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The PT-3 mine roller was the standard soviet tank-mounted de-mining device during WWII, commonly used with T-34s.
So far, in 1/72 Eastern Express is the only manufacturer that offers the PT-3 in plastic, in combination with their T-34 kits in the two versions:
- Kit no. 72053 T-34/76 with mine roller PT-3
- Kit no. 72058 T-34/85 with mine roller PT-3
Though the label says "for T-34/85" this set is useful for both versions, since they share the same sprue for the mine roller (actually, they
share almost all the sprues, only the turret sprue varies according to the model). I even think it can be used on some other resin conversions/kits
that have been available in the past (AER 7209, Leva 72C09, MR Modellbau MR-72137, to name a few).
As you can see in the picture, the single PE fret is almost entirely devoted to replace each of the shoes that project from the roller's wheels.
On the real thing these are hollowed and have prongs on its edges, but they are simplified and moulded as solid rectangular prisms on the kit
due to moulding limitations. By replacing them, you will add a great deal of realism to your model, though it will be a daunting task,
since each wheel has 18 shoes, so in total you have to repeat this operation 180 times!
Besides the shoes, you also get the parts to make a pulley, which is often seen on some pictures of the PT-3 and it's not included in the kits either.
Preview sample purchased by the author.
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