Review by Graham Thompson
Some inspiration and reference here…
– A mixture of video, still images and colour profiles – check it out…
Background…
There is an ever increasing number of superb 1:48 scale models available to us now. Tamiya with their range of over 40 models in this really practical scale are, to some degree, dominating the market. However, there are alternatives available and one of those is the subject of this review and build.
I have always been fond of the Soviet T34 series of tanks. They have a look about them that has helped raise them to almost legendary status. It has to be said though that their success against the might of the German Panzer armies in Russia was much to do with the sheer number of T34s thrown against the Panzer IVs, Panthers and Tigers which, certainly for the latter two, out gunned and out armoured the smaller T34.
The kit…
There are a few surprises with this kit, not least is the price. Most of the HobbyBoss 1:48 range of tanks are between £8 and £9. This makes them a very cost effective model to build. In the case of the T34s in the range though, the price comes as a very nice surprise when you consider that all the T34 in the range have a fully detailed interior making this a lot of kit for the price. Sadly, the other tanks in their range do not have this luxury but they still represent great value for money.
The kit comes in a strong lid and tray box. The box art work is very nice. The main hull top and bottom come in a separate box and the two clear lenses are packed in a separate bag but does have the copper wire tow rope and the pre assembled photo etch rear grill.
A pre formed and fitted rear photo etch engine upper grill is a welcome addition, would have been nice to have had PE mesh for the side vents though which are solid.
A length of braided copper wire is supplied to be cut into two tow ropes and plastic ends for the eyes are included, this makes for a very nice tow rope.
