1:72 T-34/76
Zvezda's first "snap kit". Is it just a basic model for kids, with serious lack of details caused by simplified assembly? Or maybe it can be regarded as "a proper kit" and build into solid miniature of T-34? In order to answer those questions I bought it and build it. Here's how it went.
The kit
It's Zvezda's first easy kit attempt in AFV models. On the first glance looks quite nice and yes, it can be assembled without glue. However it has of course several flaws. Some of them are results of "snap" nature of the kit (e.g. few details missing), other not necessarily (e.g. drivers hatch is moulded in closed position with hull). On the other hand some details are quite nice. So definitely fine offer for kids, but if you want to build a "proper model"... decide for yourself.
Decals included in the kit give us possibility to build two Russian vehicles. First is the all green T-34 with white “20” on the turret, from 22nd Heavy Tank Brigade, as the instruction states. Tactical number informs us, that this vehicle belonged to commander (second digit) of the 2nd company (first digit) of mentioned brigade. Which was a part of 6th Mechanized Corp, and fight in 1943 in Voronezh area.
Second option is a camouflaged tank, named “Stalinets”, from 8th Heavy Tank Brigade. At least that's what the instruction claims. However, this T-34 in known to me literature is depicted as belonging to 30th Guard Tank Brigade and the turret markings supports that version.
Both of this tanks can be found on WW2 photos, which can be helpful in catching up missing details. For example- both T-34 were equipped with additional fuel tanks (although different types), which aren't included in the kit.
The build
I've decided to build this kit in a standard way- with glue & putty, removing any visible snap joints. It came together very nicely. The only places which required more attention were side fenders, where the snap-joints for hull halves were located. But some putty and sanding did the job, nothing difficult.
Painting and decals
Weathering
Finished model
The model depicts T-34 with tactical number "20", belonging to the commander of the 2nd Company of the 22nd Armoured Brigade, which was part of the 6th Mechanized Corps. Woronezh's region, 1943.
Addendum
Long after I finished this kit I came across some other photos of this particular vehicle. Unfortunately, they clearly show that the main wheels were the solid type, at least on one side. Oh, well...
The other models are a top notch too.