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When did DML release a Sd.Kfz. 253 or is that a conversion kit?
The 2001 DML catalog shows that there was a 253 in the works but I never saw one released nor is it mentioned in their later catalogs.
According to the side of the box, it was 2001 copyright, the kit is part of the 1:35 '39-'45 Series, kit # 6140. The box art shows one vehicle in a white-washed tiger stripe scheme, with a couple of Stug III's in the background, commander figure in the front open'd hatch.
I picked the kit up from a vendor at a show I attended, unsure of the exact timeframe but it was sometime in 2005.
Hope this helps.
Cheers!
Tim[/quote]
Hey Tim.
That's odd, #6140 must have been a very limited release.
It's possible that the kit never made it up here to the "Great White North".
Never saw a catalog from DML for 2002 and there's no mention of the 253 since the 2001 catalog.
There is of course a Sd.Kfz. 252 Ammo Transporter that's been indicated to be in the loop since 2003, as are a number of other DML kits i.e. the "Erzatz M10/Panther Ausf. G".
I hope they re-release the 253, maybe using the "Premium" Sd.Kfz. 250 chassis and sprues.
Cheers
jjumbo
I'm not that familiar with that varient and was wondering if you or anyone else could tell me why the odd looking topside hatch type/arrangement. Nothing logical comes to my mind for the way it is,but that may be just my mind's fault! 
A hatch for the scissors scope! All clear now.
Like Bill mentioned, they were used as artillery spotters, with the rear hatch having a scissors periscope coming up on the front edge of the open hatch. A periscope is included in the kit, but I've opted to keep it inside. I should have had it coming up through the hatch, as I'm going to open them all up, but it's too late now! 
