Model Military International - Issue 096 (April 2014)

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Modelling Trees Part One - Broadleaf Trees 92 pages, full colour.

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Super Drawings 3D - Japanese Destroyer Akizuki

Paperback 68 pages, 134 renders, 1 x Double A2 sheet with scale drawings (630x400 mm) 1 x Double B2 sheet with scale drawings (680x480 mm), Gloss coated paper. Published by Kagero.

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Art of Modelling 01

New Modelling magazine published in Belgium. English text throughout. This magazine is being published bi-monthly. Paperback, 66 pages, full colour.

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Modelling Grassland and Landscape Detailing

Featuring Weeds and Wild Flowers, Hedges, Roads and Pavements, Mud, Puddles and Rivers by Gordon Gravett. This book is a great follow up, to the two books published on Modelling Trees. Full Colour, 108 pages.

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Super Drawings 3D Prinz Eugen

Paperback, Full colour, 96 pages, 176 renders, 1 x Double A1 sheet with scale drawings (680x480 mm), 16 anaglyphs 3D, Gloss coated paper. Published by Kagero.

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M19-20 Tank Transporter Detail in Action

Collectively known as the M19 Heavy Tank Transporter, this truck and trailer combination was conceived at the behest of British in 1941, and was later used by the United States Army as well. Paperback, 80 pages, black/white and colour photo’s.

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a v i d

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of

T ankograd m a i l

Realistic Wood Effects

First book of this new collection (Learning series) in a small format. This collection is oriented to help modelers through different modeling tasks. This volume is dedicated to paint different types of wood, planes, ships, tools, accessories etc. 83 pages, full colour, Published by A.K Interactive.

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Soviet War Colours 1936-1945

The definitive guide to get into the Soviet Army. More than 180 profiles ready for modelling. Full Colour, paperback, 103 pages. Published by A.K.Interactive.

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o r d e r

Airbrush Essential Training DVD This is an initiation DVD to give the first steps with a double action airbrush, how to clean, basic maintenance, basic use to help the novel modeler to keep away his fears of using this tool.Running time 57 min. In English narration. Published by A.K Interactive.

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M939 Truck Family in Detail M923, M925, M929, M931 and OIF M939 Guntrucks Paperback, 120 pages, full colour, walkaround detail. Published by Wings and Wheels Publications.

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£11.99

Panzerkampfwagen T 34 - 747(r)

The Soviet T-34 Tank as Beutepanzer and Panzerattrappe in German Wehrmacht Service 1941-45. This book is illustrated with 552 black and white photographs, the bulk of which have hitherto gone unpublished, 328 pages.

£43.99

Military Miniatures in

Review No 59 Chapters include: The M48 Patton. Part One: An introduction to the wild and wacky world of 3D printing: War Pig. Creating a U.S Special Forces LMTV: Type 94 Times Two. Cargo trucks from Fine Molds: Building Bridges. The Resicast Churchill ARK Mk.II Italian Pattern conversion. Plus more. 80 pages, full colour. £8.99

Tigers of the Death’s Head Nurnberg’s Panzer Factory A fresh look at tank combat on the Eastern Front in World War II, following one of Germany’s most feared units, the Deaths Head. Hardback, 298 pages, black/white photographs. Published by Stackpole.

b o o k s

This book is an illustrated study of the vehicles designed, developed and produced at the M-A-N plant in Nurnberg during the period 1934-1945. Fully illustrated with 222 Black/White photographs. Hardback, 223 pages.

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pages and more than 180 profiles, this book examines the history of colors and camouflage used by the Waffen SS on their vehicles. From a BMW sidecar 75 prior to the invasion of Poland to the King Tiger 501 s.SS.Pz.Abt used by LAH Peiper in the Ardennes, this book covers a wide variety of vehicles, colors, and camouflage used by this dark branch of the Wehrmacht. £20.99

Sturmgeschutz III Czechoslovak Tanks 1930-45 Photo Album Prototypes, Tankettes, Light and Medium Tanks, on the Battlefield 2 Export Tankettes and Tanks, LT vz. 35 - Panzerkampfwagen Pz.Kpfw. 35 (t).Progress, construction and each type of tanks made in Czechoslovakia between years 1930-1945 are catched in the first type of this photoalbum. On more than 144 pages of this book you will find out 420 period photos of every prototypes of Tankettes, Light Tanks, Medium Tanks and other exceptional vehicles, which were been made by two of main manufactures ?KD and Skoda in this period. £23.99

World War Two Photobooks series Volume 4 by Peko Publishing. This publication focuses on certain details of production and its combat use from 10th May 1940 until 5th December 1941. Hardback,landscape format, 112 pages, black and white photographs. £23.99

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On Display Volume 3 - British Steel 96 pages, full colour, paperback, British WWII

Armour, Models featured include the following: Boulevard of sorrow - Daimler Dingo MK.II, A Freezing Desert Rat_The Cruiser Tank MK.VIII A27M “Cromwell” Dry Country: Valentine III MK.II North African Desert, Trainspotting, Trainshooting - Churchill MK.VI 3rd Scots Guards, Germant 1945, The Bishop’s Prayer-Bishop 25 Pounder, 4 Wheeled Recon-Humber Armoured Car MK.IV, Lucky Number 13-Matilda MK.III. £19.99

13 pages of full colour artwork by Dennis Oliver highlighting over 40 different vehicles including Panthers, Tigers, Panzer III and IV tanks, half-tracks, the Nashorn self-propelled gun and of course the ubiquitous StuG. £14.99

Tankograd 9021 - Challeng- Tiran in Lebanese Wars er 2 Main Weapon System In its 96 pages, this book will show the modover 300 unpublished and high quality in Armoured Regiments of eller photos of the Tiran. It includes photos of the British Army this tank in combat, destroyed, variants, on First fielded in 1998, the Challenger 2 main battle tank is today the main weapon system in armoured regiments of the British Army.Illustrated with 139 colour photographs, 64 pages.

maneuvers, a walk-around of all the details, and more. The modeler will also enjoy the innumerable effects, damage, deterioration, grease, chipping, etc, this vehicle presented during its operational life and use them as inspiration for their models not only of Tiran but any other tank. £21.99

The Weathering Magazine 6 - Kursk and Vegetation

British Military Trucks of World War One - Types and Variants of British-Built and Non-BritishBuilt Trucks in British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Flying Corps Service 1914-18 Published

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Camouflage Profile Guide Waffen SS Colors Through 80

Firefly Collection No 6 - To The Last Bullet: Germany’s War On 3 Fronts - Part 2: Italy

The Weathering Magazine” arrives as a specialized publication designed for modelers of all skill levels and subjects. Each issue delivers to you, the most advanced weathering techniques and the related products used to achieve incredible results.

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by Tankograd, Hardback, 200 pages, 396 Black/White photographs !!!!LIMITED PRINT RUN !!!! £34.99

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Contents - Issue 96 April 2014 42

48

34

REGULARS

FEATURES

p 4 NEWS

p 6 THINK TANK

p 51 FIGURES

p 13 PREVIEW

What’s new in the world of military modelling New releases in the 1:35 scale figure world

p 52 SMALL SCALE

The latest in the world of 1:72 scale and smaller

p 54 INCOMING

British wading Shermans by Peter Brown Diopark 1:35 Mercedes modern sedan

p 14 DELIVERED BY SEA

PART 1 - Resicast Wading Sherman Mk.III conversion by Brett Green

p 34 STRANGE SCOUT

Hobby Boss 1:35 scale German Sd.Kfz. 254 by Gary Edmundson

p 40 NUREMBERG 2014 Show Report by Marcus Nicholls

p 42 NATURAL EVOLUTION

Xact Scale Models 1:35 T-80U by Vladimir Adamec

p 22 PREVIEW

p 47 PREVIEW

p 56 BOOKS

p 24 BATTLING BEHEMOTH

p 48 SHOWCASE

p 58 1:48 SCALE

p 30 PEGASO INTERVIEW

p 60 PREVIEW

MMI’s thoughts on the latest kits and accessories Roundup of the latest modelling and reference titles Luke Pitt explores 1:48 scale military models, figures and accessories.

p 66 LAST POST

Late breaking news and ramblings from the Editor

Dragon 1:35 Tauchpanzer III Meng Model’s 1:35 scale Char 2C by Steve Zaloga Pegaso factory visit by Andrew Judson

p 32 PREVIEW

Italeri Opel Maultier by Graham Tetley

Bronco 1:35 Panzer I Ausf. F Tamiya Elefant by Chris Wauchop Bronco 1:35 Valentine Mk.XI

p 61 PREVIEW

Tamiya 1:35 revamped LRDG Command Car

©ADH Publishing Ltd 2014 Tel: (UK) 01525 222573 Fax: (UK) 01525 222574 Email: [email protected] Address: ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK Model Military International is 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 Model Military International is accurate, the publishers and printers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions.

ISSN 1749-8864 April 2014 - Model Military International 3

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Newsline - April ’14

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

ASUKA MODEL 1:24 SCALE AMERICAN BANTAM

TAMIYA NASHORN COMING IN 1:35 SCALE

T

amiya has announced their next new release in 1:35 scale – a new-tool Nashorn. Here is what Tamiya says about it: The self-propelled heavy anti-tank gun Nashorn packed a formidable punch courtesy of a mammoth 71-caliber 8.8cm Pak43/1 gun, which was one of the largest on the battlefield in WWII. The vehicle was developed in all possible haste after the German Army had the unexpected surprise of meeting such overpowering opponents as the T-34 and KV-1 upon its invasion of the Soviet Union. The recently-developed III/ IV vehicle was used as a base for the Pak43/1 gun, which was capable of destroying enemy tanks from great distance. Top road speed was 42km/h thanks to its relatively light weight of 24 tons. While deployment started in July 1943 under the moniker of Hornisse, it was given the new Nashorn designation from January of the next year, reportedly at the command of Hitler. 439 units were produced up to March 1945, and they served on both the Eastern and Western Fronts, providing heavy firepower for German forces. • Length: 241mm, Width: 84mm. • Extensive research and study of actual vehicles led to this accurate recreation of the imposing form of the Nashorn with long 8.8cm main gun. • Features of post-May 1943 vehicles such as late production gun travel lock, muffler-less exhaust pipes and more are faithfully depicted. • Metal parts are used to allow realistic elevation and depression of the main gun. • Full-length flexible tracks. • 4 figures in winter uniform are included, and can be placed in the large fighting compartment to add a further air of authenticity to the model. • Comes with 3 marking options, including Eastern Front vehicle markings. Marcus Nicholls from Tamiya Model Magazine International took some photos of the assembled Nashorn at the Nuremberg Toy and Hobby Fair, and he has also received a test shot. Marcus has kindly shared some of these photos and is also building the model – we’ll look forward to seeing the finished result!

Tamiya kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby Company Limited www.hobbyco.net Thanks to Marcus Nicholls for the photos.

The Bantam jeep was the first of what would eventually evolve into the World War II US Army Jeeps, the Willys MB and the Ford GPW. Asuka Model is the new name of Tasca, and they are expanding their 1:24 scale range with a brand new American Bantam Reconnaissance Car. The model will include full engine detail, vinyl tyres and markings for three vehicles in U.S. and British service. More information about this model will be available closer to release. Thanks to Asuka Model for the information and images www.asukamodel.com

MINIATURES PMC US ARMY M48 CREW Miniatures PMC from the USA has released a set of three M48 tank crew figures, sculpted by John Rosengrant. Alternative arms are offered for two of the figures, which will permit some customisation. The poses are very natural and these should look great with Dragon’s new kit in a Vietnam setting. Available online from Miniatures PMC www.miniaturespmc.com

INSIDE THE ARMOUR “ULTIMATE EDITION” ARDEER AGGIE The latest release from Inside the Armour is Item No. 35083X, Ardeer Aggie. Ardeer Aggie was a one-off alternative Churchill AVRE fitted with a new 300 mm “Flying Dustbin” weapon with a longer 3 metre barrel. The result was an improved range from 72 metres to 450 metres, and an increased projectile weight of 20 kg. Inside the Armour’s new 1:35 scale release represents a complete build in one box including resin Ardeer Aggie conversion, decals for one tank, ITA35010i improved idlers, ITA35061 Churchill basic PE. All the required AFV Club parts are supplied to make the model, and AFV Club workable late cast tracks are included too. The price is £60.

Available now from www.insidethearmour.com

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Think Tank - BRITISH WADING SHERMANS Sherman Vc CAROLE on the crossing to France. The gun mounting and muzzle are covered, the other wading gear cannot be seen

Peter Brown describes the principles and applications of converting British Sherman tanks for wading operations, plus specific examples and photos from 13th/18th Hussars.

BRITISH WADING SHERMANS A

“Wading must be a 100 percent successful operation”

lthough tanks are able to cope with shallow water such as streams, they are not suited to moving through deeper water such as wading from a landing craft to the beach. To do this, special preparation and equipment is necessary. The British method during the latter years of the Second World War was to seal any gaps where water could leak in then extend the air intakes and exhausts with large tubes made of sheet steel. This prevented the tank taking in water that could swamp the engine or drown the crew but allowed air to both as well as giving a path for the exhaust to reach above water level. After it had been prepared a tank could operate in approximately 2m of water (as the UK used Imperial measurements, this was listed as 6 feet). Although the general principle was the same for all, the method for preparing each type varied because of its design. The Churchill, for example, needed attention to the doors on the hull sides as well as the usual extensions for air intake though with its exhausts

on top of the hull it only needed simple round tubes to extend the exhaust outlets. Sets of parts for each type of tank were developed and manufactured, to aid in fitting them a series of instruction manuals were produced describing the process step by step.

WADING SHERMANS Each different type of Sherman had its own set of parts and instructions, similar in some areas but differing in the metal items used. For the radial engined Sherman I and II the method was to fit an exhaust extension at the back then cover the air intake on the hull top. All air was drawn in through the turret. Sherman III and V used tubes over the exhaust and extensions for the air intakes on the hull top. For the Sherman III, these instructions came in the form of a booklet entitled “6-ft. Wading Instructions for the Sherman III (Med. M4A2)”. Like all manuals it was updated from time to time. The second edition Chilwell Cat. No. 72/571 was introduced in March 1944 and

entirely superseded the original edition Chilwell Cat. No. 72/398. It was itself updated. My copy bought several years ago came with three duplicated typed sheets that form Amendment No 2 dealing with the Infantry Telephone, the earlier first amendment was a general one covering several types describing extra procedures for fitting the air chutes and there may have been more changes later. Copies of this 40-page booklet would have been used to prepare tanks ready for landing on or just after D Day, including those of 13th/18th Hussars. Although they used the amphibious Sherman DD tank in two of their three Squadrons, one Squadron used normal Shermans, which were Sherman III M4A2 with Sherman VC Fireflies. Fireflies would have needed their own edition, Chilwell Cat. No. 72/572 for the Sherman V (Med. M4A4) describing the relevant parts and processes, while its Sherman III-based Armoured Recovery Vehicles or ARV needed yet another edition as they had a “false turret” fitting around the large hatches as well as air intake

and exhaust extensions. Stuart III, Crusader AA, Scout Cars and softskin vehicles would also have had similar booklets specific to them. Just getting these to the Regiment alongside the parts and equipment needed to prepare the vehicles would have been a big logistical task. They also had more than 90 cars, trucks and lorries that had to be waterproofed! The process started before the equipment and booklets even arrived. The Foreword to the Wading Instructions stated that before sealing a tank must be in first class mechanical condition. AFVs were graded from Class I and II which were to be fit for active service or can be made so but within different specified mileage limits, to Class III for a vehicle in good running order or which can be made so by First Echelon repair but with mileage over Class II, through to Class VI which was beyond economical repair. The differences in mileage between Class I and II were given in ACI 735/44 in May 1944 for Shermans III and V as less than 2000km for Class I and up to 3600km for Class

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II. In addition, Sherman III had to be modified by the manufacturers or Army Workshops to conform with DME Circular No A1158 to add the various fittings for the wading “hardware”. Also its instruments should have been modified as per Department of Mechanical Engineering Workshop Bulletin No FC21 of December 1942. Once a suitable vehicle was in place it had to be cleaned. This required water and stirrup pumps, scrapers and wire brushes to remove any mud and loose paint, rags for general cleaning, petrol for cleaning oily surfaces and a special cleaner for areas which were to be sealed. There was a range of sealing materials for different purposes. These included: • Bostik C painted on and used to attach waterproof material • Bostik A.A. also painted on to seal small gaps • Bostik 692 came in tubes and was used for seams and larger cracks • Boscoprene 551 was a twopart sealing cement. It was oil resistant and used in areas where oil was likely to be present • Asbestos Compound formed the seal around hatches, described as "tenacious but easily worked" • W.D. Pressure Plastic was a red, putty-like substance used to fill larger holes by building it up in layers Jointing strips made from rubber acted as seals between the tank and the wading trunking. The various Bostik compounds came in tins, Boscoprene was in tins with the second component in a bottle, W.D. Pressure Plastic came in cartons. In addition, tins of standard Grease G.S. and others with special yellowcoloured lanolin grease and a blue anti-corrosive paint for special areas were issued. To apply the various compounds, 2.5cm and 5cm paint brushes were needed. Fabric covered larger areas such as over the gun mountings, it came prepared cut to size and was attached with Bostik C. To remove the fabric after landing, Cordtex, a flexible explosive cord, was placed underneath and initiated by electric detonators using a suitable wiring harness plugged into a socket on the dashboard. All these plus the metal hardware were supplied in a series of kits – • Kit "A" comprised the various metal chutes • Kit "B" supplied the waterproof fabric • Kit, Jointing Strips had the rubber strips, brushes, scraper, scissors, some of the Bostik,

Cordtex wiring harness and various small items like washers and grease • Kit "D" supplied the remaining Bostik, W.D. Pressure Plastic and spare fabric • Kit "E" comprised the Cordtex and associated items • Kit "F" was also available, it contained Bostik compounds and small items which might not be in the Kit, Jointing Strips These were supplied on a scale of one for each vehicle plus two per Squadron as spares. As 13th/18th Hussars' C Squadron had two Shermans and one Sherman ARV in Squadron HQ and four Troops each with three Sherman 75mm and a Sherman Vc 17pdr, they would have needed 14 sets for Sherman III and four for Sherman Vc plus a different set for the ARV. How they handled the spares is not recorded but one for each type would make sense. With vehicles, kits and manpower assembled the process of preparation could begin. This was split logically into three stages, the initial one to be carried out as the Regiment was held in its concentration area, the second while in the assembly or marshalling area i.e. immediately before going aboard the landing craft, and the final stage once they were aboard. It was stressed that "SUPERVISION IS VITAL - An officer must be detailed to supervise sealing, and to be responsible for passing all work as satisfactory". Inside the back cover was a tear-out Task Card which listed each stage with space for initials to be added when it was completed.

STAGE 1 Before starting the preparation proper, the vehicle was maintained and lubricated. Engine access plates and escape hatch were to be removed along with sandshields and dust deflectors, though it may be that the tanks did not have these. Interestingly any external stowage bins should also have been removed and passed to Unit Transport, photos show them still in place. With the vehicle prepared, contents of the wading gear kits were checked and the vehicle number painted onto air inlet and exit ducts and the air exit chute. Turret bins and exhaust deflectors if removed should also have been marked in the same way. The tank was then to be cleaned by scraping off mud and dirt, washed down with water using stirrup pumps and any oil cleaned off with petrol including the engine compartment A April 2014 - Model Military International 7

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Think Tank - BRITISH WADING SHERMANS B and around the transmission case.

After being run over an inspection pit or up onto railway sleepers to allow better access to the underside, tracks were broken and sprockets and front mudshields taken off. Lower hull sealing consisted of filling any unfilled bolt holes with W.D. Pressure Plastic, then sealing the bolts holding the idler brackets, drain holes in the sponson floors, the joint between the transmission housing and the hull with the same material. In the case of a tank with a three-piece transmission housing, the joints and bolts would be treated with Bostik A.A. The Pressure Plastic was then covered

with Bostik A.A. which was also used to seal around the bogie unit bolts and generally any other external bolts and screws and the small access plates under the hull. Escape hatch, engine access plates and the larger plugs and drain valves plus the electric horn on the glacis were sealed with Asbestos Compound and other access points using Boscoprene, all finished off with a coating of Bostik A.A. Drain holes under the rear of the sponson were sealed over with fabric patches, after which sandshields could be refitted and the tracks put back on. The next task was to attach the lower section of the air exit chute

over the exhausts. This was held in place by three brackets already installed on its lower edge, bolts under the rear hull at each side, and supported by three tie roads fixed to brackets on the hull rear. All the edges had rubber strips to seal them which were stuck in place with Bostik C, W.D. Pressure Plastic filled any remaining gaps and the final waterproofing was by painting over with Bostik A.A. That done, all the guns were maintained. The main gun had the bore and chamber oiled, then an oiled rag was used to seal the breech using a rope lanyard pulled through the barrel. Machine guns were sealed with their

usual lanyard and a smaller rag. Any tanks with the 2-inch bomb thrower in the turret roof had the the muzzle plugged with cotton waste and sealed with asbestos compound. Those with 4-inch Smoke Generator Dischargers on the turret side had muzzle covers fitted and sealed with Asbestos Compound while the working parts were coated with Grease G.S. Fitting the Cordtex and its electrical harness came next. Electrical tape and strips of fabric held these in place, care had to be taken not to get Bostik in contact with the Cordtex. Lengths of Cordtex were applied around the hull machine gun, ventilators

His Majesty King George VI (in peaked cap) inspects the Hussars in May 1944, including BALACLAVA identified by the number 10 on the turret fitted with full wading equipment and a .3” Browning machine gun on the turret hatch

Workers in British factories were able to hear a BBC radio programme called “Music While You Work”. Here soldiers work on tanks accompanied by their Regimental Band! In one of several photos taken on 30th May 1944 by Sergeant Mapham, CHARMER is seen on the left of the photo with its hull machine gun cover in place and various tins of Bostik ready for use. CONQUEST on the right has an assembled wading chute on the ground behind it, note the early-style bogie units.

