Trumpeter 1/35 2S1 Self Propelled Howitzer Kit First Look
by Dave Manter
| Date of Review | June 2013 | Manufacturer | Trumpeter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | 2S1 Self Propelled Howitzer | Scale | 1/35 |
| Kit Number | 5571 | Primary Media | Styrene, PE |
| Pros | 100% new tooling, great details | Cons | None |
| Skill Level | Experienced | MSRP (USD) | $62.95 |
First Look
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The 2S1 Gvozdika is a Soviet 122mm self-propelled howitzer that resembles the PT-76 but is essentially a version of the MT-LB APC, mounting the 2A1B howitzer. "2S1" is its GRAU designation in the Russian Army. It is commonly known as Gvozdika. The 2S1 is fully amphibious with very little preparation, and once afloat is propelled by its tracks. A variety of wider tracks are also available to allow the 2S1 to operate in snow or swamp conditions. It is NBC protected and has infra-red night vision capability.
The Trumpeter kit of the Russian 2S1 Self-propelled Howitzer consists of 922 styrene parts on 23 sprues molded in grey or brown. The majority of the parts are for the link and length track links as the guide horns are molded as separate pieces. Also included are 71 photo etch detail parts. Markings are provided for 5 different vehicles. All of the parts are molded to Trumpeters normal high standards.
Construction begins in a typical fashion with the assembly of the lower hull and running gear. Fit here is excellent and the main road wheels are detailed on the inside as well.
The link and length track links will be time consuming to assemble due to the guide horns being molded as separate pieces. Detail here is excellent and will look great once finished.
Construction then moves on to the upper hull and all of its details. All of the hatches are molded as separate pieces and can be assembled in the open or closed positions. No interior detail is provided. The water deflectors on the rear above the tracks are provided in photo etch only. No styrene option is included. Each internal part will need to be curved prior to assembly. No jig is provided. These will look awesome when finished!
The final steps are the construction of the turret. Again, no interior detail is provided. Fit of the main components is great.
This looks to be another great modern Soviet vehicle in Trumpeters ever growing line-up. With the excellent molding, this one should be a great and highly detailed build.
My sincere thanks to Stevens International for this review sample!