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 Contents - Issue 91 November 2013
52
30

16

REGULARS FEATURES
p 4 NEWS p 6 THINK TANK p 36 PREVIEW
What’s new in the world of Panther Pounce at Kovel by Bronco 1:35 Jeep with 37mm
military modelling Dennis Oliver Anti-Tank Gun
ER
p 56 INCOMING p 16 VIKING SUMMER FCEOAVTURE p 38 FOLLOW THE BLUE COAT!
MMI’s thoughts on the latest 1:48 scale Panther A Dragon 1:72 Churchill in a
kits and accessories Conversion by Brett Green diorama by Kamil Feliks
Sztarbala
STEP BY STEP
p 58 BOOKS p 28 PREVIEW
The latest book releases Dragon 1:35 StuG III Ausf. G p 50 PREVIEW
under review Late Production Bronco 1:35 Korean War ©ADH Publishing Ltd 2013
M24 Chaffee
p 60 1:48 SCALE p 30 MERKAVA GENESIS Tel: (UK) 01525 222573
Luke Pitt explores 1:48 scale Sam Dwyer builds Tamiya’s p 52 THE CHOSIN FEW Fax: (UK) 01525 222574
military models, figures and 1:35 Merkava 1 Matt Wellhouser describes Email: [email protected]
accessories the painting of Young Address: ADH Publishing,
Miniatures’ 1:10 scale Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane,
p 66 LAST POST Battle of Jang-Jin Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK
Late breaking news and Reservoir 1950 bust Model Military International is
ramblings from the Editor published monthly by ADH Publishing.
Reproduction in part or whole of any
text, photograph or illustration without
written permission from the publisher
is strictly prohibited. While due care is
taken to ensure the contents of

38 Model Military International is accurate,

the publishers and printers cannot
accept liability for errors or omissions.
ISSN 1749-8864

November 2013 - Model Military International 3

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 Newsline - November’13 MMI Newsdesk, ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill,
Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK
Tel:01525 222573 Fax:01525 222574
Email:[email protected]

Tamiya Forthcoming Release

1:35 M561 Gama Goat
T
he Gama Goat was a six-wheel-drive semi-amphibious
off-road vehicle originally developed for use by the
US Military in the Vietnam War. The Goat used an
articulated chassis, so that from distance it appears
to be a four-wheel drive vehicle pulling a two-wheel trailer,
but it is a single six-wheel vehicle with a four-wheel steering
arrangement with the front and rear wheels turning in
opposite directions.
It was famous for its ability to travel over exceptionally
rough and muddy terrain.
The vehicle's nickname came from two sources; "Gama"
from the name of the inventor of its powered articulated joint,
Roger Gamount, and "Goat" for its mountain goat-like off-road
ability. Its military designation was M561, 6x6 tactical 1-1/4-ton
truck.*
Tamiya will be releasing an all-new 1:35 scale Gama Goat.
The model will be 170mm in length and 62mm wide. Options
will include a front windshield and a front winch. The complex
six-wheel drive suspension has been engineered as a single
part, easing assembly but retaining plenty of detail. The model
will include a seated driver figure and three marking options. Riich Model and Bronco
Forthcoming Releases
Also coming soon from Tamiya is a detailed kit in 1:48 scale
of the Russian BA-64B armoured car. The kit includes a half
figure of the commander and decals for one version.
Tamiya’s 1:35 scale Long Range Desert Group Chevrolet Riich Model and Bronco continue their
truck will be re-released in a limited edition with seven figures prolific release schedule with five new
from Master Box too. announcements of forthcoming releases:
Historical information courtesy of Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gama_Goat Riich Model Item No. RE30010 – WWII
British Commonwealth Weapon Set A

New Meng Diorama Accessories Announced

This first set includes Sten guns, PIAT,
mortars, grenades, helmets and more.
Riich Model Item No. RE30011 – WWII
Meng Model has announced two new diorama releases in 1:35 scale: British Commonwealth Weapon Set B
• SPS-010 Water Bottles for Vehicle/Diorama The second set supplies, amongst other
• SPS-011 Beer Bottles for Vehicle/Diorama items, three Lee-Enfield .303 rifles, two
The 1:35 scale water bottle set contains 12 bottles including one type of small water bottle and one rifles with bayonets fitted, and two Bren
type of big bottle. These realistic bottles are made of high-quality light blue transparent plastic. guns on tripods, one in anti-aircraft
The 1:35 scale beer bottle set contains 16 bottles including four different types of beer bottles. configuration and one in infantry support
These realistic bottles are made of light green transparent plastic. pose. Both of these sets will be warmly
Any of these bottles may be put onto vehicles like modern tanks and military armoured vehicles welcomed by modellers of British and
and also used for figure models and dioramas to improve details and reality. Commonwealth subjects.
Thanks to Meng Model for the information and images www.meng-model.com Soviet BT-7 Fast Tank Mod.1937
Workable Track Link Set
An individual link set for your Tamiya BT-7
late version or BT-42.
Bronco Item No. CB35168 – 6 Pdr Mk.IV
on Mk.III Airborne Carriage
This 1:35 scale kit includes a new carriage,
ammunition and four British Airborne crew
members – a diorama in a box!
Bronco Item No. CB35146 – Valentine
Mk.XI (O.P.)
The latest in Bronco’s line of excellent 1:35
scale Valentine kits.
4 Model Military International - November 2013

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 Think Tank - PANTHER POUNCE AT KOVEL
Scharführer Herberts Panther is photographed some time
after the action of 29-31 March 1944, when it was possible
to recover the bodies of the German troops killed around the
tanks and hastily buried. The number 821 is clearly visible
on the turret side. This photograph was taken looking east
towards the Cherkasy-Volinski railway station.

Dennis Oliver describes the

desperate relief attempt by
5.SS-Panzer-Division at Kovel
in Poland during March and
April 1944, later dubbed “The
Panther Pounce”.

PANTHER POUNCE AT KOVEL

T
he town of Kovel, an inside the city contributed greatly of Wednesday 29 March, guided Grenadier-Regiment 434 of 131.
important rail junction to the morale of the defenders by Sturmbannführer (Major) Infanterie-Division commanded by
in present day Ukraine, and that the name Kampfgruppe Franz Hack, commander of the III. Hauptmann Bolm with a further
almost exactly halfway Gille was intentionally chosen to Abteilung of SS-Panzergrenadier- seven assault guns. Light snow
between Kiev and Warsaw had reassure them that they would Regiment Germania. On the advice had begun to fall and almost
been surrounded since 16 March not be abandoned. In late March, of Hack, Nicolussi-Leck decided to immediately sporadic artillery fire
1944 and an early attempt to Kampfgruppe Richter - made up eliminate a Russian anti-tank gun commenced with shells landing
break the encirclement had been from the remnants of the Wiking position situated approximately either side of the tanks, prompting
halted in front of the villages of division’s Germania and Westland one thousand metres east of Stari the Panthers to increase their
Novi Koshary and Stari Koshary. Panzergrenadier regiments, the Koshary which controlled one of speed.
The meagre German forces inside division's artillery regiment, the the few areas of solid ground on Within minutes the Russians
the Kovel perimeter - which anti-aircraft and reconnaissance either side of the rail line. The were firing with every gun
included a number of hastily battalions and commanded commander of the Germania they possessed including anti-
armed employees of the German by Standartenführer (Colonel) regiment, Obersturmbannführer tank guns and heavy mortars.
Railways - had been ordered Joachim Richter from the artillery (Lieutenant-Colonel) Dorr who was From his advanced position,
to hold their positions despite regiment - made the first - also present, agreed and Nicolussi- Hauptscharführer Faas reported
the personal intervention of unsuccessful - attempts to break Leck made ready to move out. that muzzle flashes from Soviet
the commander 5.SS-Panzer- the Russian encirclement. Almost immediately Mühlenkamp anti-tank guns were visible in front
Division Wiking, Gruppenführer On Monday 27 March, the arrived and countermanded the and off to his right. Despite the
(Lieutenant-General) Herbert headquarters of the Wiking order, insisting that any attempt swirling snow the Panthers of his
Gille, who flew to Berlin to plead division’s tank regiment and to take the Russian position platoon were able to identify the
the case for withdrawal but was the tanks of 8.Kompanie, the would be costly and reduce the Russian position and returning fire,
refused an audience with Hitler. latter under Obersturmführer already meagre forces available to silenced the enemy guns. This was
Returning to the front, Gille (Lieutenant) Karl Nicolussi-Leck, break the encirclement. He then in fact the first Soviet defensive
decided that he could best assist arrived at Maciejów, near Chelm ordered Nicolussi-Leck to advance line and must have been either the
the defence from inside the city in Poland, with a full complement parallel to the railway line towards Russian strongpoint mentioned
and together with his adjutant, of Panther tanks. The other Cherkasy and from there to Kovel by Hack or another approximately
Hauptsturmführer (Captain) companies would arrive in the via Moschchena. half way between Koshary and
Westphal, landed in his personal following days as transport was At around noon the tanks Cherkasy-Volinski railway stations,
Fieseler Storch aircraft at around available but Nicolussi-Leck's moved off with the Panther of possibly along the road to Volya-
noon on 16 March. The decision to would be the only Wiking tanks Hauptscharführer (Staff Sergeant) Kovelska.
remove himself from the division available for an immediate attempt Eugen Faas, the commander of the As the tanks ground forward,
at such a critical time, criticised to establish contact with the Kovel first platoon, in the lead. On the Faas called Nicolussi-Leck to
in some accounts, illustrates defenders. right were the Grenadiers of Hack's report that Russian soldiers could
Gille's confidence in the abilities With sixteen serviceable tanks, battalion supported by ten assault be seen leaving their trenches for
of his regimental and battalion 8.Kompanie reached their start guns of leichte-Sturmgeschütz- the shelter of a nearby wood. The
commanders and there can be positions near Stari Koshary Abteilung 190. On Nicolussi- company commander now took the
little doubt that his presence around 11.00am on the morning Leck's left were volunteers from lead and drove straight into the

6 Model Military International - November 2013

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 The Oliver Publishing Group’s book,
“Viking Summer”, by Dennis Oliver, covers
5.SS-Panzer-Division operations in Poland
during 1944, along with 38 colour profiles,
scrap view detail drawings, maps and Russian position held only by a few to such an extent that Nicolussi-
wartime photos. This and other books in the determined machine gunners who Leck called a temporary halt to
series are available online from ADH Books
were no match for the Panthers. the attack. In a radio message
www.adhbooks.com
From here Nicolussi-Leck ordered to Mühlenkamp he reported that
his men to advance north to the his remaining tanks had reached
rail line, just a short distance away, high ground, some 600 metres
and to head towards Cherkasy. to the west of Cherkasy, and that
Only a few metres further on, the the accompanying infantry were
marshy ground gave way to more fighting their way towards his
solid terrain and the company's position.
second and third platoons were The Panthers remained on the
now able to fan out and advance high ground for some 45 minutes
in line. By now however the snow and in that time were able to send
was falling harder and visibility was out patrols to reconnoitre the
becoming a problem with some surrounding area. Realising now
crews complaining that they could that Cherkasy was bordered by
not see further than the muzzles of swamps on three sides Nicolussi-
their own guns. Leck decided that an attack
As the weather grew worse, towards the north-east, directly
the lead tank of Untersturmführer into the town was impossible.
(2nd Lieutenant) Immelmann Considering the options available
stumbled into more marshy to him, he directed his remaining
ground and became hopelessly tanks to advance and take
bogged. Within a short time four Cherkasy by an enveloping move
more tanks became bogged and on his right, approaching the
Nicolussi-Leck, also concerned that village from the east . However,
A rear view of the three tanks of Faas’ group abandoned on the Kovel railway line. Closest to the camera the accompanying infantry were after moving only a short distance,
is Panther 811, the tank commanded by Eugen Faas with Panther 821 further to the east. The tank in the being left too far behind, ordered three more tanks became bogged
far distance is one of the vehicles of Kasper’s group that could not be moved into the station. these tanks to guard his right flank and it was obvious that this
which faced a wood, as a static direction was also untenable.
defence point under the command Undeterred, Nicolussi-Leck swung
of Unterscharführer (Corporal) his company to his left and crossed
Kasper. The remaining tanks the railway embankment and
resumed the advance and soon although the Panthers immediately
came under fire from Russian anti- came under heavy fire they were
tank guns. In his after action report at least on solid ground.
Nicolussi-Leck stated that the Driving straight towards
Russian position was some 600 Cherkasy the Panthers fired on
metres west of Cherkasy which the move as fast as their guns
would mean that his remaining could be loaded. Before the town
tanks must have now been across could be reached eight German
the railway line. However, later tanks were hit and immobilised
in the same report he mentions but managed to keep firing and
that the attack on the town was support the others. With the entire
carried out by crossing the railway western end of the town in flames
embankment. This suggests that and the defenders streaming
the Russian anti-tank guns were towards the east, the Panthers
actually located not directly to the led by Hauptscharführer Faas,
west, but south-west of Cherkasy entered Cherkasy urged on by
on the southern side of the rail their company commander whose
line and there was indeed a narrow tank was now stuck in soft mud.
The tank in the foreground is Panther 811 showing just how badly the track was damaged by a mine. The
tank in the centre is Panther 821. stretch of solid ground there rising Without waiting to consolidate,
towards the embankment, just Nicolussi-Leck sent four tanks
before the line turns south towards towards Moschena, their next
Cherkasy-Volinski station. objective. Meanwhile Hauptmann
Advancing on the Russians at Bolm’s infantry had fought their
maximum speed three Panthers way through to Cherkasy and now
were hit in quick succession - cleared the remaining Russians
although at least one account from the town.
suggests that the third was halted Although the tanks that had
by a mechanical failure. A lucky moved off towards Moschena
shot from one of the Panther's had destroyed several anti-tank
guns - possibly fired from Eugen guns, two had become stuck in the
Faas' tank - detonated the mud and at 6.00pm Mühlenkamp
Russians’ reserve ammunition in directed Nicolussi-Leck to
a mighty explosion and at that remain in Cherkasy and screen
moment the Panthers of the third north, towards Moschena, and
platoon, which Nicolussi-Leck east towards Kovel. Much of the
had sent to the right to outflank infantry of Hack’s battalion of
the Soviet position, opened fire the Germania regiment which had
destroying all twelve Russian guns. been allocated to support the right
As the remaining eight Panthers flank of the attack were still far to
drove into the now deserted the west and once darkness fell
A photograph of Panther 821 showing clearly the evidence of an internal explosion. The tank in the Russian trenches at exactly were only able communicate by
background is Panther 811. 2.30pm, the weather deteriorated signal flare. At 7.00pm Nicolussi- A

November 2013 - Model Military International 7

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 Think Tank - PANTHER POUNCE AT KOVEL
B Leck reported that he had six and almost immediately another
combat ready tanks but was Panther, this vehicle commanded
confident of recovering four of the by Scharführer Herberts, was
vehicles which were stuck in the halted by a mine. Leaving the
swampy ground. He was however safety of his tank and coming
concerned that his supplies of fuel forward on foot, Nicolussi-Leck
and ammunition were unlikely to ordered Faas to take command of a
be replenished before the attack strongpoint using the two disabled
resumed the next day. Panthers and sixteen Grenadiers.
That night Nicolussi-Leck, The remaining infantry had formed
considering his options and a defensive screen running through
determined to complete his the buildings of the railway station
mission, decided that the next and the wooded area to the east. In
day's attack would follow the the meantime a squad of engineers
railway embankment all the way had been sent forward to clear any
into Kovel. Although risky, his plan additional mines and although a
would conserve what fuel the tanks path was secured it was not before
had left and would ensure that 6.00 am. It was now light and
they were at least able to operate Nicolussi-Leck’s tanks were visible
on solid ground all the way to their to every Russian in the area.
objective. Further, he reasoned As the last mine was being
A close-up view of the Panther of Kasper’s group abandoned just short of the railway station.
that the Russians would expect cleared Hauptmann Bolm advised This ph
The extent of the damage attests to the ferocity of the fighting.
his force to advance towards Nicolussi-Leck that he had received
Moschena - particularly in light of an order that the tanks were not
his reconnaissance towards that to advance any further. Stating
village and the large number of that he could not remain where he
reinforcements which the Soviets was, Nicolussi-Leck ignored Bolm
were positioning there. He also and ordered his tanks to push
believed that it was significant that forward towards KoveI. There is
his bogged tanks had not received some debate over where the order
any enemy fire from the south originated with some accounts
or east despite their vulnerable stating that it came from within
condition. Therefore, despite Kovel via radio and others that
the obvious danger, the railway it emanated from Mühlenkamp’s
embankment seemed to offer the regimental headquarters and was
best chance of success and at delivered directly to Nicolussi-
10.00pm Nicolussi-Leck informed Leck. The latter seems unlikely
Mühlenkamp of his intentions. as Nicolussi-Leck later said in his
Unknown to Nicolussi-Leck, for he defence that he was not obliged to
never received the message, an follow any orders given by Bolm. In
order was sent from the regimental any case, Nicolussi-Leck ordered
headquarters at 1.30am the next his remaining tanks forward.
morning directing him to withdraw With the company commander's
to Stari Koshary and for the men tank in the lead the column had
of Grenadier-Regiment 434 to reached a point less than 2,000
return to their unit. By the time metres from the Kovel defence
A close-up view of Faas’ Panther. The number 811 is just visible on the turret side. a radio set powerful enough to perimeter when Nicolussi- The co
reach the company could be found Leck received a message from Panthe
the Panthers were already on Scharführer Möller commanding
the railway embankment just 2 the last tank in line. A despatch
kilometres outside Kovel. rider had caught up with the
During the night three of the company with an order that the
bogged tanks were recovered and tanks were to halt. As Nicolussi-
early on the morning of Thursday Leck listened to Möller his tank
30 March, in complete darkness, began to take fire from the Russian
the Panthers resumed their positions immediately to his front
advance towards Kovel. Once and at that moment he heard
again the commander of the first one of his platoon commanders,
platoon, Eugen Faas, was in the Oberscharführer Karl Jauss, state
lead. Almost immediately Faas that these Russian troops were
reported that muzzle flashes blocking the north-west exit from
were visible some 400 metres Kovel. Realising that if Jauss were
west of the Cherkasy-Volinski correct the German defenders of
railway station and directed his Kovel were just on the other side
gunner onto a target which was of this Russian position, Nicolussi-
at three o'oclock to his tank. Leck ignored the order, told his
After destroying two T-34 tanks gunner to engage the enemy and
the lead Panthers reached the drove straight at the Russian guns.
embankment but within a hundred Although the Panthers received
metres, Faas' tank was disabled heavy fire from their left they
by a mine, his vehicle holding up were shielded from the worst
the entire column. The remaining effects by the snow, which had
Another view of panther 821 showing the position of the Balkenkreuz national insignia and the 24-bolt One of
tanks moved to the right - that begun to fall heavily once again. relieve
wheels.
is the southern side - of the rail Surging forward the Panthers
line to bypass the disabled tank crushed the Soviet guns under

