Hi everyone, I just picked up the above kit a LHS for a cool $70 Australian up $20 on what i usually pay for dml, the kit I must say is very nice indeed and no one bent my arm to make me buy it, I also picked up a panther g with zimm a couple of weeks ago, now for a couple of observations of the kit, to tell the truth theres not to much wrong with this baby every bit looks superb on the sprues as most of them are new , except for that huge A sprue which is only needed for a few pieces, also there is no 50.cal included,. The markings are quite nice and i like the option of the tank with yellow band on turret, but panting that yellow line will be a pain in the ass, also you have to use the included photo etch for the fenders no choice, i would have liked some plastic ones included. So enough of my thoughts on the kit I have a couple of questions as well, first off why no 50.cal on the turret and has anyone built one yet or done a comparison review with the tasca one, and also what are my other options for markings and theatre. Thanks and cheers, Bob.

Bob, there isn't a comparison review as such but many posts on ML and Armarama etc of comparisons between the kits but usually the Alamein version. You did well to get one here for only $70 Aus, the cheapest I have seen is $72 at my local who are generally cheap.
The 50 in the words of DML's mouthpiece wasn't included because they were only on propaganda pictures of the vehicles. I think they just overlooked it and instead of admitting it they just shot all the nay sayers.
I am not convinced with the shape of the front glacis on the DML kit as it appears as a flat sheet with the hoods stuck on and not the subtle fairing of the real thing. I know there are differences between castings but these are quite different to any pics or actuals I have seen.
The DML kit only offers PE like you say but it isn't hard with basic soldering skills.

As I see it here are the pros of the DML kit
Decals - more options (Alamein)
PE - tool straps etc
Grouser covers - all types
Tracks - one piece

Here are the cons:
Glacis and front hull shape poor IMHO
Only one type of Air cleaner
Bogie Articulation
No 50 Cal
Sunshade rail brackets are massively overscale

Tasca Pros
Hull shape
Buildability
Bogey articulation
50 Cal (best in 35th IMHO)
Optional Air cleaners

Cons:
two piece tracks (They are accurate just a pin to join with no visible join)
Not all grouser cover types included
Transmission cover strip does not have recessed or semi recessed bolt heads
Sunshade rails are poorly defined but easily corrected
Only three Marking options

This may look like they are both bad kits but I have to say I really like both and think they are great kits. Most of these faults are easily corrected.

A very welconme subject and one I hope is followed up by an M4A2 DV and M4DV by either company or even Academy (Long rumoured release)

Cheers
Al

thanks Al for replying your info was very helpful, cheers Bob.

My thanks as well. I've been trying to decide which one get since they came out.

-Doug

hi guys! looks like the US M4A1 DV by DML is next on my list . however, i just received my Tasca 1/35 US M4A1 Sherman Late for $40 bucks from Dragon USA!! it's a hell of a deal.

So I guess the DV will have to wait until my next paycheck

Cheers
tim

Glad you got one at a good price its a nice kit ,although I have tasca's .50 cal set on the way from hong kong to fit it out properly, cheers Bob,