Miniart 1/35 Sd.Kfz.3a Maultier Early (53050)

Today we are going to talk about Miniart 1/35 Sd.Kfz.3a Maultier Early (53050). New set comes as yet another version of the German truck in popular scale. As you can notice, it features tracked rear section, and such a build might be cool both for solo projects or some diorama. Previous wheeled vehicles from Miniart were quite nice, and it is interesting to see what is included here. Overall packaging is typical for this brand, so all frames are sealed into plastic bag.

By the way, here you can read review with another vehicle from the same brand.
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Watch this video-review where I show all parts even closer.

First we see small parts for the tracked section. Overall idea is rather simple here as manufacturer tried to replicate as one-piece elements ready for install.

Molding quality looks fine even on the smallest areas, so I don't think you will see any issues here.

Be sure to follow the instructions carefully, as there are some areas which require step-by-step approach.

Front wheel rims are molded separately. Such design should make it easier to paint parts and get a decent appearance.

Stowage boxes can be replicated only in closed position. I guess professional modelers would be able to open those up if necessary.

Some parts are very tiny and you should be ready to work with tweezers.

Instrument panel for the cab can be found on the next frame. Note the premolded features there.

It is also worth noting that rear area is also detailed, what shows overall attention to small features.

Rear bed has separate walls. Those are designed together with metal brackets. Note that there is no wooden texture on those.

In my opinion it is good design decision as you can replicate surface with paints and weathering.

Front grille is supplied in two versions. Both parts are throughout and should look great on the finished model.

Front cab should be glued out of separate panels. Don't worry, there are guiding elements which will help you with overall alignment of parts.

Here you can also see that parts are nicely detailed from both sides, and this feature can be handy if you plan to open the doors.

Various subframes are coming in the right shape, what should make assembly quicker and easier.

Here you can see more of front cab panels - rear part and roof as well as seats and wheel axles.

There are some features on both sides, but I guess rear wall will be hard to see on the finished model.

Main chassis should be glued out of large bars. Those are molded together with leafsprings. Here you can also see some bars for the main chassis.

Wheel fenders should be glued separately, but there is a smart guiding sections which should help you get the right form.

Rear bed is as simple as on the real truck. :)

What is not simple - tracked section which is complex on the real subject as well. It will take some time for sure, so try not to hurry while getting everything together.

Engine is also here. It is not a fully detailed copy, but still should look fine if you plan to open the bonnet on the model.

Rear frames should be used for the covered version. I saw some modelers replicating tarp with help of putty or paper.

Clear frame is packed separately to avoid scratches. Molding quality looks great, but there are no masks included here.

Unpainted PE fret should be handy for internal and external features on your model.

Decals sheet is not that big, bug comes from Cartograf, so you don't have to worry about any quality issues. Assembly manual is typical for this brand. You will also find marking guide there as well.

New truck should be already available for purchase. In my opinion it is a great pick for modelers who would like to replicate unusual version in popular scale. I would recommend getting driver figurine as well as maybe building some simple diorama base. Overall quality looks great out of the box, so you just need to carefully assembly everything and have convincing paintwork/weathering.

Get this and other kits in Modelimex webshop.