introduction

Today it seems that the after-market accessory manufacturers have produced something for every kit released.
Orange Hobby, a new contender from China, offers 1/35th scale upgrade sets for AFV Club’s Churchill and T-34 kits and a range of photo-etched accessories for both the Tamiya and Dragon Panzer IV kits.

contents

A total of 13 parts come in the small blister pack: One turned-brass ring, a brass tube and a fret of etched-brass parts. One needs to provide some 1mm diameter plastic rod (not included). The quality of the machined and photo-etched parts is exceptional. Two different sizes of rear support are provided, for mounting the ring on different vehicles. Although I used the set to enhance my tired old Tamiya M20 scout car, it can also be used to upgrade the 2 1/2 ton cargo truck or the M8 Greyhound, as well as any other US vehicle mounting this common type of ring. Not provided is the cradle or swivel pintle for the .50 cal. machine gun.

construction

I still don’t own a PE bending machine, instead managing just fine with a pair of duck-bill tweezers. Experience using PE parts will be helpful, but not essential. Aside from the tweezers and a sharp blade, all you'll need is a ball-point pen for creating raised detail, and keen dexterity.

parting shots

Not yet painted to match the rest of the vehicle, the finished work really adds a certain weighty realism to the model. I can now move my old M20 from the back, dark corner of the display case to the center of my collection. I'm now off to order a couple more for my Tamiya M8 and 2 1/2 ton truck.
I spent an enjoyable couple of hours adding the set to my M20 scout car. Highly recommended as an affordable stocking stuffer for any Allied armor builder!