KW-85 turret question

[andy_AUT]

Hello, after reading a review of the 1/35 KW-85 by Trumpeter (kit 01569), I've got a question. The review (link at the end) mentions that Trumpeter provides the wrong turret (asymmetric IS-2 style), whereas the KW-85 should have a symmetric turret (IS-1 style).  Also, the review doesn't provide any pictures or drawings. After looking at several pictures online, I have to admit I don't see what is meant with asymmetric/symmetric with regards to the turret, and what is wrong with the kit.

 

So, if you have any info regarding this, I'd be very grateful for posting it here.

 

Thank you and have a nice weekend,

 

Andy

 

Link to review (I hope it is ok to post it here):

http://www.4bogreen.com/kv-series/plastic-and-resin-kits/1-35-scale/trumpeter/01569-soviet-kv-85-heavy-tank

[JackG]

You can look at model kit parts/instructions at Super-Hobby, so here are links to Trumpeter and Bronco on said subject - they don't stock the Eastern Express:

https://www.su per-hobby.com/products/Soviet-KV-85-Heavy-Tank.html

https://www.super-hobby.com/products/Russian-Heavy-Tank-KV-85-Oct-1943-Production.html

 

Side by side comparison, Bronco is the green plastic:

 

 

Not rear left corner,  that is the asymmetry and it also changes the shape of the mg casement.

 

regards,

Jack

[Kingsman]

Both appear to be further asymmetric in that the side angle change on the right appears to be further forward than on the left.  Perhaps more pronounced on the Trumpeter but that might be a factor of the colour.  That might be a feature of both IS-1 and IS-2.  Trumpeter sides also appear to be steeper and the top looks wider by reference to the other features.

 

As the KV-85 pre-dated the IS-1 it seems logical that its turret would more closely resemble the IS-1 than the IS-2.

[JackG]

The biggest difference I see is the SW corner, it's curve follows the shape of the commander's cupola hole.  On the Bronco turret, there actually is a corner piece that visually matches the opposite side.  Mind you,  Bronco may not be 100% accurate either, even the details on the forward half of the turret roof don't match.

 

 

I've no idea where to grab an official sanctioned line drawing, but apparently the production turret decided upon was the IS-85 type according to tanks-encyclopedia.  https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/soviet/soviet_KV-85.phpI

 

regards,

Jack

[andy_AUT]

I was looking at the sprue shots and instructions at SuperHobby, but it seems I missed the obvious, as I was only looking at pictures and drawings from the front and the sides. Considering the line drawing posted, it seems that the Bronco kit (in top view) is more accurate. Only the (ventilation?) cover at the front seems to be too far aft.

 

Thank you to both of you for your contributions, which helped a lot!

[JackG]

Did a little more reading over at missing-lynx, and looked over the only model I have of the KV-85 (PST 1/72).   Can confirm the turret roof is symmetrical.  The only detail asymmetrical is the left hand turret wall has an angular bulge to accommodate radios.   With conversion to the 122mm gun, that is when turret shape, as viewed from above, became asymmetrical.   

 

 

 

regards,

Jack

[andy_AUT]

As a little follow up, if anyone is interested, there are two resin corrections for Trumpeter's KW-85 in 1/35 available.

 

Tiger Model Designs:

https://www.scalemates.com/kits/the-new-tmd-35-35-3045-kv-85-corrected-turret--1241831

Albatros Resin (description of parts

http://www.4bogreen.com/news/kv-85-turret-from-aresin

 

(I'm not connected to these manufacturers)