This offering from HobbyBoss is I believe the 3rd modern German ARV covered, so a nice family is beginning to be generated. As usual for HobbyBoss the model is well protected by a cardboard tray and lid, with sprues individually packaged for the most part and foam protection added where HobbyBoss feels it is needed. The result is a kit that should reach you in perfect condition. This release has vinyl rubber tracks, with an exceptionally high level of detail. However, that detail does cause me concern in that it will break down as the various chemicals used for finishing the model may attack the material, causing deterioration. It is worth noting that individual workable track links are provided for some detailing on the model, and due to the overall cost of this kit I would have liked to have seen full individual tracks offered within the box. I will say, that the track pads on the individual links have sink marks present which would benefit from filling.
Clear periscopes and lenses are provided, which I am pleased to see. A copper twist cable is provided, but I would replace it with a superior alternative as I feel that it is a little bit stiff to accurately replicate the cable on the crane lift. As with previous models from HobbyBoss, I have noted that anti-slip detail and grille detailing has been especially well done saving the modeller a lot of time and effort. The slat armour is a little on the thick side, but realistically is possibly as good as it gets where injection moulded plastic is concerned. There are some flow marks present, but these do not appear to have affected the finish. Some ejector pins marks are also present, which may need to be remedied - so watch out for that. A partial crew interior is provided, which is something that I especially like, as the large doors and access hatches will give a good view, and make your efforts in that area worthwhile. All told this is another very nice release from HobbyBoss that will attract attention, even though it is not a cheap model.