introduction

A quick look at what is a very small set indeed for the AFV Club leFH 18/40. AFV Club have gained a reputation for making kits such as these, but due to the limits of injection moulding, there is always scope for improving the representation of scale thicknesses in certain parts, hence this set from Eduard.

the set

The set comes on one modestly-sized fret of photo etch, and although the instructions run to three sides, nearly half the fret is taken up by the replacement shield, so there really isn't a lot to this set. It is a very nice shield indeed though! All the brackets, strengthening ribs etc. are also supplied and since it's much closer to scale thickness than the styrene one supplied in the kit, it does look much, much better. The Eduard replacement, as usual with parts such as this, has all the locations of various rivets and bolt heads already marked on the surface, although these are not supplied and have to be sourced elsewhere..... and in this set, that means quite a lot!

There is a new part supplied for the quadrant inclination gauge, which is properly serrated, along with new clamps for the pick axe, which are a 100% improvement over the moulded on ones, but entails their careful removal. There is also a new catch for the cylinders on the front of the shield along with a complete new lids with engraved detail. Along with 2 new shovel blades, there are a myriad of smaller brackets and details, including an engraved base for the gun slide, which is useful, since the resultant seam from joining the two halves of the kit part is difficult to disguise.

It's surprising that Eduard didn't see fit to include new spade attachments for the end of the trail arms or even the bottom shield, but this would have increased the cost of the set. The trail arms get a few small improvements as well, including new hinges and hasps for the toolbox, and again, many other small brackets and details.

in conclusion

Although only a very small set, it's surprising how many parts Eduard have managed to squeeze into that one fret. It's also surprising just how much of an improvement the set offers! Highly recommended.