¹⁄35

StuG.III Ausf.G Late Production Dec.1944

Time to call in the dogs and put out the fire

To sum up, Dragon's StuG III Ausf.G Late Production Dec.1944 (6593) is a bit of a mixed bag. There are some wonderful details, generally excellent molding and execution, but more than a few let downs too. I got the feeling that this was a rushed job; the new parts had some fit issues or errors that should not be present in this day from a mainstream producer. The abundant (and generally excellent) detail that Dragon provides results in a sometimes overly complicated build with potential for awkward gaps. Some parts are way over scale and/or clunky, while others are suitably to scale and petite. The instructions could always be improved, in particular, colour call outs for the interior would be nice. Molding was generally good to excellent, no flash, but a few minor mold seams to scrape. The switch to DS tracks is, in my opinion, a big minus. At the very least, Dragon should provide both, either as two different kit boxings or both included in one, and allow the modeler to decide which to use. They might as well not bother including the tow cable. Save it for hanging pictures on a wall.

Dragon's approach to production could be better thought out, regarding the placement of the molding nubs; filling in the odd ejector pin mark would not be a horrible option in some circumstances. The reuse of older sprues, while logical, creates more than a few issues as well, but will allow for backdating should you wish, and will provide a good amount of fodder for the spares box. I wouldn't recommend this kit to a novice due to the advanced nature of some assemblies and the potential fit issues as outlined above. For an advanced modeler, this kit will not pose any problems if you pay attention and use your experience to advantage in identifying problem areas. Other let downs are the lack of spare tracks (some luggage would also be nice), schurzen and a very limited choice of marking options. Recommended with reservations. My thanks to Dragon via Armorama, and to Staff Jim for the review kit.

Kimmo