Rye Field Model Replacement 5001 – Model Kit Tiger I Initial Production Early 1943

Reviewing out of the box, without building the kit yet, it looks good. Far less complex than comparable Dragon kits, but it looks to have avoided some of the simplifications seen in other Tiger kits. However, the tracks look as though they will take some time to put together. The single links come in five pieces each - the link itself, with the two guide horns as separate pieces, and two track pins to insert into each end of the link. There is a small tool to align the links and the sprue is used as an alignment device when attaching these small pieces.The stowed tools seem to have clasps moulded in place, but there are also etch brass alternatives - some in four or five pieces.The model depicts the early stowage with, for example, the tow cables reversed, with the end loops stowed on the engine deck, rather than on the hull top next to the crew hatches.In this kit the side track covers follow the lower edge of the hull side, so (correctly) have a kink midway along - nice to see little details like this got right by the toolmakers.The full torsion bars are provided; a small moulded pip engages in a cut-out in the bearing hole to set the swing arms level, but the instructions let you know that these can be cut off, allowing the suspension to flex.Three turret halves are present - there is a spare right-hand side with the loading hatch opening, which is not used in this kit. (I believe this one is used in the next release).You also get three mantlets (two options, one not used) and, oddly, an extra sprue containing what seems to be full sets of stowed 88mm and 7.92mm ammunition - entirely unused in this kit. Perhaps it shouldn't have been there.There is a clear sprue with periscopes and vision blocks - I think this is the first time I have seen the vision blocks for the early cylindrical commander's cupola provided in any Tiger kit. Interestingly, there are also seven periscopes provided, which suggests there will be a later Tiger version released with the later style of cupola.I have two adverse comments, although neither one is a show-stopper - first, given that the kit depicts vehicles from a particular unit at a particular time and location, I would have liked to have some information about that; second, the paint references given are only for the AK Interactive brand - I would have liked to see other, more widely available, brands suggested.Price-wise, I got mine for GBP38, which, in comparison with other Tiger kits on the market, is pretty competitive.In summary, a very good first kit release from a new manufacturer, let down only by a couple of details. Well done, Rye Field Model.

cant wait for the full interior version,patience needed on track construction but impressive first production model

Just opened the box to-day and I am impressed have had a good look at all sprues and can't see eny problems ,only down side is turret in two halves pity ! But not a deal breaker .cant wait to start.