Band and crew hard at work. Extra armour plates have been welded to the side of CONQUEST, the rear one has covered part of the tank’s serial number

The serial number of this tank is still visible, its name is partly obscured by the crewmen but could be CHANCELLOR. When the photo was taken the gun mounting had already had its waterproof cover fitted

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‘Europe’s Number One Model Shops’ on the hull roof and around the main gun mounting and mantlet. After stuffing the ventilators with cotton waste from the inside to protect them from blast, their fabric covers were glued in place with Bostik C. Mantlet and muzzle covers were also glued in place by painting a wide band of Bostik C, letting it almost dry and then the covers smoothed into place. Turret ring was sealed with Asbestos Compound and W.D. Pressure Plastic. With these “soft” parts in place, the air inlet duct adapter on the hull top was fitted. This bolted onto brackets already in place, small adjustments might have to be made to make sure this fitted tightly. The two ducts were then trial fitted. These were designed to angle backwards, attached by bolts at the rear edges they were held in place with rods attached to a special bracket on the turret between the radio aerial bases with a quick release mechanism using a bowden cable which entered the turret through the ventilator. The rods were tightened to keep the ducts in place. When the strain on the rods was released, they fell away and a system of linked, loose rods connecting the two ducts together pulled the air inlet duct clear. Final work on the hull was to fill any drain holes in the turret ring guard and around the spare aerial base next to the co-driver's hatch with W.D. Pressure Plastic and paint Bostik AA over all seams and bolt heads and around the sponson cover plate on the rear upper hull. Headlamps were removed and stowed inside, the mountings sealed with Asbestos Compound as well as around the driving mirror, rear lamps and the edges of the revolver port in the turret and around the smoke equipment. All this was finished off with a coat of Bostik A.A. Now all this work had been done, the vehicle was driven into water three feet deep to test that everything was properly sealed. Any leaks were to be to noted and remedied. The whole process should have taken 10 man-hours from units fitters and approximately 190 by crew members plus another 22 man hours for a 22.5km road test and the immersion test. Assuming all the five-man crew were involved and reasonable working days, preparing a tank to this stage would take four or five days! Once all was prepared, the tank was not to be driven more than 160km which should be enough to get it to the marshalling area where Stage 2 would be carried out. A

www.hannants.co.uk NEW from Bronco Models CB35069 US Light Tank M-24 ‘Chaffee’ (WWII Prod.) with Tank Crew Set £37.99

A busy scene showing several tanks including CHARMER with its crew lifting the towbars for a Porpoise onto the tank. Gun mountings are all fitted with covers and wading chutes are tied to the engine decks. Extra road wheels on the hull and spare track links on the turret were standard on 27 Armoured Brigade tanks. Note the chalked details of the landing craft on the front of the tank nearest the camera

CB35084 British/Commonwealth Bofors Gun crew set £11.99

CB35089 1:35 Bruckenleger Auf Pz.Kpfw.II ausf D1 £27.99

CB35098 1:35 British/Commonwealth AFV Crew set £11.20

CB35102 US 155mm Howitzer M114A1 (Vietnam War) £22.50

The Armoured Recovery Vehicle is also ready for wading. Items on the front on the tank include a large pulley block and a vice. The driver wears a black beret with 13th/18th Hussars cap badge while the other two men wear the “Cap, Field Service” so are probably from the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers who crewed ARVs. Exhaust adapter can be seen on the tank in the background with wading chutes tied onto its engine decks

CB35103 German Telemeter KDO Mod.40 with Sd.Anh 52 Trailer (Kommando-Gerät 40) £19.99

ZB48002 1:48 T17E2 Staghound A.A. £19.99

H.G.Hannant Ltd, Harbour Road, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR32 3LZ, England.

Open from 09.00 to 17.30 Monday to Saturday.

Driving to the Port of Embarkation on 2nd June 1944, this tank carries extra wheels and tracks as well as the long towing bars for a Porpoise. The E-shaped item on the turret side is the plate for mounting two Smoke Dischargers

Phone: 00 44 (0)1502 517444 (8 lines) 0845 130 72 48 local rate from UK phones only (NOT mobiles) Fax: 00 44 (0)1502 500521 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.hannants.co.uk To join our mailing list so you receive our free weekly email news letter please use this link: April 2014 - Model Military International 9 www.hannants.co.uk/cgi-bin/mailinglist.pl

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Think Tank - BRITISH WADING SHERMANS B Stage 2 Having arrived safely, the tank had to be topped with fuel and oil taking care not to spill any onto the Bostik sealing, and the radiator water level was checked. All filler caps were to have their threads coated with Grease G.S. before being fitted back, filler cap covers were sealed using Asbestos Compound. Cordtex was fitted over the air inlet cover, attaching it in place to the mesh on the open area with thin wire, before sealing the cover with fabric glued down with Bostik C. Small jobs like sealing around the fire extinguisher pull handles - these are on the hull top behind the turret on the left-hand side - with Asbestos Compound were also done at this point. If the tank had vizors - their spelling! - or as they are often called direct vision ports, they were also sealed. Periscopes in the hatches were also sealed, as were those in the larger pattern hoods. For transit the air ducts were removed and carried lashed across the engine decks. They were now fitted, any joints sealed with Asbestos Compound or by using strips of self-sealing material supplied in kits using a rubberised cement. Straining rods were fitted in place, tools stowed outside were to be smeared with Grease G.S. and the suspension lubricated. This work was supposed to take 33 man-hours, and once done the vehicle was not to be driven more than 30km which should have been enough to get it to its allocated landing craft. Photos of 13th/18th Hussars driving onto the craft show them at this stage, though many if not all have the turret revolver port open. They are towing their Porpoise ammunition trailers from the front towing lugs, each line of tanks would have to carefully manoeuvre over the Porpoise. Porpoises would need to be connected to the correct vehicle using the drawbars which were carried on the glacis until needed.

Stage 3 This final stage was carried out once the tank had embarked and took around eight man-hours. A final check over and the vehicle was to be sheeted over if possible though photos show them uncovered while sailing across the Channel. Clutch was to be greased and the engine turned on to warm it up. Guns were prepared for use by removing the breech plugs and pull-though, all breeches were to be cleaned and dried. Driver and co-driver hatches were prepared with Asbestos Compound around the rim of the hatch flap, they were only to be

closed just before leaving the craft. The final task was to connect the wiring harness for blowing the Cordtex. All that now remained was to drive ashore. Drivers were advised to go carefully to avoid creating a large bow-wave, beware of skipping and watch out for any drop from the ramp onto firm beach, but to keep going so as not to block the exit from the craft for vehicles behind.

Action To Be Taken Immediately On Landing As soon as the tank commander was sure this vehicle was in no more than three feet of water, he was to jettison the air ducts, which should fall away under their own weight then detonate the Cordtex to blow the fabric sections and pull the wiring harnesses back into the tank. The muzzle cover could be cleared by firing an Armour Piercing or Smoke round, not HE as a nose fuze could be set off by the cover. 2-inch bomb throwers were cleared by pushing the plug out and the cotton waste removed from the ventilators. The turret was freed by traversing it. Hand traverse was recommended rather than using the power system. Any water that had got in was to be dumped by opening one or more of the dump valves. In this state the tank was operational. As soon as possible, the final two stages were to be carried out. The first consisted of removing the rear air exit chute, lubricating the vehicle including changing the oil in the final drive and transmission casing if any water had seeped into it, and maintaining the weapons. Final task could be done at the same time, any remaining parts of the metal hardware and parts of the fabric not blown away were to be removed and the dust deflectors and stowage bins were to be refitted. Photos show that stowage bins were carried anyway, and some show the lower part of the rear duct was still in place a few days later including the classic photo of the Commanding Officer's tank BALACLAVA operating near the glider landing area near Ranville on 10 June.

During a halt, crews eat a quick meal. Exhaust adapters can be seen on the rear of most of the tanks with wading chutes tied onto the engine decks. The tank in the centre of the photo is a Firefly with its turret reversed to point at 7-o’clock. Closest to the camera is an M5 or M9 Halftrack, each Squadron had one of these

(Above) C Squadron halted on the road alongside some DUKW amphibious trucks. The label giving details of the tank’s size and weight can be seen, these were usually pasted to turrets here it is on the hull. (Below) The cameraman was standing on the turret of one tank and looking down and back along the column. Tanks and the ARV can be seen, note the exhaust stack of the tank he was standing on.

Wading Tanks of 13th/18th Hussars While the use of amphibious DD or “Duplex Drive” tanks on 6th June 1944 is well known, more tanks waded ashore than floated. Even the DD-equipped British and Canadian units only had two of their three Squadrons equipped with DD tanks, the third was a Wading Squadron using standard tanks with additional equipment to allow them

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to moved through deep water. One of the DD and Wading units was the British 13th/18th Hussars. They were part of 27 Armoured Brigade attached to 3 British Infantry Division. Commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Harrap, the Hussars supported 8 Infantry Brigade. Of the two DD Squadrons, A Squadron was commanded by Major Wormald and supported 1 South Lancashires and B Squadron under Major Rugge-Price supported 2 East Yorkshire. C Squadron waded ashore under Major Delval Cotter to support 1 Suffolks. We are lucky that many good photos of this Regiment were taken at the time by Sergeant J Mapham of the Army Film and Photographic Unit. One sequence shows them waterproofing their tanks preparing for the invasion, another covers the move to the port of embarkation, then they were recorded loading onto landing craft, still later during the journey across the English Channel and again in action in France. So far, no photos of them actually landing have come been found but there is a sequence of newsreel film. A visit to the Imperial War Museum’s Photograph Archive in London allowed me to see these original photos. Some of them are in the Archive’s online photo database http:// isl.iwmcollections.org.uk/ but there are several which are not and the visit was worthwhile as I was able the full selection. As well as being an interesting record of this important event, they show that the Regiment had tanks with several variations introduced during production, such as different gun mountings, transmission covers, the “hoods” in front of the driver and co-driver and antenna mounting on the glacis. At least one tank had the early suspension bogies with the return roller on top and others have varying styles of roadwheel, idler and sprocket can be seen as could more than one type of track. Smaller changes were also visible, springs were added to the driver and co-driver’s hatches to help them open, commander’s hatch flaps also varied with some having a rectangular pad on one flap. Over time turrets first had a pistol port on one side, then these were welded up and eventually eliminated from the casting before finally being reinstated. Along they way they had provision for a spotlight on the turret roof and a 2” bomb thrower to the front corner ahead of the loader. Many British tanks were fitted a pair of “Smoke Dischargers 4-inch No. 3” on the turret side below the

commander’s hatch, this used a blank .303” rifle cartridge to fire a smoke cannister ahead of the tank. Extra armour plates were also fitted to the hull sides and front and to the turret side to protect the gunner. Not all tanks had them, and not all the plates were fitted to every vehicle. Examining the photos closely, one tank in photo H38970 has cast driver and co-driver hoods and steel T62 tracks. Its antenna mount is not visible but H38987 and H38991 both show tanks with fabricated mountings as well as cast hoods and T62 tracks. None of these photos shows any turret markings, the two later images are of different tanks but one could be the same vehicle as in the earlier shot. The tank callsign 69 parked behind the Vc Firefly CAROLE as it waited to board the landing craft in H38994 and H38995 had cast hoods and antenna mounting, T62 tracks and possibly a three-piece transmission cover though it is not clearl from the photo. Another tank appears in the background in H38965 c/s 66 CONQUEST had direct vision ports, one-piece transmission cover, fabricated antenna mounting and T49 tracks but its suspension bogies were the early style with return roller on top. Wheels which can be seen were fabricated though the sprocket ring cannot be seen. It was not unique as another tank with early bogies appears in its own sequence of photos H38988 to H38990. This has similar features to CONQUEST. Its sprocket ring is the plain style. It has no turret number and its name CHALLENGER is chalked on, not painted. The first photo shows the crew buying milk from a passing milkwoman, possibly for a last cup of tea before they embark though one crewman is shown leaning out of the driver’s hatch giving an ice cream cornet to a little girl in H38989 while H38990 shows a cute little pussy cat no doubt expecting a saucer of milk. Who says “media spin” is a new phenomena? Photos show that the Regiment’s command tanks were also varied. The Commanding Officer’s tank BALACLAVA turret number 10 had cast hoods as can just be made out in photo negative number B5110 of it taken from above and to one side on the way to Normandy which has appeared in several books and articles, while another view of it from behind, B5345 captioned 10th June near Ranville, is also widely published. This shows the lower part of the wading gear at the rear in place but the air intake A

Several tanks await their turn to load in a bombed street in Gosport on 3rd June 1944. All have wading chutes fitted, Firefly callsign 71 CAROLE has only one while the Sherman III’s have two. Note the data label on the turret of the Firefly, as its ammunition was carried below the turret it does not have the side armour plated fitted

This appears to be callsign 11 which was a Headquarters vehicle. It is reversing into Landing Craft, Tank 610 on one of the specially-laid concrete loading areas, pulling a Porpoise using a length of chain. When the tank ahead of it is loaded, the Porpoise will be fitted to it with towing bars April 2014 - Model Military International 11

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Think Tank - BRITISH WADING SHERMANS B and exhaust stacks have been

removed. Other details such as stowage show that photo H38991 shows it from the front on the way to the embarkation area. It had the one-piece transmission cover and fabricated antenna mount with what appears to be an extra aerial fitting welded to the front, and was fitted with T62 tracks. Although the mantlet is covered, it would appear to be the narrow M34 pattern. Another photo of it is H38755, taken during an inspection by King George and senior officers a couple of weeks before D Day. It was completely fitted for wading and carried a small rectangular flag with 51 on it, but as its crew was lined up in front of the tank few details other than the driver’s hoods can be seen. Another command tank, recognisable by the aerial in place

in the hull mounting, photographed as part of a line of tanks on the way to the marshalling area for embarkation alongside a line of DUKWs had welded driver/ co-driver hoods and fabricated antenna mounting. The photo is IWM H38992 and is most likely the same tank seen reversing into a landing craft in H38998 as it has the same features and also carried a light-coloured box on the glacis. In this second photo it can be seen to have T49 tracks. This may be the tank with turret number 11, none of the photos seen of which show its number, name or serial. As it appears close to the ARV which would be with C Squadron it could be a Squadron HQ vehicle and not Regimental HQ. Tank TWELFTH NIGHT callsign 12 in IWM B10996 dated 15 October 1944 shows another variation with

More tanks loading onto LCT610. Note the amphibious jeep just entering the craft. The tank that will follow it tows a Porpoise, its towing bars are tied to the hull front

welded hoods, fabricated antenna mounting, three-piece transmission cover and T62 tracks. Whether this tank was in service around D Day has not been determined. An Armoured Recovery Vehicle appears in several photos. The Sherman ARV Mk I was converted from a standard tank by removing the turret and adding equipment to tow damaged tanks and also a simple crane to allow engines to be removed and replaced. The crew of the one attached to C Squadron must have come from Wales because in H38971 the words CYRMRU-AM-BYTH which is Welsh for “Wales For Ever” can be seen painted on the welded driver’s hood and this may be the same vehicle in the background in H39001. Plain rubber-block T51 pattern tracks can be seen in both shots. This vehicle also appears in

B5110 on the Landing Craft Tank ahead of BALACLAVA, while the sharp-eyed can see an ARV in the background of B5025. This vehicle has its false turret still in place but the wading stacks have been removed, whether the lower part of the exhaust section of the wading gear is in place cannot be determined as the Firefly call sign 75 which follows it is in the way. That tank has had all its wading hardware removed. Another item visible in the photographs is the Porpoise. This was a waterproof trailer designed to be towed behind armoured vehicles - the can be seen in use with Shermans, Centaurs and Sexton self-propelled guns - to carry extra ammunition. When loaded onto landing craft they would be underneath one tank ready to be towed by the tank in front. n

See on the right in photo H39000, COMRADE is now loaded. It has the data panel on the hull and carries an M2 .5” heavy machine gun loaded ready for use. Behind it is an ARV with its data panel on the “hood” in above the hull machine gun BALACLAVA photographed by Sgt Christie on 10th June after most of the wading gear had been removed. The Horsa gliders seen in the background had carried airborne soldiers to Normandy on D Day

Commanding Officer’s tank BALACLAVA with other tanks photographed on D Day. Note the extra radio aerial that sticks up from the hull front mounting. The ARV’s wading gear can be seen, the square structure around the opening left by the turret removal, air intake on the engine deck and exhaust chute at the rear. Equipment for recovery can be seen on and around the vehicle. Another wading tank is in front of the ARV

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KIT PREVIEW

Dragon 1:35 Smart Kit Pz.Kpfw.III (5cm) (T) Ausf G • Kit No. 6773

The latest addition to Dragon’s ever growing Panzer III family is the submersible Tauchpanzer Ausf.G. Andy King takes a look.

The one-piece lower hull.

UNDERWATER PANZER

T

he Panzer III was originally conceived in 1935 with production commencing in 1937 with the Ausf A. The tank itself served on various fronts from Poland to North Africa, but after 1942 its main role on the battlefield was taken over by the Panzer IV and the Panzer III was used more in the support of troops. It was, however, still found in small numbers in Normandy and Italy. The chassis was also used for the StuG III series of tank destroyers, the Sig 33 infantry support gun, ‘Bergepanzer’ recovery vehicles and the ArtilleriePanzerbeobachtungswagen which was an observation vehicle to

Photo-etched parts and decals.

Beautifully detailed cupola.

Full-length DS tracks are included but sadly no individual Magic Track links.

support self-propelled artillery. This particular variant of Panzer III as denoted by the ‘T’ in brackets is a Tauchpanzer Ausf. G and could be made waterproof with the addition of a kit that included canvas covers for the hull MG, main gun mantlet and cupola. There were non-return valves for the exhaust system, locking covers for the air intakes and an inflatable rubber tube for the turret ring. To help the tank and crew breathe whilst underwater a floating snorkel connected them to the outside world. The idea behind it was for the proposed amphibious invasion of Great Britain, however when that plan failed to materialise they were modified for river crossings instead during Operation Barbarossa (the invasion of Russia) with Tauchpanzers from the 18th Panzer Division successfully getting across the River Bug at Patulin during June 1941. This is the latest contribution to the family of Panzer IIIs from Dragon and as you would expect there are a lot of sprues from previous kits including the Ausf. F, J, StuG III G and even the Panzer IV, although this is mainly for the commander’s cupola. The kit includes something like over 400 parts, a fair percentage of which will be consigned to the spares box so it is not as daunting as it looks when you first open the box. There are over 20 sprues moulded in grey styrene, three in clear styrene, two small sheets of etch, an even smaller decal sheet printed by Cartograf and one-piece DS vinyl tracks. All the styrene parts are very well moulded with no flash evident but the vinyl tracks do have some visible flash and being vinyl will be

very tricky to clean up. Regarding sprue identification, be aware that you have a few doubled up due to them coming from different kits so be careful when following the instructions as part Q1 may not be the Q1 you require. No interior is included except for a gun breech and vision blocks on the inside of the turret. However, there are plenty of aftermarket sets should you wish to detail the insides. Detailing on the whole is very nicely done, particularly the fenders where the treadplate pattern on top is matched underneath. The suspension has working torsion bars, which is good for diorama work and the weld bead detail is superb. The waterproofing for the Tauchpanzer is limited to a plate for the gun mantlet and a triangular piece around the base of the turret so for other things such as the snorkel and canvas covers you will have to make from scratch or source from the aftermarket. The colour scheme is limited to overall German Grey due to the timeframe and you only have three marking options of vehicles from two units; 2./Pz.Rgt.35, 4thPz.Div., 1941 and Pz. Abt. D, 1940. Colours quoted are from the Model Master and Mr Hobby paint ranges. In conclusion, this is another welcome addition to the range of Panzer IIIs from Dragon with the only downside for me being the DS Vinyl tracks. I do wish Dragon would include Magic Tracks for those of us that prefer individual links. ■

Sealing mount for the Tauchpanzer version.

Nice treadplate texture is moulded to the top and the bottom of the track guards.

The 5cm gun.

One of the drive sprockets.

Thanks to The Hobby Company for the review sample www.hobbyco.net The turret shell. April 2014 - Model Military International 13

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Tasca 1:35 Sherman III Mid Production (w/Cast Driver’s Hood) • Kit No 35018

DELIVERED BY SEA PART ONE – CONSTRUCTION AND CONVERSION

The Editor transforms Tasca’s lovely 1:35 scale Sherman Mk.III into a deep wading tank using Resicast’s conversion. Part One covers basic construction and adding the conversion parts.

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A

The hull represents the cast hood version. Note that the driver and radio operator’s hoods do not feature The upper turret part. direct vision slots. Gorgeous weld bead detail and raised casting marks.

All that you need to produce a wading Sherman III.

Clear parts are provided for scopes and light lenses.

