Griffon Models

1/35 SdKfz.138 Marder IIIM 7.5cm Ammunition Racks For the Dragon and Tamiya kits

Kit Number: 35A022

Reviewed by  Rob Folden, IPMS# 45545

MSRP: $16.95 Website: www.griffonmodel.com Review sample provided by: Dragon Models USA: www.dragonusaonline.com The Marder IIIM self-propelled howitzer is an amazing vehicle. Basically thrown together as an interim solution to the Russian T-34/76 and the KV series, the vehicles were created using left over and sometimes captured chassis mounted with everything from German 7.5cm Pak 40s to captured Russian 76.2mm F-22s. The Marder IIIM was no exception. Built on leftover Panzer 38t chassis, The IIIM featured the Pak40/3 7.3cm anti-tank gun. The ammunition for the Marder was carried in racks on either side of the fighting compartment. These racks were a very prominent feature of the Marder. Griffon Models took this into account when they produced this set of finely etched ammo racks. The set comes in two 2.5" x 4.5" sheets of etched brass, a short length of styrene rod [used as a backed for one PE part] and a one page instruction sheet. Unlike the companies other Marder sets, this one is listed as universal, fitting both Dragon and Tamiya Marder IIIM kits. Once built, the racks simply drop into place in the fighting compartment, replacing the kits parts with little effort. The set provides for both of the larger, double-rowed racks, as well as the single, 3-round rack. Possibly the best feature of this set, Griffon Models thoughtfully included 14 etched brass plates for the bottom of the Pak40 shells.

They also made sure to include in the instructions the difference in straps for the left and right side racks. As with other Griffon sets, this is not for the beginning modeler. The straps and buckles are very small, and a good pair of tweezers and possibly MagEyes will be needed. But for anyone wishing to make the best of the old Tamiya kit, or even spruce up the new Dragon release, this Griffon Models set is a must. I'd like to thank Dragon USA, Griffon Models, and IPMS/USA for providing me with the opportunity to review this detail set. [Editor's Note: These ammo racks are also included in Griffon's Detail Sets for the Dragon Marder IIIM, of which Rob is doing a build review on this website.]