Review
MiniArt has released a trailer that I understand wad designed specifically for the RSO 01 on the Eastern Front, but I have not been able to confirm that one way or the other. The model is packed in a cardboard tray with separate card lid. Inside the contents are packed inside a single plastic bag. The parts are cleanly moulded and offer good access for parts removal.
The model is built from the chassis and this is a multi-part chassis. Getting the assembly square is a must and so a set square which is my current favourite could be used, but in the case of this model the cargo bed could be brought into play and the model built from that. This will require the modeller think a little but should offer a fool proof approach. The trailer has been designed with a steering pivot point with a high level of detail overall.
One of the oddities of this trailer is that there was no suspension built into it with the wheels being made of pressed metal and no tyres as this saved on rubber that was becoming a product in short supply. Does make you wonder about what you would risk transporting in one of these trailers as ammunition may go off due to rough handling.
The wooden plank bed is again nicely detailed and because photo etch has not been used assembly is a more straight forward challenge. While no photo etch is used the detail is still of a very high level. One of the odd things about this trailer that also make it ideal for winter warfare is the sled under each axle meaning that the trailer could be moved fairly easily of ice and snow but would also handle the mud that followed the thaw on the Eastern Front.
MiniArt has provided four finishing options for this release in the form of:
Skijager-Brigade. Eastern Front, Winter 1943-1944
Unidentified Unit. Normandy, Summer 1944
Unidentified Unit, 1943-1944
Unidentified Unit, 1944-1945