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In-Box Review
135
Late War German Tool Set
1:35 Late War German Vehicle Tool Set
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by: Bill Cross [ BILL_C ]

introduction

Styrene molding technology has really improved in the past few years, with “slide molds” that can reduce significantly “flash” and seam lines, and render small details with crisp edges and definition. But resin casting remains the standard for detail, and a new set of Late War tools for German AFVs proves this once again. The set also gives modelers a chance to up the detailing on their kits without going crazy with added “fiddly bits.”

the contents

The set includes:
15 resin pieces
1 fret of PE
Color instruction sheet

The cover shows two fire extinguishers and two shovels, but in both cases, you get different PE parts to make one of two options.

the review

It is often said that a few well-placed details will make even an ordinary kit stand out. This set definitely underlines that point, as it improves the items that are often the most prominent on the exterior of tanks and other AFVs. These include the shovel, sledge hammer, jack, block and bolt cutters. New styrene technology has certainly improved these, but can’t yet compete with resin. The set goes resin casting one better by rendering some of the parts in brass, including the lift end of the jack and the shovel blades. No plastic can offer the same scale thinness.

Even in the case of well-cast styrene tools, however, there is still the matter of attaching them to the vehicle. Plastic attachment points are just plain clunky, and some of the PE frets included with today’s kits have greatly simplified tool clips. The clips in this set are both accurate and include all manner of thumbscrews and latches.

The instructions are basic, but clear, with the brass parts shown in a greenish yellow. Bend edges are shown on larger pieces, though the latches will require you to fold them according to fit. Those who are uncomfortable with “fiddly bits” won’t feel much better with these tiny details.

One good bit of news: the PE fret has extra parts in case the “rug monster” eats up a few latches. You will still do well to have a PE folding device like The Small Shop’s “The Bug,” which I highly recommend. This is a good set for anyone who has wanted to try photo-etched brass but didn't want to deal with too many parts or invest a lot in an AM upgrade. You’re only dealing with around a dozen items instead of an entire tank's worth.

conclusion

For those who want to improve the detailing on their German tanks and soft skins without investing $25 on a full PE set, this is a good compromise. Hardcore tread heads naturally will want more detailing, though the quality of the resin casting might make this a good supplement for one of the large PE sets that ask you to improve on the styrene tools instead of replacing them outright.

Thanks to Alliance Model Works for providing this review sample. Be sure to mention you saw it reviewed here on Armorama when ordering.
SUMMARY
Highs: Excellent resin casting. Good all-around set of tools and latches for the price.
Lows: Website shows more tools than are included in the set.
Verdict: Recommended. Might be an excellent first go at photo etch for someone who's never tried it.
Percentage Rating
90%
  Scale: 1:35
  Mfg. ID: LW35051
  Suggested Retail: $14
  PUBLISHED: Jul 09, 2011
  NATIONALITY: Germany
NETWORK-WIDE AVERAGE RATINGS
  THIS REVIEWER: 90.08%
  MAKER/PUBLISHER: 89.57%

Our Thanks to Alliance Modelworks!
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.

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About Bill Cross (bill_c)
FROM: NEW JERSEY, UNITED STATES

Self-proclaimed rivet counter who gleefully builds tanks, planes and has three subs in the stash.

Copyright ©2021 text by Bill Cross [ BILL_C ]. All rights reserved.



Comments

@bill_c - Bill, Thanks for letting us know about this item. Don't have much to add as your review pretty much covers all of the reasons why I will be getting myself a few sets for a couple of upcoming builds. -Eddy
JUL 18, 2011 - 08:22 AM
Thanks, Eddy, enjoy! And be sure to post some photos of your builds here!
JUL 18, 2011 - 10:35 AM
Not to hi-jack the thread but does anybody make hand tools, stuff like wrenches and such ? Thanks in advance ! Tom
JUL 19, 2011 - 01:09 AM
I believe Eduard has a set of hand tools in PE for the Tamiya Sd.Kfz.7.
JUL 19, 2011 - 03:23 AM
The set is great, I used it for my last project. Jack looks excellent.
NOV 03, 2011 - 12:38 AM
   
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