I've managed to avoid building models for the best part of 30 years but now have time (ish) on my hands so I've started with a Tamiya Abrams kit and a pile of paints .... all going very well so far and very time consuming and enjoyable .....
Hello there! ...nothing wrong with coming back after thirty years! I have no Tamiya experience beyond a static 1/35 Jagdpanther about forty years---unh, fifty years ago (Yikes!) and a 1/35 Jeep last year. The Tamiya-experienced here should be able to help you on your question at viewtopic.php?t=33150. But welcome from one way across the big puddle.