Sdkfz.222 open-topped?

Im confused because in manual (Barbarossa, page 44) is written that sdkfz.222 has open-topped turret but in tables it is not mentioned like in other open-topped vehicles like sdkfz.251. Sdkfz.222 is open-topped or not?

The SdKfz 222 had an oppen topped turret, but because auf the small turret size and the protection of the wire mesh screen it is not rated as such in BG. But that is a close call.
The same aplies to the SdKfz250/9, which had the same turret, although this one is rated as open topped in some books.

In our gaming group, we play both vehickes as fully enclosed, but other groups feel better to rate both vehicles as open topped and play them as such.


Greetings
Wolflord

BA-64 also had small open top but in manual is as open topped. Probably we will playing with sdkfz.222 as closed vehicle.

As the 250/9 and 222 have virtually identical turrets, both share the wire mesh screen, it would be a great idea to be consistent, so either are open or neither. It means I don't tend to field the 250/9 as it costs more (28pts), presumably for the off road mobility, but is open topped. The 222 has lower off road mobility, although it flies along roads, isn't open topped, and costs less (20pts). Can't comment on the BA-64, don't know enough about it. A very similar turret was also used on the recce vehicle based on the hull of the Pz 38t, can't remember what the Sdkfz number is, but that should be consistent with the 222 and 250/9 as well.

Cheers, Andy

Your BA 64 only packs a Degtyarev LMG as it's not really a combat vehicle but mainly a liaison officer's ride (like the British Dingo. Think of it as an armored Jeep and keep it out of harm's way!

I'd judge whether a vehicle is open-topped or not by how much grief the crew are likely to suffer if someone opens up on them with an MG from an upstairs window when they're passing beneath.

In the case of these vehicles, while the mesh screen might help to bounce grenades off, they're unlikely to help much against MG bullets or even moderately enthusiastic shell splinters, so I'd rate them as open-topped.