The lower hull is provided in four separate parts with the swing arms molded integral to the lower hull sides. The roadwheels are the smooth-tired, plain dish type with separately molded hubcaps. The tracks are vinyl. They are very stiff and are made up of two lengths per track run. These are best replaced by a aftermarket set.
upper hull
The upper hull is crisply molded in one piece. It features a separate driver’s hatch with interior detail on the hatch, separate transmission vent hatch, fuel drums and stowage. Two injection molded tow cables are also included and they look pretty good also.
turret
The shape and dimensions of the turret look good. It has very nice cast marks but a bit too pronounced texturing. I am pretty sure everything will look good under a coat of paint. Commander’s hatch is the large cupola variety with a single piece hatch. The gun mantlet looks awesome. The gun is molded in one solid piece with a separate muzzle. No seam to worry about.
in conclusion
Lacking the sophistication and detail of Dragon's T-34/85; but the lower price, wider availability and good level of accuracy makes it a worthwhile purchase.
SUMMARY
The Zvezda T-34/85 lacks the sophistication and detail of Dragon's T-34/85; but the lower price, wider availability and good level of accuracy makes it worthwhile. Also its far more accurate and slightly cheaper than the Tamiya kit. Released in 1997 Zvezda’s kit is accurately and nicely molded in olive green plastic. While labeled as a “Model 1944” the kit displays all the attributes present on the “Model 1945”, in particular the turret which accommodates the bulge for the electrical traverse mechanism.
About Reimund G. Manneck (Bombshell) FROM: NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
I have been modeling since 8 years old, but more seriously since I was 16. Started building aircraft, and that is why I am studying Aerospace Engineering at the University at Buffalo. Changed to armor modeling 2 years ago, 'cause canopy masking was driving me nuts.
ARTILLERY, KING OF BATTLE!!!!!!!...