8 Model Military International - November 2013

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 their tracks and shortly, above the from several anti-tank rifles and
roar of their engines, could hear a number of machine guns, all
voices calling to them in German. of which was largely ineffectual.
At exactly 7.30am the tanks of They also brought up two anti-tank
8.Kompanie had reached the guns but positioned them so far to
railway loop south of Volyn and the the south that the Panthers were
defensive perimeter of Kovel. By effectively beyond their range.
8.10am Nicolussi-Leck, with seven Within an hour however,
serviceable tanks, was able to Herberts reported that a large
report to Gruppenführer Gille. mass of enemy infantry was
On the railway line, west of visible in a clearing just inside
the Cherkasy-Volinski station, the wood. The Russians moved
the crews of Faas’ and Herberts’ through the clearing, into the last
Panthers - together with the stretch of trees and emerged in
sixteen Grenadiers who had been a wave heading straight towards
left to support them - listened the German position. Immediately
as the sounds of battle moved the tanks opened fire and soon
further and further to the east. In after the machine guns and rifles
the eerie silence Rynzec, the radio of the Grenadiers joined in, firing
operator of Faas’ tank, tried in vain into the densely packed mass of
to establish contact with either the Soviet infantry. This force however
This photograph of Panther 811, Faas’ original tank, shows the extent of the damage to its tracks.
company commander or regimental proved to be just as resolute as
headquarters far to the west. the first attackers and was halted
All was quiet until, without just 30 metres from the tanks.
warning, at 7.00am the strongpoint As the Russians withdrew, Faas
was engulfed in flame and smoke was at last able to establish radio
from the fire of a battery of contact with Unterscharführer
Katyusha rockets. As suddenly Kasper, who it will be remembered
as the firing began it ceased and had been left with four bogged
realising that an infantry attack Panthers south-west of Cherkasy.
was imminent, Faas ordered From his position, Kasper was in
Herberts to train the main gun of radio contact with Kampfgruppe
his tank to the left – or southern Richter and Faas asked him to pass
side - of the railway line while his on a request for artillery support,
tank would cover the right. As relaying the corrections through
Faas was speaking, Soviet troops Kapser to Standartenführer
came running from the woods to Richter’s gunners. Within minutes
the south some 400 metres away. the first German shells were
The tanks opened fire with high screaming overhead and slamming
explosive shells and when the into the Russian positions. At
Russians were within 300 metres that moment a forward observer
their machine guns joined the from Richter’s group reached
battle. Although great holes were Kasper who then informed Faas
carved from the Russian line, more and told him that all the guns of
troops emerged from the trees the division’s artillery regiment
to fill the gaps and the enemy were now at his disposal. As Faas
The commander of SS-Panzer-Regiment 5, Johannes Mühlenkamp – nearest the camera – inspects some of the infantry were by now so close to identified a Russian concentration
Panthers that were recovered after the Kovel fighting. the Panthers that Faas could hear or strongpoint it was brought
their shouts and cries above the under intense and accurate fire
sound of the intense gunfire. and it was not long before the
Ignoring their casualties the Red Soviets realised that the German
Army men pressed on, reaching the artillery was being directed by
Panthers and climbing onto their the Panthers on the railway
hulls. Standing in the cupolas of embankment.
their tanks both Faas and Herberts The Katyushas began targeting
fought off these desperate Russian Faas’ group again with a barrage
attackers with sub-machine guns so intense that the Panther crews
and hand grenades. A squad of suffered cuts and bruises from the
Russian infantry armed with buffeting they took inside their
Molotov cocktails appeared in front tanks. Holding his nerve, Faas was
of Herberts who was quick enough able to call in the artillery until
to despatch them with a burst of the shells were falling directing
sub-machine gun fire. Now, small onto the Russian rocket launchers
groups of Russian soldiers tried and in a huge ball of flame their
to approach the tanks under the ammunition supply exploded. As
cover of the railway embankment darkness approached Faas and two
but these were beaten off by the of his crew, Scharfuhrer Kuntze
Grenadiers who had remained in and Rottenfuhrer (Lance Corporal)
their fox holes. Pursued by the Petersmann left the cover of their
combined fire of the Panthers’ tank and working their way forward
machine guns and those of the as silently as possible – aided by
German infantrymen, the Russians the crash of the Soviet artillery
One of the Panthers of SS-Panzer-Regiment 5 photographed in the town of Kovel shortly after the fighting to
relieve the German garrison. The wrecks of three Red Army Shermans have yet to be removed. retreated to the safety of the which continued to fire through
woods. For the next hour, the the night - came within metres of
Soviets kept up harassing fire the Russian forward positions at A

November 2013 - Model Military International 9

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 Think Tank - PANTHER POUNCE AT KOVEL

Pzkw V Panther ausf A. Another early model A, this tank

was commanded by Scharführer (Lance Sergeant) Herberts
and was the second vehicle to be disabled by a mine on
the railway line outside Kovel. It is interesting to note the
differing patterns created by the application of Zimmerit
anti-magnetic mine paste. The reader should also note that
the British rank equivalents given here are approximate
only, refer to ranks used in the 1939-45 period and are given
merely as a matter of convenience.

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 Pzkw V Panther ausf A. This early model A vehicle was
commanded by Hauptscharführer (Staff Sergeant) Eugen
Faas. The tank’s number, 811, identifies the first tank - or
commander- of the first platoon of the eighth company. There
is some debate as to the colour of the numbers used by the
company and indeed photographs taken only a few days after
Nicolussi-Leck’s relief attempt show that other Panthers
used a very dark colour, probably black, in some cases very
crudely rendered. My personal opinion is that the numbers of
Panthers 811 and 821 were white and neatly applied using a
stencil, as those of the sixth and seventh companies certainly
were. They were subsequently discoloured by intense heat
resulting in the dark appearance evident in our photographs.

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 Think Tank - PANTHER POUNCE AT KOVEL
B the edge of the wood. From there arrivals, Faas and Rottenführer darkness.
they were able to hear the grind Becker moved out towards the The small force on the
and squeal of tank tracks and the west following the railway line, railway embankment presented
barking of orders. The Russians warily scanning the edge of the a considerable problem for
were unmistakeably building up mist-shrouded forest for any sign the Russians positioned as
their forces for another attack. of the Russians. it was halfway between the
Hurrying back to the strongpoint The two Panthers managed defensive perimeter of Kovel
Faas contacted Kasper who now to travel just over 1,200 metres – now reinforced with Nicolussi-
told him that his four tanks had towards the Kampfgruppe when Leck’s Panthers – and Richter’s
been dragged free of the swamp unexpectedly, two anti-tank rounds Kampfgruppe. Although
and that he would move directly slammed into Faas’ Panther in inconsequential in terms of
towards Faas bringing much quick succession. The second shell numbers, Faas’ command provided
needed ammunition and more set the tank ablaze and as his crew a link between the German lines
infantry with him. Warning Kasper bailed out, Faas remained at his and the besieged town and
that the Russians were entrenched station long enough to call Becker kept open the possibility of the
along the railway line, Faas asked to direct his fire onto the Russian garrison’s relief. An annoyance
if there was any news of Nicolussi- guns before jumping clear himself. at this stage but one that the
Leck and the remainder of the As Eugen Faas and his crew Russians were not prepared to
company. Replying that he had huddled in a ditch, the fire from tolerate and as the night wore on
heard nothing, Kasper made ready Becker’s tank screamed above the artillery fire grew in intensity.
to move off at 2.00am. their heads towards the Russian According to Ewald Klapdor’s*
Calling together the tank crews guns. Within seconds however account, the track damage to Faas’
and the remaining infantry at the Becker’s tank was also on fire and original tank had been repaired
strongpoint Faas advised them of as he and his crew tried to escape during the day and it was decided
Kasper’s plan. They were, he told the flames, the Russians began that the strongpoint would be
them, ideally placed to take any firing at the German tankers with moved 200 metres to the west
Russian move against Kasper in machine guns and rifles. Although towards the Cherkasy-Volinski
the flank and must be prepared to three of his men had suffered station where better cover was
use up the last of their ammunition burns they were still able to move available for both the tanks and
to do so. Just after 2.00am the and Faas was confident of reaching infantry. In fact, the station had its
men at the strongpoint could Richter and his battle group on own air-raid shelter. It was soon
hear the sound of Kasper’s tanks foot. However, every time they left discovered however that Faas’
moving to the south-west and the cover of a ditch or ravine the Panther had also sustained damage
slowly at first, beginning with Germans were harassed by small to its transmission and very soon
a mere crackle of rifle fire, the arms fire and crossing a small open came to a halt. Similarly the tank
sound of battle increased to a roar space Rynzec – the radio operator of Scharführer Herberts could not
as anti-tank guns and artillery from Faas’ Panther – was struck in be moved and was blown up and
joined in. At the strongpoint, the the head and killed instantly. another disabled Panther – one
two Panthers expended their Pressing on, the survivors of Kasper’s reinforcements – was
last rounds of high explosive were amazed to see a flight of simply abandoned after the radio Koshary. Promising Faas that
ammunition. The distance between Heinkel He 111 bombers appear was removed. This account fails he would do whatever he could,
Kasper’s four Panthers and the out of the grey morning sky and to explain why Faas’ tank was Hack urged his men forward and
strongpoint could have been no proceed to bomb and strafe the later photographed on the rail a small number of Grenadiers
more than 3,000 metres but due Russian positions in the forest. line with its driver’s side track under Hauptsturmführer Treucker
to the marshy terrain and the Their elation quickly turned to broken and lying on the hull of the actually managed to fight their
stubborn resistance put up by the terror when the German aircraft, vehicle. It is possible that Faas way through to the strongpoint in
Soviets, it was 6.30am before they assuming that any troops in the merely took over command of a the darkness. When dawn broke
reached Faas and Herberts. area were Russian, began firing tank that had been repaired – as the next morning large numbers of
As Kasper’s tanks took up at Faas and his men. In the noise he had done during the break out Soviet troops could be seen moving
positions along the railway line and confusion no one noticed that attempt - and that this was not forward from the south and south-
and the accompanying infantry Becker’s gunner had been seriously Panther number 811, the platoon west and within fifteen minutes a
began to dig in, Faas discovered to wounded and now lay unconscious. commander’s vehicle. In the regimental-sized force of infantry
his great disappointment that the Reversing his earlier decision, available photographs that we burst from the woods to the east.
promised re-supply of ammunition Faas ordered his men back to have, Herberts’ tank – number Holding their fire until the Russians
had been largely consumed in the the strongpoint now some 2 821 which has rather obviously were within 100 metres, every
four and a half hour struggle to kilometres to the east which, suffered an internal explosion – gun in the strongpoint opened up
reach his position. While Faas was perhaps surprisingly, they reached sits on the railway line to the east simultaneously, devastating the
conferring with Kasper considering without incident - although their of Faas’ Panther. Further to the brown-clad ranks. Regrouping, the
their next move, Russian shells individual survival must have been east can be seen a third tank and Russians mounted another assault,
began falling around them. Taking paramount in their minds as it was this is almost certainly the tank this time from the south, but were
cover in his Panther, Faas relayed only then that someone noticed the of Kasper’s group mentioned as beaten back once again. At around
another message to Richter at absence of Becker’s gunner. Calling being abandoned. In any case, noon a barrage from a battery of
the Kampfgruppe headquarters for volunteers to retrieve the this left the strongpoint with two Katyusha rockets crashed into the
telling him plainly that without missing man – two of the gunner’s serviceable tanks. strongpoint and also at about this
ammunition the position could friends immediately stepped During the night, small parties time, under the cover of a mortar
not be held. At this point Richter forward – Faas returned to the of Russian soldiers attempted to barrage, the Russians were able
could have been no more than 4 spot where the German bombers infiltrate the German position but to move a number of anti-tank
to 5 kilometres to the west and had fired at his small group. On the were beaten off by machine gun guns to within 150 metres of Faas’
he ordered Faas to take two tanks way they ran head on into Russian squads, many of which by now remaining tanks. Using the last
and attempt to break through the patrol and were forced to shoot were composed of tank crewmen. of their high explosive rounds the
Russian lines towards the German their way out of trouble. Eventually Encouragingly Faas had made Panthers managed to destroy all
lines establishing a link through they found the missing gunner contact with Sturmbannfuhrer the Soviet guns.
which supplies could be funnelled. and carrying him on a Zeltbahn Hack’s battalion which was At his headquarters Mühlenkamp
Leaving his disabled Panther and tent quarter returned safely to the still moving toward the railway was only too well aware of
commandeering one of the new strongpoint through the gathering line from the direction of Stari the predicament of his men at

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 1. The approximate jump off point for
8.Kompanie, SS-Panzer-Regiment 5 on
Wednesday, 29 March 1944.

2. The third battalion of SS-Panzergrenadier-

Regiment 9 Germania under Franz Hack and
ten assault guns.

3. Volunteers from Grenadier-Regiment 434

supported by seven assault guns.

4. The Russian anti-tank gun position identified

by Hack, commander of the Germania
regiment. These were probably the same guns
destroyed by the tanks of the company’s first
platoon.

5. The tank of Untersturmführer Immelmann and

four others became bogged very soon after
reaching the railway line.

6. The lead tanks again come under fire from

Russian guns which are dug in some 800
metres to their front.

7. At 2.30pm Nicolussi-Leck is forced to call a

halt to the attack due to the weather.

8. After attempting an outflanking movement on

his left, Nicolussi-Leck almost immediately
realises that the ground would not support his
tanks and swings his company back to the left
and across the railway line.

9. The remaining eight tanks enter the town.

10. Four tanks are sent towards Moschena where

two become bogged in the thick mud.
11. The attack resumes on the morning of 30
March and Panther number 811 is disabled by
a mine shortly after 5.00am, quickly followed
by Panther number 821.

12. At 7.30am Niclussi-Leck receives the order to

withdraw, which he ignores.

13. Between 7.30am and 8.00am the first tanks

of 8.Kompanie fight their way into the German
defensive perimeter.

the strongpoint. Employing a direction Kovel lay. This is scarcely Panther, Faas screamed at his Red Army soldiers and return to
combination of promises and believable given that the Germans driver to run over the barricade their own lines undetected. A
threats he had arranged for were entrenched on the railway and the heavy tank crashed number of Faas’ tankers were not
supplies of food and ammunition line that ran directly into the through it, titling dangerously for so fortunate and became trapped
to be dropped by aircraft and at town. It is perhaps more likely that a few seconds. At that moment in a swamp in front on the German
4.15pm the planes appeared over both Faas and Treucker realised Russian infantryman jumped positions and several were killed by
Faas’ position. In what must have what awaited them between their from their foxholes and began Russian mortar and artillery fire.
been an extremely disheartening strongpoint and Kovel far better firing towards the exposed tank Both Faas and Herberts survived
development for the men on the than Mühlenkamp and that a commander and the Grenadiers to report to Mühlenkamp, their
ground, the German transports withdrawal towards the west was that followed in the Panther’s regimental commander.
dropped their canisters on the the lesser of two evils. Whatever wake. As Faas returned fire with The seven Panthers of
first past without establishing the their reasons, at 4.45pm, after his sub-machine gun, several anti- 8.Kompanie that broke into Kovel
strongpoint’s exact location and all the available armour piercing tank shells slammed into the side with their commander, Nicolussi-
the much needed supplies sailed ammunition had been loaded into of the Panther causing little or Leck, acted as a fire-brigade sealing
into the Russian lines. the last serviceable tank, the no damage – miraculously failing off one Soviet break through after
Throughout the day Faas, who in wounded were gathered together to even affect the wounded men another until the garrison was
addition to directing the battle had and Faas advised his men that lying on the tank’s rear deck. relieved and the area declared
been trying in vain to make radio as soon as darkness fell they Moving ahead, with its main gun secure on 18 April, 1944. For his
contact with any German unit in would leave. Anything of use that firing off the few remaining armour courage and leadership Nicolussi-
the area , finally managed to get could not be removed was to be piercing shells, the Panther struck Leck was awarded the Knight’s
through to Mühlenkamp at 4.30pm. destroyed. a mine and now a stationary target Cross and for a time became a
After listening to Faas’ description At 5.00pm the Russian artillery was hit numerous times in quick darling of the German Press who
of the situation, the regimental fire began again and quickly grew succession by the Russian anti- christened his relief attempt of 29
commander ordered him to break in intensity. Now commanding tank guns and began to burn. The March, the Panther Pounce. n
out immediately in the direction of the single surviving Panther, driver had been killed and Faas
Kovel. Faas ordered his gunner to fire and his surviving crew could do *Klapdor served as an officer in
In spite of Mühlenkamp’s direct off several rounds in the general nothing to help the wounded men the Wiking division and although
order it was decided that the direction of the Russian lines – at least one of whom perished in he wrote an account of this
break out would be made towards in order to deceive the enemy, the flames. Now running for their action he was not present when
the west and the German lines, and then led his group towards lives towards their own lines the it occurred and indeed had left
a decision that has not been the west. Following a track next survivors realised that, incredibly, the division by the first week of
convincingly explained in any of to the railway line the Panther they had been caught up in a March. Similarly details supplied by
the available accounts. According almost immediately came to a Russian attack directed towards Fey and Henschler – both officers
to Klapdor, Faas in consultation barricade that the Russians must the west and in the darkness and of the Waffen-SS - in their works
with Treucker, suddenly realised have built during the hours of general commotion many were are sometimes unclear or even
that no one had any idea in which darkness. From the turret of his simply able to mingle with the contradictory.

November 2013 - Model Military International 13

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 KIT REVIEW Tamiya 1:48 German Panther Type G • Kit No. 32520

VIKING S
The Editor backdates
Tamiya’s 1:48 scale Panther
G into an Ausf. A using Tank
Workshop’s comprehensive
resin conversion.

