This kit is not for a beginner but a model builder who has a few kits under their belt will enjoy this one. It scales correctly to the real 2S3 Akatsiya howitzer, called the M-1973 by NATO when it first came out. Trumpeter parts are cleanly molded and the plastic is not excessively soft, neither is it brittle as some kits are. Many of the pieces are unnecessarily small in that some of them could have just well have been molded onto a larger part. Some rather thin pieces has some rather thick sprue attachment points and they have to be cut cleanly and with care. This biggest challenge for me was the track. This is not a one piece band that gets snapped and cemented in place. There are about 120 individual links on each side. Each is a separate piece that has to be cut, cleaned, and assembled onto the model. Get online and look up various sights on how to assemble individual track links if you have never done it before. It will be worth the time spent to do so. The track pieces do have very good detail and fit well. Another challenge is the photo etched parts that often enhance detail but sometimes are excessive consumers of time and effort. I left off some of the smallest PE parts and after painting, they aren't missed. The decals included are for a tactical unit or for a parade decorated vehicle. There are plenty of pictures online of this weapon in the field that would help during the assembly process should the instructions prove wanting. These criticisms are minor complaints. I enjoyed assembling and painting this model and I'm very pleased with how it turned out. I recommend it without hesitation
-On page 8 of the instructions, part H8 should be labeled part H80. The bottom crossbar at the bottom of the triangular barrel travel lock is not labeled with any part number but is found on the H parts sprue.
-On page 12, part C33 should be labeled as C34
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$55.28
Get it May 16 - 31
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