Eduard Sd.Kfz.251/9 Ausf.D (35770)

by Frank De Sisto

Photo-etched brass in 1/35 scale for AFV Club kit. Price: $22.95 USD.

It has been quite a while since AFV Club released its first variations on the Sd.Kfz. 251 Ausf.D halftracks, leaving me wondering when Eduard would follow them with detail sets. Well, the wait has ended with this first set for the /9.

The most prominent item is the completely new set of gun mount shields for the upper superstructure sides. These come complete with mounting brackets. The second welcome item is a completely new driver’s instrument panel, including film dial faces. Unfortunately, the colored paper dial faces (which, personally, I prefer) that are usually offered in an Eduard set are not included as an option here. There are also new foot pedels, lift handles and various types of plates to detail the cockpit.

Various clamps and other details fill in the troop compartment. There is a new ready round rack for the 75mm gun, as well as details for the large ammo box. The radio gets new racks and there is a new storage rack for the 7.92mm snail drum ammo cases. The outside gets the usual tool clamps and brackets, as well as an antenna base, details for the rear fenders and tow hook, as well as a new black-out tail lamp assembly (which requires the modeler to source some scrap sheet styrene to complete it).

Altogether a simple addition, and sure to improve on an already fine kit.

Recommended.

Eduard products are available at retail and mail order shops and directly from the manufacturer at: www.eduard.cz. Visit their web site for additional images of reviewed items.