T
amiya revitalised the
mid-sized military 1:48
scale in 2004 with their
brand new Tiger I Early
Production kit. A number of
Axis and Allied releases rapidly
followed, with the 1:48 scale
Panther Ausf. G appearing in
2005.
Tamiya’s mid-scale Panther
is well detailed and very easy
to build. It also features a die-
cast metal lower hull with the
suspension arms fixed in place.
This certainly lends weight to the
overall model, but with the fixed
suspension and the link and length
tracks, the model would look
exactly the same weight with or
without the cast hull. The front and
rear of the metal hull are covered
by plastic pieces.
Tracks are supplied as link and
length in solid plastic.
This kit followed the trend
of Tamiya’s earlier 1:48 scale
releases to that time, in that it was
a subject that had already been
released by Tamiya in 1:35 scale.
Although many modellers hoped
that Tamiya might backdate the
moulds to produce an Ausf. A or an
Ausf. D, this never came to pass. A

16 Model Military International - November 2013

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SUMMER

November 2013 - Model Military International 17

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 KIT REVIEW Tamiya 1:48 German Panther Type G • Kit No. 32520

B TWS TO THE RESCUE THE TOP PRIORITY In common with most of Tamiya’s
early 1:48 scale AFV releases, the
American cottage industry By far the most important aspect lower hull is cast in white metal.
manufacturer Tank Workshop of this project is adequate
came to the rescue of die-hard preparation of the resin. Be
Panther fans in 2012 with two prepared to allocate plenty of
resin conversions for Tamiya’s time to cleaning up the resin
1:48 scale Panther Ausf. G – an parts, thinning backs and edges,
early Panther Ausf. D and an Ausf. test-fitting, and repeating this
A with Zimmerit cast onto the hull sequence as often as necessary for
and the turret. everything to fit perfectly.
Tank Workshop’s Panther Ausf. Fortunately, Tank Workshop
A conversion comprises 23 parts in has made this job a little easier
grey resin and five parts in turned by casting their large parts – the
metal. The contents are securely upper hull and the turret shell –
packed into a stout cardboard box. onto casting strips rather than a
The Zimmerit is the vertical single large block. This means that
pattern arranged in squares – the strips can be snipped off and
probably the most typical style the residue cleaned up with a sharp
seen on Panther Ausf. As. The knife and sanding sticks.
Zimmerit pattern is very well done. There is a little ragged waste
It is neatly applied and crisply along the bottom of the hull sides
detailed but appropriately random, though, so make sure that you
just as it would be on the real tank. remove this as well.
The kit’s lower hull is employed You will also need to thin a
for this conversion. There is no number of the resin parts, most
The kit’s main upper
Zimmerit on Tamiya’s metal hull, notably the back of the rear hull.
turret shell.
but Tank Workshop thoughtfully I eventually decided to use very
supplies a Zimmerit application coarse 80 grit sandpaper to
tool if you want to add the anti- remove the thick excess resin. I
magnetic paste in this area. kept the sandpaper wet to avoid a
Aber’s gorgeous replacement cloud of fine resin dust. In the end,
gun barrel and muzzle brake are I needed two strips of the coarse
also supplied in Tank Workshop’s sandpaper to finish the job.
conversion. The turned metal parts I also needed to slim down the
are beautifully detailed and will sides of the lower front hull plate,
lend a luxurious finishing touch to and bevel the top edge so that it
your model. would match the mating surface of
The one-piece upper hull is
Instructions are supplied on the upper hull front. The inside front conventional injection moulded plastic.
two letter-sized sheets with three edges of the upper hull needed
photos and some generic text thinning too. I started
directions. I would have preferred by grinding the back of
to see some more illustrations and the entire front plate
step-by-step instructions, but an with a cutting wheel on
experienced modeller should not my Dremel motor tool,
have much trouble following the then thinned the edges
sequence. with a sanding stick.

Rather than being cast directly to a chunky block, the hull

is attached via a series of resin strips. This makes clean-up
fairly easy.
Tank Workshop’s one-piece upper turret shell with the
gun mount and cupola cast in place. Once again, the
Zimmerit is very well done.

Tank Workshop’s replacement upper hull has

vertical pattern Zimmerit cast in place along
with other details including the engine deck
grilles, jacking block and tool mounts.

18 Model Military International - November 2013

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 A plethora of resin detail parts are also supplied
with the Tank Workshop conversion. These include
a new stowage tube for the cleaning rods, outer
idler wheels, rear hull and lower front hull parts
with Zimmerit, exhausts and the driver’s vision flap.

Panther Production Just follow the sequence

With the hardest part of suggested in the instructions and
the project out of the way, you can’t go wrong. Once the last
construction could now commence. Clean-up is
track links were fitted, I clamped
arguably the
Tamiya’s 1:48 scale running the top and bottom track runs most important
gear was assembled first. Tamiya’s while the cement was drying to element of this
instructions suggest that the outer avoid that embarrassing “floating resin conversion.
road wheel halves (A28 and A29) track” effect! Where the parts
should be glued together before the Tamiya supplies sponson covers were attached
via strips, these
wheels are attached to their axles, for their Panther Ausf. G hull, and were first snipped
but I think it is easier to first attach these may be modified to fit the off with a pair of
the back road wheels (Parts 29) to straight-hulled Panther Ausf. A. I sprue cutters.
their axles, followed by the paired sliced a wedge off the side of each
inner road wheels (Parts A7 and sponson cover and glued them to
A8), and finally capped by the front the open sponsons on the resin
outer road wheels (Parts A28). upper hull. The doctored covers
Take care when attaching the were actually a bit too narrow,
wheels too. There is a little bit but this may easily be fixed with
of wiggle room, so ensure that a length of Evergreen plastic strip
the wheels are perfectly lined up for each side.
before the super glue sets on the Tank Workshop provides a
metal axles. separate driver’s visor and the Parts attached
Fitting the tracks was hinge mechanism, so the visor directly to casting
completely trouble free, starting may be posed open. My visor was strips were
with the double link over the not finished in Zimmerit though scored lightly and
locating pin on the idler wheel. (it might have been the part A repeatedly with a
sharp hobby knife.

The raised strips

on the back of the
resin parts would
interfere with
fit, so there were
snipped off with
sprue cutters then
totally eliminated
Aber’s jewel-like turned metal
with coarse
gun barrel and multi-part brass
sanding sticks.
muzzle are also included.

November 2013 - Model Military International 19

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 KIT REVIEW Tamiya 1:48 German Panther Type G • Kit No. 32520

B from the Ausf. D kit incorrectly FEAR OF FIGURES

packed), so I added some using I am slowly overcoming my fear
Tamiya Epoxy Putty and the little of painting figures. I recognise
TWS Zimmerit tool. that figures can add a sense of
Panthers from 5.SS Pz. Rgt. had scale, context and activity to
a shield shape carved out of the an otherwise static AFV model,
Zimmerit on the front of the hull but it is still all too easy to find
and on the turret side. The space an excuse not to spend the time
on the front of the hull was usually necessary to build and paint the
The lightening holes in the resin idler wheels are The remaining scraps of resin were tidies up with used for the Wiking emblem, but figures.
flashed over, so the waste material was removed a toothpick. the one on the turret side was left This time I therefore decided to
with the tip of a hobby knife. blank. I carved suitable shapes finish the figures before I painted
from the hull and turret using my the model. That way, there could
Mission Models Micro Chisel. be no excuses!
More Ausf. A specific details Over the last six months or so, I
were added and modified at this have been working on a technique
stage. Tools were sliced from their that is fairly simple, repeatable and
plastic mounts and rearranged on delivers reliable results. Although
the hull according to reference I have mainly used this technique
photos. A large unditching beam on 1:35 scale figures, there is no
and its mounts in the characteristic reason I should not try it on this
Wiking style were scratch built 1:48 scale crew as well.
The kit’s road wheels from Evergreen plastic strip. The figures were from Gaso.
and drive sprockets New side skirts were also made Line’s 1:48 scale set no. GAS50365
ready for installation. I from Evergreen plastic sheet and – German Tank Crew. No assembly
found it easier to delay strip. The skirts on the Ausf. A is required – all the figures are
attaching the front and were different to those fitted to supplied in one piece each,
back of the outer road
wheel halves until they the Panther G. The new skirts although three headsets are also
were fitted to the axles. were made using Tamiya’s as a included. I had already used one of
guide. Unfortunately, one detail the half-figures as the Commander
that I missed was that the Panther in my 1:48 scale Tamiya Sd.Kfz.
A seems to have six panels, not 232 (see MMI Issue 84), so I had
five. I only noticed this after I had three figures left to crew up my
painted the model, and it was too Panther.
late to make a new set. The figures were first drilled and
Stowage was added from several mounted on toothpicks to avoid
generic Plus Model resin accessory damage and fingerprints during the
sets, while packs and tarpaulins painting process.
were formed from Kneadatite two- The first step was an overall
part epoxy resin. coat of Tamiya Fine White Primer
I somehow managed to break straight from the spray can. The
Here is the sequence that I employed. The off the top hook shape at the Fine White Primer is the best
back of the outer road wheels were glued rear of one upper hull. This was choice to give a lighter base for the
in place, followed by the dual centre road
wheels. Once these were in place, the front
replaced with a scrap of plastic, coming flesh tones.
outer road wheels were attached. superglued to the hull and carved Using the colours on Gaso.Line’s
into shape in situ. cover illustration as a guide, I

The links and lengths from one side of the tracks, removed from the sprue and laid out in The idler wheel is moulded with a pin at the top.
assembly order. Don’t cut this off – it is a locating pin for the first
track links.

The first pair of track links glued to position directly above the Here, the top track run has been glued to the front of the first pair of links. After the track run has been installed, the top and bottom runs
locating pin. The pin sits between the two inner guide horns. were clamped to avoid the notorious “floating track” effect.

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 The back of the rear hull part has
been cast with a thick raised area
that has to be thinned considerably
before the part will fit.

Coarse sandpaper was the easiest and fastest way

to thin the rear hull part. This is 80 grit, obtained at
a local hardware store. The sandpaper was wet for
this job, resulting in a slurry of waste resin waste
rather than a billowing cloud of carcinogens.

selected a combination of two main The edges and most prominent colour, while the small contrasting A wash of heavily thinned Burnt
styles for the uniforms – Panzer points of the uniform were also spots were added using a finer Sienna oil paint was then applied
Black and the so-called “Pea emphasised with the unmixed 10/0 brush. by brush. The ruddy mixture
Pattern” camouflage. highlight colour. The figures’ mouths and eyes flows into the low-lying areas and
All the following paints were Details such as epaulets, piping were carefully brush painted with crevices, resulting in some easy
applied to the figures by brush. and insignia were then picked out fine lines of watered-down Vallejo shading and a nice fleshy tint.
First, the heads were painted in with a fine brush. Note that the 337 Highlight Ger. (Black), which After a sprayed coat of Testor’s
a base coat of Vallejo Model Colour SS uniform was subtly different to is actually a dark brown shade. Clear Flat Lacquer, the rather
341 Flesh Base with a little 342 the Wehrmacht tanker’s uniform, High areas of the face such as the uncomfortable looking toothpicks
Highlights mixed in for a slightly especially with regard to the chin, brow, nose, cheeks and ears were extracted and the figures
paler shade. collar patches, and the location were painted with paler shades of were ready to crew their Panther.
The black SS Panzer uniform of the eagles on the tunic and the flesh. I made no attempt to depict With the completed figures
items were painted using Vallejo’s side cap. the whites of the eyes, preferring safely stowed away, I could now
333 Germ. Tkcr. (Black) as the The Pea Pattern uniform items a dark thin slit in all cases. I did paint the model.
base colour. Two coats were were painted using combinations not worry about targeted dark I used Lifecolor Acrylic German
enough to ensure solid even of Vallejo paints mixed to match shading underneath the chin or AFV Dunkelgelb Easy 3 Set, Item
coverage. The dark base coat was colours found in online reference the eyebrows or the ears in this No. MS01 for the base colour, which
then dry-brushed 337 Highlight photos. A 2/0 brush was used smaller scale either. Sometimes, provides three plastic pots of
Ger. (Black) for the high points. to apply the larger blotches of less is plenty. paint - UA 249 Dunkelgelb Flashed A

The kit’s plastic sponson covers were adapted to the straight-sided The modified sponson covers were a bit narrow. Note the I thought the upper hull appeared to be riding a little bit too high, so the
Panther Ausf. A hull. areas of the inside of the forward upper hull that required front upper corners of the metal lower hull were ground down with a coarse
thinning (shaded with pencil). The forward engine vents and sanding stick. This helped the fit considerably.
the driver’s hatch opening have also been thinned and opened
with a Dremel motor tool.

The inside top area of the lower front hull part was bevelled with a The driver’s visor flap did not have Zimmerit cast in place, so I added some using Fortunately, Tank Workshop supplies a resin Zimmerit
coarse sanding stick to improve its fit. The edges were sanded too. Tamiya’s two-part epoxy putty. One tiny ball from each of the strips were rolled tool for just such a task.
together until they were blended, warm and pliable.

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 KIT REVIEW Tamiya 1:48 German Panther Type G • Kit No. 32520

B Shade, UA 250 Dunkelgelb Ground

Colour and UA 251 Dunkelgelb
Deep Shade.
I like the colours, but I
have found the paint is a bit
temperamental in its application.
The first thing to keep in mind
is that a good primer coat will help
the somewhat slippery acrylic
paint to “bite” into the surface. My
choice was Tamiya’s Grey Primer The small Zimmerit tool is perfect for the visor, but I 5.SS Pz.Rgt. Wiking Panthers had a section The spare tracks were drilled and pinned to offer
applied straight from the spray can. wouldn’t want to use it to apply Zimmerit to an entire of Zimmerit carved away on the turret side, positive fit against the Zimmerited upper hull side.
I followed this with Lifecolor’s vehicle! presumably for later application of the unit
Ground Colour (base shade) marking. The cast-on Zimmerit was carefully
removed with my Mission Models Micro Chisel.
thinned with no more than 30%
of Lifecolor’s own thinners. This
is the second model that I have
painted using this same set, and
some of the paint had congealed
into a vinyl snake at the bottom of
the pot. This somehow slithered
into my paint cup and promptly
clogged the needle. On checking
the blockage, I was able to drag
the solid paint plug out and I was
back in business again. Next time I
will consider using a strainer when
tipping the paint from the bottle
into the airbrush.
Next, it was the turn of the
Flashed Shade. This is a very pale The arrangement of the pioneer tools is different on the Panther A compared The big unditching beam was made from two strips of .080 x .250” styrene
to the Panther G. These were rearranged according to the photos in the Oliver strip glued together and scored with a razor saw to represent the grain.
highlight colour. Rather than spray Publishing book, “Viking Summer”. The mount, also from Evergreen strip styrene, has been glued directly to
this uniformly in the centre of the beam.
panels, it was applied in patches,
streaks and spots.
I did not use the Deep Shade

“kit.Tamiya’s
this time, as its effect would be
effectively invisible under the 1:48 scale Panther G is a great little
heavy application of brown and
green. It is supremely easy to build, fit is perfect
I really like Lifecolor’s system
and detail is good straight from the box...
”
and the colour that they have
chosen for Panzer Dark Yellow.
It is true that these paints do
not spray as easily nor dry as
quickly as Tamiya acrylics – for
me at least. However, the finish
is extremely durable and resists The unditching beam test-fitted to the rear hull.
buffing (i.e. repeated handling will
not effect the flat finish). It also
handles filters and washes well.
The two-colour disruptive
camouflage colours are Tamiya
XF-68 NATO Brown and Gunze-
Sangyo acrylic H422 RLM 82 Light
Green, both heavily thinned with
isopropylene alcohol.
I find German armour three-
colour camouflage to be the
most challenging painting task.
Sometimes it seems very hard to
come up with a convincing finish.
My recommendation here is to
keep your paint mix very thin, and
spray in thin layers, building up
gradually. Also, be sparing with
the first disruptive colour that you
lay down. The final colour will fill
in those empty spaces remarkably
quickly!
My second recommendtion is
to keep the faith once the colours
are on the model. The finish may
appear stark and unrealistic
before further detail painting and

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 New side skirts were cut from plastic card using the kit’s skirts as a template. Please note however that .060” angle strip was glued to the rear of the skirts as a mounting point.
the Ausf. A had six sections, not five as I have done here!
weathering, so don’t expect the
A tarpaulin and a few rolls and packs were formed
from Kneadatite two-part epoxy putty. The model to look perfect as soon as
tarpaulin was carefully placed over the stowage, the three main colours have been
and allowed to settle in a natural drape. sprayed.
The tracks, tyres and spare
tracks were painted in a 50/50
mix of Tamiya XF-1 Flat Black and
XF-64 Red Brown using a brush.
I did not bother painting the top
of the track run as it would be
completely hidden by the side
skirts.
A brown filter was now applied
overall. Unfortunately, the bottle
was getting old and the liquid had
thickened so instead of a subtle
glaze, the result was more like a
medium to heavy brown wash. I
brushed enamel thinners (in this
case, mineral turpentine from
Stowage was also added to the the local hardware store) over
rear deck from a number of the tanned model, which subdued
sources, including these two the darkening effect pretty well.
Plus Model accessory sets.
I was not wild about the residue
left in the low-lying areas of the
Zimmerit, but I decided to live
with it.
All the components were Next, a very subtle dry-brushing
sprayed with Tamiya’s Grey of the Dark Yellow Base Shade was
Primer straight from the can. applied to the top of the Zimmerit
surfaces. This blended and diffused
the colours.
The entire model was sprayed
with two generous coats of Future
Floor Polish in preparation for
the decals. These were sourced
from Echelon’s 1:48 scale set no.
AXT481015 – Panther Ausf. D,
A & G. The decal sheet includes
some specific and several styles
of generic white numbers for 5.SS
Panthers.
I was a bit concerned about
how the decals would settle into
the deep ridges of the Zimmerit,
but I need not have worried. I
applied two liberal brushed coats
of Solvaset to the decals straight
after application, and they had
snuggled perfectly into the uneven
surface after settling overnight.
The stowage and the unditching
beam were painted and weathered
using Vallejo and Tamiya acrylics,
as well as a little dry-brushing
Lifecolor Acrylic German
and sprayed shading using the
AFV Dunkelgelb Easy 3
Set, Item No. MS01 was ubiquitous thinned Tamiya Black / A
used for the base colour.

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 KIT REVIEW Tamiya 1:48 German Panther Type G • Kit No. 32520

The two-colour disruptive

camouflage commenced with a
sparing coat of heavily thinned
Tamiya XF-68 NATO Brown.

The tracks, tyres and

spare tracks were painted
in a 50/50 mix of Tamiya
XF-1 Flat Black and XF-64
Red Brown using a brush.

A brown filter was now applied overall.

Unfortunately, the bottle was getting old
and the liquid had thickened so instead
of a subtle glaze, the result was more like
a medium to heavy brown wash.

