret it later. I was really blown away by the size, detail and man are they heavy!

11. Is there any way that other CCM collectors can view your collection or connect with you? (Instagram, Twitter, website, etc.?)

Yes, Instagram and TikTok at @constructioncollectibles. Always happy to swap tips, display ideas, wish lists and connect with fellow collectors. I’d also like to give a huge thanks to Gary and the CCM team for the opening their doors for me—and for continuing to raise the bar for the hobby.

Many thanks to Jason Jensen for being a valued customer and sharing some of his CCM’s with us.

We look forward to introducing you to more amazing CCM scale model enthusiasts in the near future!

The post Collector Showcase: Jason Jensen appeared first on Classic Construction Models.

Today’s post comes from one of our long-time collectors who shared some fantastic shots of his new CCM 1:48 scale Next Gen Cat^® 6040 Mining Shovel models in action. Captured while stripping overburden, these photos showcase the incredible detail and realism of the model in a working diorama setting.

We always love seeing how our models come to life in the hands of passionate collectors, and this set is no exception. The way collectors bring these models to life in diorama settings is always impressive—especially when the detail is so realistic it blurs the line between model and real-world mining.

Take a look below—we hope you enjoy the photos as much as we did!

These Cat^® 6040 models are moving fast—but a few are still available (including some pairs with matching serial numbers). Don’t miss your chance to own one, or one of each, of the two versions before they’re gone for good—please click here to purchase.

If you are an international collector, please email Gary Peterson at sales@ccmodels.com and he will be happy to assist you with your purchase.

The post In the Field: CCM Cat<sup class='superscript'>®</sup> 6040’s in Action appeared first on Classic Construction Models.

Now that the limited edition Next Gen 1:48 scale Cat^® 6040 Hydraulic Mining Shovel Models are available for purchase we thought we would share some more pictures of these beauties in the photo booth.

For more details and to place your order, if you haven’t already, please click here.

The post A Closer Look at the 1:48 scale Next Gen Cat<sup class='superscript'>®</sup> 6040 Hydraulic Mining Shovel Models appeared first on Classic Construction Models.