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I'll not go into much detail regarding the kit this one is based on other than refer the reader to Rob Haelterman's preview
here and Francesco Giovagnorio's build review here at On the Way!
What I'd like to preview is this special "Collector's" edition of Flyhawk's previous release of this kit (no. FH3003). This is exactly
the same kit but with some upgrades. It has identical
part trees, decals and photo etched details. The difference comes with the inclusion of two new 3D printed tracks plus a turned brass main gun barrel.
The instructions remain the same, as to be expected, but now there is an included separate sheet outlining the installation of the new tracks and barrel.
It's interesting that the 3D printed track run is depicted as single piece units on the box's top, though each run is actually printed as two pieces - a lower track
run and an upper run that travels around the idler wheel & drive sprocket and spanning the return rollers.
Note that there are four extra individual links also on the 3D sprue that are not shown on the additional instruction slip, included I assume to make up any slack
should there be any when the 3D tracks have been added to the wheels.
Obviously, using the 3D tracks will leave the builder with a plethora of injected plastic spare track, which I suppose could be added to upgrade the
tank's protection, or just tossed into the spare parts box.
I have to assume the turned barrel will slot into the same spot used by the plastic version without modification, as there is nothing specified in the instructions saying otherwise.
The plastic barrel could be used for other projects.
Conclusion
I expect that this kit will build into a superb replica. The tiresome construction of the base kit's plastic runs should be eased measurably with the new 3D tracks and the
new turned brass barrel should add that little extra detailing to make this beautiful kit stand out even more. Nice to see a manufacturer revisit a previous release
and improve upon it. Well done Flyhawk!
Preview sample purchased by the author.
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