The Panzer Green was

represented by Gunze-Sangyo
acrylic H422 RLM 82 Light
Green, also heavily thinned
with isopropylene alcohol.

Decals were sourced from Echelon’s 1:48 scale

set no. AXT481015 – Panther Ausf. D, A & G.

Viking Colours
The camouflage and markings of this model
were based on a profile and reference
photo in Dennis Oliver’s book, “Viking
The entire model was sprayed with two
Summer: 5.SS-Panzer-Division in Poland”,
generous coats of Future Floor Polish
available online from ADH Books in preparation for the decals. These
www.adhbooks.com performed perfectly despite the challenge
of the deeply textured Zimmerit surface.

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 The matt finish was restored with a few thinly
sprayed coats of Testor’s Flat Clear Lacquer,
then chipping and scrapes were added using
Vallejo’s German Black Highlight.

For ease of painting, I popped off the putty tarpaulin, The on-vehicle stowage and tools were painted
which was sprayed and weathered separately. by brush using Vallejo acrylics.

“Oliver
Reference photos in the
Publishing “Viking
Summer” book show
several clumps of foliage
camouflage attached to the
side of this vehicle...
B Red Brown mix.
The matt finish was restored
”
brown and the paper leaves cut
from their backing sheet.
with a few finely sprayed coats of A few different shades of
Testor’s Flat Clear Lacquer, then green were randomly painted
chipping and scrapes were added onto the leaves after they had
using Vallejo’s German Black been attached to the branches. A
Highlight colour applied with a dark brown acrylic wash was also
small piece of sponge and the tip applied to highlight the nice vein
of a fine brush. detail. Finally, the leaves were
The wheels and tracks were brush-painted with Future floor
finished to represent areas of wet polish for a nice healthy sheen, and
and dry mud. The base (dried) mud the branches were glued in place.
was Easy Mud Item No. 21106 – The foliage was sourced from Kamizukuri’s 1:35 I tried out a different product for this
scale paper Oak Leaves set. project - Tuner Model Manufactory 0.2mm
Russian Earth. Once this had set, it BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER Soft Metal Wire Dark Copper.
was followed by a liberal brushed Now all that was required was to
application of AK Interactive’s add the foliage and the figures to
Dark Brown enamel wash. Once the completed model.
dry, some of the dark wash was I glued the hull machine gun and
scrubbed off with a stiff brush to the Commander’s hatch in place,
provide more contrast between then attempted to secure one of
the dry and wet areas. The same the clumps of branches to the hull
products were used for the mud using Gator’s Grip acrylic glue.
effects on the bottom of the front This was less than successful, so
and rear hull. I resorted to super glue instead.
A 2B pencil was used to I applied the glue to the back of
highlight the worn high areas of one of the branches and held it in Branches were bent into shape from multiple The twisted wire was painted dark brown, and the
the tracks. place for a few seconds – voila! I lengths of this fine copper wire. leaves were cut from their paper backing sheet.
used the same technique for the
FOLIAGE remaining four pieces of foliage.
Reference photos in the The Commander is peering
Oliver Publishing “Viking into the sky looking for enemy
Summer” book show several aircraft, with one foot and one
clumps of foliage camouflage hand on the machine gun ring. This
attached to the side of this vehicle. pose looks quite convincing, but
The foliage was sourced from he is a bit wobbly without some
Kamizukuri’s 1:35 scale paper reinforcement. I drilled a hole next
Oak Leaves set. A base colour to one of the vision blocks using
of Vallejo’s Model Colour 70891 a No. 80 bit in my pin vise, and
Intermediate Green was sprayed inserted a short length of copper
onto both sides of the die-cut wire. This was super glued and The leaves were attached
paper sheet. Branches were bent inserted into the hole in the base to the branches with super
into shape from multiple lengths of the figure that had already been glue, with individual pieces
picked out in different
of fine copper wire. These were drilled for the toothpick handle.
colours for variation.
secured with super glue. The other two figures were
The branches were painted super-glued directly to the kit. A

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 KIT REVIEW Tamiya 1:48 German Panther Type G • Kit No. 32520

The German armed forces employed a variety of camouflage uniforms The figures are from Gaso.Line’s 1:48 scale set no. GAS50365 – Using the colours on Gaso.Line’s cover illustration as a guide,
and smocks. This is the Autumn Oak Pattern, photographed by Marcus German Tank Crew. The poses will add life to the vehicle. I selected a combination of two main styles for the uniforms –
Nicholls in a Normandy museum. Panzer Black and the so-called “Pea Pattern” camouflage.

Here, the patches and small spots have been mixed according to Details have been picked out with a fine brush. A wash of heavily thinned Burnt Sienna oil paint was brushed onto
reference photos and carefully applied. the faces, resulting in some easy shading and a nice fleshy tint.

B CONCLUSION
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it
again – I really like 1:48 scale for
AFV models. It is big enough to
present plenty of detail and offer
a good base for super detailing
or conversions, yet it is compact
enough to easily display or
store the models after they are
completed.
Tamiya’s 1:48 scale Panther G
is a great little kit. It is supremely
easy to build, fit is perfect and
detail is good straight from the
box. If you want to add detail,
there are a number of after market
updates that will allow you to add
photo-etched grilles, tool clasps,
turned metal barrels and more.
Tank Workshop’s Panther Ausf.
A conversion is another gem.
It is great to be able to model
a high quality Ausf. A, the
second most numerous of
the Panther variants, and
the inclusion of Zimmerit
cast to the hull and turret is a
real bonus, as nearly all Panther
As were finished with this anti-
magnetic coating.
Some modelling skills are
required to complete the
conversion, mainly in the
preparation and fine-tuning of the
resin parts, but this project would
be ideal for a modeller who wanted
to stretch beyond a standard out- A Panther in the palm of my
hand! Although the Panther was
of-the-box plastic model and try
a large tank, the completed 1:48
their hand at a multimedia project. scale model is quite compact.
Long live 1:48 scale! ■

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 Modelspec
Tamiya 1:48 German Panther Type G Kit No. 32520
Accessories Used
The Commander figure was mounted on the cupola Tank Workshop Item No. TWS 48101 – Panther A
with a fine piece of copper wire, while the other two Conversion (TAM)
crew members were simply glued to the model. Gaso.Line Item No. GAS50365 – German Tank Crew
Echelon Fine Details Item No. AXT481015 – Panther
Ausf. D, A & G
Kamizukuri Item No. A-5-35 – Oak Leaves (1:35)
Tamiya Item No. 32514 – German Panzergrenadier Set
Plus Model – Item No. 4021 Ammunition Containers
Germany WWII; Item No. 4022 Fuel Stock Equipment
Germany WWII (both 1:48 scale)
Tools and Modelling Products:
Tamiya Epoxy Putty Smooth Surface
Kneadatite Two-Part Epoxy Putty
Tamiya Extra Thin Liquid Cement
Revell Contacta Plastic Glue
Selleys Super Glue
Tamiya Surfacer
Gator’s Grip Acrylic Hobby Glue
Irwin Clamps (various sizes)
Mission Models Micro Chisel
Materials Used:
The foliage was attached to the hull sides and turret top using super glue.
Tuner Model Manufactory 0.2mm Soft Metal Wire
Dark Copper
Evergreen Plastic Card and Strip
Paints and Finishing Products:
Vehicle:
Tamiya Spray Can - Grey Primer
Lifecolor Acrylic German AFV Dunkelgelb Easy 3 Set.
Item No. MS01. Contains UA 249 Dunkelgelb Flashed
Shade; UA 250 Dunkelgelb Ground Colour; UA 251
Dunkelgelb Deep Shade
Tamiya Acrylic – X-23 Clear Blue; XF-1 Flat Black;
XF-64 Red Brown; XF-68 NATO Brown.
The wheels and tracks
Gunze Acrylic – H422 RLM 82 Light Green
were finished to represent Figures:
areas of wet and dry mud. Uniforms - (Vallejo Panzer Aces acrylics) – 333
The base (dried) mud was Germ. Tkcr. (Black); 337 Highlight Ger. (Black); 344
Easy Mud Item No. 21106 White (Ger. Winter Tkcr.); 346 Splinter Blotches
– Russian Earth. I; 347 Splinter Blotches II; 942 Light Green; 995
German Grey. (Vallejo Model Color) 847 Dark Sand;
950 Black.
Flesh Base Coat: Vallejo Model Colour 341 Flesh Base.
Flesh Wash: Rowney Georgian Oil Paint 221 Burnt Sienna.
Flesh Highlights: Vallejo Model Colour 342 Highlights
A 2B pencil was used to highlight Testor’s Clear Flat Lacquer
the worn high areas of the tracks.
SIN Industries (MIG) Filter – P419 Orange for Desert
Camo.; P242 Tan for Tritonal Camo
Maru Easy Mud Item No. 21106 – Russian Earth
AK Interactive AK 045 – Dark Brown Enamel Wash
MIG Pigments – P053 Old Brick Red; P416 Fresh Rust
References:
VIKING SUMMER, Firefly Collection No.1 by Dennis
The side skirts were also secured Oliver. ADH Publishing 2012. ISBN 978-0-9806593-9-9
to the resin hull with super glue. Correspondence with Dennis Oliver
GERMANY’S PANTHER TANK – THE QUEST FOR COMBAT
SUPREMACY by Thomas L. Jentz. Schiffer Publishing,
Pennsylvania, 1995. ISBN: 0-88740-812-5
PANTHER AND ITS VARIANTS by Walter J. Spielberger.
Schiffer Publishing, Pennsylvania, 1993. ISBN:
0-88740-397-2
Achtung Panzer No. 4, PANTHER, JAGDPANTHER &
BRUMMBAR REVISED EDITION. Dai Nippon Kaiga 1994
PANZERS AT SAMUR No. 2. Dai Nippon Kaiga 1990

✓ (Base Tamiya Kit): Good detail; superb fit; easy

build; fast and easy link-and-length tracks.
✗ Nothing worth mentioning.
Available from
Tamiya kits are distributed in the UK by
The Hobby Company Limited www.hobbyco.net

Rating

November 2013 - Model Military International 27

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 KIT PREVIEW Meng 1:35 French FT-17 Light Tank (Cast Turret) • Kit No.TS008

Surface detail looks great, especially the dome-headed rivets.

Markings are supplied for

four varied schemes.

The simple but well detailed

individual track links.

TRACKED PIONEER
The Editor gets an early look at Meng Model’s brand new
Cast texture on the turret. Don’t sand off that raised line
either!

1:35 scale Renault FT, the forerunner of modern tanks.

A
lthough the honour of full-length tracks. centre of each link, but a few
the world’s first tank is Meng Model has now released seconds with a sanding stick will
usually bestowed upon a 1:35 scale Renault FT that is eliminate these.
the British Mark I, it worthy of this landmark vehicle. The three turret armament
can be argued that the Renault FT Meng’s Renault FT comprises choices are an 8mm Hotchkiss
was in fact the first standard tank 340 parts in tan coloured plastic, machine gun, 7.5mm Reibel Pressed metal and wooden idler covers are offered.
design thanks to its rear-mounted 68 pieces in black plastic, one machine gun or the 37mm Puteaux
engine, forward crew cab and photo-etched fret, two cast SA18 cannon. The machine guns
main armament located in its fully metal parts, four springs, 2 steel are beautifully detailed.
rotating turret. rods and a decal sheet with four If you are not using the
Design work commenced on the marking options. Hotchkiss machine gun on the
Renault FT in 1916. The FT was Moulding is typical of Meng’s turret, Meng has provided a
an innovative concept and clearly high standards. Detail is moulded tripod, ammunition box and ammo
more advanced than its French on to both sides of many parts. belt for separate display.
competition, the Schneider CA1 Raised and recessed surface A modest photo-etched fret The machine guns are delicately detailed.
and the heavy Saint-Chamond, features are really well done, but supplies the Commander’s strap
but disagreements about the I especially like the substantial (seat) and some smaller details.
practicality and usefulness of light domed rivet heads – a key feature Markings are offered for four
tanks compared to heavy tanks of the FT’s hull. The cast texture options covering WWI and WWII,
meant that it was not ordered into on the turret is very well done too. in French, Finnish and captured
production until April 1917. A full interior is provided – German colours.
Only 84 FT tanks were fighting compartment, turret and The 22-page instruction booklet
produced in 1917, but by the end engine – with separate hatches that is logically laid out and clearly
of the war up to 4,000 had been may be posed open to access all illustrated with useful multi-lingual
delivered. that lovely detail. These are more captions were required. Paint
In 1940, the French Army still than basic shapes. The interior is callouts are by Vallejo number
had eight Battalions equipped with comprehensively fitted out. only. It would have been nice for
63 Renault FTs each, and three The hull is supplied as a flat these to include a generic colour Interior details are very finely wrought.
Companies with 10 each. These pack, which will actually make callout too.
were joined by additional units painting, weathering and detailing
also equipped with the FT, hastily the interior parts easier than a CONCLUSION
formed to counter the German conventional hull tub. This is not the first Renault FT in
Blitzkrieg. The running gear is partly 1:35 scale, but it is by far the best.
The FT soldiered on beyond supported by two workable metal Meng has delivered a beautifully
the Battle of France, with Vertical Spring Suspension units – detailed kit of this landmark
the Germans capturing 1,704 quite nifty. tank. Surface detail is state-of-
examples and using some of these The suspension units and the-art, and I love the simple
as late as 1944 during street wheels are well detailed. I yet well-detailed individual track
fighting in Paris. particularly like the raised casting links. You could really go to town
Considering its essential niche marks on the outer running gear with painting and weathering the
in armour history, the Renault FT covers. Optional idler wheel interior of this model; or you could Metal parts, including springs and cast items, are included.
has not been served well by the covers are supplied. One is significantly simplify the build
mainstream model industry. The depicted as metal, and the other by closing up the hatches and
only injection-moulded family of as timber. omitting much of the interior. The
FT tanks was released by RPM in The workable track links are choice is yours.
the 1990s. This was an accurate supplied as one part each, with This is another excellent
kit, but moulding was crude with only 32 links on each side, but still offering from Meng Model.
big sprue attachments, detail providing good detail including Highly Recommended. ■
basic and by most accounts the lightening holes. The links are
Thanks to Meng Models
construction was challenging, simply pressed together without
for the sample
to say the least. Its greatest glue. There is a small raised
www.meng-model.com
drawback, however, was its stiff ejector pin blemish on the outside

Photo-etched parts are included.

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 FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:35 Merkava 1 • Kit No. 35127 (1983 release)

T
he Merkava 1 (or Chariot, a very narrow forward
in Hebrew) was developed face to the enemy, and
in the late 1970s with a the whole vehicle is the very
view to supplying the IDF embodiment of sloped armour.
Armoured Corps with a locally Mounting a US M68 105mm
developed product, one whose main gun, it first saw active service
delivery would be free from the during the First Lebanon War, in was
effects of embargo or political 1982, where it was credited with one of their
to-ing and fro-ing. besting the T-72, the main Eastern best. Beautiful
The design of the Merkava Bloc/Arab army MBT of the time. details on both the turret GETTING STARTED
represents a radical departure in Wartime service saw the and the hull, compared to their I always like to start construction
the design of an MBT, with the IDF introduce a number of other releases make the Merkava by getting the major hull and turret
engine being mounted at the front enhancements to the Merkava looks positively space age. Fast components together and any gaps
of the vehicle, thereby augmenting 1, mainly in the form of ball and forward to today, and I think filled. Being a kit of the 1980s,
the armour protecting the crew in chains under the turret rear to Tamiya’s Merkava kit certainly there are motorisation holes on
the crew compartment. A benefit eliminate the shot trap there, holds its own, is very easy to put the hull underside to fill. I filled
of this design was it enabled the and more MGs mounted on the together, dimensionally accurate, these with Tamiya two part epoxy
vehicle to carry a small infantry turret to combat infantry anti-tank but crying out for detailing. I think putty. The hull and turret parts
section, or supplies, in the rear of teams. The model depicted here most Tamiya kits are like this, and fit perfectly with no gaps, which
the hull, behind the turret area. doesn’t have those enhancements, that’s great. I’d rather build a kit allowed basic construction to move
This was and is a revolutionary being amongst the first of the like this than build a kit with 20 at a brisk pace. The fun begins
concept that to date has not been breed. parts per suspension assembly, once these parts are together,
copied by other AFV designers. Tamiya’s 1:35 scale kit was but that’s just me. really adding or improving detail.
The turret is designed to present released in 1983 and at the time I was able to replace all the road

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 The Merkava 1. This angle emphasises
the small turret size in relation to the
hull. Minimal markings and an air
recognition panel mark this vehicle as
a Lebanon veteran.

MERKAVA
GENESIS
Sam Dwyer uses
Tamiya’s still very
respectable 1983 issue
Merkava 1 as the basis
for a detailing project.

wheels, the sprockets and idlers purchased VP’s IDF number plates basket mesh floor, which I ended before, yet quite a few war time
with Bitzkrieg resin items. These way back when this kit was first up covering in stowage. Oh well. All shots show them removed or
deliver a vast improvement over released, and only used them for the handles on the hull rear firstly lost due to battle damage. This
the kit parts, and given that I the first time on this model. These had their location holes filled with exposed the area inboard of the
wouldn’t be covering them all tiny photo etched number plates Evergreen rod, then replaced with drive sprockets, so I added a track
in mud, this detail wouldn’t be were added to both the hull front copper wire for a more in scale pin knocker plate to each hull
wasted. The kit tracks were also and rear. These plates have raised look. The rear rubber fenders were side. I used Evergreen strip for
replaced with Friul metal tracks. I numbers on them, the thinking replaced with 5 thou Evergreen this. I detailed up the exhausts on
don’t need to say much about Friul behind these is that the paint plastic card, with their retaining bolt both hull sides by adding some
track that hasn’t been said already. may burn off in the case of the strip added from the Eduard set. copper tubing to represent the
Dead easy to put together, look vehicle being burnt out, but the Moving to the upper hull, I chose pipes themselves, I built up a box
great and really capture the sit of raised numbers will still be visible, to depict a very early vehicle, from Evergreen strip inside the
the real thing perfectly. allowing the IDF to identify which which meant I didn’t have to add hull just so if peering down the
On the hull front, the kit tow tank has been lost. non-skid texture to the upper hull exhausts you can’t see daylight.
bollards were used as they are The hull rear was detailed with top. There is some conjecture as The left hand exhaust had a fine
quite nicely detailed. I replaced some resin fire extinguishers from to whether these first vehicles strip added around the outside
the braided loop on the crew step Blast Models, and some brackets had non-skid, I went with no non- of its opening from 5 thou plastic
with some fine Karaya tow cable, and handles from the Eduard skid for this build. The drivers’ rod. The kit side skirts were handy
as the kit part was smooth and etch set, designed for this kit. I episcopes were replaced with templates to make replacement
didn’t represent the wire cable got the etch set thinking it might resin items from Blast Models, parts again from Evergreen, this
look of the real thing. I also added have some handy components, and the drivers’ hatch glued shut. time 10 thou plate. I carefully
a photo etched number plate from and ended up using only 3 or 4 I removed both the front fenders, trimmed the retaining bolts off the
Verlinden Productions. I think I pieces, the biggest being the turret as I’d not seen this modelled kit parts to use on the new skirts. A

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 FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:35 Merkava 1 • Kit No. 35127 (1983 release)

The low angle looks mean. You

can see the Tamiya kit holds up
well given its age, by the lack of
wholesale changes evident here.

