The Packaging…

Sorry I forgot to picture the packaging. For me the kit came in a secure envelope and was protected by a double layer of cardboard to prevent any damage.

... And what is inside ...

The Content…

The model builder will receive a wooden fret which has been dealt with by laser engraving and cutting.

The parts are sharp and crisp in appearance and are held by small extensions which need to be gently cut away to free them out of the fret. Compared to the original Zvezda kit parts this is huge improvement, even more, since Zvezda did an outstanding job anyway.
From all I can see the wood planking is spot on and done superbly. At deck positions with super structure this kit does provide empty spaces as a guide.
You will receive the whole wood deck sections, the wood sections of the command bridge including the roof of it as well as the hatch covers.

Beside that, the manufacturer added a really nicely performed engraved nameplate which will be the cherry on top of any build - decorating the ships stand.

Now, here comes what makes this kit indispensable if you strive to get as close as possible to the actual ship. VectorCut did not fit the wood parts to the Zvezda kit in terms of following what was already given. Instead, the manufacturer researched the original ship plans and corrected various superstructure sections position e.g. the position of the bow main turrets.
T
he price for such intriguing research and performance is, that you have to sort of do minor scratch building yourself to achieve an on spot result with your build.

The Instructions…

The instructions come on a single Letter sized paper. There is some general advice on handling and getting the parts off the fret as well as detailed description what to change or scratch build as well as how to do it.
Nothing to complain here as any information needed is provided. The print out is easy to read and follow.

Result and Conclusion…

Well, this is a gem of after market part for this kit. Even if you choose to not go with any of the available photo etched brass parts I recommend using this wood set as a must have.

After all, nothing can resemble wood better than wood itself!

However one can not ignore the fact that this kit does require extensive cutting the Zvezda kit parts (mainly the whole deck) and for this does require thoughtful planning and a steady hand. The time you will have to invest into the modifications will sure justify the efforts once you are done. Due to the nature of the required changes I recommend this kit from intermediate or experienced modeler up.