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This particular set originally released by TWS and now distributed by Tiger Models Design is approximately 150 resin parts with a half dozen pieces of styrene rod for use as the torsion bars. The entire set is cast in the always-excellent resin used by Tiger Models, though they have recently changed from the original pale cream color to a light grey. No worries though, it's the same material just in a different color to photograph better. It all comes packaged in a very sturdy cardboard box and sub bagged in 2 zip-lock baggies with a few packing peanuts for good measure. The label on the box was text only; with the Tank Workshop logo and the kit name and part number. Only 1 part showed any signs of casting problems with a large air bubble, yet a pleasant surprise was a replacement already included in the box. There was unfortunately one missing floor plate, but a quick e-mail had a new one en-route within a few hours along with another replacement for a part that has been claimed by the ever hungry carpet monster. I really can't fault Tiger Models for the slight packing error, as they are still adjusting to a tremendous additional product line, and as always their customer service is top-notch.
The instructions are another of the drawbacks of picking up an old product line, being a double-sided photocopy of a single sheet still bearing the original "Ordnance Models" lineage. It consists of basic photos of the parts spread out and the interior in various stages of assembly with part numbers superimposed on top of the picture. Some text is included, but it is mostly in Chinese with only a few sparse bits in english. No painting instructions are included either. This is really the only area that needs any improvement in the kit, and that is already being done as TigerModels is working on new instructions for this and other TankWorkshop sets.
The interior itself appears to be very complete, and consists of the entire fighting compartment from the engine firewall forward. A separate engine kit is available, but that is another topic totally. Assembly seems to be a very simple affair, with little modification required to the base Stug that it will be added to. The individual torsion bars are provided as styrene rod, with resin brackets. Parts breakdown is very similar to that of an actual Stug, and for maintenance type scene it could be done with floorplates removed to show the complete interior suspension. According to my references, the only significant component missing is the actual driveshaft going into the rear of the transmission, though the interior is designed so as to cover it's location. Still, it would be a nice option to add since driveshafts are included between the differential and brake drums which also being covered by shields. For kits like those from Tamiya with open sponsons, filler plates are included. Most radio and junction boxes seem to be included as well, but no wiring references are included. In the radio world, the left side FuG15 is included, as well as a right side FuG16 if you want to build a command version. No information on matching antenna specs is included in the instructions.
The only portion that seems to come up short in detail is the ammo stowage. The two main ammo racks on the right side are molded as complete and full, other than the noses, which must be added. The actual rack itself is a bit thick, and between the rounds is filled in. Scratch building replacement empty racks should be fairly easy if desired. The ready rack next to the gun is also included, but is cast empty and lacks depth and detail also being a simple block with shallow depressions where the ammo would go. This would need to either be drilled out, or have some shell bases added to look right. Some loose rounds are also included that could be used for this purpose. I also have my doubts about the commander seat, which is given as a round cushion, though most references show either a bicycle style, or larger D shaped seat.
The 75mm StuK40 main gun looks to be very complete, and includes just about everything other than the barrel and mantlet. The shell-catch bag lacks texture and shape to make it appear anything like a fabric, but is otherwise well made. The breechblock is cast separate from the breech, so an open gun is possible. Lots of little parts for the Traverse and Elevation controls, and the actual drive gears that move the gun base are also included. Unfortunately the instructions are particularly hard to understand in this area.
RECOMMENDATION
Overall, I definitely would recommend this interior for the type of person who wants to open up as many hatches as possible and pull off the roof panel. While I may be proven wrong when I get further into building it, everything seems to be included other than a couple little pieces that you wouldn't see anyway. It even includes a couple dozen MG42 ammo bags, and gas mask containers for the crew (wow, I am developing quite a pile of those things I just realized). I give this kit 3 1/2 stars mainly due to the current instruction sheet which leaves something to be desired, the kit itself is quite good and would easily get another star with good instructions.
Available direct from TigerModels.Com
FOOTNOTE
Just a quick Disclaimer here. Tank Workshop has recently (early 2004) been purchased by Tiger Models, and much of the product line is in a "transition period" as the new owners upgrade the masters and instruction sheets. While an ongoing project, it does mean a lot of work over a fairly large product line.
UPDATE:
After completing the kit, I must say that I am quite happy with the results. I have uploaded photos of the completed kit, but the actual kit does NOT include the engine compartment which is sold separate. New instructions should also be ready shortly, which will greatly improve the buildabilty of the kit.
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