At first glance I was happily impressed: the parts are crisp, instructions are clear.

But then I began to notice things. For instance, in the picture above, the tracks are not 2 pieces to be wrapped around the assembled suspension, but rather 4 pieces that are to be joined first and then wrapped around.

Then I looked at the hull roof. It is sad that there are no hatches to be left open (or closed if I should choose).
It is also sad that the periscopes are moulded with the (clear) plastic domes in place, as these were quickly discarded on the vehicle.

Now it seems that Dragon has got confused with which version they wish to portray: either the standard version or the "Marianas Model".
As you can see by the following pictures, items such as the bow MG were not introduced until this version, while other items are omitted, such as a center periscope, viewports for driver and MG gunner, the 2 .30 cal Brownings instead of the ring mounted .50 cal, and periscopes on the turret sides.

This tells me that there is a possibility for a conversion set/kit. (Even one for the LVT-(A)5, which was used in Korea.)

All in all, I am happy with this kit (so far) and when I finally get around to building it.... I'll keep you all posted on that as well.

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