The entire running gear was replaced with Bitzkrieg resin road
wheels, sprockets and idlers. These really lift the Tamiya kit. The
kit’s side skirts acted as a template for plastic card replacements.

Tamiya only moulded half the hinge detail for the Bitzkrieg’s sprockets come with lightening holes IDF style number plates were added from an old Subtle cast texture was added using Mr Surfacer,
hull stowage boxes. This detail was added with moulded right in. Friul Model tracks fit perfectly Verlinden etch set. Spare tracks are from Friul, with brushed on and stippled with an old brush. The
some strip styrene. around the sprockets. Leaving the front fender off the mounts added from styrene, and a Grandt Line lifting eye is from RB Models.
required some blanking off of the hull underside, as bolt to secure it all.
well as adding the track pin knocker.

Tamiya Quick-Type 2 part epoxy putty was used for I used the kit parts for the tow cable ends, with the Early Merkava 1s didn’t seem to have non skid The .50 cal mounted above the main gun was added
stowage tarps and ID panels. This putty rolls out cables themselves replaced with Karaya cables. I applied to the horizontal surfaces, so I didn’t add it using a Tasca .50 cal with a scratch built mount and
very thin and is perfect for depicting thin material. sourced a shovel from a Tasca Sherman kit. here. Hinge torsion bars were added to the turret ammo container. Early mountings relied on a rope to
stowage hatches from 5 thou styrene rod. fire the weapon, rather than an electical solenoid.

The .50 cal liner was built from 10 thou styrene, I added tarps and an air recognition panel using The commander’s Mag58 was replaced with a Live This overall view shows how little was actually
topped off with some Tasca 50 cal links. A spent thinned out Tamiya putty as previously described. Resin piece. Linked 7.62mm ammo was added using changed on the kit
case catch bag was sculpted using Tamiya Quick I draped this over lumps of Blu Tack, to give the Andrea white metal ammo. The commander’s Glilon
Type epoxy putty. effect of crew stowage in the turret basket rifle came from Blast Models.

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 B Where the skirts were missing, I I firstly rolled out some Tamiya 2
added mounting brackets from thin part quick type epoxy putty. The
slices of Evergreen L angle. putty was mixed per directions,
rolled out on a kitchen tile, with Vallejo primer was used to undercoat
TURRET DETAILING lots of talc to stop it sticking, until the model and unify all the disparate
materials used on the kit.
Moving to the turret, the first you’re left with a very thin sheet
step is to glue the barrel halves of putty. I draped this into the
together and let the glue harden. empty basket, and used offcuts Priming the model is useful as it can highlight any
I carefully sanded the mating of resin to bulk up the stowage. flaws in the model before any real colour goes
halves of barrel, to ensure it glues Using a paintbrush dipped in talc, on. Mercifully, there weren’t any gaps or other
together perfectly. Setting this I then folded the still soft putty nasties evident after a coat of primer
aside, I filled all grab handle and over the lumps of resin
tool location holes with Evergreen offcuts masquerading
rod and CA glue. This is an efficient as crew gear. A resin
way to fill gaps, and its easy to drill IDF jerry can was
new location holes in this plastic. positioned on the left
I used Mr Surfacer to texture the side of the basket. Once
cast sections of the turret sides, I was happy with how the
sanding the texture down where draped tarp looked, I added an
the putty was too rough. Cast air recognition flag from the same
numbers were added from 1mm rolled out putty.
Slaters’ Letters. These are handy Given the age of the
little styrene letters and numbers kit, the crew served
were glued to the turret sides, the weapons were pretty
left side upside down as per shots basic, so replacing these
of the real thing. On these early was a no-brainer. The Lifecolor IDF Sand 1982 was used as the main
Merkavas a 60mm mortar was Commander’s Mag58 camouflage colour, matching the real thing quite closely.
mounted outside the vehicle, on was replaced with a Live This hardy acrylic paint airbrushes beautifully
the commanders side of the turret. Resin weapon, the belted
On later versions this mortar was ammo was added using
mounted inside the turret, under Andrea Miniatures white
Thinning Lifecolor paint with its own
armour, to protect the crew while metal 7.62mm ammo. The .50 cal thinner, rather than water, ensures
using it. I added the mounting above the main gun was added perfect results every time. I paint
hardware from the Eduard set, but using a Tasca .50 Cal, on a scratch everything at this stage, including
not the barrel itself, which was built mount, with a scratch built the stowage and antennas.
quite common. ammo can and spent brass catch
The D shaped tie downs are bag. At one point I had 5 reference
from RB Models. The kit tow cables books open on my desk, as well
were replaced with Karaya copper as images up on my nearby
cables and then attached to the D computer screen of the .50 cal
shackles. The kit turret basket is arrangement, just to capture
perfectly usable, especially given I all angles of this tricky
was going to stow the vehicle with assembly. The finishing
crew stowage and gear. The only touches on the turret were
addition to the turret basket was added, being the tension
the mesh on the floor, from the springs on the stowage lockers
Eduard set. Wartime shots of these and the crew Galil assault rifles,
tanks shows the turret baskets and the whole thing was ready to
full of crew gear. To simulate this, prime and paint. A

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 FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:35 Merkava 1 • Kit No. 35127 (1983 release)

I built up dust, dirt and grime with washes, using commercially By mixing acrylic and enamel washes (not at the same time) you can Fuel and oil spills were added using Tamiya panel line ink. Small
available solutions and my own mixes, both acrylic and enamel. achieve some interesting results. chips were done with a sponge using Vallejo black/brown.
Markings are added before weathering, so that they get
weathered at the same rate as the rest of the model.

B PRIME DIRECTIVE hand painting the small details Beige. This was thinned heavily and the pastels. Lighter shades of oil
I always prime my models. Unifying really tedious, but it pays to be the resulting mix washed over the paint were dotted on the model,
all the differing construction careful when painting these in, model and allowed to pool naturally concentrating on where dust would
elements under one coat of Tamiya nothing looks worse than sloppily around detail and into crevices. logically accumulate, this was then
Grey Primer is very satisfying painted road wheels! Used in this manner Vallejo paint blended in with a brush moistened
and allows you to check for any is very forgiving and after a couple in odourless thinners. Over the
construction errors or gaps or TREADING THE MIDDLE PATH of applications a nice build up of course of a few days (to allow
things missed. Mercifully there So, how do you weather an IDF dust and dirt was imparted onto for the previous coats to harden)
wasn’t anything glaring showing vehicle? I once saw a T-72 model the model. this process was repeated, really
up after primer. The primer coat at a competition that looked like Next were localised washes building up layers and depth to the
was quickly followed by a few there’d been an explosion at a around details and into the mesh weathering on the model.
light coats of Life Colour IDF nearby pastel chalk factory, and on the engine deck, mixed from Once this weathering had
sand 1982. Life Colour can be knew I didn’t want to go down Windsor and Newton oil paints hardened, I added oil stains to the
somewhat temperamental, I used that road. Alternatively, nothing and odourless turpentine. This engine deck, blown road wheel hub
their proprietary thinners and looks as stale and lifeless as an step adds shadow and depth to seals, and around fuel filler caps. A
encountered no problems. I hand unweathered model. Somewhere the model. few drops of gloss enamel varnish
painted the white stripe on the in between was what I wanted to Over all of this, I added a added to an oil paint wash makes
main gun barrel, and applied decals achieve. relatively light application of pastel the oil stains look fresh and oily!
from Bison Decals. These went Shots of these Merkavas in chalks, which were then sealed by The last step in finishing this
over the low sheen Life Colour combat shows them in surprisingly brushing liberal amounts of tap impressive vehicle off is to add
paint without silvering or fuss. All good condition, so I didn’t want to water over the chalks allowing some paint chips and scrapes.
the small details, things like tyres over weather mine. I started off them to settle. Again, I faced a dilemma. IDF tank
and stowage etc was painted in with a wash made up of Vallejo Buff Oil paints were also used to crews tended to repaint their
using Vallejo Acrylic paints. I find and Vallejo German Camouflage fade out the model, augmenting steeds at regular intervals. I’ve

Carefully picking out details like fire extinguishers and ammo liners can really add punch and visual Powdered graphite was rubbed into metal items such as the Mag 58 and Glilon rifle to add a metallic
interest. I always use Vallejo acrylics for this. It took 4 or 5 coats of fluoro orange to get the ID panel to sheen. I use a cut down round brush for this, allowing control where the graphite goes
be this bright.

The commander is a Blast Models figure, and was painted with Vallejo acrylics. The more time spent Scratches on the side skirts were done with a sponge, and I tried to be as random as possible with them.
picking out fine details the better. I kept weathering to a minimum, and didn’t go mental with paint chips.

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 All areas of the model were
constantly compared to ensure
seen shots of them repainting
them during lulls in combat, so I
Modelspec
the weathering was unified and couldn’t go too hard with the chips. Tamiya 1:35 Merkava 1. Kit No. 35127 (1983 release)
nothing stands out as out of
Using a small sea sponge,
place. Careful washes with a light Accessories Used:
colour can bring areas together I added restrained chips and
scrapes with the original vehicle Bitzkrieg BK038 Merkava 1 Wheels
paint colour, Life Colour IDF Bitzkrieg BK050 Merkava 1 Sprockets
Sand 1982, Vallejo German Bitzkrieg BK044 Merkava 1 Idler wheels
Friul Model ATL63 Merkava 1 tracks
Camouflage Black Brown,
Eduard ED35574 Merkava 1 etch
and finally Vallejo
Live Resin LRE35088 Mag 58
Terracotta. By
Tasca 35L9 .50 Cal HMG
chipping back RB Models 10374A D-shackles
through the Blast Models BL35009K IDF AFV accessories
original colour Blast Models BL35018F tank commander
down to the
primer, this adds Paints and Finishing Products:
age and depth to Lifecolor UA035 Israeli Sandgrey 1982
the scrapes and Vallejo 70950 Black
chips, and can trick Vallejo 70820 off white
the eye into thinking Vallejo Panzer Aces 306 Dark Rubber
there is more detail on Vallejo 70822 German Camo black brown
The white stripe on the barrel was painted the model than actually exists. Vallejo 70821 German Camo beige
on before the main camouflage colour, Vallejo 70819 Iraqi Sand
and masked carefully. This is a unique Vallejo 70880 Khaki grey
feature to IDF tanks and looks great. FINISHING TOUCHES Vallejo Game Colour 72065 Terra Cotta
A figure was added from Blast
Vallejo Game Colour 72008 Orange Fire
Models, with a Hornet head, all
painted with Vallejo acrylics, the ✓ Easy to build; dimensionally accurate; lovely
antennas painted white, and this surface detailing; stands up well to scrutiny
beast was done. IDF subjects offer even today.
the modeller a real reward, not
✗ Cries out for some extra detailing.
only are they born out of constant
combat and operational use, but Available from
theyre tough looking to boot. The Tamiya kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby
venerable old Tamiya kit is still a Company Limited www.hobbyco.net
gem and builds up well after all
these years. ■ Rating

The hull front was scrapped and chipped No ball and chain armour on
carefully. This area of a tank always cops a these early Merkava 1s - thank
beating. Tracks were weathered in a similar goodness! You can see the shot
way to the tank itself, then sanded with fine trap under the turret rear, and
The rear crew/infantry doors received a little extra attention with weathering, sandpaper to show some shine where they why this armour was added on
as in real life this is a high traffic area. Rubber items like the rear fenders and contact the ground later variants
the escape hatch rain guard were painted with dark grey, rather than black,
which is more realistic and imparts a more weathered look

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 KIT PREVIEW Bronco Models 1:35 US GPW ¼ Ton 4x4 Utility Vehicle (Mod.1942) with 37mm Anti-Tank Gun M3A1 • Kit No. CB35107

The lovely rag top is thin and subtly textured.

Fine supports are provided for the canvas top.

ARMED JEEP
Ross Ferro examines the latest in Bronco’s growing
Jeep arsenal, this time with a 37mm Anti-Tank Gun.

T
Driver detail is well done. Looks like he is in pain though!
his recently released the comments and superlatives your thing. The upper and lower
kit from Bronco follows used to describe the kit back gun shields are commendably
hot on the heels of their then hold true for this jeep kit thin and almost translucent. To
US GPW Ton 4x4 Utility as well. The difference in this my eye they look pretty much
Truck with Trailer and Airborne release is the addition of sprues scale thickness. You are also
Crew, and Bronco looks to be on to construct the jeep with the given options in terms of military
a winning formula. Not so long canvas roof top erected as well or civilian road wheels for the
ago Tamiya was the King of the as sprues for the 37mm anti-tank gun trailer as well as the ability
GPW, with the Italeri kit not that gun ammo boxes. to build the gun in transport or
far off the pace. However, I have The rag top and rear panel combat/firing modes.
to report that the Bronco offering are nicely detailed and very In addition to the standard
has now taken the venerable 1:35 thinly moulded and capture the non-directional military tyres,
scale kit of the jeep to a whole look a feel of the weatherproof Bronco has also provided early Note the different style of cross-ply tyre provided for the
new level. covering particularly well. This civilian cross-ply tyres as an gun carriage.
The jeep kit itself has been well also goes for the finely rendered option – nice touch.
documented in terms of contents plastic frames representing the Bronco also supplies a number
and parts finesse by Luke Pitt in look of the folding tubular roof of 37mm anti-tank and high
an earlier issue on MMI, and all of mechanism frames beautifully. explosive shells in addition to four
The 37mm M3A1 Anti-Tank Gun ammunition crates.
is an exceptionally fine piece of There are 5 potential decal
plastic moulding and captures the and painting options given with
details and look of the real thing good old “any colour you want as
very convincingly. Construction long as it is Olive Drab” being the
of this little gem is dedicated order of the day for both the jeep
to its own 15 steps of the total and the gun.
construction guide and it can be This is yet another fine
The 37 mm gun is intricately detailed.
said that time, patience, good release from Bronco and sets the
eyesight, nerves of steel and a standard for both the jeep and
steady hand will be most useful anti-tank gun. We can only wait
assets to posses when putting with much anticipation to see
together this little anti-tank what other little plastic goodness
weapon. I mean, we did want the Bronco has in store for we
details didn’t we? modellers and our ever-increasing
The inclusion of a small photo- stash in the near future.
etched fret for the anti-tank Highly Recommend. ■
gun further adds to the sense of
Thanks to Bronco
finesse, but in some cases plastic
for the sample
parts are thoughtfully provided as
www.bronco-model.com
alternatives if photo-etch is not
The kit supplied decal sheet. Some patience and a steady hand will be needed for
assembly.

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 Tech Guide - Dragon 1:72 Churchill Mk.IV • Kit No. 7424

FOLLOW THE
BLUE COAT! Kamil Feliks Sztarbala details
Dragon’s small scale Churchill
Mk.IV tank, also adding a crew
and infantry riders.

A
lthough I gave up building 1:72 AFV kits a few years
ago, sometimes I like to work with something different
to my usual 1:35 vehicles and 1:48 aircraft.
This opportunity came along when I was asked to
build a model of vehicle involved in Operation Bluecoat, namely
a Churchill tank from 6th Guards Tank Brigade. I didn’t find too
many archive photos of such vehicles on the web, but I stumbled
across a UK-based manufacturer of aftermarket accessories
mainly dedicated for Braille-scale AFV kits of British origin: Don
Taylor Modelworks. The company owner graciously shared some
interesting reference pictures with me. I also picked out two sets
of resin figures and a decal sheet from him.
Now I only had to obtain DML’s Churchill Mk.IV kit, RB Model’s
turned aluminium barrel and copper towing cables from Eureka
XXL. The latter are dedicated to a modern Leopard tank kit, but
a quick look on their details and length revealed that they’re
suitable for Churchill as well.

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 Building the Churchill
At first glance, DML’s 1:72 Churchill appears to be an excellent kit with quite a lot of sharply moulded details and wisely designed parts that should
go together easily. However, an experienced modeller will notice some weaknesses even during the initial examination of the kit. The first issue are
the tools and towing cables moulded onto the hull. Second, a small amount of parts isn’t a disadvantage unless they are easy to remove from the
sprues. In this case, some parts are quite complex, thus cutting them off is time-consuming if we don’t want to damage them. Some fitting issues
also appeared during the assembly.

The axles of idler wheels

were too long as well.
My first step was to remove the crudely moulded
towing cables from the hull sides. Their symmetrical
arrangement didn’t seem particularly realistic anyway.

Suspension is comprised of four parts, two per

each side of the tank, so a lot of careful cutting is
Once the running gear was almost
required to remove them from the sprue.
complete, I could begin mounting the
hull. To adjust the front armour plate,
The sprocket wheels I had to thin the sidewalls a bit.
didn’t fit the hull sides
and couldn’t be put in
their places even by using Next I attached the tracks. Since their upper
brute force. Therefore, I sections are only partially visible in the
had to shorten and thin assembled kit, I cut them off to get some
the protruding pieces of track links for extra armour.
their axles.

All tools are moulded onto the hull

parts. Although they’re quite sharp,
I emphasized their edges using
Trumpeter scribing tool to make
painting these details easier.

The upper part of the hull had to be modified in accordance with my idea on the kit. I wanted to I started by drilling 0.6 mm holes. Next, I increased their diameter using a 1.1 mm drill.
mount the driver’s and hull gunner’s hatches in an open position. Fortunately, DML’s designers at
least marked the shapes of the hatches on the inner side of hull roof.

Then I enlarged the holes with a scalpel. Now I could cut the holes to the proper shape. A file was used to make the edges smooth and level.

