This set #325 is an extensive update set for the exterior of the 222 and consists of four frets of etched metal, fret A (153mm x 93mm), fret B (100mm x 70mm), fret C (83mm x 60mm) and fret D (55 x 15mm) as well as 18 clearly cast resin pieces with three lengths of different thickness wire (0.9mm, 0.4mm and 0.3mm) plus the instruction sheet. The etched parts are the usual high standard from Royal Models with clean etching and nice relief and details on the parts.
The major parts of the set is the complete top hull deck with two parts layered
together to achieve a perception of depth through the open grillwork on the
rear section and a complete new turret that uses only the lower turret ring
and 20cm gun and mounting for the Tamiya kits. The hinged top screens have
excellent weave effect on the grills as well as the bracing from the wire included.
The
etched turret walls also include the inner bracing flanges and gun trough supports
as well as separate vision port covers to build a very intricate and detailed
turret.
The large storage boxes on each side of the hull are also completely replaced
with etched items with separate hinges and latches.
Other details for the hull include the vision port visors with etched rain channels, new resin NOTEK and head lights with etched screen inserts plus etched grills for the rear engine intake as well as etched armoured cover while the centre wheel hub covers are also in thicker etched metal.
There are many smaller detail items for around the hull to add additional details such as side indicators, jerry can racks, and side steering mechanisms, tool clips and fire extinguisher mountings as well as additional detail for the 20cm gun.
The instructions:
These are in the form of a double sided letter sized page with exploded view
drawings showing the construction sequences as well as a couple of images of
the completed model which show where many of the parts are located. The only
drawback is some of the construction is not that clear and you will need to
carefully study the drawings before proceeding.
Conclusion:
In all this is a superb detail set that when used in its entirety
will certainly make your 222 stand out and you can combine this with set #326 for
the interior for a real stunner.
Highly recommended:
Thanks to Bill from CMD for the review set, the full Royal Model range is available in the US and worldwide from Chesapeake Model Design.
Page created 8 May 2004