German Armored Car SdKfz 222

I bought this for a planned group build. It wasn't set to be the focus of the build so I went with this kit over the Hobby Boss one. It's Tamiya and I built it before so I wasn't expecting any issues. The kit is simplified...especially the suspension/drivetrain. There is no interior and you can't really see past the 2cm gun. Tamiya updated this kit with a metal 2cm barrel, a tree from their Jerry Can set, and a set of PE replacements for the turret mesh. Tamiya really did well with the barrel and its addition to the kit. They reworked the gun body to so accept the barrel. Let's face it, alot of manufacturers would have you snip off the old plastic barrel and super glue on the replacement. The PE mesh replaces the old nylon mesh. They bend into nice replacements for the old cages, but are a little too simplified. They are flat and lack the framework. It's a good kit and looks good. For their age, the molds are in great shape. It's a great kit for a weekend build or to introduce a young modeler to the hobby. And to be honest, it's a sharp looking vehicle.

This is an upgrade of a previously issued kit # TAM MM 151. The new parts include an aluminum barrel and Photo Etch parts for the original plastic barrel and the Photo Etch for the overhead mesh replacing the cloth screens being glued to plastic frames. Additionally the kit includes 55 gallon drums and jerry cans. A lot of very nice additions.

This model is relatively easy to build with minimal painting required, great for the novice builder and comes with a various amount of accessories. Fits right in if you are putting together a German armored unit as a scout vehicle.