I don't know why but this kit makes me think of Tom Sawyer whitewashing a fence. Probably because the core part of this kit is the picket fence which includes a right and left side and a gate in the middle. The hinged gate includes some nice hardware like a latch and cross-support. They were fairly clever with this kit. The two sprues are identical and you may wonder for a second if MiniArt didn't blunder and forget to give you the sprue set that includes the table. This is because the table is actually made using the two bench pieces and each table leg is included on either set. Very clever.
In addition to the picket fence and the picnic table with two bench seats, the kit also includes two ladders which require no assembly. There are 32 parts in all.
The details are very subtle but present in the soft gray plastic used for the set. If you need any of these type of features for a diorama you are going to be hard-pressed not to find an easier way to get them vs. scratch building them. And even then I doubt many modelers could ever reproduce some of the fine details present here.
SUMMARY
Highs: Excellent details and thoughtfulness of design.Lows: Cost may be an issue for budget minded modelers who need these in numbers.Verdict: Overall a well done set that will surely meet the needs of many diorama builders.
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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...
I bought this set and was disapointed in that it's not possible to build the fence and door as shown on the box art, for that the box is missing one short bit of fence (part 8 ) and two pillars (parts 6 ).
Not good from Miniart, and I feel this should get mentioned in the review (with a revised rating as well taking this mistake into account).
Cheers,
Christophe
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