Hauler is well known for its detail and this set created for the Bundeswehr Schütze panzer (SPz) Marder 1A3 Infantry Fighting Vehicle is no exception. This 40-piece PE set, on a fret measuring 2.25”x 1.25, packs detail into an older kit to bring it to the next level. If you want a Bundeswehr (or Chilean) Marder in 1/72 scale, this is the only injection plastic kit on the market, currently in its fourth boxing in 2020 (the original mold dates to 1999).

This is a fiddly and fragile set of PE for a small model in 1/72 scale. Some of the PE really doesn’t add much to the hull (the handrails are quite well molded and require cutting to replace the parts with PE that while nice, are up to the modeler to determine if they are worthwhile. Where the PE shines is on the rails for the three troop hatches in the rear compartment, the rear-view mirrors and the turret PE. Did I mention the parts are tiny? Be very careful cutting them off the sprue, sanding the nubs, and bend them only once as they are fragile. The carpet monster will be satiated if you’re not careful.

One of the best aspects of PE is that it can be “damaged” and/or have manufacturing deficiencies built into it; at least that’s how I can describe the look of some of the smaller pieces that were glued to the tweezers, bumped, etc. during assembly.

This is a PE that adds another level of detail to a solid kit that is showing its age. Hauler typically releases PE sets for newer models and the 2020 re-issue of this classic kit fits the bill. It is highly recommended for those wanting to take their braille scale Marder to the next level.

Profuse thanks to Hauler and Brengun and IPMS/USA for providing the review sample.