Dragon

Kit Number 14007

1/144 Pz II Ausf. B & Pz III Ausf. E

Reviewed By Jack Kennedy, #12511

If small is cool, then these tanks are very cool. About 6 months ago Dragon introduced a series on tanks in 1/144 scale.  When I first heard about them I had my doubts abut the quality.  I thought they would be just kid’s toys without too much detail or realism.

Boy, was I wrong.

These are terrific kits.  The scale is just about right to have a whole battle scene in a very confined space.  As with all of the kits in this series, there are two models.  In this kit are a Pz. 11 Ausf. B and Pz III Ausf E.

This shows a comparison in size between the early Pz II and the later Pz III.

As to the kits, I mentioned that the detail is outstanding.  Everything is included.  The track and wheels are molded as one piece.  This is good as I couldn’t possibly see how that many road wheels could be painted and assembled with track without some form of disaster.  Each tank has about 6 parts.  They may be painted, decaled, washed and dry brushed for a very presentable model.  There is some photo-etched grates for the tanks that must be applied with great care since they are so small and delicate.

The decals are more complete than any I have seen in any scale.  And they are in register, too.

Due to the small scale, the panel lines are way out of proportion.  If washes are used, this problem will be accentuated.  For effect, I like the idea of using washes and dry brushing, even though it is like overkill.  It looks nice, even if not realistic.

I look forward to Dragon releasing much more in this scale.  I hope they get into more than just German armor.  Some Shermans would be a nice touch, then you could do the Battle of the Bulge on your table top.

Would I get more of these little gems.  You bet.  They are cheap, fun and look neat.

Thanks to Dragon for supplying the review samples and to John Noack to getting them to me.

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