DML 1/35 British Heavy Tank Conqueror Mark 2 Kit First Look
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | May 2015 | Manufacturer | DML |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | British Heavy Tank Conqueror Mark 2 | Scale | 1/35 |
| Kit Number | 3555 | Primary Media | Styrene |
| Pros | Simple build, nice details | Cons | Nothing noted |
| Skill Level | Intermediate | MSRP (USD) | $84.95 |
First Look
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The FV 214 Conqueror was a British Army heavy tank developed after World War II to counter the Josef Stalin III (IS-3) heavy tank in Soviet Army service. The Conqueror was armed by the same 120mm main gun used by the American heavy tank designed for the same purpose, the M103. The Conqueror served on the tip of the Cold War spear being deployed to units in West Germany until its retirement in 1966. In all, 185 Conqueror tanks were built.
DML has released another subject that has not been previously produced in styrene, this time this Conqueror Mark 2 heavy tank. Released under their 'Black Label' series, this kit is really a simple build without the use of photo-etched parts. The kit is molded in light gray styrene and presented on six parts trees plus the upper and lower hull halves and turret shell, one tree of clear parts, and four lengths of track and the mantlet cover molded in tan vinyl.
Some key features of this release are:
- Detailed chassis
- Detailed suspension
- Positionable crew hatches
- Movable turret
- Movable commander's cupola
- Nice exterior details
Markings are provided for two examples, both serving in the British Army of the Rhine (BAOR) circa 1960s.
This kit is a simple build that isn't over-engineered with tiny parts but doesn't skimp on details either. Hopefully someone will release a nice set of British Army crew figures for this kit as well. If you're looking for a distinctive cold warrior for your scale armor garrison, consider this beauty for your next project!
My sincere thanks to DML for this review sample!