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 Tech Guide - Dragon 1:72 Churchill Mk.IV • Kit No. 7424

… and cut out its legs as well as the ammo box. By heating the resin, I could easily adjust the
head and arms to the proper arrangement.

Before I recreated the hatches, I had to fill

the interior. First of all, it was necessary to
place the driver. I picked one of the figures
from the British AFV crew set…
Simple imitations of driver’s legs, seat back and some equipment of hull gunner’s station were made of styrene profiles. I didn’t pay
excessive attention to interior details, because they will be barely visible in the finished kit.

The whole interior was primed black. Next, I airbrushed a coat of AK-interactive AK092 Cremeweiss AK 094 Interior Streaking Effects enamel was used to bring out the details. I also added some paint
over the driver’s compartment. chips by rubbing off the fresh layer of acrylic paint with a hard-bristled paintbrush.

To assemble the hull, I had to make

more modifications. First, I cut out
the oil can holders.

Of course, I sanded the edges

Many photos of Churchills with a file to get the proper
taken during Operation thickness of remaining parts
Bluecoat show that the front of mudguards.
parts of mudguards were
often removed. So did I…

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 Such modification made the lack of front I magiced up its representation from small
wheel tensioning mechanism easily noticeable. pieces of various styrene profiles.
That allowed me to
glue the hull top to
the rest of the kit.

It was time to focus on exterior details. The oil can holders were thinned, The hatches were made from pieces of 0.25 mm styrene sheets. I used flattened pieces of 0.4 mm tin wire to recreate the
slightly damaged and attached back to the rear mudguards. I also straps holding the “flimsies” of oil.
separated the oil “flimsies” and drilled the exhaust pipe endings.
Two small notches in the turret ring were unnecessary,
so I filled them with pieces of styrene sheets.

Resin stowage
came from various
Armo’s sets, while
the tow cables were
manufactured by
Eureka XXL. I mounted
the latter in a way
commonly seen on the
archive photos.

Finally, I added extra armour in accordance with the reference pictures. Since the previously cut out pieces of DS-tracks were not sufficient to complete the task, I bought ESCI’s inexpensive Sherman kit just for
the additional track links.

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 Tech Guide - Dragon 1:72 Churchill Mk.IV • Kit No. 7424

Painting

All bays were masked

using pieces of sponge The whole kit was
and carboard. primed with Tamiya
XF-1 Black.

Tamiya XF-51 Khaki Drab

worked as the base colour
for all external surfaces.
Next, the kit was given a layer
of AK-interactive AK088 Worn
Effects acrylic fluid.

I also strengthened the

highlights on some edges
by spraying a thin, almost
transparent layer of Tamiya
XF-57 Buff onto them.

The most exposed areas and armour

plate joints were highlighted with
strongly diluted Tamiya XF-51 Khaki.

The smallest details were

A piece of cardboard was used as a highlighted with Mr.Color
guide to get sharp edges between C321 Light Brown applied
the colours. Business cards are with a brush.
excellent for this purpose.

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 Additional scrapes were
done with a scalpel blade.
As I previously coated the kit with Worn Effects fluid, it was easy to recreate some paint chips.
My first step was to dampen the surface with water. Then I started tapping it with a brass wire
brush from rotary tool accessory set.

…but I didn’t care too

much about that, because
I planned to retouch the
Unfortunately, I chipping anyway. I took a very fine
managed to reveal bare brush and painted some scratches
plastic here and there… using AK-interactive AK 711 Chipping
Color and Vallejo MC170 Glossy Black.

Vallejo’s 70304 Track All tools and stowage

Primer and MC170 Glossy were also finished with
Black as well as AK-interactive acrylic paints. I used a mixture
AK722 Dark Tracks were used to paint the of Rusty Tracks and Gunmetal Grey for
extra armour. I mixed the paints in different ratios to the tow cables, Sand, Middlestone and Burnt
get a variety of colour shades on the particular track links. Umber for the boxes and bundles, and Gunmetal Grey
for the guns and shovels.

The details were brought out with

That stage was completed by AK-interactive enamel washes. I
spraying a layer of clear gloss used AK045 Dark Brown Wash for
coat over the whole kit. the hull and AK083 Track Wash for
the tracks and extra armour.

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 Tech Guide - Dragon 1:72 Churchill Mk.IV • Kit No. 7424

The effect was secured with matt varnish from Lifecolor. Once it Small tufts and clods of grass stuck on the running gear The mixture was poured with lighter fluid…
dried, I wiped the hull edges and outer surfaces of tracks with a soft and side mudguards are a distinctive feature visible on
pencil. Next, I applied a rusty acrylic filter on the extra armour. the archive photos of Churchills that have seen action. I
represented these with 3.5 mm static grass mixed with a
small amount of earth pigment.

…and randomly applied

in the corners of running
gear and mudguards.

I enhanced the effect

by adding some
bright and dark earth
pigments, secured
with pigment fixer.

I also brush painted some damp patches and oil stains, using AK-interactive AK084 Engine Oil
enamel. To get an variety of effects, I was applying it either on dry or wet surface. In the latter The final touch was to wipe the edges of wheels with a soft pencil.
case, I was dampening the surface with white spirit.

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 Figures

Many photos taken during Operation Bluecoat show the tanks serving as infantry carriers, so I decided to place I started by cutting off the main parts from the casting blocks, using a jeweller’s saw.
some figures on my model. I chose a set of 1:76 British Infantry manufactured by Don Taylor Modelworks. It
contains a few resin castings with separately casted bodies, arms, heads and some combat gear.

The first figure required only minor adjustment. I had to cut out
a notch for the tow cable glued to the mudguard.

Other infantrymen needed more

advanced surgery. A few modifications
could be done after heating the resin
parts, but in most cases, the only solution
was to break the legs and attach them in
different position. Black C.A. adhesive
worked as glue and filler as well.

Adjusting the heads and arms was

also time-consuming. Again, a lot of
heating, cutting and filling with C.A.
glue was necessary.

Another two figures

from DTM’s tank crew
set were fitted to the
turret hatches.

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 Tech Guide - Dragon 1:72 Churchill Mk.IV • Kit No. 7424

Aside from the Churchill, I also planned to feature a local female

guide. A friend gave me one of the figures from WWII Underground
Resisters set produced by Caesar Miniatures. Although the figure
was very nicely moulded, it also required some modifications to fit
my idea. First, I had to disarm the girl.

My next step was to convert the jacket to a coat. I started by

applying some ProCreate two-part epoxy putty. The rough shape
and thick folds of coat were formed with a DYI tool made from
styrene rod. Then I added some fine creases using a bamboo
barbecue pick. The latter was previously sanded and cured.

Afterwards I levelled the edges of coat and added some details,

including the seams and outer pockets. Finally, I thinned the coat
edges and formed their final shape, using a sharp craft knife. The
whole figure was smoothened with fine-grained sandpaper.

To make painting easier, all resin figures were temporarily glued to I began by priming them with Tamiya XF-1 Black. The base colour was mixed from Tamiya XF-49 and Mr.Color
toothpicks or matches. C55. Although both paints are named Khaki, the colours are
actually quite different from each other.

Next I focused on details. I used a mixture of English Uniform The base paint mixed with bright beige was used to add Then I finished the combat gear.
and Burnt Umber from Vallejo to enhance the shadows in some highlights.
folds and recesses.

The infantrymen and crew

were glued to the tank using
C.A. adhesive. I sprayed a
mist of satin varnish over the
whole kit to make the excess
glue indiscernible.

Last but not least, I had to paint the faces and hands. They were
coloured in accordance with the Jaume Ortiz formula, but I
tried to mix lighter shades than used for larger scale figures.

The girl’s details were

coloured in the reverse
order than the soldiers. I started by
painting exposed parts of the body.

Next were the blouse and skirt.

The coat was finished by applying

several transparent layers of
different shades of blue.

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 Base

Since it was poorly polished

and crudely lacquered, I had
to sand its sides. While I was
at it, I also carved the initial
shape of the ground.

Next I coated the top

surface of the block
with Vallejo’s Dark
Earth acrylic paste.

A 1:72 vignette should be properly exposed, so I decided

to use a solid wooden block as the stand.

Before it dried, I applied some grass tufts and small clumps of bushes from Polák Model’s scenery I also imprinted the tracks in the ground.
sets and carefully poured some earth pigments onto the surface.

Once the acrylic mixture finally dried, I added

AK-interactive’s AK042 European Earth and AK081
Dark Earth pigments to get the proper colours and
texture of the surface.

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 Tech Guide - Dragon 1:72 Churchill Mk.IV • Kit No. 7424

Luckily, I found the right

screwdriver to remove the basis of
the stand at the last minute before
the final photo shoot! I must admit
that I really didn’t like it.

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 Mini Modelspec

“
Dragon 1:72 Churchill Mk.IV Kit No. 7424
Many photos of Churchills taken
✓ Crisply moulded and nicely detailed.
during Operation Bluecoat show ✗ Tools and cables moulded to the hull; some

that the front parts of mudguards parts difficult to remove from sprues.
Available from
were often removed...
”
Dragon Kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby
Company Limited www.hobbyco.net

Rating

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 KIT PREVIEW Dragon 1:35 StuG III Ausf. G Late Production Dec. 1944 • Kit No. 6593

Dragon’s latest addition

to their ever growing
Sturmgeschutz line is a
late production StuG. III
Ausf. G. Graham Tetley The Sow's Head never looked so good.
takes a detailed look at
the newly tooled parts
for this version.

LATE
I
STUG
t has taken a few years and we
have come close, but finally
Dragon has released this, the
(almost) final StuG III G. Most
idler wheel comes with etched
inserts for added detail, and the
road wheels have the standard
‘CONTINENTAU’ stamped on
for hull roof that represent the
close-in defence weapon, but
the instructions do not show the
installation of the weapon itself.
New hull roof specific to the late stug.

of what is in the box we have seen them. The new final drives need It is there in Sprue P if you wish
before, but a handful of parts are the teeny bolts adding but the to use it. A full radio rack is there,
new for this version. instructions clearly show where and what we have is an interior
What makes this a Late G is they need to go. The fenders are that is busy enough when viewed
no zimmerit finish, the close provided as separate parts and through the roof hatches. The kit
defence weapon and remote a full complement of tools with provides a full set of schurtzen Lovely detail on the front glacis
control machine gun mount, moulded-on clasps is provided. As racks, but no plates for the side
and the “Saukopf” (boar’s head) an added bonus, Sprue G includes armour.
mantlet. There are approximately a spare set of tools (2 each of a This kit comes with 40 cm
30 different parts in this kit to shovel, axe and crowbar) to go tracks in DS Plastic but Dragon
produce the above features, as straight into your spares box. A does not note the proper length
well as a new superstructure roof, length of metal wire is provided for them before installation. My
engine deck and return rollers. for the tow shackles, which experience with DS Tracks is that
We get the normal Dragon themselves are pre-drilled for ease. they are normally too long or too
box full of parts and there are The etched fret provides the short and this is why I feel that
no surprises if you have seen a grilles, fender supports and the their inclusion, rather than Magic
Dragon StuG before. There are 21 aforementioned inserts for the Tracks, is a backward step.
sprues, approximately 615 parts idlers, with an added fret giving
Newly tooled engine deck
(of which about 140 are unused), us the luggage rack for the engine CONCLUSION
3 etched brass frets, one length deck. We also have a tiny etched When I compare the kit to the
of braided wire and a decal sheet. chain included that is used to December 1943 version, kit
Markings are provided for 3 secure the gun cradle. 6581, we are missing the Magic
vehicles, all from East Prussia in Moving onto the superstructure, Tracks and the metal schurtzen.
1945, with one unidentified unit a detailed interior is provided If Dragon can provide them in
and two from and identified unit. although there are still some that kit, then why not in this? In
For this version, Dragon has prominent omissions. We are still that regard, I feel that it is lacking
given us DS Tracks instead of lacking the shell ejection basket, and suffers from some omissions
Magic Tracks. I think this is a step ammunition stowage, gas mask that are already in Dragon’s parts
backwards (see below) but many containers and ammunition for the catalogue and should be there.
will appreciate them. There is MP40s - these are provided, but The interior has some omissions
The new, late G, drive sprocket
nothing to report on the moulding not called out in the instructions. that are peculiar to this StuG
quality other than it is generally The new ‘Saukopf’ mantlet has version, so check your references
flawless with no flash and no the hole included in it that my if you are concerned about total
surprises. references (Achtung Panzer No.5) accuracy.
Construction starts with the show to be for a co-axial machine That said, this kit represents
lower hull and running gear and gun. If this is correct, then there what it is supposed to so, in that
Dragon provides us with working is no machine gun assembly regard, it is a welcome addition
torsion bars if you want to have included affixed to the main gun to any StuG III collection. I will
your suspension sprung. The mount. Also, we have the part be replacing the DS tracks and
making my own Schurtzen. ■

Three decal Detail on the new return rollers.

options included.

Thanks to The Hobby

Company Limited for the
sample www.hobbyco.net
New DS tracks included. Note the small amount Hollow guide horns on the DS Tracks.
of flash.
Tiny bolts for your new final drive housing
50 Model Military International - November 2013

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 Halifax Modellers World 29 Union Street, Halifax, HX1 1PR
DRAGON 1/35 SCALE MINIART 1/35 SCALE AIRFIX 1/48 SCALE
DN6483 3.7cm flak 37............................... £19.99
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DN6593 Stug IIIG Late 1944.................... £45.00 MIN35163 German Paras & Tankers........ £8.99
DN6779 Panzer IV Ausf.D DAK.............. £49.99 PLASTIC SOLDIER 1/72 SCALE
DN6766 OPEL MAULTIER Ambulance.. £45.00 TAMIYA 1/35 SCALE WW2V20013 M5 Halftracks x 3.............. £13.95
DN6772 234/4 Premium Edition.............. £45.00 TA35329 JGSDF Type 10 Tank.................. £44.99 WW2V20014 M5 A1 Light Tanks 3.......... £13.95
WW2V20015 M4A4 Sherman/Firefly..... £13.95
MIRROR Models 1/35 SCALE RIICH MODELS 1/35 SCALE
MRR35106 CMP C15TA Ambulance........ £36.99 RC35111 Carrier Mk.1 w/Crew................. £31.99 DRAGON 1/72 SCALE
MRR35200 Russian T-20 Tractor.............. £27.99 DN7504 LRDG Chevy w/2cm................... £18.99
MRR35204 Russian Fuel Trailer................ £12.99 VULCAN MODELS 1/35 SCALE DN7493 VK45.02(P)H................................ £19.99
VSM56010 STZ-5 Tractor........................ £24.95 DN7506 Panther D Late prodn................ £19.99
BRONCO 1/35 SCALE
CB35162 M22 Locust U.S version........... £24.99 MENG MODELS 1/35 SCALE TRUMPETER 1/72 SCALE
CB35062 8.8cm Flak Sonderfrgstll........... £39.99 MMTS-006 Russian T-90A MBT............. £44.99 Pz.Sfl IVa Dicker Max................................. £12.99
CB35097 Marder II Ausf D........................ £28.99 MMVS-003 GAZ-233014 STS Tiger......... £49.99
CB35156 DAK Topolino car....................... £21.99 ZVEZDA 1/72 SCALE
CB35152 Allied Correspondents.............. £11.99 TAMIYA 1/48 SCALE ZV6170 British Bofors 40mm w/crew.... £7.50
CB35159 U.S Jeep Crew............................. £7.99 TAM32575 Tiger 1 Late............................ £24.99

TRUMPETER 1/35 SCALE

TM01579 Russian BTR-80 APC................. £39.99 Bison Decals now in stock!
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Tel/Fax 01422 349157

Shop Hours:Mon,Tues,Thur 10.30-17.30, Wed closed,
POST & PACKING UK £4.00
Fri 10.30-17.00, Sat 9.30-17.00, Sun 10.30-16.30

www.halifaxmodellersworld.co.uk

p 51 ADs Collated 091.indd 2 09/09/2013 10:04

 FEATURE ARTICLE Young Miniatures 1:10 scale Battle of Jang-Jin Reservoir 1950 • Item No. YM 1838

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 THE CHOSIN FEW
Matt Wellhouser PAINTING UNDERWAY
Once all cleaned up, the parts were
The paint job started with a coat of
Tamiya Grey Spray Can Primer, followed

describes the primed and paint started to fly. I

pre-shaded with flat black sprayed
by a sprayed pre-shade of Flat Black.

painting and through the airbrush. I tend to do

shading of Young this more and more, as it helps

define the shadows.
Miniature’s big Starting with the face, I used
my pretty standard mix of Vallejo
1:10 scale Korean colours - Brown Sand 876, Basic

War Marines bust. Skintone 815, Burnt Cadmium Red

814 and Black Red 859. I add a
touch of Burnt Umber 941 and

I
Black 950 to the shadows. If you
n 1950, the US Army and the have read my previous articles
US Marine Corps took on about (you have, haven’t you?), you’ll get
33 Red Chinese Divisions the idea on this technique.
at a reservoir in the middle First I base coated with Sand
of Korea. It was bitter cold and Brown. Then very thin controlled
savage. This battle occurred glazes of the base plus Basic
between 27 November and 13 Skintone were added. In the end,
December 1950. the highlight mix was about 70%
As you look at photos of the US Basic Skintone to the base colour.
Marines in this battle, their faces Then the shadows were added
betray the tough times that they using he Cadmium Red in a similar
endured. Young Miniatures took a fashion. As each thin glaze coat UNIFORM COLOURS Here are my mixes for each portion
fairly well known photograph and dries, you can go back and add The uniform on this figure is the of the figure (all Vallejo):
turned that in to a fantastic piece another lighter layer. Several issue overcoat with hood. If you Jacket:
of art. times I had to mix a mid tone glaze look carefully, you’ll see that he • Base: German Filed Grey 830 +
The kit consists of just a few to go over the join of a highlight has a field cap on under the hood. Green Grey 886
resin parts - the main bust, the and shadow to kill that sharp These caps have ear flaps that • Highlights: Base + Sunny
head, helmet, rifle and three pieces demarcation. I use Black Red very can fold down. According to my Skintone 845
of the hood on the jacket. As sparingly with the deepest shadow references, they were fur lined. The • Shadows: Base + Black 950
usual, the parts are expertly cast mix. It is a dark colour; a little goes overcoat was a standard Olive Drab Hood on Jacket:
and require just a little cleanup. a long way. I also added some shade with fur lining in the hood. • Panzer Aces Felgrau 335 (that is
One note - because the head is Magenta to Burnt Cadmium Red With this much Olive Drab, you a Vallejo colour)
enveloped in the hood and helmet, I to use as a glaze over the cheeks have to be creative in your paint • Add Sunny Skintone for
would recommend you spend some and nose to give a cold- frostbitten mix to vary the shades of OD or Highlights, Black and Burnt
time test fitting the parts and get appearance. there is no variation or interest in Umber 941 for Shadows
familiar how they interact with one I painted the eyes with a light the figure. I tend to mix and match • Fur: US Field Drab 873 and
another. I usually paint all the parts mix of Basic Skintone, Light Flesh the various shades of green just English Uniform 921
separately and then assemble 928 and Brown Sand. Then the to break up the monochromatic • Add Flat Earth 983 and Sunny
as much as possible, so on this pupils were painted in. A final coat palette. Don’t try to match exact Skintone for highlights
step, I took my time to make sure of Future Floor polish gives the colour here- paint to what looks Blanket rolled around neck:
everything was going to fit. eyes that sparkle. right to your eye. • Base: US Field Drab 873 + A

The face was also primed with Tamiya Grey, with For the face, I base coated with Sand Brown then The highlight mix was about 70% Basic Skintone The eyes were painted with a light mix of Basic
pre-shading at the sides. I used my pretty standard mix of Vallejo colours to the base colour. The shadows were then added Skintone, Light Flesh 928 and Brown Sand. The
- Brown Sand 876, Basic Skintone 815, Burnt using Cadmium Red. pupils were painted in then a final coat of Future
Cadmium Red 814 and Black Red 859. Floor polish was added to give the eyes that sparkle.

