introduction

Dragon recently released the 234/2 Puma, third in it's series of kits based on the Sd.Kfz.234 armoured reconnaissance car. As to be expected, Cyber Hobby weren't far behind with their upgrade kit as with the previous two releases.

the set

One of the first things that struck me when I came to write this review, was that I couldn't find a price for the set. I'm sure it must be available as a stand alone product, but couldn't find a price! The set allows the modeller to install new fenders, as with the other update sets, but new to this set is the option of having opening stowage bin doors. These are provided on one of the two photo etched frets included in the set, and look great when built! Each door consists of the door panel, the locking mechanism and a small padlock and chain, which is a vast improvement over the kit part. The fenders are of the four bin early type.

One of the not so nice things about this set is the way Cyber Hobby secure the photo etched frets into the blister pack with sticky tape. The removal of the sticky residue it left
caused me a real problem, when I tried to remove it.

However, one of the nice things about this set is that you can use it on any of the previous 234 kits from dragon, apart from the decals of course, the fenders being interchangeable. So if you need opening bins on any of your 234's, then this is the set for you! Unlike the other sets, which have offered different fenders from those provided in the kit, this set offers the same fenders, but as mentioned, with the inducement of the opening bins.

The other main inclusion in this set are the parts included to be able to make the wheels appear steerable. With a very simple adjustment to the original kit parts this effect can be achieved as nearly as easily. There are pre-formed wires included for the brake lines too.

The other small photo etched fret includes two meshes for the engine air intakes, the pattern being very fine indeed and well represented.

the decals

The decal sheet includes turret numbers for five different vehicles and three balkancreuz. Tis is to be used in conjunction with the kit decal sheet to provide license numbers etc.

in conclusion

A very nice little set indeed, and worth it just for the option of having those stowage lockers open! Highly recommended!