This second building by Custom Dioramics and VLS, is interesting in that there are not many releases I have seen that look as unique as these two buildings. That is part of their charm I think. This building is again patterned by Carles Elias (and the box art version was done by non other than Bob Letterman himself). The list price for this release on the VLS site is $50 USD, but I was able to quickly find it on greatmodels.com for $40 and Netmerchants.co.uk for £35.
looking inside
I should point out that I have not built this building. The best I could manage was to dry fit walls and pieces together. I did find that without a proper diagram for how it goes together, you will spend about 5-15 minutes trying to figure it out. But it's sort of like a puzzle so for those who like puzzles you may enjoy!
The kit has about 15 resin pieces. There are some smaller resin parts that include filler pieces for the roof area and two door knobs. These didn't look too well detailed for my taste but they may do fine for some. As usual the backside of the walls and roof sections are glazed-over resin. I am sure this is just due to the manufacturing process, but as I have said before it sure does bug me. I almost wish for the plaster days when you could chip away at the walls and make your own damage and wall details. Ahh but resin has its advantages of course. One slip with a plaster wall and...smash... your done.
conclusions
Overall I would have to say this kit is pretty much on par with most VLS/Custom Dioramics releases. There will be areas you will need to fill of course, and the fact that one door is a seperate piece whereas another door is fixed in place may bother some. On the whole though I would say it's a unique design for a popular subject (the eastern front). So many people would be wise to start with a building like this, rather than try to get away with something that is probably more western European in origin.
If you have time make sure to checkout my video review as it will have some additional points and more details.
SUMMARY
Highs: A unique design with lots of details, nooks, crannies, and potential.Lows: No instructions and some fit and finish challenges typical to this type of building.Verdict: For between $40 and $50 this building is certainly not inexpensive, however there is a lot of resin here and a lot of original details waiting for someone to build on.
Our Thanks to VLS Corporation! This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.
About Jim Starkweather (staff_Jim) FROM: NEW HAMPSHIRE, UNITED STATES
I started building models in 1971 when I was 6. My first model was a 1/32 P-40 Warhawk. Revell I believe. From there I moved onto the standard cars, Apollo spacecraft, and other kid orientated kits. I don't know what got me started on Armor. I must have seen a Monogram tank kit one day and said "Mom...
Gday Jim
The video in the review is a nice touch! (So that's your voice?:p)
The kit itself looks quite simple, and for the asking price is a little outta my league, but is a definite for someone without developed scratchbuilding skills to start off with... With the scope of quality Eastern front figures, the potential for a great dio begins here
Cheers
Brad
The video is a great piece and the inclusion of the test fit 'puzzle' is well communicated via video.
I'm looking to do more videos too, they seem to be a good addition.
First let me say that the video review was great, wish we could get more of these kind of reviews.
Second I've seen this kind of building before. It was while I was deployed in Kosovo last year, in the Balkins. They are mainly used for official buildings, schools, and the like in the villages around the country side. I might even have a couple of pic if I dig deep enough, well thats what I believe it is.
Thanks Mike
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