T

he M4A2 Sherman was the most numerous variant of the Sherman Tank produced by the US during WWII with 8,053 75mm armed variants and 2,915 76mm armed variants being produced. It was also the Sherman that served with the most number of user nations. The UK, Canada, France, Poland, New Zealand, USSR and the US Marines used them in action. The diesel powered M4A2 had many sub variants. The so-called Cast Hood version followed on from Tasca’s excellent 1:35 scale DV kits. This kit represents a midproduction vehicle and has a hull configuration likely to have been produced by either Pullman or Federal Machine & Welder.

The lower turret ring is moulded with posts for mounting the crew figures.

The foam sheet that allows the suspension units to rock after assembly.

The distinctive British Sherman rear stowage boxes.

Tasca includes a small photo-etched fret.

TM4A2 Shermans were, with the exception of the USMC and US Army stateside training, reserved for Lend Lease. The UK was a major beneficiary, taking deliveries of thousands of M4A2s. The M4A2 was the backbone of Commonwealth & Polish tank strength in the Mediterranean until replaced by the late M4A1 76 mm variants in British and South African armoured formations. It remained the principal tank in New Zealand and Polish formations in Italy until the war’s end. Two British and one Canadian Brigade were equipped with the M4A2 for the invasion of Europe. Many also landed with the French and served with the USSR.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX The kit is based on Tasca’s earlier released 1:35 scale M4A2 DV and shares the majority of parts from this kit and other Tasca Shermans, although this one is moulded in olive coloured styrene. The major differences are the new hull part, which has a late configuration mid-production glacis with the cast hoods. These

Markings are provided for two British vehicles that saw service in Normandy with 27th and 8th Armoured Brigades.

are superbly moulded and Tasca has captured the complex shape of the modified DV Hood castings exceptionally well including the correct cast numbers and foundry marks. Other differences are the tracks, which represent the T49 – three bar cleated steel track - and the new pattern British turret stowage box which was frequently seen on UK and Commonwealth M4A2s. Similar to the earlier releases, this kit offers the clear parts in the form of periscopes and lenses for the driving lights. It also includes the excellent Tasca .50 cal M2 machine gun, which has both the small and later larger ammo cans. British smoke dischargers, antenna mounts and even biscuit 7 oil tins are included although the US style jerry cans are not. Photo-etch is again offered for the light guards (also supplied as an option in plastic) along with the jig introduced in their first Sherman kit the VC Firefly. Historical background and in-box summary by Al Bowie

Engine deck and rear hull / exhaust parts are correct for the Sherman Mk.III / M4A2.

RESICAST’S SHERMAN MK.III DEEP WADING CONVERSION Resicast offers two separate Sherman Mk.III Deep Wading conversions – one for the Dragon kits and a later release for Tasca. I actually have both, but the Tasca Sherman is easier to build and marginally more accurate, so I opted for Tasca. Resicast’s Sherman Mk.III Deep Wading Conversion is made up from resin and photo-etched parts. The main resin parts are for the chunky rear stack mount, optional covered and uncovered engine deck mount for the second stack, alternative covered mantlets (early narrow and later wide), replacement gun barrel and covers for the end, covered hull machine gun plus caps for the hull vents. Additional resin parts are offered for turnbuckles and other mounting hardware. The parts are perfectly cast with just a wafer of resin waste on some. Casting blocks are pretty straightforward too. The large photo-etched fret includes the tall wading trunks, the frames and mesh. A

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Tasca 1:35 Sherman III Mid Production (w/Cast Driver’s Hood) • Kit No 35018

B GETTING UNDERWAY – RUNNING GEAR Before the conversion work begins, most of the model can be built. By far the most fiddly aspect of Tasca’s Shermans is the suspension. On the upside though, the suspension units are superbly detailed and they fit perfectly. You just need to stay organised and take your time. Tasca supplies the mid-style bogies with this straight arms for the return rollers. Tasca has cleverly designed these bogies to be fully workable. The four main suspension arms and the rockers on each unit are separate parts that may be left free to move. The really clever part is the inclusion of a spongy rubber mat, which is designed to be cut up and inserted in the top of the bogie. This will offer some resistance but still allows the suspension arms to rock (or to drop when unsprung), just like the real thing. The only tiny problem is that Tasca provides flexible vinyl tracks. The tension of these might not permit much movement of the bogies. Individual track links will be a better option if you wish to depict your Sherman in action over rough terrain, but do keep in mind that the “live” T51 track will not sag on the top run. In my case, I was planning to sit the finished Sherman on a flat surface so I did not need – nor indeed want – the suspension to be workable. Jim Wechsler backdated Tasca’s Sherman II to the T6 prototype in Issue 46 of MMI. In his article he pointed out that the early suspension arms needed a minor modification from the way the parts were moulded. In this instance, however, I simply assembled the units and glued the pieces in place to prevent movement. Before assembling the suspension units, I roughed up the tyres on the road wheels. The first step was to mount each wheel in turn on a toothpick and randomly run a small dental burr in my Dremel motor tool over the outside of the plastic part. The result was pretty extreme at this stage, but a quick once-over with a coarse sanding stick settled the effect down to a more realistic level. All the suspension parts were cut off their sprues and cleaned up with a knife and sanding stick. Take care when assembling the suspension arms and the road

Resicast offers two different Sherman III wading conversions – one for Tasca and the other specifically for the Dragon kits. This is the box for the Dragon version, but I used Item No. 35.2363 for Tasca.

wheels that the grease nipples face outward. With Steps 4 and 5 complete, these sub-assemblies were set aside to dry thoroughly overnight before returning to complete the bogies. I spent a few puzzled minutes trying to figure out why the two suspension arms would not both fit onto their locating pins inside the bogies. I finally figured out that the arms interlock in the middle, and that the right arm must be positioned first. I also glued the rockers to the main suspension arms. This locked everything into place. The first time I fitted the front cover (Part B3) to a bogie it took a few moments of fiddling, but it eventually snapped into position. A little Tamiya Extra Thin Liquid Cement along the join lines and the job was finished.

The chunky exhaust stack mount is supplied in resin. Here we can see the parts from both the Dragon and Tasca conversion sets.

Resicast offers the option of using the tall wading stacks or leaving them off (or stowing them on board). Alternative engine deck vents are supplied to permit this option.

LOWER HULL Tasca has moulded their lower hull in a multi-part flat pack. Presumably, this allows for the maximum detail to be moulded to the outside surfaces of the parts, results in less moulding marks and permits more options for different hulls. However, it does mean a bit more work for the modeller. Fortunately, it is not much more work. The instructions suggest the sequence of assembly, and it worked a treat for me. First, the nose joining strip (Part J24) was glued to the bottom of the hull, followed by the firewall (Part E5). Each of the two sidewalls was now attached to the edges of the lower hull and the firewall. The rear hull almost clips into place with impressive precision. Finally, the sponson covers (Parts E9 and E10) are glued to the top of the hull sides and to the overhang of the firewall and the rear hull. This entire step took less than a half an hour, and the fit was perfect. The one-piece nose has cast texture moulded in place but I thought it looked a bit underdone so I added more texture with Mr Surfacer 500 stippled onto the plastic. I really like Tasca’s flexible track lengths. Detail is surprisingly crisp for this medium, and there is no need for the tracks to droop as they are “live”. Tasca’s tracks A

Resicast provides both narrow and wide covered mantlets.

Smaller resin parts for the conversion.

The big photoetched fret includes the wading stacks, frames and mesh.

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The tyres were roughed up with a coarse sanding stick. This had the additional benefit of removing the circumferential raised seam line.

The drive sprockets and idler wheels are held in place with clear polythene caps.

One road wheel with its two suspension arm halves. Note that I have marked the front of the road wheel with a black marker to avoid mix-ups!

All the parts required for a single suspension unit, including three foam rectangles cut according to the instructions. Assembling the units takes a bit of fiddling. A clamp is helpful to hold the parts in place as the glue dries.

The lower hull parts fit perfectly, but you do need to take some care with alignment. The flat-pack lower hull parts – no Allen key required fortunately.

The raised panel for the exhaust on the rear hull must be removed to allow the rear wading trunk mount to fit.

This area was simply carved away with a sharp hobby knife. Marks are not awarded for neatness – the scarring will be completely covered by the resin part.

All that nice radiator detail is destined to be hidden forever too. At least we can appreciate it here.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Tasca 1:35 Sherman III Mid Production (w/Cast Driver’s Hood) • Kit No 35018

B are also fast to assemble using

standard plastic model glue. When I was building the model I planned to build a specific subject that was fitted with T49 three bar cleat tracks, but Al Bowie pointed out to me that my chosen vehicle had Direct Vision ports, while my model had the cast driver’s hood. I briefly considered the options – ignore the inaccuracy or convert the hoods to DV – but ultimately decided to change the vehicle I was depicting. Now I would build “Balaclava” Red 10, a well photographed wading Sherman Mk.III with the cast driver’s hood. The only problem was that the tracks were different – the US –style T54E1 steel chevron. Al came to the rescue here as well, as he had a set of cyber-hobby.com T54E1 DS full-length flexible tracks in his collection. He very kindly donated them for this project.

Extra casting texture was added using Mr Surfacer 500 and an old stiff brush. The putty was stippled on the surface while it was still wet.

Casting strips did not prove to be much of an obstacle. This one was sliced off with my favourite Olfa hobby knife.

Tasca supplies flexible vinyl T49 three bar cleated steel tracks in four separate lengths.

WADING CONVERSION With the lower hull and running gear finished, this is the best time to start the conversion work. First, the raised mount for the exhaust must be removed from the lower rear hull plate, Part O18. I simply carved this off with a knife, making sure that all the waste material was removed so that the A

Detail is excellent. It turned out that I did not use these on the completed model, but more on that next time.

The flexible material may be glued together using standard plastic cement. Clamps were used to hold the halves together until the glue had set.

The large opening in the engine deck will soon be covered by plastic, resin and photo-etch. The arms of the suspension units were fixed in place with a brushed application of Tamiya Extra Thin Liquid Cement after they were attached to the hull. This ensured that all twelve road wheels touched the ground.

The upper hull and one-piece cast transmission housing in place.

Full sponson covers are included. Fit is perfect.

Do as I say and not as I do! The bulge for the hull machine gun was ground away using my Dremel motor tool and a round dental burr. This would be much better done before the hull is assembled.

The result is not pretty but it will be completely covered by the resin part. The hull vents were nibbled off with sprue cutters and later cleaned up with a hobby knife.

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The major resin parts cleaned up and ready for assembly. A thick texturing medium was mixed from Tamiya’s grey tube putty and Extra Thin Liquid Cement. Make sure you use an old brush for this!

Front hull corner with some of the resin parts glued in place. I am not sure whether the forward round cover should really be there.

I drilled and pinned the join between the base of the gun barrel and the mantlet to ensure a nice strong fit, as the locating hole is quite shallow.

I was a little worried about the folding and gluing of the stacks, but they fitted together well. The completed box.

The turret box parts.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Tasca 1:35 Sherman III Mid Production (w/Cast Driver’s Hood) • Kit No 35018

B big resin stack mount would fit

flush against the plastic panel. What you should do next is prepare the upper hull parts for the conversion pieces. I didn’t realise that the kit’s hull machine gun bulge and the front hull ventilators would have to be cut down, so I ground these off after the hull had been attached to the completed lower hull. Although this worked out okay for me, it would be much safer to prepare the upper hull before it is attached to the lower hull. I used my Dremel Motor Tool with a round dental burr to remove the bulge. Once this preparation is complete, the tools and other fittings may be glued to the upper hull.

Next time, we will complete construction and paint the model.

TURRET MATTERS Additional cast texture was added to the turret before any of the detail parts were added. This time I used a heavier duty texturing medium – Tamiya grey putty (in the tube) mixed with Tamiya Extra Thin Liquid Cement. The advantage of this blend is that you can make it as thick or as thin as you like – just add more liquid cement or more putty. The disadvantage is that it stinks to high heaven, so make sure you have plenty of ventilation. Once the putty texture had been stippled with a stiff brush and allowed to dry, the various attachments were added, including the wide covered mantlet, the rear stowage box and the various sights, scopes and smoke discharger mount. ■

Next Time Next time Brett will complete construction and paint up his wading Sherman Mk.III.

By far the most fiddly aspect of Tasca’s “ Shermans is the suspension. On the upside though, the suspension units are superbly detailed and they fit perfectly...

”

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A good view of the conversion parts fitted to the turret and the front of the hull.

Modelspec Tasca 1:35 Sherman III Mid Production (w/Cast Driver’s Hood). Kit No 35018 Accessories Used:

The rear hull with the resin and photo-etched parts in place. The stacks will not be fitted until painting has been completed.

Resicast Item No. 35.2363 – Sherman Mk.III Deep Wading for Tasca Sherman III (M4A2) Cyber-hobby.com Item No. 3864 – DS Track for Sherman (T54E1) Modelkasten Item No. SK-73 – M4 T54E1 Replacement Working Track (Spare Tracks) RMG Resin Model Item No. RM021 – Copper Cables for Sherman Eureka XXL Item No. ER-3503 – Towing Cables and resin Barrels for Sherman Archer Fine Transfers Item No. AR35251 – Balaclava M4A2 Cast Hood and Cymru-Am-Byth” M4A2 ARV Bison Decals Item No. BD-35014 – WW2 British Shermans Pt. 3. Swimming and Wading Shermans Ultracast Item No. 35008 - WWII Canadian / Commonwealth Tank Crew Late 1944-45 Tools and Materials Used: Tamiya Extra Thin Liquid Cement Tamiya Putty Basic Type (tube, grey putty) Revell Contacta Cement Mr Surfacer 500 Plastic Clamps Olfa Hobby Knife Dremel Motor Tool with round dental burr Selleys Super Glue ✓ Beautifully detailed; clever engineering; excellent fit; accurate. ✗ Without modification, working suspension may be stressed by vinyl tracks. Available from Thanks to Creative Models Australia for the Tasca Sherman, Bison Decals and Accessories www.creativemodels.com.au

Rating

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KIT PREVIEW

Diopark 1:35 70’s German Made Civilian Car with IED Accessories • Kit No. DP35013

The impressive one-piece upper body

Generic and specific markings will allow a wide range of vehicles.

A MERCEDES BY ANY OTHER NAME…

Luke Pitt examines this new 1:35 scale Diopark kit of the urban terrorist’s ride of choice.

W

ell, it’s here and it’s good. I was somewhat surprised when this kit was first announced. Finally, I thought, a modern car in 1:35 scale to go with all those modern dioramas I had swimming in my head. The kit is labelled a “70’s German made civilian car” but it is, in fact, a MercedesBenz W123 four-door introduced in January, 1976. As kitted, the model depicts either a 200D or 240D model. Over two and a half million (in various body styles) were produced over the model’s production life ending in 1985. The kit is presented in a large box with nice artwork on top. In typical Diopark fashion, a wellillustrated and precise instruction booklet is included with two marking choices. The first is in

The side windows.

A photo-etched fret is included.

German Police livery of white and green; and the other in one of the standard colours of this Mercedes series of mango yellow. 122 parts over 5 sprues are included with 18 in clear and 4 in black for the tyres. A separate upper body moulding is encased in its own little box to protect it from damage. The standard of moulding on this piece is breathtaking and one instantly draws comparisons with a high end 1:24 scale Tamiya car kit. All the other parts come with virtually no visible pin marks with the clear parts being quite thin and clear. The large chassis is a single part to which the front wheel arches and firewall are added. The suspension swing arms are things of beauty and are also added together with the drive shaft to the chassis. The wheel rims have excellent detail with etched stars for the hubcaps. I would have liked the etching to include the circle for the star (as these will be difficult to paint moulded as they are) on to the hubcap. The wheel rims are nicely detailed with open holes around the outer rim. The rear axle/drive shaft is in one piece affair with the rear fuel tank and muffler finishing off the underside details. The four doors are separate as is the boot lid and front grill and bumper combination. All fit very well to the main body moulding and are a credit to the designer involved. The doors themselves have the outer skin and inner lining panel as separate parts. Separate rests and grab

handles on the inside of the doors complete the picture. The all important grill work has been captured well, in both shape and form. The separate rear panel has large clear plastic lights that attach to it. The interior includes a two part central console with a separate manual (as opposed to auto) gear lever and separate foot pedals. The main instrument panel is left hand drive which makes it ideal for German, Middle East and American dioramas. I would have like the option of a right hand drive too but, again, that is a small niggle. This assembly is nicely detailed with the air conditioning outlets and a separate two part steering wheel also included. The instrument dials are provided for, as decals and are nicely printed and clear. Intended for a diorama setting is one small sprue includes two TM-62M mines, two RPG rockets, five 155mm artillery rounds, a second generation mobile phone, plastic petrol container and a metal LPG gas bottle (which will be just ideal for a barbecue diorama). Comparisons between this and a high-end 1:24 scale auto kit are justified. It reminds me so much of these larger scale kits and in some cases exceeds what they offer. For example, how many of those larger kits have separate doors? This kit deserves every success; it is both accurate and very well done. ■

Thanks to Diopark for the sample.

The lower body part is well detailed.

Seats feature nice vinyl texture.

Impressive moulding on the distinctive front grille.

The doors are separate and may be posed open.

Wheel hubs…

… and vinyl tyres.

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Win these fantastic resin kits!

Tamiya Model Magazine International and MPM Production bring you the chance to win: MV 106 Orion V - Bundeswehr Container Load Trailer - Full resin kit 1/72 MV 107 20 Feet Cargo Container - Full resin kit 1/72 MV 115 Gas Station Container - Full resin kit 1/72 Just send your name and address on a postcard or on a sealed envelope to: TMMI 221 Kit Competition, ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK and answer this simple question:

How Many Cubic Feet in a 20 Foot Container? A) 2020, B) 908, C) 1360 This is open to all our readers worldwide. You’ve got until 30th April to enter. Competition rules Employees/volunteers working for CMK, MPM Production and associated companies and their families are not permitted to enter. The first (correct) entry drawn will win. Entries are limited to one person per household/person. The winner’s name will be published in a future edition of Tamiya Model Magazine International. All entries received must reach ADH Publishing by 30thApril when the draw takes place. Open to readers worldwide.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Meng 1:35 Char 2C French Super Heavy Tank • Kit No.TS-009

BATTLING BEHEMOTH O

ne of the more exotic subjects to appear as a kit is the new Meng Char 2C. I have been interested in French tanks for many years, and back in the 1960s, I scratch-built a Char 2C in 1:76 scale. I certainly never expected to see a 1:35 kit in plastic considering that only ten of these tanks were built. Overall, the Meng kit strongly reminded me of Tamiya kits - well engineered, simple to build, not as complex as some other recent kits.

HISTORICAL NOTES France's first heavy tank had been commissioned from the FCM (Forges et Chantiers de la Méditerranée) at its La Seyne shipyard in 1916. The FCM 1A tank weighed 40 tons, and was fitted a rapid-fire 75mm gun. It was the most modern tank built during the war, but production never took place beyond the prototype. FCM also studied a char lourd de rupture (Heavy breakthrough tank) designated the Char 2C that was

significantly longer and therefore more suitable for crossing the wide German trenches. To conduct the planned Allied offensive in 1919, the French army wanted as many as 900 heavy tanks. FCM was given a contract on February 21, 1918 to build the Char 2C even though a prototype had not even been constructed. There were hopes that as many as 300 could be built by 1919 but 60 was a more realistic estimate. In the event, the contract was slashed back to only ten Char

Steve Zaloga builds Meng’s exotic 1:35 scale Char 2C as a “What If” vehicle with battlefield improvements in front line service during 1919. 2C following the end of the war in November 1918 and these were delivered in 1921. The Char 2C was remarkable for its size and complexity and it was the most sophisticated tank to emerge from World War I. It combined the trench-crossing capability of the British rhomboid tanks with the more practical turret armament of the Renault FT. It weighed 70 metric tons, and used hybrid propulsion consisting of two war-booty 250hp Maybach

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The kit does not provide a detailed undercarriage as can be seen here by comparing the kit with original technical drawings. Fortunately, the suspension will be hidden behind skirts.

