T-80B and T-80BV

Manufacturer:

• Revell AG. T-80B #03104
• Revell AG. T-80BV #03106
• Monogram T-80B #2323
• Matchbox T-80B #40183

The T-80B was one ofRevell's earliest 1/72nd scale AFV models, first released byMatchbox, and then later Monogram, and finally Revell AG. TheMatchbox and Monogram T-80B kits are identical, except for thedecals. The Revell T-80B is the same as the earlier two kits, butwith an additional sprue of detail parts. Most of the details onthe turret (as depicted in the Matchbox boxart) such as thestowage boxes, smoke grenade launchers, etc. are missing from theMatchbox and Monogram kits. They are included with both theRevell T-80B and T-80BV kits (thanks to Ian Vevers for this info). The Revell T-80BVis the same basic kit as the type B, but with reactive armorincluded.

The model is actually verywell molded with abundant detail, and no flash or sinkmarks.However, I have heard numerous remarks about the poor accuracy ofthe details. I have not done much research into this vehiclemyself, so I cannot confirm or deny these remarks. What I know isthat there are several versions of the T-80, with many differentdetails and changes in the engine deck, and turret accoutrements.Apparently this kit is a mix of several of those details, whichis not accurate for any particular version. Also, the -B and -BVdesignations are not correct. When I decide to build this kit, Iwill look deeper into the references to determine what needs tobe changed. Regardless of the inaccuracies, I have seen manypeople build this model (kitbashed with etched brass and partsfrom other T-80 kits) into beautiful replicas.

One inaccuracy of which Iam aware, is the incorrectly-shaped turret. The rear of the kitturret slopes inward toward the hull, with a pronounced overhang,when in fact, the turret rear should be almost vertical. Notethat all the hatches are open on this kit, which is a very nicetouch.

Here's a closeup of thereverse side of the chassis. Not a whole lot of extra detailhere, but it wouldn't be visible anyway with the wheels and sideskirts attached. Note the detail on the inside of the commander'shatch. There are several smoke grenade launchers on this sprue.These details are only included in the Revell T-80BV kit, and notthe T-80B varieties.

Although the tracks arelink-and-length, and are easy to install, the tread pattern onthem is not correct. There are individual track guide teeth onthe reverse side of the tracks. The tracks look very nice and arewell-made, but they're just wrong.

Here is the unique spruefor the Revell T-80BV kit. It contains new side skirts, all ofthe missing turret details, and the reactive armor blocks of theBV version.

Markings are included fortwo tanks. The decals on the left are from the Matchbox kit;those on the right are from the Revell T-80BV kit. As is typicalfor Revell, the decals are very thin, matte, and sharply-printed.

Both Eduard and Extratechhave issued etched brass detail sets for this kit. The Eduardset cameout before the Revell kit, so that it includes all of the missingdetails from the early T-80 releases. The Extratechset ismuch smaller, but still with numerous useful parts. Both of thesebrass sets are highly recommended to improve this model.