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 FEATURE ARTICLE Young Miniatures 1:10 scale Battle of Jang-Jin Reservoir 1950 • Item No. YM 1838

B English Uniform + Khaki Gray

(added a drop of Tamiya Flat
Base to the mix to make it really
flat
• Shadows: Burnt Umber + Black
added to base mix
• Highlights: Base + Sunny
Skintone
Ammo Bandolier:
• Base- Green Gray 886 + Khaki
988 + US Field Drab 873 The helmet, with its cast cover primed and The helmet was base coated with US Field Drab and For the darker brown spots, I mixed Mahogany Sand
• Add more Khaki and Sunny ready for paint. Iraqi Sand. I added a drop of Tamiya Flat Base to the and Leather Brown. For the lighter spots, I used US
Skintone for highlights, Black mix. This really deadens the finish. Field Drab.
added for Shadows
Sling for Rifle:
• Panzer Aces 335 Feldgrau +
Khaki 988

I painted the inside of the hood

parts separately then when the
head was finished they were glued
on to the head that was already
glued to the torso. That’s why the
dry fitting at the beginning of this
I then used Andrea Brown and Black Inks to I also emphasized the dirty areas on the cover Once dry, I dusted the cover with some pigments- some
project was important. The only
define the seams and edges of each tear in by carefully applying thin washes of the inks in homebrewed stuff and MIG European dust – then I
putty used was on the back of the the cover. selected areas. worked the cover over with a variety of artist oil paints.
hood. It was a fabric seam on the I use burnt umber, raw umber, black and some sepia.
real deal, so it just needed a touch
of A&B. at Chosin are in black and white. I with US Field Drab and Iraqi Sand. Black Inks to define the seams and
The helmet received special checked with a friend of mine who I added a drop of Tamiya Flat Base edges of each tear in the cover. I
attention as I wanted to depict has several contacts at the US to the mix. This really deadens the also emphasized the dirty areas
a worn, weather beaten cover. A National Marine Corps Museum. finish. Then the spots were painted. on the cover by carefully applying
decision had to be made about The consensus was that the For the darker brown spots, I thin washes of the inks in selected
what colour to paint the cover. Marines primarily wore the brown mixed Mahogany Sand and Leather areas. I also used lightened base
This particular helmet cover is two side out at Chosin. The box art Brown. For the lighter spots, I used colour to bring out the fabric
sided - one side is primarily green depicts the green side of the cover. US Field Drab. I kept the mixes texture and wear along the edges
and the other brown. Checking Your choice, but I wanted to stray very thin, sometimes having to go of the torn edges of the cover.
references did not reveal too much a little form the box art. over each spot a couple of times. Once dry, I dusted the cover
because a majority of photos taken The helmet was base coated I then used Andrea Brown and with some pigments- some

With this much Olive Drab, you have to be creative I tend to mix and match the various shades of green The back of the uniform with the
in your paint mix to vary the shades of OD or there just to break up the monochromatic palette. painting and shading complete.
is no variation or interest in the figure.

I painted the inside of the hood parts separately and

then when the head was finished they were glued on The upper section of the rifle is supplied as a separate part. This was primed and base coated with Vallejo Buff.
to the head that was already glued to the torso. Burnt Umber and Burnt Sienna oil paint was then applied. With a dry brush, I gently drew the brush across the wet oil paint to simulate wood
grain. Once dry, some touchup with various browns and black oil colours completed the wood finish.
I used Humbrol Metalcote Gunmetal on the barrel, and fittings.
A little ground up pencil graphite helped weather the metal portions of the rifle.

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 Modelspec
Young Miniatures 1:10 scale Battle of Jang-Jin
Reservoir 1950, Item No. YM 1838
Brush Used:
# 00 Windsor Newton Series 7 sable brush
Paints Used:
Tamiya Grey Aerosol Primer
Tamiya acrylic XF-1 Flat Black; XF-49 Khaki; XF-51
Khaki Drab
Citadel Boltgun Metal
Vallejo Model Colour (Various – see body text for
more details)

✓ Fantastic sculpting; high quality moulding;

straightforward clean-up.
The only putty used was on the back of the hood. It was a fabric seam on the real deal,
so it just needed a touch of A&B putty. ✗ Nothing worth mentioning.
The bust, minus the helmet, awaits final assembly. Available from
Young Miniatures products may be seen on their
website www.young-miniatures.com
homebrewed stuff and MIG painting and varied finishes tend to the brush across the wet oil paint
European dust. Then I worked the “gloss up” the finish. to simulate wood grain. Once dry, Rating
cover over with a variety of artist The helmet straps are applied some touchup with various browns
oil paints. I use burnt umber, raw after the helmet is glued in place. and black oil colours completed the CONCLUSION
umber, black and some sepia. The I use a small soldering iron (as a wood finish. Then I used Humbrol I hoped to achieve the dirty, cold
intensity of the colours helps to heat source) to gently persuade Metalcote Gunmetal on the barrel, war weary look of the US Marine at
emphasize the effect of grime and the straps into position. and fittings. A little ground up Chosin. The bust is full of character
dirt. The metal part of the helmet The upper section of the rifle pencil graphite helped weather the and you could even add snow if you
was painted with Olive Drab 889 was primed and base coated with metal portions of the rifle. so desired.
(Vallejo). Then finally, I apply Vallejo Buff, then Burnt Umber and The bottom of the bust is Fantastic kit, with a few parts
Testors Dullcoat to the finished Burnt Sienna oil paint was applied. painted Flat Black and affixed to a - perfect for the Korean War
helmet with my airbrush. All the With a dry brush, I gently drew nice wood base. collector! ■

This is a simple bust to assemble, with fantastic facial expression and interesting painting potential.

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 Incoming
BRONCO
1:35 SCALE ITALIAN LIGHT CIVILIAN CAR
(OPEN TOP) • KIT CB 35165
This is the second version of the little 1:35
scale Fiat Topolino from Bronco but now
comes with an open top and the addition of
a female figure and a Dalmatian dog. Much of
the kit is the same as the previously released
DAK version but it may be worth running
over the main features again.
The kit is presented in a large box with nice
artwork adorning its face. In typical Bronco
fashion, a very well illustrated and precise
instruction booklet is included, with three
marking choices - two very attractive civilian
schemes and one in basic black. 125 parts
over 9 sprues are included with 9 in clear, 11
in grey (for the figure and dog) and 105 in
sand coloured plastic for the vehicle itself.
A separate upper body moulding is also
included, encased in a clear plastic bubble
to protect it from damage. The standard
of moulding on this piece is excellent and
now even more so with the introduction of
this open topped version. The sidewall and
mudguard thickness for instance is so thin
that it is almost in scale! The kit’s details
include a complete engine, fuel tank and
radiator, two separate doors and an engine
bonnet. The front half of the radiator grill/
bodywork may be positioned in the open
position if you wish, exposing the engine. A
lot of thought has gone into this assembly as
there is detail on both sides of the radiator
grill, both interior and exterior. On reflection,
I would have liked the grill work to be see-
through, but maybe I’m asking too much as
I don’t know if this would be possible with
conventional moulding.
A separate chassis is included but this piece
misses out on the lightening holes on the
outside rails of the chassis frame. However, PLUS MODELS
these were hardly seen unless the vehicle 1:35 SCALE WWII RAILWAY SIGNAL
was overturned or on a hoist and in my ITEM NO. 245
opinion are perfectly fine the way they are. Plus Models always seem to come up with
The wheels and tyre assemblies are a bit of a something that is a little different and at the same
disappointment. I really prefer the more recent time useful. This new accessory fits the bill on both
trend of having the tyre split down their counts. It consists of 22 resin castings, one length
horizontal axis including the tread pattern as of chain, 29 photo-etched pieces (of which one of
flat disks. This approach in my opinion gives which is coloured on both sides) and one piece of
great fidelity of detail. clear acetate.
On this kit Bronco has taken a backward step The model is an outstanding representation of a
and produced a one piece wheel and tyre European Railway signal pole used from the late
combination that has the tread moulded onto 19th century right through to the early 1960s.
the tyre itself. The tread detail is good, just What Plus Models does that sets these apart is
a little faint. The real problem is, even with consistently offer different and interesting product. It
minor sanding to remove the mould seam, is nice to see a manufacturer going the extra mile for
some of the pattern is lost. The hub caps on the modeller and this set is no exception.
all the wheels are moulded separately which Highly Recommended.
will allow the modeller to leave these off, but Thanks to Plus Models for the sample
the hub nuts will have to be added if you www.plusmodel.cz
choose to do this. These are included on the Luke Pitt
sprue but are not called for in the instructions.
17 photo etch pieces are included that really
just add to an already outstanding model.
This new kit from Bronco is a welcome
addition and in my opinion the best example
of its type available in any scale today The
moulding on the bodywork is a case study on
how fine plastic injection moulding can be.
The list of accessories included is large and the
overall execution of this kit is outstanding.
Highly Recommended.
Thanks to Bronco Models for the sample
www.bronco-model.com
Luke Pitt

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 BRONCO MODELS
1:35 SCALE T97E2 WORKABLE PLASTIC TRACKS
FOR M48/M60 AND M88 • ITEM NO. AB3563
Bronco has established quite a reputation as a
premier producer of plastic kits in 1:35 scale. This
reputation is well deserved, as their attention to detail
is nothing short of amazing. From time to time they
tend to produce something that is a little out of the ordinary. This new release from them fits that bill in my opinion.
I have always liked the look of the American M48 and M60 series of tanks but have been turned off by the lack of
detail on the various models available. Even the new Dragon M48 kit and its quite outstanding tracks didn’t exactly
inspire me to purchase the kit. Maybe I’m just hanging out for an up to date version of the M60, who knows? But
looking at this new set of tracks from Bronco suddenly gives me the feeling that I’d like to build an M60.
The set consists of 23 brown coloured sprues that reminds me of the workable Modelkasten track sets. The layout
and colouring and assembly sequence is very much to the Modelkasten formula. A whopping 1174 separate parts
(and their associated clean up) is included. The parts are cleanly moulded with the only cleanup (other than the sprue
attachment burs) fine flash on the tip of some guide teeth. The track rods have small mould seams but nothing to
really worry about. These don’t hinder assembly or the track articulation. The tracks themselves are broken down
into four parts for each of the pads and one part for the guide horn The assembly of these tracks in particular would
benefit from some sort of assembly jig and will be quite time consuming. However, the detail when complete will be
breathtaking.
Overall, I recommend this track update, although somewhat time consuming in their construction, they should be
well worth the effort. They are without a doubt the most detailed tracks of this type available today. Our thanks go
out to Bronco for the review sample.
Recommended.
Thanks to Bronco Models for the sample www.bronco-model.com
Luke Pitt

REALITY IN SCALE
1:35 SCALE ROWING BOAT
ITEM NO. 35205
Many modellers like to add
a water accent to their
dioramas and Reality in Scale
has released a row boat to
add to that stream or lake.
In a clear plastic box with
two locking hasps, we find
a resin boat along with a
ZipLoc bag containing a pair
REALITY IN SCALE of oars, a pair of eyes for
1:35 SCALE LARGE DOGS • ITEM NO. 3522 the oars, an anchor, a plank
Reality is Scale is well known for their diorama accessories. I am always for the bench, and the rope
on the lookout for animals for my scenes and this release, large dogs, for the anchor. Cast in a tan
certainly appeals. resin, I found no bubbles,
Within the plastic box, we find a ziplock bag with four resin dogs. blobs, voids, or flash. One
There are no sprues to remove, no flash, voids, blobs, or bubbles. of the oars' body is warped
They are cast in a grey resin. but a dip in hot water will
I could only identify one breed, the German Shepherd, but this is fine cure that.
as many mutts (mixed breeds) have been adopted as pets. No instructions are provided so one must look at the color photograph on
The sculpting on the lying dogs is very good as is the sitting the box to see how to assemble the boat. After removing the plank from the
longhaired mongrel. However, something is not right with the sitting casting gate, I slid it as far as it could go. I then noted where I would need to
shorthaired dog. Looking at this large head, the ears seem to be drill. Looking at the length of the wire eyes, it is obvious I need to cut them
position too far forward and there is something else about his front down a bit. I did notice that the oars do not slid into the eyes as they should,
legs that I can't quite put my finger on. this is an important feature of row boats so I may replace the wire eyes with
I can accept that the casting has caused the legs of the prone dogs to one of my own making.
be thicker but this is easily remedied with a little knife and file work The details on the oars are very well done with wrapped twine for the handles.
if one chooses. While I understand that these are large dogs, they The boat itself is a mystery; it seems to have a locker at the front and another
seem a tad too large for 1:35 scale. In the last photo, we see a Tamiya at the rear. Looking at the box top, it seems the rear locker was used for
German Shepherd in front of the prone one and it seems more of a sitting. The plank sides of the boat seem exaggerated, almost like vinyl siding
puppy than an adult. Truth be told, dogs do grow to different sizes so on a home but absolutely no detail or texture appears on the bow (front) or
I will save these for modern setting where statistics show they (as well stern (rear) of the boat. I will simply scribe it in after knocking down the sides
as humans) are now larger than their generations before. with some sanding sticks.
Highly Recommended. Highly Recommended.
My thanks to Reality in Scale for the sample www.realityinscale.com My thanks to Reality in Scale for the sample www.realityinscale.com
Saul Garcia Saul Garcia

November 2013 - Model Military International 57

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 Book Reviews

THE AMPERSAND GROUP

SON OF SHERMAN VOLUME 1
THE SHERMAN DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
ISBN: 978-0-9773781-1-1
I could just sum up this review very quickly, firstly saying,
“wow”, and secondly, if you are any kind of Sherman fan,
you really need this book.
However, just in case you would like a few more details,
here goes.
Late in the last century, Ampersand Publishing released a
concise 120 page volume entitled “Modeler’s Guide to the
Sherman”. This book comprised mainly of material that had
been previously published in MMiR magazine, including
a chapter covering 15 different Sherman model builds.
Also included were walk around photos, scale drawings,
camouflage and markings and bibliographies for references
and model resources.
In terms of the drawings, which were really the heart of this original book, the focus was the running gear and hull of the various Sherman types.
The book proved very useful and popular, and plans were put in place for a more detailed update.
Now, 14 years later, we have Volume 1 of the original book’s successor, hence the title “Son of Sherman”.
This is a hefty tome at 346 pages. The paper is high quality and glossy, but more importantly, the contents are a truly comprehensive coverage of the design,
development and variants of the M4 Sherman tank during the WWII era. The book is effectively brand new, with little or nothing of the original “Modeler’s
Guide” remaining – everything has been reworked, expanded and sifted with a fine tooth comb.
The book features more than 130 multi-view drawings covering each Sherman sub-type by hull, final drive housing, turret and running gear. The factories that
produced these variants are also covered. All 75mm and 76mm turret types are included.
A staggering number of large and well-reproduced wartime photos are offered, as well as relevant images of restored and museum examples where
appropriate. There are more than 900 photos in all. Most photos are in glorious black and white, but there is a decent smattering of colour too, especially in
the interior and running gear reference sections. Captions are detailed and relevant.
In addition to all this, the book also describes transporting the Sherman to the battlefield, applique armour, production and registration data.
The book is available in either soft or hard cover versions.
Presumably we will see coverage of howitzer and British variants, as well as post-war and non gun-tank variants in future volumes.
“Son of Sherman Volume 1” is a remarkable achievement. It is clearly a labour of love by its authors, Pat Stansell and Kurt Laughlin, and the team who
contributed archival and photographic resources. The book was nearly 15 years in the making and the wait seems more than worthwhile.
This will be an essential companion to any M4 Sherman modeller, whether casual or obsessive.
Highly Recommended.
Thanks to The Ampersand Group for the sample www.ampersandpubco.com
Brett Green

NUTS AND BOLTS

VOLUME 29 RAUPENSCHLEPPER OST RSO
This German publisher really needs no introduction. What they offer is a one stop reference source for the student historian and modeller.
This new reference book has some 176 pages and was prepared with the aid of restored examples. It offers a rare example of a complete
history of the vehicle and all the details that go along with it.
The book is logically broken down into a number of sections. The first 83 pages are devoted to the development and history of the vehicle in
German service. The development and technical aspects are covered in this section, followed by the differences between the prototype and
production vehicles. A very useful chart aimed squarely at the modeller describes these changes and modifications. The next section discusses
all the units that operated this vehicle. This section is lavishly illustrated with a little over 170 black and white wartime photos
The next 16 pages are devoted to very well drawn 1:35 scale plans of all the known variants of the vehicle. John Rue has really captured the
essence of the vehicle in these drawings. Sixteen colour profile drawings follow over the next eight pages and are wonderfully executed and
presented. Then follows 61 pages of walk around photos from the various restored examples. Almost the entire vehicle is covered from the
interior and engine through to a detailed study of the running gear. The last 18 pages are devoted to a number of model builds and are of a
very high standard.
In my opinion, this is the best references source that I have come across for this particular vehicle. It strikes the right balance between historical
fact, photo coverage and high quality colour profiles. Some may be put off by the price of this book, but really, if you want one reference
source for this vehicle, then this is the one to purchase no question about it. This is a great publication and comes highly recommended.
Highly Recommended.
Thanks to Nuts & Bolts for the sample www.nuts-bolts.de
Luke Pitt