Zeppelin engines that powered electric generators which in turn supplied electricity to the a pair of electric traction motors. The Char 2C was armed with a 75mm M1897 gun in the main turret, two sponson machine guns, a front hull machine gun, and a separate machine gun turret in the rear. In 1923, one of the tanks was converted into the Char 2C bis, armed with a short 155mm howitzer instead of the usual 75mm gun. The tank was so massive that normal transport means were out of the question. Instead, the Char 2C was moved long distances by means of a special railroad system. The tank itself was attached to a pair of special transport bogies. Each company of three tanks travelled in a special railroad convoy consisting of two locomotives and 30 other railcars for the crews, supplies, and supporting vehicles. Eight Char 2C remained in service through 1940 and were mobilized with the 511e RCC in June 1940. Two of the tanks were immobile from mechanical problems, so two trains with the six remaining tanks departed their base northwest of Metz on June 12. After surviving an air attack on June 14, the two trains became trapped on June 15 between advancing German units and a section of damaged track northeast of Langres. To prevent their capture, Commandant Fournet decided to sabotage the tanks using explosive charges. As a result, these old dinosaurs never saw combat use. Curiously enough, two surplus Char 2C turrets were delivered to Tunisia for incorporation into the Mareth defense line facing Italy's Libyan colony. It is not clear whether they took part in the fighting in 1942-43 when the

British Eighth Army fought with the Afrika Korps along the Mareth line. After Germany's occupation of France in 1940, one of the Char 2C was sent back to German for display. It survived the war and was spotted in the late 1940s in East Germany. Its eventual fate is unknown. Rumors that it was shipped to the Soviet Union for inspection have never been confirmed.

antenna to isolate the antenna wires from the metal hull. I made the anti-grenade screen by soldering together some brass strip. For the screen, I used Eduard's 00-111 Mesh-Gauze rhomboid type 1 photo-etch screen. The reason I used brass for this construction was to keep the frame rigid. I have found in the past that such frames made from plastic

strip tend to warp. I made the unditching tail from sheet plastic. There is a Hubert Cance scale plan of the Char 2C with tail in the French magazine Blindes & Batailles (No. 3, MayJune 2004), which I used as a reference. I used .015 thou plastic for most of this. One minor change I made in my construction method was to punch out the rivets from A

STARTING THE MODEL The Meng kit is quite large - longer than a King Tiger or most modern tanks. I made a quick inspection of the kit before deciding how would configure my model. One issue that I noticed was the simplified suspension. The Meng kit shows the wheels attached to a large, fixed undercarriage when in fact the suspension consisted of a set of four bogies on an elaborate spring suspension with addition wheels on a fixed frame fore and aft. I was not especially interested in scratch-building the suspension, but fortunately, the suspension is completely hidden if fitting the skirts (parts E2-E4). This may pose a problem for modellers wanting to build a specific tank that had the skirts removed. After looking through my various reference books and magazines, I decided to build a Char 2C as it might have appeared in 1919 had the war lasted another year. There were a variety of experiments in 1919-1925 to add various battle improvements. One of the more prominent of these was a anti-grenade screen over the engine deck to prevent handgrenades from the damaging the cooling fans on the roof. A tail was also fitted to some of the tanks to further improve their trench crossing capability. Finally, a few tanks received an early TSF radio set that required a wooden frame

The tail was made from white Evergreen sheet plastic using some templates made in the computer.

The tail was designed to fit in the same attachment points as the railroad transport bogies.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Meng 1:35 Char 2C French Super Heavy Tank • Kit No.TS-009

B Evergreen black sheet plastic

instead of white plastic. This makes them easier to see and to apply. I used a Waldron Sub-Miniature punch & die for this. The radio frame was the simplest addition to this project. This was made out of plastic strip. I gave the plastic beams a bit of wood texture by scraping along them with a razor saw blade, followed by some coarse sandpaper. Other than these additions, I built the kit straight from the box. I found that the assembly was very easy, with excellent parts fit. The track comes as snap-together linkto-link. Aside from a little clean up, it went together very well

PAINTING AND WEATHERING The challenge in painting the Meng 2C is to select a colour scheme and weathering approach to make the model more interesting. The model is quite large, and a simple dark green paint scheme would be monotonous. A few Char 2C had simple camouflage patterns applied during their career, but I didn't think that would be the most attractive solution. The Char 2C suspension lends itself to heavy weathering on the hull side, so I decided to finish my model in this style. For earth texture, I like to use Liquitex acrylic texture gels. These are easy to apply by hand and adhere well to plastic. I prefer to use a mixture of two textures, Blended Fibers and Ceramic Stucco, which I mix together in a leftover yogurt lid. I usually apply these before the airbrushing. However, they can be mixed with acrylic paint and applied after the model is airbrushed in its basic colours. After experimenting with gaudy tank camouflage in 1917-18, the French army conducted studies that revealed that an overall dark olive green colour was more effective in shielding tanks from aerial observation. As a result, the Char 2C were delivered in the new "Vert armee" (army green). This is a very dark, very dull colour and somewhat like US World War II olive drab. I used a somewhat lighter colour since I planned to use a dark weathering glaze over it. I mixed up some Tamiya XF-81 RAF Dark Green with XF-4 Yellow Green in a roughly 6:4 ratio. One of the challenges when applying a monotone colour scheme is to somehow make it look interesting. One of the styles these days is "colour-modulation", using lighter versions of the colour on upper surfaces and darker in recesses. I personally find the results to be a bit artificial and

contrived unless done by an exceptional painter, so I generally avoid this style. My method is to try to create a natural "fractal" appearance by applying multiple variations of the base colour in an irregular fashion. After applying my first army green mixture, I then applied three more colours over the base colour, one darker than the primary coat and two lighter. I airbrushed on various squiggles and irregular patterns to break up the monotone finish. The aim is not to create a pattern, but rather to try to mimic the irregular deterioration of painted surfaces when exposed to the sun and elements. On the lower hull sides that would be covered by dirt, I started by airbrushing the recesses under the track with a dark earth colour, in this case, Tamiya Khaki Drab. I then began to apply progressive lighter colours, using my airbrush to get vertical streak effects on the hull side. The next colours were Tamiya JGSDF Brown, and Wooden Deck Tan. The final colour was the tan lightened with white, and applied selectively to some of the exposed surfaces. After the acrylic paints had dried overnight, I applied a dark weathering glaze consisting of Holbein Sepia oil paint mixed in a solution of Winsor & Newton Liquin Original as the medium and mineral spirits (white spirits) as the solvent. This type of glaze has a thicker consistency than a normal wash due to use of Liquin Original, and so it's possible to get some streaking and other effects after application by using a brush to move it around before it dries. This technique requires practice. After the glaze was dry, I did some dry-brushing to pop out detail on the green surfaces, and to add some more weathering texture on the earth-coloured sections. I used similar techniques on other parts, such as the exhaust system, but using rust brown shades. once everything was dry, I applied a few coats of Testor's Dullcote with my airbrush to get a flat finish. Some of the exposed metal parts were then given a metallic sheen with some pencil graphite ground up in a sharpener and spread using my finger.

CONCLUSION Overall, the Meng kit was a delightful model that was very easy to build due to excellent engineering. ■

This is the we have b fallen paintin

M

Meng

Con

Edua

The anti-greande screen was soldered together using brass strip and photo-etch screen. The white index card served as a template.

Pai

Tamiy drab, Testo Holbe Winds Liqui Ceram ✓ ✗

Av

Meng www.

Ra The anti-grenade screen is test fitted along with the wooden radio aerials.

The finished model before painting.

I use Liquitex acrylic texture gels to get the dirt texture on the hull side and other surfaces.

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To get a natural, "fractal" appearance, I airbrush several variations of the basic colour using fine and irregular passes with the airbrush.

This is a close-up of the finish after the weathering glaze and dry-brushing have been completed. Dry-brushing has fallen out of fashion, but is still a useful painting technique if done with subtlety. My first modelling encounter with the Char 2C was this 1:76 scratchbuilding project back in the late 1960s alongside the new Meng 1:35 example.

Modelspec Meng 1:35 Char 2C French Super Heavy Tank

Kit No.TS-009

Construction Materials Used: Eduard’s 00-111 Mesh-Gauze rhomboid type 1 photo-etch screen. Paints Used: Tamiya: XF-81 RAF Dark Green, XF-4 Yellow Green, XF-51 Khaki drab, XF-72 JGSDF Brown, XF-78 Wooden Deck tan Testor’s: Dullcote (bottle) Holbein: Sepia oil paint Windsor-Newton: Titanium White oil paint, Original Detail Liquitex acrylic texture gels: Blended Fibres (6708) and Ceramic Stucco (6408) ✓ Well detailed; simple parts breakdown; excellent fit; fast build; fascinating subject. ✗ Simplified road wheel mounts. Available from

Overall, the Meng “ kit strongly reminded

me of Tamiya kits - well engineered, simple to build, not as complex as some other recent kits...

”

Meng Model news may be found on their website www.meng-model.com

A close up of the nose of the tank after painting shows the effect of the texture gels to recreate the earth accumulations on these archaic suspensions.

Rating

A detail view of the anti-grenade screen and radio frame.

The finished model after painting.

A view of the rear of the vehicle showing the tail in place.

A detail view of the tail added to the tank.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Meng 1:35 Char 2C French Super Heavy Tank • Kit No.TS-009

This is a view of the experimental anti-grenade screens in place.

Number 97 "Normandie" was widely photographed during the 1930s during summer wargames since it was the unit command tank. The kit supplies these markings, including the traditional provincial crest of Normandy, two leopards passant on a red shield. This design is attributed to William the Conqueror, who launched the Norman conquest of England in 1066. This insignia is nicknamed "les petits chats" (the little cats) in Normandy.

A detail view of the rear of a Char 2C with the experimental wooden radio frame in the early 1920s.

Another view of the unit command tank, No. 97 Normandie, probably during the same wargame.

The Char 2C was remarkable for its size and complexity and it “ was the most sophisticated tank to emerge from World War I... ” The ten Char 2C were initially given a single digit number and name. These were later numbered in the 9x series. This is "3", later "93", Alsace.

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A dramatic view of No. 97 Normandie emerging from a stream during the summer wargames.

The two trains carrying the six operational Char 2C were stalled near Langres on the way to the front and scuttled by their crews using explosive charges. This is No. 99 Champagne, which was later sent to Germany.

A detail view of the destroyed Char 2C No. 99 showing the rear machine gun turret. The stroboscope vision cupola has been blown off its race.

Another view of No. 99 Champagne from over the engine deck showing the large cooling fans and both turret cupolas. Notice that this tank does not have the screens over the circular radiator grills.

Some of the tanks were more thoroughly destroyed than others. This is No. 98 Berry.

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INTERVIEW

Pietro Balloni from Pegaso Models by Andrew Judson

Andrew Judson (left) and Pietro Balloni, owner of Pagaso Models (right)

Andrew Judson spends some time with Pietro Balloni, owner of Pegaso Models, at his office and warehouse in Siena, Italy.

PEGASO VISIT M y family and I went on holidays to Italy during August 2013 to visit relatives and to see the sights. While we were there we saw many wonderful places, including a small hobby store in Siena, GIPI Hobbies, where an unexpected journey began. Whilst in the store, I was checking out the range of Pegaso figures, including some very well painted examples. I was talking to one of the staff members, Stefano, who informed me that one of the figures was painted by Pietro Balloni, owner, operator, and painter of Pegaso Models. He then said that he may be able to arrange a visit to the Pegaso premises. Naturally, I jumped at the opportunity. After passing me some details, including Pietro’s number, arrangements were made. A few days later, my cousin Andrea and I were on the way to Siena, a short trip away from my location in Colle. I have to admit, I was quite excited about this as figures is one of my main interests, and I have painted quite a few of the Pegaso items. Cool, I'm going to Pegaso!

One of the display bases at Pegaso’s Siena headquarters, packed full of impressive figures.

The candy shop! Stock and display cabinets.

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The initial meeting with Pietro was very pleasant. He warmly welcomed us, and took us straight in, where I was confronted with display cabinets filled with beautiful works, shelving racks stacked with stock and a work area where the magic of casting is done. Our initial conversation began with a brief history. Pietro informed me that Pegaso was established in 1993, so 2003 was the company’s 20th anniversary, being celebrated with a limited edition 75mm figure of a member of the Black Watch. Only 299 copies will be available world wide. He also went on to tell me that Pegaso prides itself in giving a high quality product to the market, not just through the figure itself, but also in its packaging and art work. There are no secrets at Pegaso. What you see is what you get – a very high quality product indeed. Pegaso also prides itself with releasing new products every month, always expanding their range in various subjects and scales. What I saw on the premises - in a nutshell, the immediate thought that came to my mind was "WOW, I'm at Pegaso!” I mentioned earlier that I was immediately confronted with display cases and shelving units. Let’s go on about that in more detail. The display cases were what really caught my eye, stacked with all those amazing box top figures painted by the worlds best painters such as Pietro Balloni, Diego Ruina, Alexandre Cortina, Alexandre Michelotti, Gianfranco Speranza, and Danilo Cartacci. I apologise to any painters left out, these were the main guys I spoke about and also looked at their amazing works. The figures on display are just incredible, the quality and detail just blew me away. To see them in picture form they are incredible, but to hold one in your hands and see it in the flesh - I was in awe. It really was a big thrill for me to see and hold all of these amazing painters works in my hands, and must say, I felt very inspired to start working on more figures when returning home. I asked Pietro what his choice of paint medium was, being oils or acrylics to

This cabinet was full of painted bases – gorgeous work here too.

Armoured, spiked and primed!

which he said that he started with acrylics but later switched to oils, and will never look back. He said that oils have a far better blending quality and better over all finish. What could I say….the proof was right there in front of me. I will say though, I'm going to stick to my acrylics out of fear of change! There was also a cabinet of painted bases that Pegaso has in its range. These also amazing, covering from Medieval, Asian, Western and generic type subjects. Painting of these was just as impressive as the figures with brilliant detail and finish. The rest of the establishment is also to a very professional standard, with two levels of neat shelving units, with all the figures stacked in scales and order, making it very easy for the staff to pick orders when required. Also in the shelves are all the boxes and labels, awaiting to be filled with a figure. Of course there is also office space for all the admin to be completed and in one corner is the area where the magic of casting is completed. There were piles of casting discs where the metal is poured to make all of the parts, some machinery, which I didn't ask about as I didn't want to intrude or over step the mark, although it would be safe to say that it is used as part of the casting process. There were also many tubs on a bench containing all of the parts that would make up a figure one packed. At this time it was the limited edition 20th anniversary figure. The setup is basic but very effective. I was most impressed. What I loved about the visit was Pietro’s warm nature and his willingness to openly talk about the company, of which he is very proud, and deservedly so. I was still thinking how lucky I was to be there. I have to admit, at the end of my visit, I didn't leave empty handed, was very lucky to be able to purchase a new 200mm figure of a Templar Standard Bearer, sculpted by Victor Konnov, and painted by Diego Ruina – a very impressive piece. At the time, this still wasn't available to the public, but is now. I was also lucky to get some old catalogs, which he signed for me - awesome. All in all, this was a fantastic experience that I won't forget. I would very much like to thank Pietro for his time and kindness in having me in his premises. ■

Pegaso Models may be viewed and purchased from their website www.pegasomodels.com

Pegaso’s new 200mm Templar Standard Bearer, sculpted by Victor Konnov, and painted by Diego Ruina.

75mm scale Black Watch Standard

Samurai bust.

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KIT PREVIEW

Italeri 1:35 Sd.Kfz. 3b Maultier with Flak 38 • Kit No.6519

Link and length tracks

Marking options.

Road wheel and drive sprockets up close.

ACHTUNG JABO! Graham Tetley checks out a 1:35 scale release from Italeri that has something old and something new.

O

ne of the most numerous trucks used by the German forces during WWII was the V3000S, which had been produced since 1941. It

Wood grain detail is finely done.

The Flak gun and ammo cans.

Detail on the mounts is thick in places.

Note the varying thickness on the side armour shields.

was equipped with a V8 engine and had rear wheel drive only. They served on all fronts and approximately 14,000 were produced as Maultier half-track vehicles, as depicted here by Italeri. Although released under the Italeri label, what we have in the box here is the ICM kit (number 35412) with Italeri’s Flak 38 added. There are 295 parts moulded in tan and 6 in clear plastic, all of which are very well moulded with no flash or moulding imperfections visible on my example. Whilst there are some seam lines and knock out marks these are easily cleaned and not in places where they will be too noticeable. The level of detail that ICM is putting in their kits now is very good and this kit is no exception. I have built a few now and they are really easy to put together. If you so wish you could build it as the normal wheeled version as all the parts are in the box, but greyed out in the instructions. A detailed engine kicks off the assembly and this is then added to the chassis. As with most ICM truck kits the chassis comes as separate parts so I recommend a straight edged ruler or similar to aid assembly. The front steering is positionable and the actual tracked section is fully detailed. Link & length track is provided and the only problem that I can see is getting those links off of the sprue without them shattering. Magic Tracks they are not! The bonnet may be assembled

with the top part removable to show off the engine and, turning to the cab, it has all the driver’s pedals and controls faithfully reproduced. The cargo bed has some fine wood grain texture on it and, to fill it, we have Italeri’s own Flak 38. The kit supplied flak gun isn’t quite up to the standard of Dragon or Tristar but, with some TLC, it will make into an adequate depiction of this gun. Construction is very straightforward but detail is either sparse or heavy in areas. Also very noticeable is that side armour sections on the armour shields, due to the moulding process, vary in thickness. You can see this in the attached photo and these parts would be ideal for etched replacements. Marking options are limited to three Wehrmacht registration plates for three vehicles from unknown units. For me, a highlight of Italeri kits is the instructions and this kit is no different, with everything being clearly drawn and uncluttered.

The tracks are nicely done...

…although it will be fun getting these off the sprue!

Suspension parts.

CONCLUSION The base ICM kit is very nice and will build into a fine model with scope for extra detailing. The Flak gun is not as fine in detail, but does nicely compliment it and fill that cavernous cargo bed. Recommended, with a thumbs up from me. ■

Dashboard detail.

Thanks to The Hobby Company for the sample www.hobbyco.net

One of the two all-plastic road wheels.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Hobby Boss 1:35 scale German Sd.Kfz. 254 Tracked Armoured Scout Car • kit no. 82491

STRANGE SCOUT

Gary Edmundson builds and modifies the recently released HobbyBoss 1:35 scale Sd.Kfz. 254 Tracked Armoured Scout Car.

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eveloped just before the outbreak of WWII by the company Saurer for the Austrian army, the fully tracked scout car designated RK-7 was incorporated into the German armed forces as the Sd.Kfz.254. About 140 units were built, and these saw service in Russia and Afrika with Panzerartillerie detachments as light armoured observation and radio vehicles. Hobby Boss’ release of this unique subject in injection moulded plastic comes as a welcome addition to the 1:35 scale AFV world, having previously been only available in resin. The Nuts & Bolts reference book on this vehicle was published back in November 1996, but has been since updated with more pictures and drawings, and was a valuable source of information loaned to me by my good friend Tom Cockle.

THE CORRECTION LIST Having seen the kit built in a few reviews and after studying photos of the vehicle, I was aware of the differences in appearance of the finished kit and the real vehicle. The following deals with some of the major areas that I thought needed some work. To me, the most notable oddity was the shape

of the armoured radiator shield. The bent sides were too small. The headlights were too small. The armoured plate below the radiator (the piece that holds the front licence plate) had a step in it before disappearing beneath the bottom. Although the large wheel hubs didn’t quite look right, there was no fix I could apply to them short

The lower hull tub and running gear parts were crisply moulded and straightforward to assemble.

of replacement with the Sovereign 2000 ones mastered by Tony Greenland. The tool clamps needed replacement. The rear lights needed to be replaced on the left and added on the right. The front section of the large radio antenna frame was missing the bend from horizontal, and the mount for the frame did not hold it high enough.

Assembling the running gear first allows the track runs to be formed around them

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Nuts from the lower hull of a DML Pz IV were shaved off to be used for the grease nipple detail on the running gear

The running gear components with the grease nipple detail added

For the “wheels down” configuration, the model had to be spaced at a height of 7.5mm above ground level and the wheel supports cemented into position

A large gap at the rear of the hull had to be filled with sheet styrene strips

The styrene was trimmed, and putty added before sanding smooth

The front plate that holds the brass air deflector was positioned slightly lower than called for so as to model the step forward of the bottom plate, as seen in the vehicle reference photos

A piece of brass tubing was warmed with a candle and held against the sheet styrene to soften it, allowing bends to be made in the replacement radiator armoured plate

The difference between the kit part and the replacement I shown, with the replacement having longer sides.

Aber photo etched tool clasps replaced the kit’s moulded ones.

CONSTRUCTION I’d never put together a Hobby Boss kit before, but was pleased at the fit of the parts beginning with the running gear. The kit provides photo-etched grease nipples for the various components; I replaced them with bolt detail shaved from the lower portion of a DML Pz.IV kit hull for a more defined appearance. Although the kit instructions show vaguely how to position all of the components for the running gear, care had to be taken to get

the steering arm (?) correctly placed for the height of the front wheels. These are positioned later in the assembly stages, and you have to guess the height at this point, and know the intended configuration of “wheels up” or “wheels down”. This build was to have the wheels in the “down” position. With all components left loose, the wheels could be positioned by raising the model to a predetermined height, and then placing the wheels (with tyres)

A correctly shaped front for the frame antenna was bent from brass rod, and the mounting posts were replaced with longer ones using styrene rod.

in position, and gluing the swingarmed wheel mounts as they sat. To do this, the rear transmission and axle assembly had to also be movable, and this was accomplished by adding a piece of wire to the front of the drive shaft, poking through a hole where it enters the hull. According to the drawings in Nuts & Bolts No.5, the road wheels (without tracks) would be positioned 7.5mm above ground level. Stacking two Squadron sanding sticks together on each side of the model provided the

Rear lights were added to the photo etched mounts, and the rear step was rebuilt with styrene card. The photo-etched one in the kit is too thin.

correct height for this. The hull does have a fairly large gap where the roof meets the rear plate. Strips of styrene were trimmed to a wedge, with the thin sides generously soaked in cement before being jammed in to fill it. After trimming off the excess when dry, Tamiya’s lacquer based putty helped smooth over the joints. The front plate that holds the curved brass air deflector was positioned slightly lower than indicated on the instruction sheet to show a forward step at the A

The kit’s wire cutters were replaced with a more detailed DML part, and the aerial mast support was built from a shortened DML Panzer IV antenna trough.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Hobby Boss 1:35 scale German Sd.Kfz. 254 Tracked Armoured Scout Car • kit no. 82491

The painting process began with a base coat of Tamiya’s XF-1 Flat Black.

To replicate the DAK colour of RAL 8020, Tamiya’s XF-59 Desert Yellow was mixed with XF-60 Dark Yellow in a ration of 2:1. This was applied to the dark base coat allowing the black to give a shadow effect.

The model was given a wash of raw umber and black oil paint to bring out the detail and create a weathered effect on the hull.

