I like halftracks, especially German ones. I especially like the Sd. Kfz. 7, 8 and 9’s. I have plastic kits of the 7 and 9. I have none for an 8. A quick search of the internet shows no plastic versions and only one resin model in 1:72 scale. That makes this paper kit the only other choice at this time, and what a choice it is! The kit depicts a prototype version that sunk in a river in Poland. The 1:1 vehicle was recovered from the river in 1999 and restoration was completed in 2005. It is currently on display in Poland. Additional information can be found at www.skansenpilicy.pl where a more detailed history and restoration description are available.

The model comes in A4 book size and is computer drawn. Instructions are provided in Polish only, but the only thing you need to know is that parts with yellow labels are to be glued to 1 mm card for added structure. There are 2-3/4 pages of parts and about 1 page of construction illustrations. The model was printed in a dark yellow/ light brown color. Some of the black pieces are printed too dark and obscure the detail lines. This means the steering wheel and machine guns are just black blob silhouettes. The only parts to fabricate are the steering column and front axle.

The fit was very good, with just minor issues with interior pieces fitting a bit tight in places. Build time was a little over two days. The tracks were easy relative to other card models and the road wheel units used laminated parts to add depth. This is an excellent choice for a first time cardmodeler and I whole-heartedly recommend it to anyone.

I would like to thank GPM for publishing such an excellent and unique model, and for providing this review sample.