Zvezda's 1/35 scale Panzer III Ausf. F is available online from Squadron.com

Some of Dragon's earliest releases in 1/35 scale were Panzer III variants. These were great kits when they were released and they still stand the test of time today in terms of accuracy and general detail.

Zvezda has re-packaged several ex-Dragon kits in recent years. This time they have added a few new parts plus decals for three vehicles and transformed their kit into a Panzer III Ausf F.

This variant has not been available straight from the box until now.

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

The kit sprues are effectively identical to the earlier Dragon Panzer III kits. This means that the detail is good, and that you will find plenty of spare parts when the model is finished! The plastic does seem a little harder than the soft material we are used to seeing in Dragon kits, but the moulds are starting to betray their age with some ragged flash and a few sinkmarks here and there.

The main difference between this kit and its Dragon counterparts is the inclusion of full-length flexible vinyl tracks. I was a little alarmed at first glance, as they looked like Italeri-style tracks with their silver finish, but closer examination showed that these tracks are somewhat thinner and more finely detailed. For those modellers who do not like individual track links, your prayers have been answered!

For those who prefer individual links, there are plenty of after-market options currently available.

Zvezda's 1/35 scale Panzer III Ausf. F is a welcome release of an important early-war Panzer.

Recommended.

Thanks to Squadron.com for the review sample.

Review and Images Copyright © 2003 by Brett Green
Page Created 26 January, 2003
Last updated 27 January, 2004

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