Introduction:
Trumpeter released Patriot Abschussrampe Auf 15t, a German version of the famous air defense system, as a plastic 1/35 scale kit in 2023.
The kit features vinyl tires which many modelers opt to replace with aftermarket offerings. Resin replacement wheels are usually the way to go due to their superior details and easier painting and weathering. DEF Model recently offered two resin wheel sets for upgrading the Trumpeter kit and this review covers German Patriot Abschussrampe Auf 15t Wheel Set (2) - No Sag (DW35163), the set featuring older style Continental MPT-MIL tire.
Review:
The set is packed in a side-opening cardboard box that features an image displaying resin wheels included in the set.
The box contains a plastic bag with resin pieces, masking sheets and masking instructions.
There are 9 resin pieces in the set, 8 road wheels and a spare wheel. Closer examination reveals the resin pieces are perfectly cast, with sharp details and no noticeable defects in the resin whatsoever. The casting blocks feature attachment points that follow tire tread pattern, so there is minimal danger of compromising the details during cleanup.
The tire depicted in the set is the old pattern Continental MPT-MIL 14.00R20. I found some references on this tire fitted to German Patriot launchers, but I wasn’t able to get the exact dimensions of the tire.
The tire in DEF Model set realistically replicates tire tread features, but I have some reservations on the sidewall markings. Although sharp and well defined in resin, the sidewall details fail to faithfully deliver the inscriptions of the real tire… my references show this type of tire features a single Continental label, followed by RADIAL, MIL and 14.00R20 markings. The details on DEF Model tire are different and not completely authentic. I know most modelers would not notice these things, but this discrepancy had to be pointed out in a review.
The set includes 4 slightly different wheel variants, two wheels each, marked as A, B, C and D. Each wheel version has the hub and the tire details differently oriented in relation to the bottom of the wheel and its carrier block. This ensures the wheels fitted to the same side of the vehicle do not look identical and repetitive, adding to the realism of the model.
The spare wheel is also included in the set.
This set is advertised as “no sag”, which means the road wheels are depicted with no compression at tire ground contact. This is not an omission by DEF, but a way to depict the deployed vehicle in launch position with wheels elevated from the surface.
Fitting the wheels:
The set is designed as a direct resin replacement for Trumpeter kit and the resin wheels feature the same rear mounting as the kit wheels. Therefore, no alterations are required when fixing DEF Model offerings to Trumpeter kit.
Wheel masks:
A nice addition to the set are 5 pre-cut masking sheets. These can be used when painting the wheels, allowing airbrushing without overspray. Also included is the instruction leaflet which shows two different ways of applying the masks and painting the wheels.
Conclusion:
German Patriot Abschussrampe Auf 15t Wheel Set (2) - No Sag (DW35163) from DEF Model delivers 8 road wheels and a spare wheel designed to upgrade Trumpeter’s Patriot Abschussrampe Auf 15t mil gl Br A1 kit and display it in firing position. The wheels are perfectly cast in resin and feature nicely delivered details, however I’m not sure of the authenticity of sidewall markings on Continental MIL tire. The wheels are offered in 4 slightly different variants so the model doesn’t end up with all wheels on one side looking the same. Wheel masks which help in painting are always a welcomed bonus.
Recommended.
Thanks to DEF Model for the review sample:
