Once of my next projects will be a German Panther. I am sort of torn between Tamiya (which I have built several other kits) and the Dragon 171 Panther.
Those of you who have completed this kit, any opinions good or bad? I like the fact that it has engine components but I really hate spending days removing flash from a terribly cast kit. Yes, a pet peeve of mine [;)]
Erock68,
I have found the Tamiya Panthers to be the best of the lot. I understand the newest DML Panther is a pretty nice kit, but in my own experience I find them less than desirable. Some of my local modeling friends like to remark that DML stands for “Does Not Match or Line-up.” I “fondly” remember the DML BTR-80 of a few years back that found its way into the trash can after I repeatedly jumped up and down on it. It all boils down to your call about what you want and are trying to achieve. You won’t go wrong with Tamiya; out of the box they are super. Add an Aber detail set and the realism in miniature will be exceptional. Hope this helps.
All the best,
Gip Winecoff
I built an early panther A from tamiya. It had good exterior details but open sponsons, and poorly molded open grills.
It really depends on which version you want to build. Are you looking for an early war Panther or a late war Panther? DML has two excellent Panther kits, the A & D models. Tamiya has an outstanding G model. If you want a nice, accurate Panther A, stay away from the old Tamiya offering and buy the DML kit. If you want something without a turret but still on the panther hull, both companies make excellent Jagdpanthers.
I would have to say that I was looking into the Tamiya G model. Although, I read the review of Dragon’s kit here on the site, and it seemed to go pretty well for the builder.
I guess that my main reason for asking is, I have never built a DML kit. The thought of the extra included details is what caught my eye.
Tamiya.
Mike