Introduction

Along with the previous released PE sets for the recently released Tamiya 1/48 Cromwell Mk. IV Cruiser Tank, Aber now has released a PE set to replace the solid molded storage boxes from the Tamiya kit.

The Set

The set comes in the typical Aber packaging with the single photo-etch fret well protected by a solid 1/8th inch of cardboard backing and encased in a small plastic bag topped by a black cardboard header. The etching is extremely clean as we have come to expect from Aber, along with extremely fine detailing on the boxes. Included with the storage boxes on the fret are a limited amount of padlocks and detailing hardware for those. These are etched really fine and will add a lot of detail to the final product. As with most Aber photo-etch sets, these boxes come with workable hinges which will be a nice feature for any super detailer. The only thing missing that the builder will have to supply is 3 pieces of .3mm rod for the hinges.

Aber thoughtfully includes a small box that goes on the left hand fender in front of the storage box. I can’t identify what exactly this box is for but it is not included in the original Tamiya kit. The instructions state that this was a feature on some tanks but not all.

The instructions are printed on a single sheet of A4 size paper. They are very clear and indicate the proper way to roll the hinges to make them workable and also how to get the correct ribs that are a distinct feature on these boxes. Aber uses a series of codes on the instructions with the codes explained on the back of the packaging, so read all packaging before starting to understand these various codes.

Conclusion

Overall this is a small but very complete update set for Tamiya’s Cromwell kit. The etching is very nice and with the inclusion of the delicate hinge detail not included on the original kit, this will make it stand out on the finished product. With the level of detail on this update set combined with my previously reviewed sets from Aber for the Tamiya kit, this should please anyone wanting to super detail the kit. As with any Photoetch sets a Photoetch bending tool will give the best results.
Recommended!!