Relative merits - HL T34 & KV-1

[RobW]

Currently dithering, and looking at the 2.4GHz T35/85 & KV-1. Not getting both (for now anyway!) Otherwise aiming for the standard set-up so I can tinker/upgrade as I want to/have time. Not a fan of the Sherman, and they don't do a Churchill.

There look to be plenty of spares/upgrades for the KV-1, including a KV-2 turret Also means IR stuff can be swapped on if I want to try that.

T34 seems to be a new model, so should avoid some of the design problems? But can't see any significant upgrade or spare parts. Do the larger road wheels cope with grass etc better?


Also not looking to do too much repainting etc for now. Used to about 20-odd years ago, but more interested in using & tinkering for now.

[billpe]

I would see if you can get hold of the Taigan T34 If you can.

[PainlessWolf]

Good Afternoon,
I would add to Billpe's excellent recommendation that if you decide to go with the KV-1, go with Taigen as well. They have a brute of a mostly metal one with a very good IR and recoil. It is good to go as far as paint and features and requires only some minor detailing and depending on your use, ( especially if you add a KV-2 turret ) you can tinker with the torsion bar suspension to level the ride.
My build of a Capture KV-2 from that tank can be found here: viewtopic.php?f=23&t=12930
regards,
Painless

[Tankbear]

I'm pretty certain the KV1 only come with the old electronics.

My view on the HL tank range is the early models (Tiger, KV1, Pershing) are okay but the recent ones Leopard 2A6, T34 are a vast improvement in build quality. So for that I would say T34.

Each tank has lots of potential depending on your modelling skills. The KV1 can be converted to KV2, SU152 etc. The T34/85 to 76 version, SU100 etc.

Ian.

[ALPHA]

I have both.... and Enjoy both...the one thing that might tilt the scale towards the T34 is the 2.4 gig rig .....but like you say...nothing like converting the KV1 to a KV2...which is what I did...looks great in that configuration.... recommending both is easy...think you will enjoy either...

ALPHA

PS...just one note.... if you get the pro model of either...the Tracks on the KV is much beefier lots of grip ...the T34 tracks both pro model and aftermarket are kind of lean....the aftermarket having a little more grip than the HL metal tracks.... but both can go through tall grass relatively easy....rugged rocks...uneven surfaces etc etc...beautiful performers both of them

[ALPHA]

OH...on another note... the T34 has a tad more interior room and all the hatches open ...even the rear engine deck lid
Here's my KV
http://www.rctankwarfare.co.uk/forums/v ... ARD+BUSTER
Here's my T34
http://www.rctankwarfare.co.uk/forums/v ... =katyushia
Careful... my builds might be hazardous to your well being ....................

ALPHA

[RobW]

Thanks for the help both here & in PM. Still not sure which to go for overall, but think I've figured it out.

KV-1 (IR) will want a receiver & more electronics to be able to do the IR battles at MAD. Given the IBU board is £120 ish, uprated 2.4 GHz radio about £65 it's looking quite pricey, and time isn't overly available to travel.

T34 (BB) already has the 2.4 GHz set, so starting is much cheaper. Can also learn to drive & tinker on that. So, any opinions on http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00H ... 18&sr=1-92 or http://www.rctank.de/T-34-85-1-16-with- ... t-unit-6mm (latter specs the metal gear box, former doesn't mention it). Will then upgrade motors, tracks etc as & when I want to. Also means if I finish up with something that'll outrun an RC buggy I don't have to worry about rules!

[PainlessWolf]

Good Morning, Rob,
As said, either will definitely fill the Fun bill. I did want to note for future consideration that the Taigen KV-1 comes with IR, the Battle 'Shroom' and is 2.4GHz right out of the box. This does make it a pricey buy but well worth it in my estimation. Enjoy your tank whichever direction that you go in. ;o)
regards,
Painless

[ALPHA]

Rob...Taigen now has both the KV1 and the T34 out...boh have a lot of metal parts...also the 2.4 gig rigs.....also...not sure if you've been reading the discussion about the new HL 2.4 rig...but as far as I know it isn't available stock ...it's still an aftermarket upgrade....so if you are thinking of going with the T34 for that reason..just letting you know it still has the old gen 2.4 in it...something to consider...because if you want the features of the new gen...which is an easy swap out...getting the KV isn't out of the question

ALPHA

[jtracks]

I have the new Taigen T-34/85. It worked for about ten minutes and then developed a recoil problem. I've sent it back to Taigen and requested a new tank. I'm sure they will fix the one I returned and that's fine. Don't get me wrong, I know things go wrong and I'm sure it's a minor problem. The tank is very nice, plenty of metal everywhere, the 360 degree turret is great, and it is a very smooth running tank. It's an IR equipped tank. The one thing I don't like, and it's the only thing I could find for the short time I had it, is that there is no hatch or cover for the IR Apple receptacle when you remove it from the tank. When it returns, I will fashion a cover or hatch so as to keep the electronics clean when the apple is not installed. Also, it will make the tank a little more pleasing to the eye.

Joe