introduction

Earlier this year there was a lot of anticipation for the Academy release of the M3 Lee. Generally it lived up to expectations, but due to the limitations of injection moulding, there are many parts that could be replaced by photo etch for a more in-scale appearance. Enter this set from Eduard.

the set

The set consists of two reasonably-sized photo etch frets. The instructions, which are of the usual line-drawing type offered by Eduard, run to 3 sides.

As is usual with Eduard sets, each piece of the base kit that has to be altered in some way, is called out in red if it has to be removed, or green if it is to be filled, or by the letter R if it's simply replaced.

The first parts to be offered as replacements re the two short front fenders. Since these display strengthening ribs, these can be made by rolling a ballpoint pen along the rib detail on the Eduard metal part. It's a system that works well and looks realistic. Since the front fenders are replaced, then all the attached detail is replaced too. Things such as the tool brackets, attachment brackets and brush guards for the headlights are offered as replacements, and look much more in scale than the kit parts.

Various small fittings along the sides of the lower hull are replaced along with the grouser boxes, which of course means they can then be left open or even damaged realistically. There are also small hasps and padlocks for the escape hatches, although of course, the padlocks do look a little 'flat' and 2-dimensional?

For the rear of the hull there is a new stowage/tool box with it's attendant locks, hinges and hasps, various small fittings again, including a new bracket and face for the rear reflector, and a complete replacement for the engine grill which looks superb.

in conclusion

A very useful set which offers many improvements over the kit parts, and is very easy to fit, not needing much in the way of removal of kit parts, c=since most are direct replacements. Highly recommended.

My thanks to Eduard for the review sample.