The track runs (one of which separated at one of the links) were base Powdered chalk pastels were soaked with Tamiya’s acrylic thinner and After wiping the pastels off the high points, the track runs were coated with Floquil’s Weathered Black. applied to the track runs. The mixture shown was a bit too thick and drybrushed with silver enamel mixed with some raw umber oil paint. had to be diluted quite a bit to get the right coverage.

B lower end. This is noticeable in

period reference photos. Much of the p.e. brass and other small detail on the radiator is hidden by the armoured front plate. A replacement plate was constructed from styrene sheet by using the kit example as a guide and making the sides bigger. The bends were accomplished by clamping the sheet in a p.e. tool and applying a heated brass rod before positioning

the angle. The rod had been heated with a candle being careful not to get it too hot as to melt the styrene, just soften it. The front section of the frame antenna was replaced with brass rod, bent to include a horizontal section before dropping at an angle. The mounting posts were replaced with styrene rod, increasing the height by only about 1mm. The difference, to me, is very

noticeable. I was fortunate to have a test sprue of Opel Blitz parts from DML that provided me with a couple of correctly sized headlights, replacing the too-small ones provided in the kit. These and many of the other smaller parts were left off the model until the tracks had been added to reduce breakage and loss during construction and painting stages.

The rear Notek light lacked definition, and it was replaced with a DML part. The right hand light was not provided in the kit, and was added with a DML part and a scratch built mount. Both lights were given electrical leads made with thin solder wire. The photo-etched step behind the rear double-doors of the kit was shown on the instruction sheet to be positioned upside down.

Details were painted using Vallejo acrylics. The muffler and tailpipe assembly had rust spots painted onto it before rubbing on brown and orange coloured pastel powders. Smaller items like the distance indicators and headlights were added after most of the rough handling of the painting process had been done.

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The part was replaced with one fashioned from sheet styrene (and placed correctly!). There is also a small lip located below the rear doors that was added according to reference photos. The moulded-on tool clasps were scraped off and replaced with Aber’s photo etched versions. Although these working clasps are very fiddly, they add an extra level of fine detail. The travel support for the folded down aerial mast was in actuality a thick wooden trough. The kit supplies a photo-etched metal trough, but I substituted a modified spare DML Panzer IV aerial trough to fit this model.

TRACKS The individual track links supplied with this kit require a mountain of patience to deal with. I’ve read where many modellers have started this kit and stopped at the track link step only to shelve their project in frustration. The links are tiny, and don’t really fit well together, not enough to allow a nice friction fit which would have helped the gluing and positioning steps. I trimmed and glued lengths of 10 link sections for the straight part of the runs, and made appropriate lengths for the portions of track that wrapped around the drive sprockets and rear idlers. There are 138 links per side, and this is approximately how many were used to make each track run with a gap in the gluing so that they could be painted separately and added after the vehicle was completed. Even after carefully laying out the gluesoaked runs onto the running gear, I was still unhappy with the overall look of how they appeared on the finished model. It would be nice to see some after-market tracks for this model. To paint the tracks, they were first base coated in Floquil’s Weathered Black. This paint is resilient to the acrylic washes that are applied to them afterward. Earth coloured pastels (of various brands) were next ground into a powder, mixed with Tamiya’s acrylic thinner, and then daubed onto the track runs with an old paint brush. The tracks were then wiped down with a cloth dampened with acrylic thinner to remove the pastel from the high points on the links. The tracks were drybrushed finally with Testor’s silver enamel which had been toned down with some raw umber oil paint.

PAINTING THE VEHICLE To give the model a pre-shade it was airbrushed with Tamiya’s XF-1 Flat Black, ensuring that all of the

nooks and crannies were covered. The German DAK desert camo colour of RAL 8020 was mixed up using a combination of XF-59 Desert Yellow and XF-60 Dark Yellow, and diluted with Tamiya’s thinner X-20A. It was misted onto the surface allowing the dark base coat to show through as shadow, with the colour slowly being built up in large, wider areas . By taking time to slowly add the colour, enough variance can be added to the painted surface to make it interesting. This is also an initial stage in the weathering process. The surface of the model was then given a dark oil paint wash. Working on small sections at a time, the surface was dampened with mineral spirits, and then diluted oil paint was applied to the details and crevices. If a tidemark appeared, it was blended away with a second, dry brush. By dragging the brush in a downward direction, the painted surface can be given a mottled, streaked appearance indicative of spills and precipitation. Details like the rubber on the road wheels and tools and were painted with Vallejo acrylics. Future floor acrylic was sprayed onto the model to create a glossy surface in preparation for the decal application. The markings are illustrated in the instruction guide for a DAK artillery support vehicle, but after studying photos of the vehicles in Africa, I modified the layout based on my interpretation of the references. After applying the decals using Solvaset, I airbrushed another protective

The tyres in the kit were moulded in soft rubber, and were painted Floquil’s Weathered Black, and weathered with pastel chalks like the tracks

coat of Future over them. To bring everything back to a flat finish, I applied a coat of Vallejo’s 540 Matt Medium which had been thinned down with tap water. To tone down the decals’ vivid appearance, a thinned mix of the vehicle’s RAL 8020 was airbrushed very lightly over them – just enough to take out the harsh appearance of the bright blacks and whites.

FINAL TOUCHES After adding the tracks to the vehicle, the smaller more delicate parts were added like the headlights and distance rods, along with the radio aerial post. The commander’s hatches were also attached before adding the figure. The muffler and tailpipe were weathered by adding rusty spots

with dark brown acrylic paint, then rubbing brown, black & orange pastels over them. Paint chips were added using dark grey acrylic and a fine, pointed brush. They were kept to a minimum, and concentrated around the higher traffic areas. Parts of the vehicle which would have had the paint worn off by the tracks like the drive sprocket teeth, rear idler and return rollers were all drybrushed with the “metalizer” mixture of silver enamel and raw umber oil paint.

ADDING FIGURES To add some life and perspective to the small vignette, three figures were constructed and painted. The two figures in overcoats were from the DML set 6693 DAK Panzer & Artillery Crew. They were given A

The radio aerial mast was trimmed down to a more tapered point with a sharp Xacto blade. It was then painted and mounted in its base using a mounting post, so it could be removed for transporting the model

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Hobby Boss 1:35 scale German Sd.Kfz. 254 Tracked Armoured Scout Car • kit no. 82491

dark brown. The moulded resin headband for the ‘phones was replaced with a strip of brass.

DISPLAY BASE

The model and figures were mounted on a 7x10 inch base with Aves MasterMache forming the groundwork

B resin heads from the Hornet

range. The figure peering from the commander’s hatch is a DAK figure from an old set of Cromwell Models line of which the packaging is long gone. The thought is one which allows the crew figure to have his sleeves rolled up being warm in his vehicle, with the two artillery crew sharing some refreshment in the chill of the morning Libyan air. Using Ron Volstad’s brilliant box art as a guide, I painted the figures’ uniforms in acrylics, and the faces and arms etc. in oil paints. The two DML styrene figures were sprayed Tamiya XF-1 Flat Black and then

over-sprayed with a mixture of tans and browns from the Tamiya range to give the overcoats an overall look similar to that illustrated. Vallejo’s acrylic colours were used to paint the shirt and cap of the vehicle crew member, with 70921 English Uniform mixed with 70820 Offwhite and 70824 Cam. Orange Ochre. Shadows were painted using darker paint mixes by adding dark brown, and also using washes with diluted oil paint. The commander figure’s earphones had copper wire added for the leads which were painted

Aves Mastermache is a fine papiermâché that was mixed with a bit of water and acrylic paint colour to form the groundwork on a 7” X 10” wooden plaque. Sand and small grit were pressed into the soft mix after it was spread onto the base, and it was painted with a mix of XF-2 White, XF-60 Dark Yellow, and XF-59 Desert Yellow to bring it close to a sandy desert-like colour. The groundwork was depressed where the tyres would sit, and small holes were drilled to anchor the two figures in the foreground.

CONCLUSION I’m pleased that I took the opportunity to build this unique little vehicle now that it has been released as a mainstream injection moulded kit. A decent model could be built right out of the box, and the modifications I made were an enjoyable challenge. There are enough options to the model to make it one which the modeller could easily build a second one in a different configuration and colour scheme - once someone releases a workable set of tracks! ■

Modelspec Hobby Boss 1:35 German Sd.Kfz.254 Tracked Armoured Scout Car Kit No. 82491 Accessories used: Aber 35A93 German Clasps and Clamps Tools and Materials Used: Tamiya Extra Fine Cement, Tamiya Basic Putty, Loctite 404 instant adhesive,Harder & Steenbeck Infinity CRplus Airbrush, 10mm, 18mm, 40mm Tamiya Masking Tape, 0.5mm brass rod. Paints & Finishing Products: Tamiya Acrylic paints as listed in the paint callouts. Winsor & Newton Oil Paint Series 1 554 Raw Umber, 331 Ivory Black Vallejo Acrylic paints as listed in the paint callouts Testors enamel Silver Future floor acrylic (Johnson’s Pledge) Solvaset Decal setting solution Floquil F110017 Weathered Black Mineral Spirit thinner References: Nuts & Bolts Vol.5 Saurer RK-7 (SD.KFZ.254) Encyclopedia of German Tanks of World War Two ✓ Nice detail; generally good fit. ✗ A number of inaccuracies and omissions; individual track links need lots of patience! Available from: HobbyBoss kits are available online from Creative Models Limited www.creativemodels.co.uk

Rating

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KIT PREVIEW

Bronco 1:35 Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf. F (VK 18.01) • Kit No. CB35143

Bill Wiseman examines Bronco’s 1:35 scale Panzer I Ausf. F with its distinctive large overlapping wheels.

BIG WHEELS

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eveloped during the latter part of the 1930s, the Panzer I Ausf. F was designed mainly for recon and related duties. By the time it entered the conflict it was evident that better armed and armoured vehicles would be required, so only 30 were produced and fielded. An order for a further 100 tanks was cancelled. The Panzer I Ausf. F has been released by a couple of manufacturers now, but this 1:35 scale kit from Bronco is state-ofthe-art. Nine sprues of parts (one of which contains clear parts), as well as a photo-etched fret, workable tracks and a decal sheet giving markings options for three vehicles makes up the contents of the box. The detail throughout the kit is stunning, and modellers will enjoy the fact that straight from the box this is one impressive

Clear parts for the ‘scopes.

The included photo-etched fret.

The kit decal sheet.

little model. Construction starts with the internal layout (stages 1-6), and this looks very complete according to the references such as Panzer Tracts No.1-2, Panzerkampfwagen I, Kl.Pz. Bef.Wg. to VK 18.01. Some components will benefit from painting prior to installation to make things a bit easier. The supplied ammo bags are amongst the best I’ve seen in an injected moulded kit. Be aware that some parts require nuts/bolts/rivets to be attached and these can be found on the sprues themselves. Just shave them off and add them to the kit part. Easy. There’s some question as to the way the radio mounts to the transmission, but not a lot of photo evidence to suggest exactly how this was done. That said, Bronco has done a good job here and once installed certainly looks the business. One niggle is the locator pins being a bit too long for the locator holes, which are quite shallow. You can either trim the pins, or deepen the holes using a 0.03 drill bit. That aside, there were no problems with the fit of parts, with everything locating perfectly. Careful painting and weathering will bring this area of the kit to life in a big way. Pity you can only see a limited amount due to the constraints of the side hatches. The roof plate can be left removable to show off this area if desired. Stages 7-10 deal with the running gear, starting with the installation of the torsion bars. These locate very neatly into the inside of the hull walls and allow full articulation of the road wheels. It’s wise to leave the idler swing arms (parts F 37) free to move as this will ease the fit of the tracks. They can be glued in place when you’re satisfied with the final sit. Care needs to be

taken with the assembly of the sprockets, as the locator holes need to be opened up to allow the inner and outer sprocket halves to align. A good idea here is to assemble 16 links and wrap them around the sprockets to ensure the teeth line up correctly. The tracks themselves are assembled using a jig, onto which you place the links, and then add the separate pins. With care, the tracks stay workable, and due to the length of the supplied pins are quite robust when handled. Stages 11-18 deal with the external aspects of the kit, and these are as wonderfully detailed as the insides of this model. The engine access hatches can be positioned either opened of closed, but since there’s no engine (hello aftermarket people) hatches down would be the way to go. A nice touch though just the same. The fenders are superbly rendered with detail on both sides. Take care when adding the completed fenders to the kit as they’re a bit heavy and have a tendency to droop. A solution to this is to leave the details off, and cement the fenders in place first. When this has cured the tools and other details can be added. The final stage deals with the turret, and this is as detailed as the rest of the kit. Elevation and traverse gear is present, as well as two very detailed MG 34s and their respective mounts. The only thing to note here is that the MG’s should have the armoured jackets fitted and not the perforated type provided. The finished turret is a work of art, which pretty well sums up the kit as a whole. Apart from the locator pin issue (a problem worth fixing), this is a fantastic kit, and one that will delight fans of German armour. ■

Thanks to Bronco for the sample

The hull side. The entire hull is provided as a “flat pack”.

The upper hull pieces.

Detailed interior parts are included.

Turret parts.

The individual track links with moulded-on hollow guide horns.

The track links are joined by these pins…

…using this jig.

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SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

– NUREMBERG 2014

NUREMBERG 2014 MILITARY MODEL HIGHLIGHTS Marcus Nicholls visited the recent Nuremberg Toy Fair, and brought along his camera!

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his January, more than 76,000 trade visitors from 112 countries travelled to the biggest Nuremberg Toy Fair on record. Amongst the many visitors was Marcus Nicholls, Editor of Tamiya Model Magazine International, who examined the many new and forthcoming releases and took plenty of photos. Marcus will be covering the show in depth in the next issue of Tamiya Model Magazine, but in the meantime he has kindly provided a selection of photos showing some of the items on display.

Some impressive full-sized items were on display.

On display were several built-up 1:35 scale Nashorns, due for release soon.

Sprues for the motorcycle.

Tamiya’s stand was as impressive as always.

Also announced at Nuremberg was Tamiya’s 1:48 scale 2 1/2 Ton GMC 6x6 Fuel Tanker.

Meng’s superb 1:35 scale M2A3 Bradley was built up on their stand.

More for the 1:48 faithful – a new German motorcycle and riders kit.

Meng announced a forthcoming 1:24 scale Ford F-350.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Xact Scale Models 1:35 T-80U • Kit No. XS35001

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NATURAL EVOLUTION

Vladimir Adamec is impressed with Xact Scale Models’ debut release – their 1:35 T-80U Main Battle Tank.

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hen Xact Scale Models first announced their entry to the plastic model market with a 1:35 scale T-80U, the news did not leave me particularly excited. It was only after first shots of the model appeared on the Internet that my curiosity was aroused. The ruggedness of the traditional Russian tank design combined with visual richness of the modern tank machine featuring tons of extra equipment and addons gripped my imagination, so when the model finally appeared in my local hobby shop I did not hesitate to pick one up. Of course, one question remained to be answered - how good will the first kit from Xact Scale models be? The choice of

the subject for the company’s premiere was definitely ambitious and expectations from newcomers to the market are these days rather high.

OPENING THE BOX Not even waiting to get home, I eagerly inspected the content of the box. I was not disappointed. Parts are cleanly moulded in dark grey plastic with sharp details and minimal clean-up required. Despite the extensive level of detail, the number of parts is moderate by today’s standards. Instructions in the form of the usual booklet are well laid out, easy to follow and sufficiently detailed, but during the construction phase I still found it helpful to check the reference pictures of the actual vehicle.

CUTTING THE SPRUES Construction of a vehicle as complex as the T-80U could be quite a daunting prospect. Luckily, that is not the case with this kit. Thanks to the excellent fit of the parts, construction was mostly straightforward. Some subassemblies, such as the wading equipment, were complex to the point that I found it hard to believe that everything would fit together. But to my satisfaction, fit was perfect and amount of filling required on the kit was minimal. The turret with all its add-ons and attachments is the most impressive part of the kit. Given the number of components mounted on all sides of the tank turret, innovative solution was used to achieve correct angles

for all the locating holes that need to be drilled in the turret sides. Series of indentations on the inside walls of the turret serve as the guide for drilling so that correct positioning of the attachments is easily achieved. The interior of the vehicle is very limited, with only few parts provided for the commander’s station in the turret. I decided to omit these. The gun barrel is essentially moulded in one piece and is nicely detailed, but can only be positioned at a fixed elevation angle. The hull is composed of multiple parts and individual components, such as the front armour plate and rear engine deck, have very nice and crisp details. With the exception of the road wheels, most of the

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Given that this T-80U is the first kit “from Xact Scale Models, its quality is

excellent and can easily compete with many of the other established brands on the market...

”

A plethora of add-on armour plates, ammo boxes, wading and other equipment make the turret focal point of the model. Smoke grenade dischargers were reshaped to achieve correct alignment and wiring made from fine wire was added

External fuel tanks and deep wading equipment dominate rear end of the model. Some careful cleaning is required to remove all the join lines and achieve smooth finish

lower hull will be almost invisible once you mount the side skirts, so you may want to save some modelling time to focus on the more prominent sections of the kit. During the construction phase, a small number of tricky spots were encountered that required more attention. Perhaps the most prominent was the positioning of the smoke grenade discharger on the turret sides. According to the pictures of the actual vehicle, these should be positioned in parallel pointing forward. Due to the way the kit is designed, the attachment parts for all the dischargers are the same for all the grenades. If you attach the dischargers as per the instructions, they will not be parallel, but will be spreading outwards. This can A

Xact Scale Models has realistically reproduced surface features on the main turret body. The addition of all the turret equipment was straightforward thanks to the great fit of the parts

The completed model ready for painting. Wheels and side skirts were only temporarily attached with super glue and were painted separately.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Xact Scale Models 1:35 T-80U • Kit No. XS35001

B be easily fixed by reshaping the

mounts of the grenades (parts T2) to achieve the correct positioning of all the grenades. Note that each of the four mounts on one side has to be a slightly different shape to get the correct alignment. The kit does not provide end wiring for the grenade dischargers, but this can be easily added using fine brass wire. To add them, holes need to be drilled at the end of the wiring parts provided in the kit (parts N10 and S1). Detailed instructions are provided for attachment of the front mudguards in step 16. Following these I ended up with a small gap between the photoetched and plastic parts that is not correct. To achieve correct position, locating line moulded on the plastic fender part had to be removed and photo-etched parts aligned without the gap. The tiny parts D2 and D3 to be attached to the fender mounted fuel tanks look different than they are shown in the instructions. You may want to add missing small pins that can easily be cut from styrene rod. Wiring for the front headlights is replicated by a combination of moulded-on details on the front hull plate (part C4) and additional parts to be attached on the upper hull (pars A4 and A5). When finished, there was a small gap between these two parts, which I have filled with a small disk cut from a styrene rod for more correct appearance. In step 8 of the instruction, a number of small holes are to be drilled in the fenders. Some of these are locating holes for the attachment of the tow cable eyes with locating pins. However, this method of attaching is inaccurate as the actual vehicle has different mounts for tow cables that are surprisingly not reproduced at all. I recommend not to drill these locating holes for tow cables as it gives you the option to mount the tow cables without the unsightly locating pins or leave them out altogether. Alternatively, you may wish to scratch build the tow cable mounts in more accurate way using reference photos. Tow cables provided in the kit were replaced with aftermarket version from Eureka XXL, which I have found to be more accurate and easier to work with. There are 5 ammo boxes mounted on the turret and these are each made of two parts. Unfortunately there is series of raised ribs running right across the join lines on both sides of

the ammo boxes. Due to these, I found it difficult to eliminate the join line between the two parts, so the look is less than perfect (perhaps an opportunity for aftermarket producers to offer resin alternative?). The turret mounted machine gun is very detailed, but most of the parts are tiny and careful handling is needed to avoid damaging them. I assembled and painted it separately and mounted it at the very end. The kit includes vinyl tracks, which are nicely moulded but simply not up to today's standards. I replaced them with Friul tracks, which require bit more time to assemble, but are clearly superior in detail. The tracks do not fit the sprocket wheels perfectly. I had to reduce the width of the sprocket wheel teeth with Xacto knife to get the tracks fit the sprocket wheels snugly.

PAINTING The kit was primed with Tamiya white can primer which is quick and easy to apply and it helps me to spot any missed imperfections, such as forgotten moulding lines and surface scratches. These can then be easily fixed as, unlike some other primers, Tamiya can primer can be sanded to a smooth finish. The primer was followed by pre-shading. For this I used Tamiya Black (XF-1) mixed with Tamiya NATO Green (XF-67) to have the pre-shading colour chromatically closer to the base coat. I use pre-shading on all my models. Not only it adds more depth and visual richness to the base coat layer, it enables me to focus on achieving the right intensity and opacity of the base coat instead of worrying about covering each nook and cranny with the paint. One of the things I like about the kit is that instructions provide camouflage colour mixes in Tamiya acrylics, which is my preferred brand of acrylics for airbrushing. I have tested multiple mixes for the base green colour but I liked the mix recommended in the instructions most – a mix of Tamiya NATO Green (XF-67) and Buff (XF-57). This mix is sufficiently light and thus helps to achieve better contrast and accentuate the effect after all the weathering techniques used later. To further break

The model primed with Tamiya White Primer, which is quick and easy to apply (unless it is minus 30C outside, as it is this year in Canada) and leaves a perfectly smooth finish.

A mix of Tamiya NATO Green and Flat Black were airbrushed as the first, preshading layer.

