1:72 ZSU-23-2 Soviet Flak Gun & 1:35 Wheel Roundup

ScaleX

Reviewed by Zack Sex

S u m m a r y

Available from ScaleX www.scalex.art

In what feels like a torrent of 3D-printed wheels, ScaleX from Odessa is at it again—but this time with something extra. Alongside their now-familiar sets of accurate weighted and unweighted wheels, they have released a 1:72 scale Soviet flak icon. The ScaleX ZSU-23-2 (kit SM 72201) is a long-overdue representation of this Soviet twin-barrelled anti-aircraft gun.

The ZSU-23-2 saw widespread use with Soviet and Warsaw Pact forces and was also exported extensively throughout the developing world. This lightweight flak system appeared across the Middle East, seeing extensive service in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Libya. In Africa, it was used by the Angolan MPLA during heavy fighting with South African forces. Soviet, Afghan, and Mujahideen forces also made extensive use of this ubiquitous weapon during the long and destructive Soviet–Afghan War.

For modellers, however, the real appeal lies in the versatility the ZSU-23-2 offers when updating other kits. Vehicles such as the MT-LB, M113, Unimog, Ural truck, and ZiL truck can be completely transformed by mounting this weapon system in the cargo bay or on the rear deck. It has even been seen mounted on more improvised platforms, including a Humvee in Chadian service.

The ScaleX ZSU-23-2 kit includes a number of armour cover and front plate options for ground-role configurations, along with alternative positions for the wheels and gun mounts.

Assembly is straightforward, and the finished model is streets ahead of plastic alternatives in 1:72 scale. Hopefully, ScaleX will consider producing a 1:35 scale version in the future.

Also included in this release are several sets of 1:35 scale wheels for the WWII German Sd.Kfz. 234/2 Puma. These are designed to fit kits from a range of manufacturers, with the modeller provided with suitable spacers or expansion rings to ensure compatibility.

As expected from ScaleX, the wheels are available in both weighted and unweighted versions.

They are offered with two different tread patterns, so it is worth carefully checking the options on the ScaleX website before purchasing.

Finally, there is a very useful set of wheels for the Willys MB—a welcome upgrade for the Tamiya kit, although they should be suitable for most modern kits of this iconic light vehicle.

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Highly Recommended

Zack Sex

Thanks to ScaleX for the sample www.scalex.art