MiniArt 1/35 Russian Street Kit First Look
By Cookie Sewell
Images by Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | August 2011 | Manufacturer | MiniArt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Russian Street | Scale | 1/35 |
| Kit Number | 36026 | Primary Media | 175 parts (162 in grey styrene, 13 vacuformed grey styrene) |
| Pros | Neatly done instant street scene perfect for one medium or two small models and figures | Cons | Vacuform plate will need stiffening |
| Skill Level | Basic | MSRP (USD) | $55.00 |
First Look
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MiniArt has come to the rescue of those modelers who want to do dioramas but do not have the time or resources to research a specific area or type of building to achieve that “right” look. This kit provides a section of a typical Russian city street after combat - a brick building with one corner heavily damaged and a section of street with tram (tramvay) tracks and catenary carriers as well as two styles of street lights. The kit also comes with sections of fencing and tables and benches.
The main part of the building consists of sections of vacuformed styrene which are cut out from heavy (around .030" or 0.75 mm) plastic and cemented together to form the wall and floor sections. These then cement to the base plate, yielding the building corner with a small section of floor on the second floor. Part of an interior entrance wall (which also supports the small section of floor) is also included. I suggest that the modeler may want to put some sort of reinforcement under the base section (such as either foamboard or thin plywood) to stiffen it for general handling and supporting a model.
The model comes with several options for doors and windows but some are not apropos for this kit. Two different types of streetlights are provided but one type is also used for creating the catenary support for the tram trolley wire.
Other accessories include ladders, benches, a trestle table, fencing, fillagree ironwork, and general architectural flourishes.
Size is listed as 348 x 247 mm (14" x 9 ½").
No painting or finishing directions are included but three color photos and the box artwork are provided as general references. No markings, decals or other details are provided either.
Overall this is a great idea and provides an instant base and building for use in dioramas (somehow I suspect most of them will be opponent A hiding on the second floor and waiting to scrag opponent B’s tank as it drives by...)
My sincere thanks to MRC for this review sample!
Sprue Layout:
- 1 Base plate
- 6 Rear wall, side wall plate
- 6 Front Wall, side wall, floor plate
- 52x2 Windows, shutters, doors, street lights
- A 16x2 Fence, ladder, table and bench
- A 15x2 Street light, street signs, catenary pole