Dragon Sherman M4A1(76)W VVSS - Part II

Remember that Dragon Sherman I was supposed to work on in time gaps during Junkers project? Well, things didn't work out that well with that plan. But the build is now solidly under way, with all main sub-assemblies complete.

What can be said about this kit? First of all, it's insanely detailed and fiddly. With some effort and attention to details, it looks great, as I hope can be seen in the images below. The build itself is done without major hickups. The only major critique can be directed at the assembly of suspension, where what I assume is some sort of hydraulic shock absorbers need to be inserted into wheel assembles. Not only is this piece completely hidden from sight once the assembly is done, it also makes the fit much more difficult than without it. Annoying and unnecessary.

There is substantial number of photo-etched parts in this box; remember we're talking about 1/72 scale here. I put on some of them, but choose to use plastic components for light guards for the simple reason that my kits serve double duty as game pieces in wargames. Photo-etched parts are too fragile for frequent handling. That's maybe my decision to use photo-etched components for rear stowage rack isn't the best I've ever made. Initially I just wanted to make it and get some experience with photo-etch. But then it turned out so nice... So what the heck, I can always put on the plastic variant if it gets knocked off in the heat of the battle.

At this moment I have to do some last minute cleanup of the turret and then it's time to get out the primer can.