Miniart 1/35 M3 Stuart Initial Prod. (35401)

This article will tell you more about Miniart 1/35 M3 Stuart Initial Prod. (35401). Famous tank might be familiar to all modelers, but here we get completely new plastic kit which is supplied as "Interior Kit". Of course, this new model was developed with help of modern technologies, so the final result should look impressive. Well, parts count will be also quite a number. Packaging is typical here, and all parts come sealed into one plastic bag. Let's open everything and take a closer look together.

By the way, here you can read review with another interesting kit from the same brand.
Don't forget to like our Facebook page, so that you can get fresh articles on time.
You can help us get the new camera - just press "Donate" button on the right panel.

Watch this video-review where I show all parts even closer.

This frame connection is supplied in two pieces. Here you will find drivetrain parts and some track sections. Overall tracks assembly should be easier as we get separate lengths.

This is somewhat different from classic Miniart approach with separate links. In my opinion this is definitely an advantage.

Drive sprocket and wheels look good. Note that rubber sections are molded in, but there are some casting details too.

Next frames bring us first interior parts. Here it will be important to plan the painting process, as some parts will be difficult to reach later.

As for the engine, it looks quite impressive here. Moreover, you can add wiring with help of your own wire. :)

Pioneer tools are supplied in two versions, as you can replicate clamps with PE parts. Gearbox should be assembled out of several parts.

Turret should be glued out of several panels. Those sections feature premolded details from both sides, what might be handy if you plan to open the hatches.

Overall molding quality looks great on all frames. Nevertheless, be careful with thin parts which will require a bit more attention.

Even standard engine parts look great, without any additional work. Be sure to paint them properly and display the engine on the finished tank.

Another big frame comes with hull panels. There are guiding elements which should help you with overall alignment.

Large rivets just ask for some weathering, so be sure to use this opportunity. :)

Unpainted PE fret is packed into separate plastic bag. Amount of parts is not that small, but some are quite tiny and it will be better to install them with tweezers.

Clear frame is packed into separate plastic bag. There are no masks, but molding quality looks great.

Decals are printed in Cartograf, so there are no issues. Application should be easy and flawless too. You can see all markings on the photo below.

Assembly manual is typical for this brand. I show all pages in the video-review.

New tank should be already available for purchase. In my opinion it is really great set with all the features in plastic. As some of you noted on YouTube video, it is surprising to see less PE parts here. Nevertheless, such approach might be more attractive for less experienced modelers. Moreover, parts design looks well-thought and should be easy to work with. The only thing is to decide on how to expose what is inside your build. :)

Get this and other model kits in Modelimex webshop.