Bill Cross presents an in-box review of Trumpeter's Sd.Kfz. 7 prime mover in 1/35th scale.
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REVIEW
Trumpeter Sd.Kfz.7c5flies
California, United States
Joined: October 21, 2007
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Posted: Thursday, July 03, 2008 - 04:42 PM UTC
Tarok
Victoria, Australia
Joined: July 28, 2004
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Joined: July 28, 2004
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Posted: Thursday, July 03, 2008 - 08:16 PM UTC
Thanks for the preview, Bill.
I hope we'll see a build review or feature of this kit next I'd love to hear how it goes together.
Rudi
I hope we'll see a build review or feature of this kit next I'd love to hear how it goes together.
Rudi
JimMrr
Ontario, Canada
Joined: January 03, 2007
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Joined: January 03, 2007
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Posted: Friday, July 04, 2008 - 01:32 AM UTC
Im just glad we have a tooling that incorporates cutting edge technology as opposed to the 30 yr old tooling of the other manufacturer. Tamiya filled its role with honour,yet I feel with todays slide mold technology and taking into consideration the historical significance of the vehicle I say hooo-ray! and if Dragon releases a late version of this vehicle all the better. now we will have a choice without having to do surgury on the kit. Ill have to call my LHS and get them to put one aside for me today...
Vodnik
Warszawa, Poland
Joined: March 26, 2003
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Posted: Friday, July 04, 2008 - 02:13 AM UTC
Quoted Text
Im just glad we have a tooling that incorporates cutting edge technology
I saw the kit in my LHS yesterday and I wouldn't call it "cutting edge technology"... Molding quality is far behind that offered today by DML, Tamiya, Tasca or AFV Club.
H_Ackermans
Gelderland, Netherlands
Joined: July 11, 2006
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Posted: Friday, July 04, 2008 - 03:04 AM UTC
I'm waiting for the DML 7 as well.
I have read too much negative things about the T-7, that just includes things one shouldn't have to expect nor accept in a kit of today.
Too thick sides, oversized hatches, oversized bolts, flash.
I have read too much negative things about the T-7, that just includes things one shouldn't have to expect nor accept in a kit of today.
Too thick sides, oversized hatches, oversized bolts, flash.
Posted: Tuesday, July 08, 2008 - 06:32 AM UTC
A verfy diplomatic conclusion, nice review well done.
bill_c
Campaigns Administrator
New Jersey, United States
Joined: January 09, 2008
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 04:11 AM UTC
The build log will be started in the next few days, gang. I'm about 40% through the kit, and just need to put up the photos and transcribe my notes. Once I got started building it, I couldn't stop!
The issues identified by other reviewers so far have not been as onerous, in my opinion, as I was led to expect. The kit goes together nicely, and the fit issues are minimal so far. Flash isn't a significant problem, but that is sometimes a matter of taste. I've yet to build a kit where I'm not removing mold seam lines, but maybe there are perfect kits out there I just haven't built yet. Some knock-out holes need scraping or filling, but again, no big deal for me.
Some positives I've discovered so far include an even greater admiration for the detailing of the carriage and drive train. For you tanker geeks, it's like building a complete Tiger I with engine, driver compartment and fighting interior, and then having only a few hatches open. The detailing on the parts is impressive, including the cotter pins holding on the tow lugs. There also is a sense of how much care and design went into relatively utilitarian things like the winch housing: Art-Deco fluted air vents that one would expect to find on a 1930s Mercedes coupe.
As to Dragon "getting it right," only time will tell. I hope to build that kit as well, whether as a review (are you lurking, Bill or Jim??? ) or on my own. Can't EVER have too many Axis halftracks in my stash!
I CAN say that Dragon isn't perfect with their kits. I got ZERO satisfaction when I challenged them and Cyber-Hobby about the incorrect suspension springs in the Pz. II joint kit. So I will need a $15 resin upgrade (in addition to the brass PE add-ons and fenders, not to mention the Friul tracks at $32 a set). Their sFH 15 kit had some fit issues, and the instructions were simply wrong in parts. But that didn't stop me from pre-ordering their sPA 505 Tiger II. Kits have issues.
Finally, thanks, Darren, for the compliment. I hope my review and the build log will prompt discussion and induce others to take a stab at this kit.
The issues identified by other reviewers so far have not been as onerous, in my opinion, as I was led to expect. The kit goes together nicely, and the fit issues are minimal so far. Flash isn't a significant problem, but that is sometimes a matter of taste. I've yet to build a kit where I'm not removing mold seam lines, but maybe there are perfect kits out there I just haven't built yet. Some knock-out holes need scraping or filling, but again, no big deal for me.
