I have not been around the forums here for a few weeks, and have not been modeling either. Too much time doing other things when I would much prefer to be modeling.
Anyway, thought I would offer a few comments on this kit. I have not quite completed it.
I have never experienced a kit quite like this one, just very strange. Parts that I still am unsure how they should fit, like a piece that I guess is supposed to represent part of the frame, which the front fenders are supposed to fit to (a pretty fragile fit also), no positive fit for the chassis onto the body. There are pieces that are supposed to go on top of the rear fenders, maybe supposed to be tool boxes (?) that absolutely will not fit around the contour of the body. Sprue attachments that are hard to deal with. Not sure I can describe this accurately, but parts such as the turret, with a lip on it to keep the turret from slipping through the hole. The sprue was attached on the inside of this lip, so it is necessary to get on the inside of a right angle with a file to clean it up. It has vinyl tires, which I adore (because I have such a hard time painting plastic wheels and tires), but even here the wheels are difficult to fit inside the tires. It has more flash than any other kit I have seen, but that is not a big deal for me.
Just strange stuff. It is definitely a kit that takes patience to build, but I am sure a good builder could make it come out nicely. I think it would be very frustrating for a new builder though.
I am considering taking a break from it and starting another kit, but there is a strong possibility that if I do that it will end up in the pile under the bench.
At any rate, just a few impressions for anyone that is considering it. I love the subject, and for those that disparage the "shake-and-bake" kits, this one will give them a challenge.