This is Rye Field Model’s 1:35 T-34/85, incidentally my first kit by this manufacturer.
RFM gives you a nice photo-etch fret for the engine grille, retaining straps for the exterior fuel tanks and other small items, a very good decal sheet with markings for six vehicles, and a piece of string for the tow cable. I’m not usually a fan of this solution, but in this case the string is very “non-fuzzy” and looks good with a bit of paint. No interior or figures are provided. The tires are moulded separately from the road wheels which means less masking. Good news for me, as this is not a part of the hobby which I enjoy! They fit well, and look like one piece once installed. Tracks are link & length, and also fit well.
The kit builds up nicely, although some attachment points are small and weak. This was particularly frustrating in the running gear, where the attachments between the suspension links and hull, and between the axles and road wheels, are vague and wobbly, making it difficult to line up the wheels. Why, RFM, why? Aside from this gripe, I enjoyed the build.
This was built mostly OOB, with the following exceptions: wire grab handles and tie-downs, putty “cast texture” on the turret, putty weld seam on the turret and bow gun, and bits of string and tissue for the stowage on the fenders. Oh, and a storage bin from the spares box, and an unditching beam made from an applewood stick stolen from our pet rabbit! Looking at it by the cold light of day, I think the weld seam looks grotesquely overdone, but this was my first attempt so I see it as a learning opportunity!
All the best for what’s left of the weekend!