Some positives I've discovered so far include an even greater admiration for the detailing of the carriage and drive train. For you tanker geeks, it's like building a complete Tiger I with engine, driver compartment and fighting interior, and then having only a few hatches open. The detailing on the parts is impressive, including the cotter pins holding on the tow lugs. There also is a sense of how much care and design went into relatively utilitarian things like the winch housing: Art-Deco fluted air vents that one would expect to find on a 1930s Mercedes coupe.
As to Dragon "getting it right," only time will tell. I hope to build that kit as well, whether as a review (are you lurking, Bill or Jim??? ) or on my own. Can't EVER have too many Axis halftracks in my stash!
I CAN say that Dragon isn't perfect with their kits. I got ZERO satisfaction when I challenged them and Cyber-Hobby about the incorrect suspension springs in the Pz. II joint kit. So I will need a $15 resin upgrade (in addition to the brass PE add-ons and fenders, not to mention the Friul tracks at $32 a set). Their sFH 15 kit had some fit issues, and the instructions were simply wrong in parts. But that didn't stop me from pre-ordering their sPA 505 Tiger II. Kits have issues.
Finally, thanks, Darren, for the compliment. I hope my review and the build log will prompt discussion and induce others to take a stab at this kit.
keenan
Indiana, United States
Joined: October 16, 2002
KitMaker: 5,272 posts
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Joined: October 16, 2002
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 04:20 AM UTC
Excellent review Bill.
Thanks,
Shaun
Thanks,
Shaun
JimF
Texas, United States
Joined: July 05, 2002
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 04:43 AM UTC
Very good review. I'm really looking forward to the build log, as I get a lot better impression of the kit when I see the parts put together.
Frankvan
United States
Joined: January 05, 2008
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 04:56 AM UTC
Having read the first review of the Trumpeter kit I am going to wait for the DML kit to come out and then compare the two and then buy the one I think is the best. I may buy one or
both of them
both of them
PantherF
Indiana, United States
Joined: June 10, 2005
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 06:12 AM UTC
Thanks for taking the time to review this kit! The price is very right and the 'extras' look good too. It's a possible addition someday!
210cav
Virginia, United States
Joined: February 05, 2002
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 06:29 AM UTC
Bill-- good review.
DJ
DJ
wbill76
Texas, United States
Joined: May 02, 2006
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 07:28 AM UTC
Quoted Text
As to Dragon "getting it right," only time will tell. I hope to build that kit as well, whether as a review (are you lurking, Bill or Jim??? ) or on my own. Can't EVER have too many Axis halftracks in my stash! .
Bill, all of our DML reviews are "user submitted" since DML doesn't provide review samples to Armorama. If you'd like to submit a review of the DML kit, we'd be happy to have it.
jimbrae
Provincia de Lugo, Spain / Espaņa
Joined: April 23, 2003
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 08:35 AM UTC
Quoted Text
I'm waiting for the DML 7 as well.
I have read too much negative things about the T-7, that just includes things one shouldn't have to expect nor accept in a kit of today.
Too thick sides, oversized hatches, oversized bolts, flash.
I'm waiting for an understanding that this is in fact the Trumpeter model.
Bill's excellent review was about this kit. Frankly, the snide comments about waiting for DML or anyone else's is totally irrelevant to this Review. Bill HAS the kit, he's gone thru it thoroughly and has considered the issues and looked at the problem areas.
What more do you require?
Thanks Bill, for a REALLY excellent Review
bill_c
Campaigns Administrator
New Jersey, United States
Joined: January 09, 2008
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 09:32 AM UTC
Bill, consider this a public offer to do the in-box review for the DML kit AND a build log (hmmm, perhaps a DAK version?). Should be finished with the Trumpeter build about the time the DML kit hits the States (though given how long we've been waiting for the Zimmerit Tiger I, I'm not holding my breath or giving anyone money up-front to hold a kit for me).
Jim, thanks for the compliments (virtual stammering). I would be happy to do more reviews as you and the staff see fit. Very appreciative of all the support from Armorama.
Jim, thanks for the compliments (virtual stammering). I would be happy to do more reviews as you and the staff see fit. Very appreciative of all the support from Armorama.
PvtMutt
Missouri, United States
Joined: July 01, 2006
KitMaker: 614 posts
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 09:55 AM UTC
The DML kit is already here in the states.
I got one from Sprue Bros. about a week ago.
I take it back--I order so much from them--it was a different kit
Sorry Sorry
Take Care
...Mutt...
I got one from Sprue Bros. about a week ago.
I take it back--I order so much from them--it was a different kit
Sorry Sorry
Take Care
...Mutt...
Hisham
Al Qahirah, Egypt / لعربية
Joined: July 23, 2004
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 10:38 AM UTC
I searched all over the Sprue Brothers site and found every item that has "sdkfz 7" in its name but couldn't find DML's kit. How did you order it from them?
