Hobby Boss 1/35 French R35 Light Infantry Tank First Look
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | July 2014 | Manufacturer | Hobby Boss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | French R35 Light Infantry Tank | Scale | 1/35 |
| Kit Number | 83806 | Primary Media | Styrene, Photo-Etch |
| Pros | Unique subject | Cons | Nothing noted |
| Skill Level | Experienced | MSRP (USD) | $54.99 |
First Look
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Renault produced the R35 light infantry tank based upon operational doctrine of the mid-1930s (when the R35 was initially produced), serving as an armored infantry support vehicle. As Germany was ramping up its own panzer forces in the late 1930s, Renault attempted to up-gun the R35 to provide some anti-tank capability (designated as R40), but the series saw little action against the Germans. Instead, German engineers recycled the R35 into several roles, most notably as the chassis for the Pz.Kpfw.35R 731(f) anti-tank vehicle.
The Hobby Boss kit molded in tan styrene and presented on seven parts trees plus upper hull and turret, two trees molded in brown styrene, and one fret of photo-etched parts (duplicate trees not shown).
Among the features and options in this kit:
- Detailed engine compartment
- Detailed crew compartment
- Detailed suspension
- Positionable hatches
- Link and run (ESCI) styled track
- Nice main gun with turned metal barrel
- Nicely detailed hull exterior
This is the tank kit I've seen in a while that provides a nice interior and engine compartment where you can position the hatches all open to show off those nice interior details. The ESCI-styled link and run track will make that assembly easy for many modelers without losing your will to live.
If you're looking for a fun project to experiment with your painting and weathering techniques or simply want a nice project that isn't another Tiger tank, give this kit a try!
My sincere thanks to Squadron Mail Order for this review sample!