The model with a base coat mixed from NATO Green and Buff applied. Subtle highlighting was added using the same combination of colours with higher proportion of Buff mixed in.

Even with just a base coat of paint, the level of detail and visual richness of the model are apparent.

Two coats of hairspray were applied directly from the can and second camouflage colour was added. Mix of Dark Yellow and Flat White was airbrushed by hand in soft edge scheme and chipped.

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The kit’s vinyl tracks were replaced with Friul metal ones. These were treated with AK burnishing liquid. This process ensures that tracks are completely covered and no bright spots remain even when the tracks are wrapped around sprocket or idler wheels. The tracks were added only after the model was completely painted and bottom hull weathering was finished.

A wide range of AK products were used to achieve different weathering effects.

As with all my models, oil paints are indispensable for adding depth to the paintwork. Their effect is most visible on larger flat surfaces where tonal variations in colour add contrast.

I mixed at least 3 different combinations of pigments to replicate multiple layers of mud and dust. The secret is to mix some contrasting colours within each mix to avoid the pigment effects look too bland.

down uniformity of the base coat, I added few highlights using the base coat mix with higher proportion of Tamiya Buff. Both base coat and highlights were applied with paint thinned about 60-70% with Tamiya lacquer thinner. Out of the four camouflage options offered by the kit (all of which are nicely illustrated on a full colour plates), I chose the two-tone camouflage with light sand spots painted over the base green colour. My intention was to depict vehicle whose paintwork got somewhat worn out by numerous trainings and exercises. To achieve this, the base coat was followed by two coats of hairspray. Only afterwards I applied spots of the second colour - mix of Dark Yellow (XF-60) and White (XF-2). This time I used Tamiya acrylic thinner to thin the paint, as it makes the chipping using the hairspray method easier - the paint adhesion is not as strong as with lacquer thinner. I found the application of the second camouflage colour to

be the riskiest part of the painting process as I applied the soft-edge camouflage by hand trying to limit the softness of the transition between the two colours and any accidents could ruin the paint job. Light yellow paint layer was then gently chipped with a paintbrush. In this process, I have avoided flooding the surface of the model with water, as this would usually lift off too much of the paint. I rather moistened the surface progressively until the paint started to chip slowly. Chipping had to be placed at logical places where the paint would actually get worn out - either by contact with external environment or by actions of the crews - mostly edges and other exposed surfaces.

WEATHERING The first stage of weathering was the application of the wash. For this I used a pre-mixed wash for modern US vehicles from AK Interactive. The application was straightforward – the wash was

liberally applied on the surface with a large brush (make sure to shake the bottle well before application) and then the excess was lifted by a second brush (for me flat brush works best for this) moistened with AK’s enamel thinner. The secret is to have this brush only moist with the thinner. If it’s too dry, it will lift too much of the wash, if it’s wet with thinner, this will flood the surface, ruining the effect. Lifting the wash has to be done slowly and in controlled manner to achieve correct balance between soft transition and contrast. Application of the wash was repeated multiple times as I wanted to avoid darkening the vehicle too much in one step. Additional depth was added by mapping using oils – similar process to the application of the wash, but applied in localised manner using oil paints. I primarily used my favourite Burnt Umber from Winsor & Newton. I dabbed the paint in small spots on the surface and then blended them

with second brush moistened in enamel thinner. Streaking was added again using AK’s streaking grime product. Effect achieved with this colour was relatively softer, so I added few streaks using oil paints. In both cases I have used soft flat brush to blend the effect. It is important to use both downward and upward strokes of the brush and to balance the effect, so that it is stronger toward the upper edge of the skirt. The next step was addition of highlights using localised dry brushing technique. This was done with a small brush (size 1 or 0) and using oil paints. Highlights were applied separately for green surfaces with Permanent Green Light and for light yellow surfaces using Naples Yellow, both from Winsor & Newton range of oil paints. This technique, which has fallen out of favour recently, is great to bring out the shapes of all the details on the model and is particularly effective on visually rich models, such as the T-80U. A

The model with chipping, streaking and first application of pigments added. Excess pigments were removed after the first application with fine brush to achieve correct scale mud effect.

Application of pigments was done in multiple steps to achieve realistic layering effect. It is important to keep the pigment effects consistent on different parts of the vehicle.

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FEATURE ARTICLE

Xact Scale Models 1:35 T-80U • Kit No. XS35001

B

AK Fuel Stains and Engine Oil solutions were used to reproduce streaking effect on the rear fuel drum.

The number of surface details on the turret provide great opportunity to employ wide range of weathering techniques.

Stowage and ammo boxes are traditionally places were chipping techniques can be used to replicate effects of constant use.

AK washes and oil paints were used to replicate dirt and grime that would accumulate on flat top surfaces of the turret

Weathering effects on the front skirt will be most visible and care has to be taken to achieve realistic scale effect with repeated application of pigments.

Application of pigments on the side skirts was gradated vertically with heaviest layers applied along the bottom edge. Wheels were weathered separately and attached to the model only once finished. Side skirts were mounted first and weathered together with the rest of the model to achieve consistency in the final look.

Rear engine deck is ideal place for weathering using chipping and oil paints.

Deep wading equipment is very nicely detailed and dominates the rear of the turret.

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B The secret to successful use of

this technique is the choice of the highlight colour, which has to be close to the underlying paint colour, but have sufficient contrast to be just visible. Highlighting was followed with additional chipping applied in the same way, this time using dark coloured oil paints – Burnt Umber mixed with Black. In case of models of modern vehicles that are still in active service, chipping has to be done in rather restrained manner as they would likely not show so much wear and tear as WWII machines.

PIGMENTS Pigments were applied as almost the last phase of the weathering process. Application of pigments needs to be done in small steps (especially on upper surfaces of a vehicle) since due to the great adhesion of pigments to flat paint finish it is very easy to flood the model surface with pigments and “kill” the effect of all the previous weathering steps. For heavier mud and dust effects along the bottom of the vehicle and on the running gear, I moistened the surface with enamel thinner and then applied pigments by sprinkling them onto the model, without touching the surface. Once happy with the effect, pigments were fixed in place by moistening them with thinner or pigment fixer. Additional mud stains effect was added using AK’s Earth effects and Dark mud solutions. These were

gently applied by splashing them with a small size (0-1) brush. On the upper surfaces, pigments were applied in more localized manner, focusing at places where dust and dirt would accumulate naturally. To add visual richness, fuel stains were added again using AK’s products – Fuel Stains and Engine Oil. I first use Fuel Stains mix to create the glossy and darker appearance of surface, where fuel was spilled and then use the Engine oil mix to add additional contrast and depth within this glossy area. As a final step, details (tow cables, machine guns) were hand painted with Vallejo acrylics. Metallic effect was achieved by painting the parts with mix of Black Grey and Black and then rubbing the graphite and metallic pigment on the surface, followed by drybrushing Citadel’s Boltgun Metal acrylic paint. The unditching beam was painted in Vallejo Panzer Aces Old Wood acrylic and then given a heavy wash with Burnt Umber oil paint to bring out the wood grain texture. When using Vallejo acrylics for painting details, I always add a drop of Vallejo Slow Dry to the paint, so that any accidents and mistakes can be easily corrected by cleaning the paint with brush moistened with water.

TRACKS Instead of painting the tracks, these were treated with AK’s metal burnishing solution. This gave nice greyish look to the tracks, ready for the application of pigments. Covering the two track sides in separate steps, tracks were laid out on a flat surface and pigments were sprinkled on top and then fixed with pigments fixer. Again, the process was repeated to achieve richness in the final effect.

Two-tone camouflage in combination with the complexity of the actual vehicle offer great opportunity to build visually rich model.

Modelspec Xact Scale Models 1:35 T-80U

Kit No. XS35001

Accessories used:

CONCLUSION Given that this T-80U is the first kit from Xact Scale Models, its quality is excellent and can easily compete with many of the other established brands on the market. The choice of the T-80U for the first model was definitely ambitious, and Xact scale models have fulfilled these ambitions with success. In spite of all the hiccups, T-80 was one of my most enjoyable builds over recent years and I am already looking forward to see further kits form this producer. I can highly recommend this kit to any modern armour fan with some modelling experience. ■ When finished, the T-80 has truly menacing look, typical of modern Russian armour.

Friul Model tracks for T-80 (ATL-129) EUREKA XXL 1:35 Tow cables for Soviet Modern Tanks: T-72, T-80, T-90 (ER-3537) Paints and finishing products: Tamiya Fine Surface Primer Tamiya acrylics: Flat Black (XF-1); NATO Green (XF-67); Buff (XF-57); Dark Yellow (XF-60); Flat White (XF-2) Tamiya Lacquer Thinner; Tamiya Acrylic Thinner (X-20A) Winsor & Newton oil paints: Burnt Umber (076); Ivory Black (331); Naples Yellow (422); Permanent Green Light (48) AK Interactive: Enamel Wash OIF & OEF U.S. Modern vehicles (AK-121); Streaking Grime for Dark Yellow vehicles (AK-012); Engine Grime (AK-082); Fuel Stains (AK-025); Earth Effects (AK017); Dark Mud (AK-023); Dark Steel Pigment (AK-086); Odorless thinner (AK-050) Citadel Colour: Boltgun Metal Vallejo Acrylics: Black (950); Black Grey (862); Panzer Aces Old Wood (70.310); Slow Dry (597) Mig Productions pigments: various earth tones ✓ Great subject; crisp moulding; extensive & sharp details; excellent fit ✗ Tracks; tow cables; grenade dischargers; ammo boxes Available from Inside the Armour www.insidethearmour.com

Xact scale model has to be commended for entering the market with superbly designed model of quality comparable to many established brands.

Rating

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SHOWCASE

Tamiya 1:35 German Heavy Tank Destroyer Elefant • Kit No. 35325

ELEFANT SHOWCASE C hris Wauchop built Tamiya’s all new-tool 1:35 scale Elefant in May 2013 as a commission for a client. Although he was not particularly enthusiastic initially, he warmed to the project and delivered a spectacular result. Tamiya’s new 1:35 Elefant is presented on five sprues of dark yellow plastic, with a further 96 track links and lengths on four brown-coloured sprues. The hull is presented in one large piece with the floor, lower and upper sides plus sponsons all moulded integrally. Similarly, the big superstructure is moulded in one piece. The rolled armour plate

features subtle but convincing pitting – some of the best texturing that I have seen from Tamiya. Tamiya seems to have made a special effort to minimise ejector pin marks on this kit. Traditionally, the danger areas have been the insides of hatches and the back face of track links. On this kit, there are literally no moulding marks anywhere on the tracks, and those on the insides of the driver’s and radio operator’s hatches are so faint that they should not be a problem. Smaller detail parts such as handles, tow cable guides and the gun barrel travel lock are delicately moulded.

Chris Wauchop presents his Tamiya 1:35 scale Elefant.

The simple suspension units will be workable if you take care while applying cement. The wheels and drive sprockets are all held in place with polythene caps. The tracks are a highlight of the kit. They are made up from a combination of individual links and five different lengths. The lengths are moulded with curves in place – either up or down depending on their final position on the track run. Not only are the front faces of the tracks well detailed, but the edges with their track pin are very impressive too. The plastic parts are rounded out with three crew figures – a driver, a loader and the

Commander. They are all well moulded and the facial detail is particularly nice. The only multimedia in the kit is a length of string for the two tow cables. With no headlights and the only grille being virtually invisible behind a heavily undercut exhaust housing, clear and photo-etched parts are not really required. Three marking options are provided – one based in Italy and two from the Eastern Front. The instructions are well laid out over 17 steps with clear illustrations supplemented by text directions where required. The section dealing with the tracks is especially well done.

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s

Zimmerit was applied using Milliput White two-part epoxy putty and a fine electrical screwdriver.

The work was tedious but the effect was worthwhile.

The model with its base coat of Tamiya Dark Yellow.

CONSTRUCTION AND PAINTING Chris was supplied with Tamiya’s self adhesive zimmerit but he was not happy with the result it offered so he replaced it with his own, using white superfine Milliput and a small screwdriver. This was a very time-consuming job but was worth the extra effort. He also added weld beads using stretched sprue softened with liquid cement and textured with the point of a scalpel blade. Additional detail included brass and copper wire replacement hatch handles, hinge bolts cut from plastic rod, hooks for hanging the tow cables made from scrap photo-etch and a bracket to hang the sledge hammer from plastic card. With construction complete the model received a coat of dark yellow and the tracks were painted a mixture of Tamiya XF-64 Red Brown with a touch of XF-1 Flat Black. The contact points of the tracks were coloured with a Prismacolor silver pencil. The camouflage colours were sprayed quite subtly as per reference photos and a bucket from the spares box was appropriately beaten up and hung from the jack bracket. The kit’s string tow cable was replaced with copper twine. ■

A couple of spare track links were hung from the hull sides and rear. The guide horns were drilled out with a pin vise.

One of the spare track links on the side was pinned too.

All the raised detail received a very carefully applied wash of oil based black/ brown.

The spare track links (front and rear) received a very heavy dusting of pastel chalk powder.

The contact points of the tracks were coloured with a Prismacolor silver pencil.

Mini Modelspec Tamiya 1:35 German Heavy Tank Destroyer Elefant Kit No. 35325 ✓ Excellent detail; superb fit; easy build; probably Tamiya’s best link-and-length tracks to date; minimal ejector pin marks. ✗ Nothing worth mentioning. Available from Tamiya kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby Company Limited www.hobbyco.net

Rating

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SHOWCASE

Tamiya 1:35 German Heavy Tank Destroyer Elefant • Kit No. 35325

Lots of scratches were added with the aid of a very fine brush and a very sharp 6B pencil.

Additional details include brass and copper wire replacement hatch handles.

After a scramble through the spares box, and a bit of hand-painting, the numbers were successfully added to the rear superstructure.

The camouflage colours were sprayed quite subtly as per reference photos The tracks, road-wheels and generally all the lower areas were liberally coated with a mix of pastel chalk dust and turpentine.

At this point Chris realised that he had forgotten to apply the tactical number decal to the rear end.

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Figures

- A round-up of the latest figure sets on release... SWASH DESIGN

SWASH MODEL

1:35 SCALE WWII US TANK CREW ITEM ST3514 The Swash range of 1:35 scale figures are some of the best on the market today. Not only do they offer subjects that are not often covered, but they also provide the modeller and figure painter something a little different in terms of subject matter. This WWII US Tank Crew figure is cast in just four sand coloured resin pieces with very small casting blocks attached. No casting imperfections were encountered on any of the parts. In fact, this is some of the best resin casting I have seen. The sand coloured resin is an ideal choice as it brings out the detail but also provides a perfect base for painting. The facial detail is of note as the face is captured well. The main body of the figure sports a warm weather pullover with the fabric folds and creases in the uniform being rendered to a very high standard. The box top states the figure is 1:35 scale, but this gent is quite tall, almost 6 feet 2 inches when measured in scale, which was well above average for the time, so maybe, he is a tall Texan. The sculptor involved is none other that the Japanese master Hiroyuki Ishii. The general stance and lean stature of this figure really sets this one apart from the rest. This is a very impressive figure. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Swash Design for the sample www.swash-design.com Luke Pitt

1:35 SCALE ITEM NO. ST-3512 – WW2 GERMAN SS OFFICER ITEM NO. ST-3513 – WW2 US FIELD NURSE Swash Design from Japan has released a number of spectacular figures and conversions over the last few years. They have now added to their range with two quite diverse subjects. There is no shortage of 1:35 scale SS Officer figures, but the pose, sculpting and casting of this one really does set him apart from the pack. Perfectly cast in a butterscotch-coloured yellow resin, the figure is supplied in six pieces. The boots, arms and head are separate (the soft officer’s cap is cast as part of the head piece); while the body is a very impressive chunk of resinwith the legs undercut beneath the drape of the greatcoat. The body casting also features a turned up collar. The facial expression is appropriately steely, and fabric folds and drape are excellent. The second Swash figure for review today is a bit different. This is a 1:35 scale WW2 Field Nurse. The figure is broken down into eight pieces of deep yellow coloured resin. This time the head and the boots are cast as part of the body, but the arms, two bags, helmet and two water canteens are separate. Casting quality is once again perfect. The nurse wears trousers and a Mackinaw coat, and carries a medic’s bag and M1936 Musette bag. She is standing in a casual pose with her head tilted upwards, and might be used in conversation with a soldier or perhaps looking up toward a vehicle. This set thoughtfully includes a small coloured sheet with painting instructions. Both of these new releases are very impressive and feature loads of character. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Swash Design for the sample www.swash-design.com Brett Green

TORO MODEL

1:35 SCALE WINTER WAR 1939-40 SERIES ITEM NO. 35F61 – FINNISH ARMY INFANTRY OFFICER ITEM NO. 35F61 – FINNISH ARMY NCO WITH SUOMI GUN Things are pretty good for modellers of WWII Finnish Army subjects these days. Tamiya has released a specific late-war Finnish StuG III (Sturmi) and the impressive BT-42; while Hobby Boss has been busy with a whole line of T-26 tanks. Figures are a bit less common, but Toro Model is doing its bit to redress the balance with these two new 1:35 scale figures from the early Winter War period. Casting of both is very crisp and free from imperfections. A choice of headgear is offered for both figures. Both have a fur lined cap, while the Officer also has the early-style helmet, and the NCO a field cap. All the textures are excellent. The camouflage smock, jacket, gloves and trousers all look great. Personally, I think the poses are a bit lifeless. I don’t mind casual poses at all, but there is just something about these that does not quite ring true. I’m not sure that the box art does the figures full justice either. Even so, these figures will still lend an excellent sense of scale and context to a Winter War diorama or in a vignette on their own. Recommended. Thanks to Toro Model for the samples www.toro-model.com.pl Brett Green

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A round-up of the latest news and releases in 1:72 and 1:76

DRAGON ARMOR PRO

DRAGON ARMOR PRO

Dragon continues their series of Churchill kits with the Mk.IV NA 75. This variant had the original main gun replaced with surplus 75mm Sherman guns and mantlet, providing much greater firepower to deal with the later German tanks. The kit comprises one large sprue, one small sprue, upper and lower hulls, DS tracks and a small decal sheet. The quality of the moulding is very good with much use of slide moulding, particularly on the turret and hull. The complex running gear is well produced with the road wheels moulded intergral with the suspension units and should look good when constructed. The turret is nicely done with both hatches open and many small details supplied including aerial mount and commanders sighting vane. No less than four barrels are supplied but the 75mm Sherman one is the correct choice. The rest go in the spares box! The one negative point is the tow ropes moulded onto the sponson sides. These will prove difficult to replace successfully. The DS tracks are well detailed and will complement the finished model, as will the small sheet of decals providing markings for the three schemes shown on the instruction sheet. These are one for C Sqd, North Irish Horse, Italy 1944, and two unidentified units, Italy 1944. Overall, this is a good kit and should please WWII Allied modellers. With a little work will produce a fine display model. Highly Recommended. Thanks to The Hobby Company Limited for the sample www.hobbyco.net Steve Shrimpton

With this release, Dragon is maximising the use of their moulds as this is basically the same kit as the Panther Ausf D early with the instructions altered to indicate which alternative parts should be used or details cut off to produce the late model. This mostly involves the turret details such as the smoke launchers and brackets, and various pistol ports. The kit comes in the standard Dragon lid and tray box and consists of two large sprues, one smaller sprue, the lower hull, DS tracks and a small decal sheet. These new Panther kits are new toolings and bear no relation to the early Dragon Panthers, and so are much more dimensionally accurate. The moulding quality is good with fine detailing using the now standard slide moulding technique. The running gear is well produced, with detailing on both sides, and the inner road wheels are connected to ease alignment. The sprockets an idler wheels are nicely detailed and, together with the DS tracks should look very good on the finished model. The upper hull and turret also have good detailing, such as separate periscopes and driver’s vision flap but the MG slot cover is missing the shot defector and the hull hatches are moulded shut. There is no etched brass included so the engine deck screens will have to be sourced elsewhere. The hull tool racks have all the tools moulded on but they are well done and should look good with some careful painting and weathering. The exception is the fire extinguisher, which should be replaced. The spare track hangers on the hull rear are provided, but unfortunately no tracks to go on them! The turret will look good after the modifications, and the cupola has a separate hatch, although this will need some surgery to show it open. The hull schurzen plates are supplied in one-piece styrene parts and would be better replaced with aftermarket etched brass. The small decal sheet provides markings for the two schemes suggested on the instruction sheet, one for 1./Pz Reg 2, 16th Pz Div., Russia 1943, and one for 1./Pz Reg 24, France 1944. Again, with some work, this kit will build into a fine display model. Highly Recommended. Thanks to The Hobby Company Limited for the sample www.hobbyco.net Steve Shrimpton

