Tamiya 1/48 SdKfz 251 ausf D, previewed by Scott Van Aken

Both the US and German armies liked half-track vehicles during WWII. For the US this was fairly limited to the M3, but a lot of them were built. The Germans, however, built a variety of half-tracked vehicles from trucks to large prime movers for large field guns. The most prevalent of the types was the SdKfz 251, which was built in almost two dozen different variations. Originally designed to carry troops, the 251 was also the mount for larger guns and one version carried rocket packs on the side. The vehicle was constantly upgraded during production so there were sub-variants of variants. The 251/1 was a standard armored personnel carrier of which about 350 were built when production of this variant ceased in mid-1940. Unlike the US half-track, the German ones did not have a drive for the front wheels, a feature that would have been handy, but also would have increased the complexity of the vehicle. As a note, these vehicles were widely used by other European nations after WWII.

THE KIT

This is one of Tamiya's excellent 1/48 armor kits. Unlike their earlier kits, this one does not have a cast metal hull. There is a piece for the rear of the tub and the suspension is a single piece for both sides. One then builds up the front suspension and wheels before attaching the interleaved road wheels.

Tracks are link and length, which many prefer, but it does take careful assembly. Since this is an open top vehicle, there is a full interior with cargo seats that look quite uncomfortable. Since this is armored there are no clear parts. Defensive machine guns are provided along with a number of accessories to make the vehicle look busy. Two standing figures are included in poses shown on the box art.

Instructions are standard Tamiya, which fold out in a long sheet. All paint info is in Tamiya colors. Three markings options are provided. One is overall white as used in Russia during the winter of 1943. The other two are in overall panzer yellow with squiggles of green and brown so painting this will be fun. Decals are nicely printed and provide the minimal markings that were used on these vehicles.

I have built several 1/48 kits by Tamiya and others. I find the Tamiya ones to give the least amount of fuss when building and I'm sure this one will be just as nice.

KIT #:	32564
PRICE:	Raffle win ($2.00)
DECALS:	Two options
REVIEWER:	Scott Van Aken
NOTES:	2009 release