Dragon Models is fast becoming the standard for 1/72 armor. Recently I had the opportunity to review their new Sd.Kfz. 222 set for IPMS. That review can be found in the archives.

Dragon has now released a new set for the Sd.Kfz. 223. The set is very much like the 222, featuring a detailed chassis, separately molded hull doors, intricate detail, and PE grenade screens for the turret. The new 223 kit comes with two complete models [like the 222 kit] and features the large “bed frame” radio antenna. The 223 kit also features and accurately shaped hull with the turret mounted off-center to the rear of the vehicle. Unlike the 222, the 223 features the 7.92 MG42 in the turret, with a flat grenade screen. Both are nicely represented on the model.

Most of the construction of the two models went without incident. In fact, I was actually able to build both models during the down time at work, using the bare minimal tools. The fit of most of the parts is excellent, and sprue connections needed only minimal sanding. I will caution that the wheel to axle connection is very fragile. I recommend either leaving this until the end, or exercising care after assembling. I did note that I needed to trim a bit off the end of the axles to get the wheels to fit perfectly under the fenders. The biggest fit issue I encountered was in joining the antenna to the hull. The antenna is molded with “keys” that should fit into holes in the hull, which I did not have [though I may have missed this in the instructions]. I cut the key mounts off and sanded the stub to fit flush against the hull. I finished the models off with a coat of Tamiya German Grey, followed by Future, decals, flat coat, and dry-brushing with Tamiya’s weathering kits [light grey].

I highly recommend this model. It’s a great little representation of the 223, and of course you get two for the price of one!! My thanks to Dragon USA for providing the review sample and to IPMS USA for allowing me to build it.