Packed in a sturdy, well illustrated box, the kit consists of 28 sprues of dark grey plastic, 1 clear sprue, and 2 photo-etched frets, one of which consists of the weld seam inserts for the spare jerry cans. Also included are 5 each of three slightly different back packs, a covered and folded windshield, one folded-down top, and one full closed top with a clear rear window. Decals include pre-made and make-your-own registration plates, instrument faces, stencils, and division and army group markings. Paint call-outs for detail and overall colors refer to Mr. Hobby, Hobby Color, Humbrol and Tamiya brands.

The glossy instruction booklet is broken down into 25 assembly steps, with some options for early and later versions. I found it prudent to deviate from the published sequence, but each builder may feel differently.

For example, I left off some of the tinier frame bits till later in the build. I painted and weathered the frame before adding the wheels, themselves painted and weathered before installation. The tracks were assembled, painted, and attached next, instead of waiting untill the recommended step. The suggested 45 links per side resulted in a perfect fit. In step 15, it is MUCH easier to assemble the storage rack onto part H-20 rather than holding it separately. I would recommend doing the seam cleanup while the parts are still on the sprue, due to their thinness. I did have some trouble in the rear storage area, with light shimming, putty, and sanding needed. The storage bins were filled with some of the kit packs, as well as various bits of personal kit. Be careful with the jerry can inserts in step 22, they are labeled and there is a difference. Trust me… It is also a good idea to attach the front wheels temporarily right after gluing in the front axle so it sets up with both wheels on the ground.

Overall Impressions

With a couple of exceptions, the overall fit and finish of this kit are excellent. Mating the front hood assembly to the frame has usually been quite a job; I have never had one drop into place so cleanly. The fit of the track links to each other and to the running gear is equally painless. The closed top has the rear section cast in textured clear plastic, with a smooth rear window. After attaching to the top and a quick sanding, you would be hard-pressed to tell they were not one piece. Other than the aforementioned issues with the rear storage area, this was an excellent, enjoyable build.

I extend my sincere thanks to our supplier, Dragon Models USA, for this review kit, and to IPMS/USA for allowing me to review it. This kit and the Flak version are helping to fill the gaps in the half track kits available. I highly recommend this kit.