1:72 SCALE CHURCHILL MK.IV NA 75 KIT NO. 7507

1:72 SCALE PANTHER AUSF D LATE PRODUCTION KIT NO. 7506

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DRAGON ARMOR PRO

1:72 SCALE PZ.KPFW.III AUSF J • KIT NO. 7372

Dragon has produced another variant in their small scalePanzer III series, this time an Ausf J. This kit represents a late Ausf J featuring the 5cm L60 main gun but without the spaced armour on the mantlet. The kit comes in the standard Dragon lid and tray box showing excellent artwork by Ron Volstad. Unfortunately, the kit does not contain all the added track armour shown in the illustration, and also shows the correct front superstructure plate without spaced armour, whereas the instructions tell the builder to include it. Even more confusingly, the sprue diagram shows the part not for use! The kit consists of two large sprues, two small sprues, upper and lower hulls, DS tracks, a small etched brass fret and a small decal sheet. The quality of the parts is excellent with much fine detailing, extensive use of slide moulding, and no sink marks visible. There are some styrene stubs to remove on the underside of the fenders but this is easily dealt with. As with the other Panzer III kits, this is potentially a very good kit let down by just a couple of annoying points, the worst being the engine deck. This has the armoured hatch louvres moulded flush with the hatches whereas they should have a gap all around, and the tow ropes are moulded onto the deck between the rear hatches. These would be almost impossible to remove cleanly in order to replace them with aftermarket products. The other let down is the fact that the nicely detailed separate fenders have all the tools moulded on (a common annoyance), the fire extinguisher being particularly badly represented. The turret is well detailed, with the cupola hatches openable, as are the road wheels and sprockets, lower hull and DS tracks. The small etched brass fret is a welcome inclusion, for the engine deck intake and outlet louvers. The small decal sheet provides markings for the two schemes shown on the instruction sheet, both in Panzer grey on the Russian front 1942/3. With some work this kit should produce a fine display model. Recommended. Thanks to The Hobby Company Limited for the sample www.hobbyco.net Steve Shrimpton

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Incoming

TAMIYA

1:35 SCALE M151A2 GRENADA 1983 KIT NO. 35332

It is amazing what you can find on the Internet today. Tamiya first released their MUTT kit back in 1982 and followed it up with a further two versions. In 1983 there were troubles in Grenada that resulted in US forces invading parts of the country. It is too much detail to include in this review, but if you like history I suggest having a read of the newly released (30 Year Rule) UK Government files – look for PREM19/1048 at www.nationalarchives.gov.uk Apparently the then UK Government was not consulted about the invasion of this former British dependency (the Americans kept a lot of their plans secret from HM Government) and were not best pleased that the invasion went ahead. It is a fascinating read. But I digress. In this release Tamiya gives us the original 1982 kit but based on a photo of a real vehicle. We get a new Sprue 'Y' offering the two new crew figures - a standing crewman manning the .50 cal and a seated figure with M60 - stowage, crew personal gear and some ammo cans. We also get a .50 cal gun that comes with the Dragon Wagon and GMC truck kits. Detail throughout is good - crisp, and with no flaws or imperfections. I built the older kit a few years ago and there are no surprises. A new decal sheet gives us markings for the 82nd Airborne Division vehicle that the kit is based on, even down to the nifty strips of tape used to cover the headlights! Out of the box, this makes a unique and quick build, but there are some omissions and accuracy issues. The kit's suspension and underside is very simplified and the front bumper should be channelled, not solid as Tamiya give us. Strangely, in the M151A1 kit released alongside this version, there is a correct front bumper piece plus reworked grille, but those parts are not in this kit. There are also no pedals for the driver. Although the instructions tell us to build it with the .50cal, apparently this is very rare as the recoil used to damage the chassis. It would be better to modify the old M60 mount part 27 and fix one of the newer, better, M60's to it. It is nice to see old kits have new life breathed into them and Tamiya has done just that here. It would have been nice to have seen the original kit parts modified and upgraded, and it does need some work to make it a fully accurate representation of what it is supposed to be. That said, it is a nice kit and the only one we have specific to Operation Urgent Fury. A little extra work will make it a winner. 8.5/10 are the scores on the doors from me. Recommended. Thanks to The Hobby Comnpany Limited for the sample www.hobbyco.net Graham Tetley

BRONCO

1:35 SCALE ITALIAN LIGHT STAFF CAR (OPEN TOP) WITH CREW KIT NO. CB36164

This is, of course, a Fiat 500A Topolino and the fourth rendition of this excellent little 1:35 scale kit from Bronco. In this release, we have the addition of two Italian figures in North Africa style uniforms. The figures are very well done. The facial features and uniform details are both crisp and well executed. The posing of the figures is also quite natural with the sit of both figures very appealing to my eye. I won’t go into detail about the car as it has already been reviewed three times before in this magazine, but suffice to say the moulding on the bodywork is a case study on how fine plastic injection moulding can be. Two marking choices are provided for one in Italian green and the other in sand. Overall you really can go wrong with this kit. Our thanks go out to Bronco for providing the review sample. Recommended. Thanks to Bronco for the sample www.bronco-model.com Luke Pitt

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BRONCO MODELS

SOVIET BT-7 (MODEL 1937) WORKABLE TRACK SET ITEM NO. AB3564

From time to time Bronco produces something that is a little out of the ordinary. This new track set fits the bill in my opinion. I have always liked the look of the Russian BT series of tanks. The latter ones in particular with their sloped turrets have always appealed. When Tamiya released their BT series I snapped them up. Although the tracks on these kits are good with a superb track drape, they are a tad thick in profile. This new track update from Bronco corrects the two - and let’s be honest here - minor problems with the Tamiya link and length tracks. These are the track profile thickness and the track pin recess. The set consists of 120 track links over 10 brown coloured sprues. One is reminded of the workable Modelkasten track sets. The assembly of the Bronco tracks is remarkably quick as they just need to be cut off the sprue (I would recommend you do this with a sharp blade to avoid clean up) and basically put together. An entire run was assembled in a little under 10 minutes, which is remarkable.The tracks simply click together and are quite strong when assembled. I recommend these tracks. Although the problems with the Tamiya tracks are minor, this new set from Bronco is better. When comparing the Bronco tracks with the Modelkasten set (Sk-62) to my mind the Bronco renditions are again, better, simply because the Bronco one’s go together so easily. Recommended. Thanks to Bronco for the sample www.bronco-model.com Luke Pitt

ITALERI

1:35 SCALE DODGE STAFF CAR WC56 KIT NO. 228

RIICH MODELS

1:35 SCALE US M157MM & 6PDR 7 CWT(BR) AMMUNITION SET ITEM NO. RE30009

Until recently we only had two ancient kits of the workhorse 6 pdr/ 57mm Anti-Tank gun, which both came with very crude ammunition and rudimentary storage cases. This year has seen three newly-tooled 6 pounder kits and Riich Models has not only given us a very nice new Mk. IV 6 pdr but an ammunition set to go with it. The set has four identical sprues containing a variety of rounds, crates and the internal storage tubes. This set is pretty simple and offers 4 types of ammunition and three types of ammunition crates along with the relevant markings for the ammunition and crates: • AP (Armour Piercing) (qty 8) • APCBC-T (Armour Piercing Ballistic Cap – Tracer) (qty 4) • HE (High Explosive) (qty 4) • SVDS (Super Velocity Discarding Sabot) (qty 4) • Empty Shell case (qty 4) • Fibre container (sealed) (qty 8) • Fibre Container Open w/ separate cap (qty 4) • Two round Wooden Boxes (US 57mm Ammo) • Four Round Metal (British) • Six Round Metal (British) Riich has provided excellent decals to mark the relevant ammunition and crates along with a comprehensive placement & colour guide. The ammunition storage crates a well detailed and PE is used for the fibre canister seals and case latches resulting in a very accurate replica. The set will provide ammunition for a couple of guns or towing vehicles and will enable in action dioramas of Commonwealth and US guns to be constructed. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Riich Models for the sample www.riichmodel.com Al Bowie

This kit has had many comebacks over the years and now sees the light of day again. It has been around in various guises but was originally released under the Peerless/Max label from the 1970s. Italeri has changed nothing on this kit over the years and it is showing signs of its age. Comprising 116 parts on three main sprues and one clear one containing the windscreen, moulding is generally good with a little flash in places. There are mould knock-outs in visible places so be prepared for a little filling and sanding. Detail is okay, but heavy in places, and it would benefit from some etched parts or replacements from your spares box. The instructions are delightfully clear and assembly kicks off with the one-piece chassis. Thankfully, getting this one straight and level will not be a problem as all suspension parts are solid. You have a reasonable representation of the underside but the rear steps & lights would be best replaced. There is no engine with this kit so you can build the engine compartment fully closed. Fit isn’t bad, but I would recommend sanding flat all of the joining surfaces and repeatedly test fitting. Turning to the interior, all of the driver’s pedals are moulded onto the cab floor but, other than that, it is not too bad. The seats are very ‘wooden’ with little texture, the gas cans are best replaced, and that 1970s plastic tarpaulin for the fender belongs in a museum! There is a folded full compartment roof as an optional part, but if you are not too bothered you can cover it all up in the full option provided. I have to say that this kit is not up to today’s standards and is best suited to novice or beginner modeller. Its UK retail price I have to say is expensive for what is a 40 year old kit, and for that reason those wanting more detail will pass it over for the Skybow/AFV Club newer releases at not much more cost. It will make a fun or nostalgic build, or a great gift for new armour modeller, and for those reasons gets a 6/10 from me. Recommended with Reservations. Thanks to The Hobby Company Limited for the sample www.hobbyco.net Graham Tetley

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13/02/2014 14:46

Book Reviews

A1S PANZERMANN IN AFRIKA UND ITALIEN 1942-45 PANZER REGIMENT 8 UND SCHWERE PANZER-ABT.808 FOTOGRAFIERT VON BAND 1 BY AXEL URBANKE/ HANS BECKER ISBN 978-3-941437-19-7

The book presented for review contains by far the most stunning World War II photography I have seen in quite some time. The photo on the dust cover, for instance, is so vivid. The colours in this photo will prompt many to consider a complete re-think on the German camouflauge shades. There is no doubt that the photographer responsible (Hans Becker) was a gifted individual. This book is the first in a series that will follow individual participants in World War II. The first volume focuses on Hans Becker. Attached to the headquarters staff of the 8th Panzer Regiment in Africa in 1942-43, he extensively photographed frontline operations. After he was wounded and recovering he joined the 508th Heavy Panzer Battalion in 1943. Soon afterwards, the battalion commander tasked him with “recording the battalion’s path photographically”. Hans Becker therefore, was in a unique position to photograph the Tiger unit’s actions in Italy during the 1944-45 time frames. Hans Becker’s photographs are well above average in terms of clarity and composition. His letters and diaries add a certain personal touch giving a good insight to what it must have been like all those years ago. The book begins with various photos of his early training and then rapidly progresses to his time in the Western Desert. You can almost feel the heat turning each page in this series of photographs. From a modelling perspective, I was in awe with regard to some of the photographs. There is an impressive photograph for instance, of a German Sd.Kfz.263 on page 61. Of particular note is the stowage and the subtle yet harsh way the vehicle is weathered. This would make a great modelling subject. The book is not always about ordnance; some of the photographs of the soldiers and tank crews are also wonderfully framed and provide a wealth of reference material. It is also pleasing to note that most of the vehicles (even the heavily weathered ones) show a degree of subtlety most modellers tend to ignore. The book is roughly broken into two parts, The North African section in the first half and the Italian section in the second. In the Italian section we are greeted with a two page spread of early Tiger I turrets on square concrete pedestals. The clarity of the photos is first class and this would make a great modelling subject. In fact, in this section there are so many inspirational modelling photos that it is almost impossible to count them all. I particularly like all the colour photos. They give a rare insight to firstly the colour hues themselves, then how the camouflage patterns were applie. Most (if not all) are not as intricate as I would have imagined or indeed liked from a modelling perspective. The camouflage patterns are indeed quite rough and ready. This book is 246 pages, printed on glossy, high quality art paper and has some 230 photographs. It offers a rare insight into the operation and unit histories on two entirely different terrains. All of the photographs are new to me and I believe have never been published before. It is hard to believe that a book of this quality has only now just been published. This is without a doubt an incredible reference source for the modeller and student of history. Highly Recommended. Luke Pitt

GERMANY IN UNIFORM 1934 FROM REICHSWEHR TO WEHRMACHT BY PAUL GAUJAC ISBN: 978-2-35250-281-4 HISTOIRE & COLLECTIONS

Histoire & Collections is a French publisher that boasts a large range of books on various WWII and related subjects. A good number of these have been translated into English, and “Germany in Uniform” has now joined that club. The book is 100 pages between soft covers, and is printed on satintextured high quality paper. The subject is a pictorial examination of all sorts of German uniforms during the pivotal period of transition from the Reichwehr to the Wehrmacht. Specifically, uniforms from Das Heer, Die Kriegsmarine, Die Luftwaffe, The Police, The National Socialist Party and the Red Cross during the period 1933-35 are covered. The book is logically laid out in Chapters reflecting each of the specific branches of service mentioned above. The text is supported by good quality photos, tables and artwork. The artwork has been sourced from an original 1933 German document, so don’t expect sharp digital graphics. It does give a useful contemporary view of the styles, colours and specifics of the many uniforms though. This book will be a very helpful companion for modellers interested in the pre-war and early-war period, as many of these uniforms would have carried over into 1939. Recommended. Thanks to Casemate Publishing for the sample www.casematepublishing.co.uk Brett Green

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1:48 Scale – A round-up of the latest news and releases

THOSE “WHATEVER” MOMENTS H ave you ever had these moments? I sure have. Everywhere I seem to be, whether it is on the computer, making a model or even driving, I seem to run into the same problem. It’s like apathy without the guilt. I have assumed that it is a product of age but, by the same token, I see it manifest itself in people half my age, which in itself is kind of a worry. I also see it creeping into my modelling. Years ago, I wouldn’t settle for second best. I’d travel hundreds of miles to take a few reference photos for my latest model and spend half a day trying to detail a small piece that no one other than myself would ever see. But today? Well it’s a classic case of “whatever man”. I just can’t for the life of me seem to muster the motivation to do that sort of stuff anymore. Don’t get me wrong, I admire people who can do this and genuinely applaud their efforts but, for me, it’s just so darned hard to motivate myself. The sheer avalanche of new releases has not helped either. Most kits today are streets ahead of anything that preceded them, so detailed that most require nothing but a shake of the box to get them done. Is it because we are so spoiled for choice that we greet any new release with “whatever man”? For those of you with a Facebook account you will no doubt have a list of friends. I have an account as it gives me access to a lot of really great models that you don’t normally see on traditional websites or in modelling magazines. The problem is, if you have a large number of friends (they should really change that title to something a little more descriptive, given

that most of us can only count our real friends on one hand), you tend to get caught up in all sorts whacky antics. There always seems to be something going on. Recently, a bit of a discussion (and I’m being nice here) took place. The various weathering products on the market was the topic of the day and brother, did it get heated. Reading this from the outside, I found the whole episode to be kind of funny as each side was arguing that theirs was better. Statements were made, testimonials presented and a few stories told. For me, it was a classic case of one manufacturer trying to outdo the other and I was left with the feeling of “whatever man”. It really didn’t matter to me at all. Frankly, I’d like to see a number of Icons to be included in Facebook posts, apart from the traditional “like”, to include things like “really!”, “oh come on” and of course “whatever”. All of these previous comments are in part inspired by a recent visit to a local hobby shop that has changed hands and had previous stocked all the staples all of the time. I enquired at the counter if they had a particular product I was interested in. The new owner then proceeded to tell me in no uncertain terms that the previous owner had it all wrong and he was now only ordering product on demand. He then proceeded to tell me the Internet was killing the hobby. Looking around the shelves, I found a complete lack of new product and items that we all use like glue and paint. My inner voice was saying “whatever man”. If you have no new product and the basic staples then why should I come here again? I wished him all the best but really what chance has he got? “Whatever man”.

Unit next time Luke Pitt

PLUS MODELS TORO MODELS

1:48 SCALE BARE HORSE ITEM NO. 48F59

Following on from last month’s 1:48 scale Polish Mounted Trooper, Toro Models has provided a bare horse for review. In a sense, this is a companion piece to that figure rider combination. The horse is cast as three pieces consisting of a main body and head and the other half of the body and tail. The casting on these pieces is flawless. Consulting my wife (as I do, with all things horsey), she tells me the stance is almost spot on. This little piece is a very worthwhile addition to the ever-expanding range of Toro Model 1:48 scale products. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Toro Model for the sample www.toro-model.com.pl Luke Pitt

1:48 SCALE US SCOOTER (FLIGHT OPERATIONS) KIT NO. AL4027

This new release from Plus Models is another winner. This particular scooter was mainly used Stateside during the Second World War on factory airfields and at flying boat depots. The kit comprises 14 very well detailed castings, a small decal sheet, a length of wire and a small photo-etched fret consisting of 22 parts. The detail on the resin castings is sharp and in some cases breathtaking. The very small wheels, for instance, even have a very fine tread pattern on them. The two figures are largish for 1:48 scale but are both highly detailed and well animated. I can recommend this one to our 1:48 aircraft brothers as I believe this would be the best application. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Plus Models for the review sample www.plusmodel.cz Luke Pitt

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13/02/2014 14:48

WESPE MODELS

1:48 SCALE MEILLERWAGON KIT NO. WES 48138

I have long been an admirer of this particular platform in combination with the V2 rocket. The weapon system represented the dawn of a new era. The unofficial 'Meillerwagen name was often used in documents and refers to a parts supplier for the trailer, Meiller-Kipper GmbH. The Army Research Center at Peenemunde designed the Meillerwagen, and the Gollnow & Son Company assembled the Meillerwagen from supplied components. I mentioned in my opening comments that years ago I travelled hundreds of miles to photograph a vehicle. Well folks, this is the item I was so intrigued about. When opening the largish box one is confronted with a smell - that smell of “old world” resin. I remember back in the day, all resin parts had this distinctive aroma. Consisting of some 60 reasonably well cast parts, most exhibit some sort of porosity that has been filled with what looks like red putty of some kind. I can forgive this as the large parts would have been very difficult to cast as one piece. The level of detail however is also very much “old school”. I say this, as the parts don’t have the same finesse or refined detail as most resin kits available today. Take for example the wheels. They have the correct hub detail and the tyres themselves have a generic tread pattern but overall they lack that certain something in terms of detail and finesse. The same observation could be levelled at the entire model – it is all there, but lacks that certain something to make a really detailed model straight out of the box. You know, back in the day this sort of model was what resin was all about. They provided the basic shape and you supplied the detail. In reality I’m not sure if this concept works today. However at the end of the day, the kit is a whole lot easier than scratch building a Meillerwagon and besides it is really is the only game in town in 1:48 scale. Recommended for lovers of the Meillerwagon. Thanks to Wespe Models for the sample www.wespemodels.ro Luke Pitt

CMK

1:48 SCALE TIGER I ENGINE SET ITEM NO. 8043

This relatively recent release from CMK is an absolute gem. Comprising some 30 highly detailed and very well cast pieces, it includes everything you could possibly see in a Tiger I engine compartment with the engine cover open. The engine cover itself is detailed on both sides with the distinctive bell housing being moulded as hollow. The engine sidewalls are supplied as separate pieces as are most of the sundry items that attach to the engine block. This is probably the best Tiger I engine available today and comes highly recommended. Thanks to CMK for the review sample www.cmkkits.com Luke Pitt

BRENGUN

1:48 SCALE OIL AND FUEL CAN SET • ITEM NO. BRL48055

Brengun is an offshoot of Hauler and they have released a very handy set of oil drums, jerry cans and various hand held oiling dispensers used during the mid to late 1930s. Also included are two pretty nifty straw brooms. Most of these items have been released in the Hauler range but it is nice to see them again in a different package. If you need some highly accurate clutter for the rear of your vehicle you really can go past these. Highly Recommended. Thanks to Brengun for the review sample www.brengun.cz Luke Pitt

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KIT PREVIEW

Tamiya 1:48 1.5ton Cargo Truck Model 1941 • Kit No. 32577

The Editor takes a look at the latest addition to Tamiya’s 1:48 scale Military Miniatures series – the GAZ-AA truck.

Cab parts.

ANY COLOUR YOU WANT

AS LONG AS IT’S 4BO GREEN

A

s the Ford Model T and TT became obsolete and needed to be replaced, Henry Ford began initial designs on the Model A and Model AA in 1926. The chassis layout was done rapidly and mechanical development was moved forward quickly. The designs of the Model A shared parts and materials with the Model AA Ford, notably the body, engine and interior. The AA usually received plainer interiors than their car counterparts. In May 1929 the Soviet Union signed an agreement with the Ford Motor Company. Under its terms, the Soviets agreed to purchase $13 million worth of automobiles and parts, while

Four new rider figures are supplied.

The accessory sprue adds lots of useful parts…

…including this nicely detailed Maxim gun.

Ford agreed to provide technical assistance until 1938 to construct an integrated automobilemanufacturing plant at Nizhny Novgorod. Production started on January 1, 1932, and the factory and marque was titled Nizhegorodsky Avtomobilny Zavod, or NAZ, but also displayed the “Ford” sign. GAZ’s first vehicle was the medium-priced Ford Model A, sold as the NAZ-A, and the Ford Model AA (NAZ-AA) light truck. In 1933, the factory’s name changed to Gorkovsky Avtomobilny Zavod, or GAZ, when the city was renamed after Maxim Gorky; similarly, models were renamed GAZ-A and GAZ-AA. * In 1938, the GAZ-AA was upgraded with a 50 horsepower engine and improved suspension. By 1941, with materials in short supply but the demand for transportation at a premium, a stripped down version was produced with simplified mudguards and non-essential parts such as doors, the front bumper bar and even one of the headlights were deleted. The latest in Tamiya’s growing 1:48 scale Military Miniatures series is this spartan Soviet workshorse, coyly labelled “1.5ton Cargo Truck Model 1941”. Tamiya’s 1:48 scale GAZ-AA comprises 47 parts in olive green plastic covering the vehicle and the driver, 38 more new parts in grey plastic delivering four soldiers riding in the cargo tray, a sprue of 54 parts providing weapons and accessories (previously available) in the 2006 Soviet Infantry set and two parts in clear. The sprues are everything we have come to expect from Tamiya – crisply detailed and perfectly moulded.

