Which kit would be the 'best' 1/35 Jagdpanther?

best meaning, fit, accuracy, etc. etc.

Without a doubt the Tamiya Jagdpanther kit is the best one on the market... just be sure to get the newer one kit no. 203.

This kit can be built as a "Mid", "Late" or even "Final" production type.

The DML kits are also good. The key advantage is that you get decent individual link tracks with the kit.

The Italeri kits are not as good as the other two in terms of accuracy and fit.

Here's a couple of links to some shots of two that I've built in the last year or so...
Jagdpanther Late 1

Jagdpanther Late 2

Later,
Tim

If you want a 1/25 scale Jagdpanther, Academy's kit isn't too bad. The fit is good and the details are OK. The only drawback is cleaning the individual track links. Other than that it builds up into a nice kit.

Without a doubt, the Tamiya 1/35th Jagdpanther Late (kit # 35203) is the best detailed on te market. The Dragon 1/35th Jagdpanther Early, and Command versions are also very good, esp the Early version (both 9000 Imperial Series).

I'd stay away from the Italeri 1/35th Jagdpanther, and the older Tamiya Jagdpanther kits. These kits are 'old school' technology.

There's plenty of aftermarket parts out there for extra detail, if you travel that route, but the newer Tamiya Jagdpanther kit will build real nice OOB.

Cheers !

Robert

I recall seeing a build up article with one of the DML (ex Gunze) Jagdpanthers. The modeller did a lot of work to modify the fighting compartment rear bulkhead. I guess it was severely off and it required modifying the roof. I don't have a DML kit in front of me to compare with plans. Maybe you should inquire further about this?

I loved the DML kit....mine came with the Zimmerit option

I'm currently building DML's Early Jagdpanther and it looks like the rearmost engine grills are molded too short. There's a quarter inch gap between the grills and the back plate. Can anyone else confirm this? Are there parts that cover the gap that I have overlooked?