Trumpeter

1/35 M198 155mm Medium Howitzer (Early Version)

Kit Number: 2306

Reviewed by  Ed Sarnecki, IPMS# 44978

MSRP: $45.00 Kit Supplied by Stevens International: www.stevenshobby.com The Build There were no problems on the barrel assembly but make sure all seams are very well sanded. I replaced C5, C9 with a spring from a Bic pen and cut it close to length as possible. Then I covered the spring with black electrical shrink wrap to give the springs more of a realistic look. I left off the muzzle brake until the final assembly. When working with the photoetch, be careful in bending PE 2. Also would to recommend leaving off until after final painting. It is delicate

I did decide to leave off B7, B8, decal 1 and PE4 until I was done and assemble later. This eased the painting and minimized the masking. I also didn't assemble the tires (either) until after final painting. In steps 16 & 17, you need to choose between either Combat Mode or Travel Mode. I choose the Combat Mode. It has to be one or the other. Painting and Decals I started painting my M198 with a light coat of Floquil Primer enamel gray. Then I added a second coat of primer with Model Masters enamel Flat Black FS 37038. Then I airbrushed two coats of Model Masters enamel US Army/ US Marine Corps Sand 2136. There is a small sheet of decals provided which are kind of thick. Conclusion I highly recommend this kit as it was minimal to no problems and it was a lot of fun. I would like to thank IPMS and Stevens International for this review sample.