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Here is a great review/build of the Tamiya Pershing I think you will find interesting.

Really shows Tamiya's level of complexity and why comparing [ under the hood anyway ] HL to Tamiya could be like comparing a Ferrari to a Ford Pinto. A well sorted HL will most likely be just as fun to drive though.

http://www.dansdata.com/pershing.htm

I kinda like his paint job, makes me wonder how Camo flames would look

I have to go back and read most of the thread, as others probably already mentioned the latest HL Pershing is a really good runner right out of the box as is the Panzer III/IV. The metal gears are pretty loud even after break in but the low speed performance is good