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In-Box Review
135
Michael Wittmann Tiger I

by: Charles Reading [ CREADING ]

Introduction
This latest release from Cyber-Hobby is the Pz.Kpfw.VI Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger 1(early production) with markings to make Michael Wittmann's mount with 13./Panzerregiment 1 during Operation "Zitadelle" in July of 1943.

Like most new Cyber Hobby releases when you open the box there is a few moments of jaw dropping awe. So many parts, so much detail! Most folks who pre-ordered this kit are beginning to receive it in the post.... and what lucky people they are! If you didn't preorder this kit I highly suggest that you hit the waiting list as soon as possible. This is one beautiful kit you won't want to miss out on.


The Kit
Molded in Dragon's light grey styrene there are no less than 28 sprues of pieces. There are two frets of photo-etch parts also. As with most recent Dragon/Cyber-Hobby kits many of the molded parts are marked as 'unused' on the instruction sheet indicating perhaps future releases of different variants.

A bag of Dragon's 'MagicTracks', a separate tray with photo etch screens, a beautiful metal barrel, metal towing pintles, a section of pliable metal wire for the towing cable. One small decal sheet with markings for Wittmann's tank 1331.


The Issues
Yes, there appear to be several building and accuracy issues with this kit. Most are minor and wouldn't matter to the average builder, but if you are looking to build an accurate replica of the Wittmann Tiger then prior to breaking out the glue I suggest that you refer to the expert in the field of Tiger tanks, David Byrden. Mr. Byrden has been so kind as to create online assembly notes for Wittmann kit 6350. This can be found here.

In brief, some of the issues are general fit problems, some differences between the instruction sheet and how the piece should be placed on the model. All in all, I defer to Mr. Byrden when it comes to any Tiger questions and often use his site to further my references.


The Details
Dragon/Cyber-Hobby get an A in my book for the exquisite detail that abounds in this kit. The molded parts on sprue 'W' which are the hoses for the Fifel Air system are some of the finest detail work in plastic that I have seen. The photo-etch screens are 3 dimensional rather than flat. There are locks for the storage bin and wing nuts on the photo-etch fret. So much small precise detail molded in or included with this kit it is impossible to do it justice in a short in-box review. One has to physically look at the contents of this kit to appreciate how far this hobby has advanced in the past few years.


Conclusion
This is the definitive early Tiger kit. It is not without it's flaws but nothing so serious that it would deter the average builder. Most discrepancies are addressed by David Byrden in a manner that can be easily followed to produce a beautiful replica in 1/35 of Wittmann's Kursk Tiger. Whether or not the builder decides to go for 100% accuracy, with a little effort the end result will be a show stopper of a kit.
SUMMARY
This is the definitive Michael Wittmann kit. A must have for Wittman fans as well as folks who just like Tiger tanks.
Percentage Rating
98%
  Scale: 1:35
  Mfg. ID: 6350
  Suggested Retail: $44.99
  PUBLISHED: Dec 02, 2006
  NATIONALITY: Germany
NETWORK-WIDE AVERAGE RATINGS
  THIS REVIEWER: 87.80%
  MAKER/PUBLISHER: 87.43%

Our Thanks to Cyber-Hobby.com!
This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.

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About Charles Reading (CReading)
FROM: CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES

I live in the mountains north of Santa Cruz California. I have been building now since the early 1990's when I rediscovered modeling. Most of my kits are built with dioramas in mind. I took a "creative block" hiatis for a couple years - 2011 to 2013. I wasn't active in the modeling world. During tha...

Copyright ©2021 text by Charles Reading [ CREADING ]. All rights reserved.



Comments

Thanks Charles for giving us all an insight into what looks like another winning Tiger Model, in such a well written review. John
DEC 06, 2006 - 06:10 AM
Its too bad they strayed from the slide-moulded turret. Looks great though, I cant wait to get my kits woot!
DEC 06, 2006 - 07:50 AM
Vinnie, Thanks for the link, it will be very helpful. My only question is, when is mine going to arrive? What did my Grandfather say about patience?
DEC 06, 2006 - 09:18 AM
who's Patience?
DEC 07, 2006 - 02:28 AM
   
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