Hisham
Hisham
wbill76
Texas, United States
Joined: May 02, 2006
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Joined: May 02, 2006
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 04:19 PM UTC
Quoted Text
Bill, consider this a public offer to do the in-box review for the DML kit AND a build log (hmmm, perhaps a DAK version?). Should be finished with the Trumpeter build about the time the DML kit hits the States (though given how long we've been waiting for the Zimmerit Tiger I, I'm not holding my breath or giving anyone money up-front to hold a kit for me).
Jim, thanks for the compliments (virtual stammering). I would be happy to do more reviews as you and the staff see fit. Very appreciative of all the support from Armorama.
Bill, looking forward to it! If you notice in your profile because you've provided a Review to the site you now have the "Contributor" medal/ribbon designation. You should also now have access to the Contributor's Forum where we post up available review samples and provide a place for all the site Contributors to coordinate and interact with each other and the Staff.
H_Ackermans
Gelderland, Netherlands
Joined: July 11, 2006
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Posted: Wednesday, July 09, 2008 - 11:20 PM UTC
Quoted Text
Quoted TextI'm waiting for the DML 7 as well.
I have read too much negative things about the T-7, that just includes things one shouldn't have to expect nor accept in a kit of today.
Too thick sides, oversized hatches, oversized bolts, flash.
I'm waiting for an understanding that this is in fact the Trumpeter model.
Bill's excellent review was about this kit. Frankly, the snide comments about waiting for DML or anyone else's is totally irrelevant to this Review. Bill HAS the kit, he's gone thru it thoroughly and has considered the issues and looked at the problem areas.
What more do you require?
Thanks Bill, for a REALLY excellent Review
Okay, Jim, is the mention of the letters D M and L enough to send you up the trees?
I haven't said anything that detracts from the review, but just that I AM waiting for DML's offering.
I want the best option, and so far, the Trumpeter 7 has been reported to have (for me) serious issues.
Is that SOOOOOOOOO not done?
wbill76
Texas, United States
Joined: May 02, 2006
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Posted: Thursday, July 10, 2008 - 02:44 AM UTC
Quoted Text
I want the best option, and so far, the Trumpeter 7 has been reported to have (for me) serious issues.
This, ultimately, is the goal of every review we post, to inform the reader based on the experience (and of course opinion) of the reviewer of the kit at hand. We invite comments/questions related to the kit under discussion and this can (and should) include discussions of comparison relative to similar kits on the market by other manufacturers if the readers/site users have questions in that regard. It should be no different than if someone asked "how does it compare to (insert maker X)'s kit of the same subject?". When we know that there will be competing subjects and one is out (the review subject) and the other is not, I think it's a legitimate comment for someone to make to say "I'll wait for (insert maker Y)'s kit before I make a decision", especially if X's kit is shown in the review to have issues as clearly the Trumpeter kit, in this scenario, does.
At the end of the day, it's up to the individual to decide what they want based on the information provided. The Review is meant to aid that as is any subsequent discussion here in the forums.
H_Ackermans
Gelderland, Netherlands
Joined: July 11, 2006
KitMaker: 2,229 posts
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Joined: July 11, 2006
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Posted: Thursday, July 10, 2008 - 02:51 AM UTC
Quoted Text
Quoted Text
I want the best option, and so far, the Trumpeter 7 has been reported to have (for me) serious issues.
This, ultimately, is the goal of every review we post, to inform the reader based on the experience (and of course opinion) of the reviewer of the kit at hand. We invite comments/questions related to the kit under discussion and this can (and should) include discussions of comparison relative to similar kits on the market by other manufacturers if the readers/site users have questions in that regard. It should be no different than if someone asked "how does it compare to (insert maker X)'s kit of the same subject?". When we know that there will be competing subjects and one is out (the review subject) and the other is not, I think it's a legitimate comment for someone to make to say "I'll wait for (insert maker Y)'s kit before I make a decision", especially if X's kit is shown in the review to have issues as clearly the Trumpeter kit, in this scenario, does.
At the end of the day, it's up to the individual to decide what they want based on the information provided. The Review is meant to aid that as is any subsequent discussion here in the forums.
Exactly!
I'm now keenly following the build-up by Bill and that will also weigh in in which one will get over here.
Wether or not a review is good or not, doesn't mean that that is a reason to get a kit or not. At least, I think so.
A Trump and DML head to head build/review might be nice, as has been done with the flood of 251's in the past between DML and AFV.
I'm also very curious about further releases, being the 7/1 and 7/2 and also the later versions, seeing as these are early 7s.
And hoping for the SdKfz 8 to follow suit, Tamiya's 9 is still excellent no need for another one.