58 Model Military International - November 2013

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 SERVICE PUBLICATIONS
WEAPONS OF WAR SERIES
THE HEAVY UTILITY IN CANADIAN SERVICE BY
ROBERT H CLARKE
155-MM HOWITZERS IN CANADIAN SERVICE BY
JOHN DAVIDSON
The Heavy Utility in Canadian Service by Robert H.
Clarke and 155-MM Howitzers in Canadian Service
by John Davidson are the two latest titles in the
series joining the growing range of similar titles
devoted to Canadian war materiel. These books
cram a lot of useful information backed by black
and white photographs and scale drawings into
their 24 A5 sized pages and are a great addition to
the library whether you are a modeller, historian or
enthusiast.
The first title is the Heavy Utility in Canadian Service,
which offers a great background to CMP 8 cwt
heavy utility truck that was produced by Canada
and used in Commonwealth armies initial as a staff
vehicle with 4x4 capability and then in a variety of
specialist roles such as Administration, Ambulance
Communications and Command to name a few. It
was produced in seven different variants and many
sub variants existed. This informative title details
the history of the vehicle, a general description,
descriptions of the variants and its many roles in
WWII across the Commonwealth forces. Like all
books in this range it is well supported by black
and white photos and line drawings in the centre
spread. With a kit of this important vehicle due
shortly this is timely and an excellent reference.
The other title covers that important weapon
system the 155 mm howitzer in Canadian service
from the end of WWII until present day in the
medium artillery role. The book covers the systems
used, which are the US M114 (M1A1 CDN) towed
howitzer, the M109 SPG and the current lightweight
M 777 howitzer procured for service in Afghanistan.
The title describes the organisation of Canada’s post
war artillery forces, detailed histories of the three
howitzers, developments and employment of the
howitzers over the post Second World War period.
Again supported by a good cross section of black
and white photos and line drawings, this title is a
good basic reference for Canadian Medium Artillery.
These books cram a lot of useful information
backed by B&W photographs and line drawings into
their 24 A5 sized pages and are a great addition to
the library whether you are a modeller, historian or
enthusiast.
Recommended.
Thanks to Service Publications for the samples
www.servicepub.com
Al Bowie

November 2013 - Model Military International 59

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 1:48 Scale – A round-up of the latest news and releases
A SAD LITTLE SOP STORY
“SOP”, or Standard Operating Procedure, is an
established procedure to be followed when
carrying out a given operation in a given situation.
it comes time to paint, dust and grit will have
inevitably have attached themselves to all my sub-
assemblies.
generally get a tad huffy and my mindset is always
the same. My inner voice always asks the same
question “Why are you doing this dude? It’s not
Over my last couple of builds I note that I have Any sensible modeller would just slow down and like you are finding a cure for cancer. You are just
a standard operating procedure that seems to prepare the surfaces in a slow and deliberate building a silly little plastic model!”
permeate all of my builds. It follows the same fashion. Not this modeller. No, this modeller just As a result of this I tend to rush the last part and
pattern time after time. goes in and paints with gay abandon. The results that usually results in a model that is not really up
Does this mean every model I do will invariably are always the same, grit dust and generally a finish to my expectations. The feeling is always the same.
have the same set of problems associated with it? that a three year old might be proud of. I’ll often hate the model when complete. It is only
For me, it seems that I run out of patience when I A wise man once said ”If you keep on doing the after a few months that I tend to warm to any
get close to painting the model. Now, anyone who same thing you are going to always get the same of my builds. And only after I’ve forgotten all the
has ever read one of my modelling articles will no result”. In my case this is oh so very true. dramas associated with the build.
doubt be aware that I often lament the fact that I The next step in my standard operating procedure So that’s my sad little “SOP” story. What’s yours?
have to re-paint almost all of my builds. I’m quite involves stripping the model to re-paint. This
diligent with the research and build steps but I’m always results parts falling off and detail being Unit next time
a tad obsessive with detailing and as a result of rebuilt, often in a haphazard fashion and often not Luke Pitt
this my builds tend drag out over months. When to the same standard as the original. At this stage I

TORO MODELS
1:48 SCALE YOUNG GIRL WITH DOG • ITEM NO. 48F55
This new addition to from Toro Models is quite a nice little set.
Both of the castings are very well done and are wonderfully
detailed. The dog is cast as three pieces consisting of a main
body and two paws. The young girl is cast as two pieces with CORPUS
the right arm being a separate item. These figures would not 1:48 SCALE US PILOTS
be out of place in any setting and in any time frame. ITEM NOS. C-48001 AND C-48002
Highly Recommended. Corpus is an offshoot of The Bodi and both of
Thanks to Toro Model for the sample www.toro-model.com.pl these new figures are some of the best I’ve seen in
Luke Pitt 1:48 scale for quite some time.
The skill of Krisztian Bodi, the sculptor involved, is
quite frankly amazing. His technique and style is
unique and this translates well into his sculpts.
The two figures are presented in these sets are US
pilots from the 1942-45 time frame but with slight
modification could be used in other time periods
too. The subtle fabric creases and folds are quite
simply amazing. The facial details are noteworthy
as they capture both detail and character at the
same time, which is rarely seen in any scale.
The posing of the figures is also outstanding as
they suggest endless applications.
Both of these figures scale out well and would be
outstanding additions to any vehicle or diorama.
Highly Recommended.
Thanks to Corpus for the review sample
www.thebodi.eu
Luke Pitt

60 Model Military International - November 2013

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 Luke Pitt hosts MMI’s examination of the growing world
of 1:48 scale military models, figures and accessories.

TAMIYA
1:48 SCALE
TIGER I (LATE PRODUCTION). KIT NO. 32575
TAMIYA TIGER I (DETAIL UP) ZIMMERIT COATING. ITEM NO. 12653
Tamiya’s new 1:48 scale kit of the venerable Tiger I represents the late
production type with steel road wheels. It follows on from one of the
first in the Tamiya 1:48 series and this rendition is by and large is an
improvement on those early releases.
Tamiya’s 1:48 scale Late Production Tiger I comprises 197 parts in sand
plastic. The moulding is first class, with no clean-up needed except for
a few fine mould seams. The detail is so fine in places it defies belief.
The lower hull is a one-piece plastic (yes plastic!) affair, onto which the
suspension is attached. The large upper hull moulding comes in six
parts which thankfully go together very well.
The turret has been modified with a late cupola integrated onto
the turret roof. Two marking choices are provided, the first being
“313” from the 505th Panzer Battalion in sand and brown and the
second being “211” from the 101st Panzer Battalion in a three-colour
spaghetti scheme.
Comparisons between this kit and the Skybow/AFV example are
inevitable. This new Tamiya kit is, at first glance, not as detailed or as
complex as the Skybow/AFV kit. For example the tracks are clearly
better in the Tamiya kit but detail elsewhere runs second place.
The great strength of the Tamiya kit, however, is its ease of assembly
and presentation. Even the total novice modeller could build the
Tamiya kit in hours where the same certainly cannot be said for the
Skybow/AFV kit.
The Tamiya kit has been designed for a separate Zimmerit sheet (Item
12653 with both fine and coarse turret finishes), where the Skybow/
AFV kit has it already moulded on, although only as the finer rendition
on the turret.
So in reality the choice comes down to build speed and whether you
prefer to add your own Zimmerit.
I quite like the separate Zimmerit sheet provided as a “detail up”
option. Aside from having the two variations of Zimmerit on the turret
it has a nice “scale like” texture to it as well. The Zimmerit is printed
on one sheet and it is left up to the modeller to cut out the various
shapes out and then stick then onto the donor model.
From the look of Tamiya’s instructions, it appears that a Mid
Production variant of the Tiger I may also be on the cards, which
would make perfect sense.
Overall this is a very well done addition and I have no hesitation in
recommending both the kit and the Zimmerit sheet.
Both Recommended.
Thanks to Tamiya for the sample www.tamiya.com
Tamiya kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby Company Limited
www.hobbyco.net
Luke Pitt

HAULER
11:48 SCALE PHOTO ETCHED UPDATE FOR THE UM KIT OF THE BA-6
ITEM NO. HLX48339
This is quite a small set even by Hauler’s standards, comprising just 41
small photo etch pieces.
As with most of Hauler’s sets, this one concentrates on the
parts that need to be replaced. In this case, it supplies the
side armoured louvers, the front bumper various external
fittings and various hinges.
Given the low purchase cost with this update you really can’t
go wrong.
Recommended.
Thanks to Hauler for the sample www.hauler.cz
Luke Pitt

November 2013 - Model Military International 61

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 BUYERS GUIDE>>>>>>>>>
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 Contact Details - for companies featured in MMI...
ACCURATE ARMOUR/ DELUXE MATERIALS MODELING ARTISAN MORI SCHATTON BARRELS
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www.adalbertus.com.pl (For 1:6 Action Figures, please contact Amerang in UK) Tel/Fax; 0141 633 1400 Kew Gardens, Surrey TW9 4JF, UK.
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www.hlj.com www.panzerwrecks.com TAMIYA UK;
BISON DECALS HUSSAR PRODUCTIONS, CANADA THE HOBBY COMPANY LIMITED
Available from www.hannants.co.uk and PLUS MODEL Garforth Place, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, MK5 8PG, UK
www.airconnection.on.ca (Creative Models in UK)
www.pdi-model-supplies.com Tel; 01908 605686 Fax; 01908 605666
Jizni 56, 370 10 C. Budejovice, Czech Republic. [email protected]
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Via AFV Modeller or www.blast-models.com
Mail Order Dept 01455 254450
TRUMPETER
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Unit 10 Hodfar Road, Sandy Lane Ind Est
ICM (Trumpeter & AFV Club in UK) Pocketbond in the UK
Kiev 02099, Ukraine, Borispolskaya 9 building 64. PO Box 80, Welwyn, Hertfordshire,
Stourport, Worcs, DY13 9QB
Tel/fax; (+38044) 369-54-12 England, AL6 0ND
Tel; 01299 823330
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Fax; 01299 829970 Tel; 01707 391509 (Historex in UK)
www.icm.com.ua Fax; 01707 327 466
[email protected] 811 Lone Star Drive, O’Fallon, Missouri 63366, USA
[email protected] www.verlinden-productions.com
CALIBRE 35 ITALERI
Via Hannants in UK
(The Hobby Company in UK) PSP MODELS LTD VALLEJO
Via Pradazzo, 6, I-40012 Calderara Di Reno, (Mission Models in USA) (Creative Models in UK)
Bologna, Italy, Unit 19B, Applin’s Farm, Farrington,
CAMMETT Tel; 051 726037 Dorset DT11 8RA, UK
Acrylicos Vallejo, SL Apartado 337 - 08800
(Lifecolour, Scale Caliber) www.italeri.com Vilanova i la Geltrú, Barcelona, Spain
Tel/Fax; 01747 811 817 Tel; (34) 93 893 60 12
Unit 5 Greenfield Industrial Estate,
www.psp-models.com Fax; (34) 93 893 11 54
Forest Road, Hay on Wye, Powys, HR3 5FA
Tel; 01497 822757
JUST BASES www.acrylicosvallejo.com
Email; [email protected]
21 Graham Road, Paignton TQ3 1BB QUICKBOOST
Tel; 01803 558520 www.quickboost.net
www.cammett.co.uk
www.just-bases.co.uk VLS CORPORATION
(LSA in UK)
CLASSIC PUBLICATIONS REVELL GmbH & Co. KG (TRAKZ, WINGZ, CUSTOM DIORAMICS, WARRIORS);
Midland Counties Publications, 4 Watling Drive,
JUST KITS Orchard Mews, 18C High Street, Lincoln County Industrial Park, 1011 Industrial Court,
4 High Street, Botley, Southampton, SO30 2EA Tring, Herts, HP23 5AH Moscow Mills, Missouri 63362, USA
Sketchley Lane Industrial Estate, Hinckley,
Tel; 01489 781177 Tel; +44 (0) 1442 890285 www.modelmecca.com
Leics UK. LE10 1YF
www.justkitsandmodels.co.uk www.revell.eu
Tel; 01455 233 747,
Fax; 01455 233 737 WHITE ENSIGN
[email protected] LSA MODELS SB MODELS Unit 5, Cobnash Industrial Estate, HR6 9RW
www.classic-publications.com (TASCA, MASTER BOX) UK distributor for Model Victoria and Royal Model Tel; 0844 415 0914
Retail; 151 Sackville Road, Hove, P.O. Box 114, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA13 0WY. [email protected]
East Sussex, BN3 3HD, England. Tel/Fax; 01229 430 749
CREATIVE MODELS LTD Tel/Fax; 01273 705420
www.whiteensignmodels.com
(Mig Productions, Vallejo, Accurate Miniatures) [email protected]
[email protected] www.sbmodels.net
Unit 6-10, Honeysome Industrial Estate, Honeysome
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Road, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire. PE16 6TG 12 Prince Street, Waratah, 2298, NSW, Australia
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DARTMOOR MILITARY MODELS [email protected] ZVEZDA
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www.modeldesignconstruction.com Tel; 01473 464311
Exeter, EX5 3LJ, England Promishlennaia Str.,2, Lobnya, Moscow Region,
Tel; 01392 881271 www.sbxmodelshop.co.uk 141730 Russia
www.dartmoormilitarymodels.com [email protected]
www.zvezda.org.ru

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64 Model Military International - November 2013

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 Next Issue
On sale 7th November 2013 ISSUE No.91 November 2013,
Published October 3rd 2013

Editor; Brett Green

WAGEN WHEELS
Group Editor; Marcus Nicholls
Publisher; Alan Harman
Graphic Design; Alex Hall

OF THE WILD EAST

Advertising Manager; Colin Spinner
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details Tamiya’s 1:48 scale Administration Manager; Hannah McLaurie
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© ADH Publishing 2013

November 2013 - Model Military International 65

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 The Last Post..
GRECIAN A10
CRUISER COLOURS
H
istorian and British military camouflage authority Mike Starmer has written
with some observations and corrections on the scheme that I used to paint my
Inside the Armour A10 Cruiser Tank in Issue 89 of MMI. Mike’s comments will
be very useful for anyone planning a similar scheme for their Aegean vehicles:

Hello Brett,
I have read your article on the A10 of 3 RTR in Greece. It is well built and nicely finished although alas both
colour and disruptive scheme are incorrectly depicted which is a great shame. The disruptive design applied to
these particular tanks was the subject of my lengthy analysis of some 30+ pictures two years ago and the notes
and a drawing are in my ''Caunter' camouflage book. There was nothing random about the design, it is based on
M.E. General Order 297 November 1940 as follows:
2. In order to deal with the situation the following arrangements will be made in future:
(a) All vehicles in the Middle East will be painted with a common basic colour. This will be LIGHT STONE (British
Standard Colours 61).
(b) Up to two contrasting colours in addition to the basic colour may be selected by Commands to complete the
camouflage scheme. When a vehicle is transferred from one Command to another the basic colour will NOT be
changed, and it will be necessary only to over-paint with the two contrasting colours. For example, if a unit were
transferred from Egypt to the Sudan it would be necessary to over-paint the two contrasting colours “silver grey”
(British Standard Colours 28) and “slate” (British Standard Colours 40), in use in Egypt, with the light purple
brown (British Standard Colours 49) and the light stone in use in the Sudan.
However this order was not exactly followed due to an imbalance of disruptive areas and adjustments were
made. The majority of A10 were painted in this manner. I realise that you may have had only a few pictures to
work from, in fact looking at your model I can see which ones but regrettably you chose one of the few A10s that
did not fully follow the directive. Unless you have the cruiser tank Caunter drawing you could not know what the
rear deck should have looked like.
As for colours I would agree that your choice of Light Stone and Silver Grey are correct in this case due to the
evident low contrast between them. But unless your Lifecolor paints are different to the set I have then those
colours are not what they purport to be. Lifecolor Light Stone is nothing like yellow nor dark enough, it is far too
creamy pink and Silver Grey 28 is actually pale grey green not Lifecolor's mid-grey. I did put mixes for those and
other British colours in Tamiya paints on ML some years ago. Your choice of colour for the markings is incorrect
too. Blue would have been used by the 3rd Regiment but there wasn't one. The 3 RTR colour should have
been yellow as the second regiment in 1st Armoured Brigade but it clearly isn't that colour either. It has been
suggested that the actual colour may have been green, the regimental colour, a practice not unknown during that
period, 3 RTR often used purple.
Attached are photos of my models using Light Purple Brown and Slate as the disrupters. These were painted to
test the contrasts between the order colour and a possible alternative and to test the design variations.
Regards,
Mike

HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY FV432!

T
o celebrate the 50th anniversary The inclusive decal set includes a ‘com-
of the venerable FV430 series mon to all vehicles’ section plus markings
coming into service with the for specific theatres including UN, BATUS,
British Army in 1963 (and still in BAOR, Gulf, Bosnia & FV432 ambulance
service today), Kit Form Services’ latest markings, for those wishing to tackle
release in their 1:24 scale ‘Classic British the quite simple conversion from APC
Military Vehicles’ series is the FV432 Mk to ambulance role. A complete Wombat
2/1. The model is fully detailed, complete 120mm anti-tank gun role fitting kit follows
with folding crew seats, detailed drivers shortly for our Wombat kit No TQ-210.
station, Larkspur radios, removable engine The parts count stands at 187 parts in
decks & a lift out K60 power pack. All polyurethane resin, 250 in white metal, KFS’ new FV432 is
doors & hatches are working...rear door, of which 200 are track links (176 for use comprehensively detailed
commanders hatch, drivers hatch, folding with 24 spare), 337 in photo-etched brass, inside and out.
mortar hatch & front access panel. The of which, 100 are detail bolt heads
tracks & sprockets have been CAD drawn with plenty of spares.
& Rapid Prototyped & the tracks are cast
in white metal as individual links. Etched
mesh parts are included to create a range More information is available
on Kit Form Services’ website
of roof stowage baskets. Pre-coloured
www.kitformservices.com
clear cast lights & a complete 40 page pic-
torial instruction booklet are included.

66 Model Military International - November 2013

p 66 Last Post 091B.indd 66 09/09/2013 15:24

 D6620
Dragon Kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby Company Limited, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, MK5 8PG
See the full Dragon range at www.hobbyco.net
Find us on facebook
search Plastic Kits UK Dragon models are available from all good model shops www.hobbyco.net

p 67 Dragon 091.indd 8 09/09/2013 10:07