I have just dragged this kit (Shanghai Dragon T-80W/ERA) out of the cobwebs and into the cold light of day. Just how good/bad is this model if built OOB? Is there any basic scratch building I should do? I wait for the laughing to stop and look forward to your replies if you can stop laughing long enough that is.

Thank you Gary I did a search using several variations of what I was looking for and got Zero hits. I was kind of left with the feeling is this kit really that big a turkey. However I have used the exact search you have placed on this thread and I still have not found anything relating directly to this kit. The model I have is Shanghai Dragon T-80W/ERA kit number 3505, I have found several other manufacturers T80’s in various scales. Please by all means tell me this is one of those kits that should remain in its box covered in cobwebs as any information will help me decide if it’s worth putting any effort into building this model.

There are basically only three models of the T-80. The biggest dog in the pound is the one by Lindberg which is best left collecting dust on the clearance shelf. It vaguely resembles a modern Soviet tank when assembled.

The next kit to come along was the DML T-80. They did several variants that are basically the same kit. This kit has a long life and will turn up in Revell, Shanghai Dragon, Zvezda boxes (did Italeir rebox it too?). I built it when it first came out. The upper hull would not seat properly to the lower hull if the upper run of tracks was installed. I believe there are some resin fixes for the tracks/suspension that addresses this issue.

The third kit is by Skif and has a more accurate look to it but the detail is clunkier. It has been issued in several variants as well.

As to your kit, build it up and look for AM parts if you so desire.

Actually, there was a fourth kit, from Firefox. It was worse than the Lindberg kit.

The DML T-80BV is the only game in town. There really isn't a aftermarket fix for the turret problems so you have to live with what DML gives you are start modifying a T-64A without applique turret.

Your options for a -BV are two:

1. Build this kit OOB with the Edaurd PE set. The main gun barrel needs to be reworked or replaced (it is too large for 125mm caliber) (see my review of the Model Point barrels here on Armorama to see exact description) and you need to be aware of the track problem (they do not fit between the hull and side skirts and ned tobe trimmed or left off the top run). That will get you a nice looking model.

2. Sratchbuild and rework other kits/pieces to make a correct T-80BV. The list of needed work can be discussed if needed.

So the DML kit is not the end of the world, so long as you understand that it is also a OLD kit.

Sabot and Jacques thank you for your information on the kit, it lets me know what sort of area I am in as regards quality, accuracy, and requirements. Gary thank you for your help as it never occurred to me to read an article on a kit by another manufacturer to obtain info on the one I had, it was nothing to do with taking the easy way it just seemed a pointless task as I couldn’t see of what benefit it would be.
That said I would like to thank the 3 of you again.

Perhaps what is needed is a in-box and/or build review of this kit so people could find it easily?