I've done a little research, but haven't found an overwhelming answer to who makes the best kit for the KV-1 and KV-2. In fact, the KV-2 selection looks quite limited.

Trumpeter all the way.

I was looking at the Trumpeter KV-2 TRP 312. Really cheap compared to most other models of high quality. Kinda of turned me back from it. I'll see if I can find a couple reviews on that kits.

https://www.perthmilitarymodelling.com/reviews/vehicles/trumpeter/tr00312.htm

/ Robin

Trumpeter's KV series is probably one of the best values for the money in the whole 1/35 world. Well detailed, pretty darned accurate, assemble quite well and easily, and, as you noted, surprisingly cheap. There's really nothing bad to say about them.

Trumpeter for sure. Pretty well the only aftermarket required (in my opinion - plenty of people don't bother) is a set of etched grilles, of which I find Aber's best. Workable track is available from MK, Friul, I think Bronco and possibly Masterclub but the styrene track included is nice although it needs ejection pin marks removed. The rubber band track isn't great.

Neil Stokes's book and website www.4bogreen.com are very useful - the latter has recipes and tweak lists for various KV types.

Have to agree.

Excellent info! I guess I'll be ordering a KV-1 and a KV-2 from them.

As said before, Trumpeter, hands down.

I can recommend Trumpeter's KV-2 aswell!
First kit I ever built and painted, took less than a week. It went together pretty easily minus a few details (headlight's all I recall.)... It also has both link-and-length and rubberband tracks (Used L&L myself... Instructions seemed a bit off on the total, test fit for sure)
Also, I seem to recall it having a bit of flash. Nothing deal-breaking IMO, but keep an eye out if something doesnt fit right.
Granted, this is from a pretty inexperianced modeller (6 1/2 builds, 2 painted), but I'd say the value is great.
Much better than Trumpeter's fiddly Challenger has been.
Either way, have fun! I really enjoyed it myself!

Trumpeter's KV-2 was the most enjoyable build I've had in awhile, it was just FUN! You would have to wait awhile for them to come in,(they are notoriously slow if not in stock) BUT Lucky Model has many of the early releases of the Trump KV-1/2 series for $13.99 as a regular price! I've bought them all.

I saw several KV varieties they make. Added the KV-2 and the KV-1S to my list. Probably order them first of the week along with some Fruilmodel tracks for both. Does either come with a solid piece barrel? If not I'll order a metal barrel as well.

I'm pretty sure the 76.2mm barrels are solid. Not bought a KV-2 but I think it was been reviewed on PMMS so you can investigate the sprue shots. If not there, they will be on the web somewhere.

RB Model have very affordable barrels for the range of KV tanks. There is also a cheap photo etch set that also comes with a barrel from Lion Roar for £10.

The review of the KV-2 (PMMS) that I linked to in my previous post said that the barrel in the kit was a bit too short and recommended replacing with a metal barrel (Aber I think ???)
Replacing barrels has become more or less standard practice nowadays ...

/ Robin

I did end up replacing the barrel on mine now that you mention it Robin, The one in the kit was misshapen I think.