Cyber-Hobby 1/35 Stug.III ausf E

The Sturmgeschütz III (StuG III) assault gun was Germany's most produced armoured fighting vehicle during World War II. It was built on the chassis of the proven Panzer III tank. Initially intended as a mobile, armoured light gun for infantry support, the StuG was continually modified and was widely employed as a tank destroyer.

StuG III Ausf. E: (Sd.Kfz 142; 1941-42, 272 produced) A MG 34 is added to protect the vehicle from enemy infantry. Other minor improvements to the superstructure sides.

This is yet another of Dragon/CyberHobby's Value Pack kits and this time the StuG III ausf E variant has been chosen. There are many ways that the value has been increased on this kit besides the lower retail price:

Features:
- Value Added Magic Tracks
- Value Added Smoke Discharger Rack
- Newly Designed Inspection Hatches
- Additional Radio Pannier
- Bonus German Figure Set

Now the parts count on this one is higher than on some kits as the Magic Track individual links adds to that, but also produces a very realistic look to them. This kit also has several photo etch frets for engine screens and some other small parts, that includes the mounts for the rear ammo rails (I guess that is what those are). Some modification to the kit in terms of cutting the fenders, filling holes and such are needed to do an accurate variant, but all of that is clearly shown in the instructions. I found it pretty cool that the color of the plastic for the Magic Tracks is different for right and left sides. Apparently there has been some problemmixing them and getting less than perfect fit. There is no interior or engine in this one, but room is there if you are into aftermarket.

The set includes figures from the StuG Crew set, a nice addition to this kit. Instructions are the smaller, full color ones and there are options for four vehicles, all originally in Panzer Grey. The box art one is from StuG Abt 177 in Russia during 1941. One in whitewash from AtuG Abt 202 also in Russia during 1942 is next. This is followed by an Abt 197 and Abt 249 vehicle, both also from 1942 and on the Russian Front. Painting and assembly guide for the figures is on the instruction sheet.  

I don't know how you feel about these value kits, but it seems that the buying public likes them. A lot. The local shop has them sell out quite quickly and as you know, most Cyber-Hobby kits are one-time runs so get them while the getting is good.

http://en.wikipedia.org

May 2009

My thanks to the fine folks at www.dragonmodelsusa.com for the preview kit. Get yours today at your favorite on-line store or local shop.

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