introduction

Dragon's brand new 234/4 can be made straight out of the box as a stunning model. Full interior for the fighting compartment, along with superbly moulded detail and a fantastic running gear. It builds up into a fairly late example straight from the box however, and thsi update set from Cyber-Hobby offers the opportunity to produce an early example from around December 1944.

what you get

As can be seen from the photographs, the set comes in a rather nifty blister pack, which includes a small decal sheet, two new side fenders, 2 photo-etch frets, and the new etched brass shield assembly.

contents in detail

The new side fenders include the central stowage bins, later deleted for ease of construction. The bins also have hinges at the bottom rather than top hinges like on the late example.

The photo-etched frets include a new set of two grills, presumably for beneath the engine louvres, although since my review sample was a pre-production example and did not include instructions, it's difficult to be sure. A new set of finely etched louvres are included, which can be modelled opened or closed, and also quite a few small brackets and fittings for around the vehicle, such as springs for the seat backs, pipe clips for the exhaust etc.

Next we have the beautifully made shield. This alone would make the set worth it for me, coming as it does with a beautiful set of tiny brass spacers for beween the two thicknesses of the shield. Having just made a photo-etched double shield for a 251/7 PaK 36 and having to scratch the spacers, these are something I really appreciate!

The set is finished off with a small decal sheet, containing markings for a Wermacht vehicle attached to the 24th Panzer Division.

in conclusion

A beauitful little set, recommended, although I think it should have been included in the original kit release.

Many Thanks to Dragon for the review sample Dragon Models Limited