The one-piece chassis includes a representation of the lower engine and sump. Leaf springs and suspension are added to this, then the wheels are simply glued to the axles. The tyres are plastic – moulded with the outer face of the wheel hubs. Steering is set straight ahead. The interior is austere but mostly complete (we’re missing the pedals again though), and clear parts are supplied for the windscreen and the single headlight. A canvas tilt is provided in the raised position, but it would be easy to modify the model if you wanted to go convertible. A nicely detailed driver figure is also included, as are rolled canvas doors for the sides of the cab. The cargo area is made up from separate sides and floor. The four riders are made up from nominated parts on two identical grey sprues. These are brand new figures. A good supply of weapons and spare parts are offered on the accessory sprue. These include a Maxim M1910 machine gun, a DP light machine gun, small arms, packs and more. Decals are not supplied, which is fair enough considering most of these vehicles were rushed into service and any markings tended to be brushed-on slogans. This is another easy to build but well detailed addition to Tamiya’s 1:48 scale Military Miniatures series. The GAZ-AA was a versatile vehicle used all throughout the war, so this model will be useful for many dioramas, including crossover aircraft subjects, or will be an attractive little model if displayed on its own. Highly Recommended. ■

The tyres are moulded with the front halves of the wheel hubs.

A raised tilt is provided.

The steering and lower suspension parts.

The one-piece chassis.

Thanks to Tamiya for the sample www.tamiya.com The cargo tray is broken down into floor and sidewalls.

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Historical summary courtesy of Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Model_AA and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GAZ

13/02/2014 14:49

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11.00AM TO 5.30PM THURSDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY

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SPECIALISING IN AIRCRAFT, ARMOUR, VEHICLES & FIGURES IN 1/72, 1/48 & 1/35, VALLEJO PAINTS, MAIL ORDER

WWW.BOOKWORLDWS.CO.UK

[email protected]

1/48 website: www.parabellum.co.uk

HALIFAX MODELLERS WORLD

Tel: 01422 349157

Halifax Modellers World , 29 Union Street, Halifax, HX1 1PR

email: sales@ parabellum.co.uk

MASTERCARD/VISA

VISA/MASTERCARD/MAESTRO

HANNANTS MODEL SHOP Tel: 0208 205 6697 Fax: 01502 500521 Unit 2, Hurricane Trading Estate, Grahame Park Way, Colindale, NW9 5QW

ALL MODELS,ALL MAKES,ALL SCALES.

OPEN 10.00AM - 5.30PM, THURS & FRI OPEN UNTIL 7.00PM

OPENING HOURS: MON,TUES,THUR 10.30-17.30,WED CLOSED, FRI 10.30-17.00,SAT 9.30-17.00,SUN 10.30-16.30

NO1 IN EUROPE FOR PLASTIC KITS AND ACCESSORIES INCLUDING THE FULL RANGE OF TAMIYA (NOT RC)

www.halifaxmodellersworld.co.uk Email:[email protected]

email: [email protected]

1/2 MILE FROM RAF MUSEUM

www.hannants.co.uk

MASTERCARD/VISA/SWITCH

ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE! IF YOU ARE READING THIS THEN SO ARE THOUSANDS OF OTHERS. FOR INFORMATION, CALL COLIN SPINNER OR CLAIRE ALLEY ON 01525 222573

WEB BROWSER>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> www.hobbyco.net

creativemodels.co.uk

tamiya.com

italeri.com

revell.com

www.missing-lynx.com www.hyperscale.com p 62 Buyers Guide 096.indd 62

13/02/2014 14:54

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Contact Details - for companies featured in MMI... ACCURATE ARMOUR/ ARMOUR DISTRIBUTION

Units 15-16 Kingston Industrial Estate, Port Glasgow, Inverclyde, PA14 5DG Scotland. Tel; 01475 743 955 Fax; 01475 743746 www.accurate-armour.com

ADALBERTUS

Iberyjska 7/49, 02-764 , Warsaw,Poland [email protected] www.adalbertus.com.pl

THE AIRBRUSH COMPANY Ltd

Unit 7 Marlborough Road, Lancing Business Park, Lancing, West Sussex, BN15 8UF. Tel; 08700 660 445 www.airbrushes.com

ALCLAD II LACQUER

5 St Georges Close, Bacton, Norfolk. NR12 0LL Tel; 01962 65216 Fax; 01692 652334

ALPINE, ROYAL MODEL, ARTISAN MORI, YOSCI; SMARTMODELLING No.7 Gordons Way, Oxted, Surrey RH8 0LN. UK Tel; 01883 734746 [email protected]

AMPERSAND PUBLISHING (via Historex Agents in UK)

235 NE 6th Avenue #4 Delray Beach, Florida 33483-5543, USA Tel; 561-266 9686 Fax; 561-266-9786

ARCHER

(Historex in UK)

PO Box 1277 Youngsville, NC 27596-1277, USA www.archertransfers.co

BADGER AIR-BRUSH COMPANY 9128W Belmont Ave, Franklin Park, IL 60131 Tel; 847/678-3104 www.badgerairbrush.com email [email protected] (In the UK from www.shesto.co.uk)

BISON DECALS

Available from www.hannants.co.uk and www.pdi-model-supplies.com

DELUXE MATERIALS www.deluxematerials.co.uk [email protected] Tel; 01529 455 0340

DRAGON MODELS

(The Hobby Company in UK)

Dragon Models Ltd, Kong Nam Ind. Building B1-10F, 603-609 Castle Peak Road, Tsuen Wan NT, Hong Kong Fax; (HK) 4110587 www.dragonmodelsltd.com (For 1:6 Action Figures, please contact Amerang in UK)

ECHELON FINE DETAILS

Available from; wwwaccurate-armour.com & http://pachome1.pacific.net.sg/~kriegsketten/

FRIENDSHIP MODELS

12 Delta Drive, Musselburgh, East Lothian, EH21 8HR Tel; 0131 665 0866 Mobile; 07877166225 www.friendshipmodels.com

GREAT NORTH ROADS

9a Marcombe Road, Torquay, South Devon, TQ2 6LL Tel; 01803 400436 www.greatnorthroads.co.uk email [email protected]

HANNANTS

Harbour Road, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR32 2LZ, Tel; 01502 517444 Fax; 01502 500521 www.hannants.co.uk [email protected]

HISTOREX AGENTS

Wellington House, 157 Snargate Street, Dover, Kent, CT17 9BZ, UK Tel; 01304 206720 Fax; 01304 204528. www.historex-agents.co.uk [email protected]

HOBBYLINK JAPAN

CAMMETT

(Lifecolour, Scale Caliber)

Unit 5 Greenfield Industrial Estate, Forest Road, Hay on Wye, Powys, HR3 5FA Tel; 01497 822757 Email; [email protected] www.cammett.co.uk

CLASSIC PUBLICATIONS

Midland Counties Publications, 4 Watling Drive, Sketchley Lane Industrial Estate, Hinckley, Leics UK. LE10 1YF Tel; 01455 233 747, Fax; 01455 233 737 [email protected] www.classic-publications.com

CREATIVE MODELS LTD

(Mig Productions, Vallejo, Accurate Miniatures)

Unit 6-10, Honeysome Industrial Estate, Honeysome Road, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire. PE16 6TG Tel; 01354 760022 www.creativemodels.co.uk [email protected]

DARTMOOR MILITARY MODELS Haylis cottage, Budlake, Broadclyst Exeter, EX5 3LJ, England Tel; 01392 881271 www.dartmoormilitarymodels.com

C/ Santiago Rusinol 7, Pral 2a, 08750 Molins de Rei, Barcelona, Spain www.migproductions.com

MILICAST MODEL CO.,

9 Rannoch St., Battlefield, Glasgow G44 4DF, Scotland Tel/Fax; 0141 633 1400 [email protected] www.milicast.com

MISSION MODELS

(ETCHMATE, GRABHANDLER, MICRO CHISEL)

www.etchmate.com www.missionmodels.com Tel; 818 842 1885 Fax; 818 842 1886 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

THE ARMORY; M&MODELS

9329 S. Cicero Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453, USA http://home.earthlink.net/~mmodels/

www.airconnection.on.ca

www.ianallanpublishing.com Mail Order Dept 01455 254450 Kiev 02099, Ukraine, Borispolskaya 9 building 64. Tel/fax; (+38044) 369-54-12 [email protected] www.icm.com.ua

ITALERI

(The Hobby Company in UK)

Via Pradazzo, 6, I-40012 Calderara Di Reno, Bologna, Italy, Tel; 051 726037 www.italeri.com

JUST BASES

21 Graham Road, Paignton TQ3 1BB Tel; 01803 558520 www.just-bases.co.uk

JUST KITS

Schiffer Publishing, 4880 Lower Valley Rd, Atglen, PA, 19310 USA www.schifferbooks.com

SCHIFFER BOOKS in UK

Bushwood Books, No.6 Marksbury Avenue, Kew Gardens, Surrey TW9 4JF, UK. Tel; 020 8392 8585, 020 8392 9876, email; [email protected]

SCHUMO KITS

www.schumo-kits.com

SDV MODEL www.sdvmodel.cz

SIMPLE 2 TRADE

No 2 Hollywood Lane, Hollywood, Birmingham, B47 5PP Tel; 0121 474 3030 www.simple2trade.com

SMARTMODELLING

No.7 Gordons Way, Oxted, Surrey RH8 0LN UK Tel; 01883 734746 [email protected]

MONROE PERDU

SQUADRON

Monroe Perdu Designs, 3168 Renee Court, Simi Valley, CA 93065, USA. www.monroeperdu.com

ORDNANCE MODELS Via; www.steelmodels.com

PACIFIC COAST MODELS Tel; 001 707 538 4850 [email protected] www.pacmodels.com

PO Box 164, Heathfield, Sussex TN21 8WA, UK www.panzerwrecks.com (Creative Models in UK)

Jizni 56, 370 10 C. Budejovice, Czech Republic. [email protected] www.plusmodel.cz

POCKETBOND LTD

(Trumpeter & AFV Club in UK)

PO Box 80, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, England, AL6 0ND Tel; 01707 391509 Fax; 01707 327 466 [email protected]

PSP MODELS LTD (Mission Models in USA)

Unit 19B, Applin’s Farm, Farrington, Dorset DT11 8RA, UK Tel/Fax; 01747 811 817 www.psp-models.com

QUICKBOOST

www.quickboost.net

REVELL GmbH & Co. KG

LSA MODELS

SB MODELS

Model Design Construction, Victoria Place, Victoria Road, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3FW Fax; 01773 513344 [email protected] www.modeldesignconstruction.com

SCHIFFER BOOKS

(Swash, Tasca, Gap, Yosci, Royal Model)

4 High Street, Botley, Southampton, SO30 2EA Tel; 01489 781177 www.justkitsandmodels.co.uk

MDC

Industriestrasse 6, 94347 Ascha, Germany Fax; 09961 910 7826

Tel; 01892 533036 www.modelwholesaleuk.com

Orchard Mews, 18C High Street, Tring, Herts, HP23 5AH Tel; +44 (0) 1442 890285 www.revell.eu

(TASCA, MASTER BOX) Retail; 151 Sackville Road, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 3HD, England. Tel/Fax; 01273 705420 [email protected] www.lsamodels.co.uk

SCHATTON BARRELS

MODEL WHOLESALE UK LTD

PLUS MODEL

ICM

Via Hannants in UK

(Creative Models in UK)

HUSSAR PRODUCTIONS, CANADA

BOOKWORLD WHOLESALE

CALIBRE 35

MIG PRODUCTIONS

PANZERWRECKS

IAN ALLAN

Unit 10 Hodfar Road, Sandy Lane Ind Est Stourport, Worcs, DY13 9QB Tel; 01299 823330 Fax; 01299 829970 [email protected]

http://www3.ocn.ne.jp/~m.a.mori/index_eng.html

Sano-shi, Kurohakama-cho 162-1, Tochigi 327-0813, Japan www.hlj.com

BLAST MODELS

Via AFV Modeller or www.blast-models.com

MODELING ARTISAN MORI

UK distributor for Model Victoria and Royal Model

P.O. Box 114, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA13 0WY. Tel/Fax; 01229 430 749 [email protected] www.sbmodels.net

1115 Crowley Drive, Carrollton, TX 75006-1312 U.S.A

SWANN-MORTON

Owlerton Green, Sheffield, S6 2BJ Tel; +44 (0)114 234 4231 Fax; +44 (0)114 231 4966 General: [email protected] www.craftknives.com

TAMIYA JAPAN

Tamiya, Inc., 3-7 Ondawara Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8610 JAPAN www.tamiya.com

TAMIYA UK;

THE HOBBY COMPANY LIMITED Garforth Place, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, MK5 8PG, UK Tel; 01908 605686 Fax; 01908 605666 [email protected] www.hobbyco.net

TRUMPETER

www.trumpeter-china.com Pocketbond in the UK

VERLINDEN PRODUCTIONS (Historex in UK)

811 Lone Star Drive, O’Fallon, Missouri 63366, USA www.verlinden-productions.com

VALLEJO

(Creative Models in UK)

Acrylicos Vallejo, SL Apartado 337 - 08800 Vilanova i la Geltrú, Barcelona, Spain Tel; (34) 93 893 60 12 Fax; (34) 93 893 11 54 www.acrylicosvallejo.com

VLS CORPORATION (LSA in UK)

(TRAKZ, WINGZ, CUSTOM DIORAMICS, WARRIORS); Lincoln County Industrial Park, 1011 Industrial Court, Moscow Mills, Missouri 63362, USA www.modelmecca.com

WHITE ENSIGN

Unit 5, Cobnash Industrial Estate, HR6 9RW Tel; 0844 415 0914 [email protected] www.whiteensignmodels.com

WWII PRODUCTIONS, AUSTRALIA

PO Box 794, Cheltenham GL52 3ZW, UK [email protected]

12 Prince Street, Waratah, 2298, NSW, Australia Tel; +61 (0)2 4967 3205 Fax; +61 (0)2 4967 3207 [email protected]

SBX MODEL SHOP

ZVEZDA

SBLC

Norwich Road, Ipswich. IP1 5DN Tel; 01473 464311 www.sbxmodelshop.co.uk

(The Hobby Company in UK)

Promishlennaia Str.,2, Lobnya, Moscow Region, 141730 Russia [email protected] www.zvezda.org.ru

■ Please mention ‘Model Military International’ if you make contact with any of the companies listed above - thanks! 64 Model Military International - April 2014

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Next Issue On sale 3rd April 2014 ZIS-30 CONVERSION

Steve Zaloga converts Mirror Models’ 1:35 Komsomolets Tractor into a ZiS-30.

ISSUE No.96 April 2014, Published March 6th 2014 Editor;

Brett Green

Group Editor;

Marcus Nicholls

Publisher;

Alan Harman

Graphic Design;

Alex Hall

Advertising Manager;

Colin Spinner

Advertising Sales;

Claire Alley Mark Peacock

Advertising Assistant;

Joe Brown

Office Manager;

Paula Gray

Administration Manager; Hannah McLaurie

SCANNING THE RED SKY

MMI Website;

ADH Web Team

Printed by; Symbian Print Intelligence, Hertfordshire, UK

Brett Green converts Tamiya’s brand new 1:48 scale GAZ-AA truck into an Anti-Aircraft vehicle; and Bruce Culver presents a Think Tank reference piece on Soviet wartime GAZ trucks.

Distributed by; Seymour Distribution 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT Tel; 020 7429 4000 Newstrade; Select Publisher Services 3 East Avenue, Bournemouth, BH3 7BW Tel; 01202 586848 Email; [email protected]

THE HUNTER HUNTED

Model Military International is published on the first Thursday of each month by; ADH Publishing, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX UK www.modelmilitary.com Tel; +44 (0)1525 222573 Fax; +44 (0)1525 222574

Steve Shrimpton creates a wrecked Nashorn in 1:72 scale.

Editorial enquiries; Email; [email protected] Advertising enquiries; Tel; +44 (0)1525 222573 Email; [email protected]

PANHARD EBR

Jose Brito presents his 1:35 scale HobbyBoss Panhard EBR in Angola with the Portuguese Army in the 1960s.

Reproduction in part of any text, photograph, or illustration without written consent from the publisher is strictly prohibited. While due care is taken to ensure the contents of Model Military International is accurate, the publishers and printers can not accept responsibility for errors and omissions. Advertisements are accepted for publication in Model Military International only on ADH Publishing’s standard terms of acceptance of advertising, copies of which are available from the advertising department. Please write to the address above. All advertising, circulation and subscription enquiries should also be directed to the UK address above. Subscription rates are; 1 year (12 issues); £44 UK £56 Europe £69 Worldwide (Airmail) Binders; £8.50 plus postage (UK £2.45, Euro £4.45, World £6.45) For all orders, please call; (UK) +44(0)1525 222573 or visit www.modelmilitary.com Back Issues; Back Issues are available at the current cover price. See the latest back issues advert or visit www.modelmilitary.com The paper used in this magazine is manufactured at the Leipa Georg Mill and is 100% recycled using de-inked pulp. The mill conforms fully with the requirements of both FSC and PEFC and carries the full accreditations for their environmental policies.

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April 2014 - Model Military International 65

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The Last Post..

MENG’S MIGHTY BRADLEY

The basic upper hull shell.

One-piece lower hull.

MENG MODEL’S 1:35 M2A3 BRADLEY W/BUSK III

T

he M2 Bradley, or Bradley IFV, is an American infantry fighting vehicle manufactured by BAE Systems Land and Armaments, formerly United Defense as part of the Bradley Fighting Vehicle

place with polythene caps. The individual track links are packed in a bag in pairs. Once cleaned up, these should be a click-fit. Being only one-piece per link, assembly of these will be fast and straightforward. It would appear that the entire interior may be omitted if the modeller wishes, but if you do put in the work, the various large hatches may be posed open to display your efforts. In addition to the regular plastic and photo-etched parts, Meng also supplies six flexible harnesses to hang from the interior ceiling. In common with the real vehicle, the exterior is built up in layers, including mesh grilles and the ERA tiles. Mercifully, these are moulded in sections, not individually, and detail is very good indeed. I particularly like the look of the two air conditioning units on the rear hull with their photo-etched fan covers and grilles. A full array of early OIF-era electronics and antennas are included too. The package is rounded out with a busy decal sheet including stencils, instruments, chemical reactive patches and markings for three OIF vehicles circa 2003-2005.

family. As with other infantry fighting vehicles, the Bradley is designed to transport infantry with armour protection while providing covering fire to suppress enemy troops and armoured vehicles. The M2 can hold a crew of three: a commander, a gunner and a driver; as well as six fully equipped soldiers. Introduced in 2000, the A3 upgrades make the Bradley IFV totally digital and improved existing electronics systems throughout improving target acquisition and fire control, navigation, and situational awareness. The survivability of the vehicle is also upgraded with a series of armour improvements, again both passive and reactive, as well as improved fire-suppression systems and NBC equipment. The M2A3’s fire control software (FCSW) combines laser range, environmental readings, ammunition type, and turret control inputs to automatically elevate the gun for range and to automatically generate a kinematic CONCLUSION lead solution if a target is moving. This functionality, very Meng’s 1:35 scale M2A3 Bradley is a stunning kit. similar to that of the M1A2 Abrams, allows the gunner or Detail is remarkable. The interior and engine commander to centre the reticule on a moving target, lase compartment are very well fitted out, yet Meng has the target, and achieve a first-round-hit, without the need obviously thought about ensuring that the kit is as easy to to fire sensing rounds and adjust aim.* build as the complexity of the real vehicle will allow. The Meng has pulled out all the stops for their brand new single piece click-together track links and modular ERA 1:35 scale M2A3 Bradley. When the parcel arrived on sections are examples of this engineering. Judging by my the doorstep I assumed that it must have contained two first-hand experience of building other Meng kits, I fully kits but no, it is one model packed in a very deep box. Its expect fit to be very good too. cavernous space is completely filled with 632 parts in tan, In summary, if you have built any of Dragon’s or pale green and dark grey plastic parts; an additional 188 Bronco’s recent releases, you shouldn’t have any trouble individual track links in black plastic; 32 clear parts; 10 building this one. green tinted parts; eight metal tubes; eight flexible plastic However, if the kit still seems too daunting, you parts; three photo-etched frets, 20 polythene caps and a can save yourself significant time and effort by simply decal sheet with markings for three vehicles. omitting the interior. The kit supplies a full – and I mean seriously full Highly Recommended for modellers with a moderate – interior for the fighting and engine compartments. amount of experience. ■ Different coloured sprues are offered for the interior sub-assemblies. Obviously paint will be required, but this Thanks to Meng Model for the sample colour coding is quite thoughtful considering the modeller www.meng-model.com has to wade through no less than 21 sprues during construction. Surface textures are beautifully done, right down to non-slip treatment on the ERA tiles, vents and raised bolt head detail. Parts breakdown is logical. The suspension includes workable torsion bars and shock absorbers, while the road wheels feature separate tyres. The flexible harnesses and ammo belt. Individual track links are supplied in The wheels are held in The kit decal sheet. pairs in a separate bag.

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* Historical summary courtesy of Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M2_Bradley

Non-slip texture is moulded to the forward hull ERA tiles.

The upper turret part.

Fighting compartment interior parts are moulded in green…

…while the engine parts and in dark grey.

An optional tinted clear sprue is offered.

Three photo-etched frets plus printed paper warning signs are also included.

14/02/2014 11:59

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