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DESERT
LOorRMR Y
odels’
Mirr
1:35 CMP C15A

Issue 130 February 2017


www.modelmilitary.com

OPERATION
COBRA 1944
Tamiya’s 1:48 M10 PT. 2

HEAVY
HITTER Tamiya’s new 1:35 scale
U.S. M40 Self Propelled Gun

INSIDE:
February 2017 / £4.50 / Issue 130
Dragon 1:35 StuH 42 ■ Dragon 1:35 M60 ■ Rye Field Models
M1A1 Abrams ■ Yorkshire War Weekend 2016 ■ and more...

p 01 Cover MMI 130B.indd 1 01/12/2016 09:11


p 02 AirbrushCo 130.indd 8 29/11/2016 11:05
Contents - Issue 130 February 2017
REGULARS
p 4 NEWS
What’s new in the world of military
modelling.

p 54 BOOKS
Reviews of the latest historical and
modelling publications.

p 56 FIGURES
The latest releases in figures and
figure accessories.

p 58 LARGE SCALE
50
News and reviews of large scale
models and figures.

p 59 SMALL SCALE
Reviews of 1:72 scale and smaller.

p 60 1:48 SCALE 14
Luke Pitt’s roundup of all the latest
in 1:48 scale modelling.

p 66 LAST POST
Dragon 1:35 Jagdtiger Henschel
Production Type w/12.8cm Pak80
(L/66).

FEATURES
p 6 THINK TANK
M12 and M40 SPGs.

p 14 PREVIEW
Dragon 1:35 StuH 42.

p 16 HEAVY HITTER Part Two


Tamiya 1:35 M40 SPG figures and
painting by Brett Green.

p 28 DESERT LORRY
Mirror Models’ 1:35 scale CMP C15A
lorry diorama by Jose Brito.

p 40 PREVIEW
Dragon 1:35 M60.

p 42 OPERATION COBRA Part Two


Kamil Feliks Sztarbala’s Tamiya
1:48 US Tank Destroyer M10 Mid
Production. 38
p 50 SHOW REPORT
Yorkshire War Weekend 2016.

p 57 PREVIEW
Rye Field Models 1:35 M1A1 Desert
Storm.

©Doolittle Media Ltd 2017

Tel: (UK) 01525 222573


Fax: (UK) 01525 222574
Email: enquiries@doolittlemedia.com
42
Address: Doolittle Media Ltd., Doolittle Mill,
Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK
Model Military International is published monthly by
Doolittle Media Ltd. 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
February 2017 - Model Military International 3

p 03 Contents 130B.indd 3 01/12/2016 10:03


Newsline - February 2017
MMI Newsdesk, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane,
Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK
Tel:01525 222573 Fax:01525 222574
Email:editor@modelmilitary.com

Jagdpanzer IV Part 1:
L/48 (Sd.Kfz. 162).
Nuts & Bolts Vol. 37
T
he next Nuts & Bolts title will be
Volume 37 on the early versions
of the Jadgpanzer IV, also called
“Guderian’s duck”. This was
first designed in 1942 on an order of the
Heereswaffenamt to VOMAG and first
introduced in 1944 was basically a new
successor to the Sturmgeschütz. There

BRONCO 1:35 R-3P RHEINTOCHTER


was a considerable effort by the General
der Artillerie for the retention of the designation “Sturmgeschütz”. Guderian battled
and won his case for the issuing of the tanks to the Panzerjäger units of the Panzer-
Divisions. Despite the inexperienced Panzerjäger units the Jagdpanzer IV became a very In 1942, the Allied air strikes against the German and
worthy adversary against the Allies Armoured opposition. industrial targets were increasingly fierce, which made
This volume includes the early versions of Panzerjäger IV chassis No. V2 to the the Germans stepped up their research and development
leichte Panzerjäger IV with the 7.5 cm Pak 39 L/48. As we formulated the production of of anti-aircraft rockets and missiles. In September 18th of
this volume it became apparent that the historical information we obtained could only the same year, the RLM and the Rhine metals company
be done justice if we produced two volumes on one of the most important German tank officially signed a new type of anti-aircraft missile research
of the Second World War. Together with Volume 38, which is devoted to the VOMAG and development contracts. The main person in charge by
and ALKETT versions with the 7.5 cm Pak 42 L/70 and on the Einheitsfahrgestell, all Dr. Crein who developed the "Rhinebote" ground to ground
versions of this formidable vehicle will be included to the standard of information that tactical rocket as the project. The new missile is called the
our readers have become used to. ‘Rheintochter’, and it has also become another attractive
This book will be 180 pages A4, glue-bound, and contains approx. 368 photos, of and unique work in the history of German missiles.
these 152 contemporary photos from manuals, combat and war fronts in b/w, most Bronco will release a 1:35 scale model of this fascinating
of them previously unpublished; 193 colour photos of restored vehicles and their weapon, including its modified 88 mm gun mount and
components in public and private collections, 23 colour photos of the models from Tony optional parts to mount the
Greenland, English / German captions, 48 pages English / German text, 15 pages of scale assembly onto a vehicle.
drawings of all versions and details in 1:35 scale from John Rue, 16 camouflage schemes We’ll have a detailed review
from Laurent Lecocq, tactical signs and five tables of organization of units (Kriegstärke- upon release.
Nachweisungen KStN) having these vehicles in their arsenal. Thanks to Bronco for the
First published 18 November, 2016. information and images
For further details and sample pages please visit www.nuts-bolts.de www.cn-bronco.com

DRAGON 1:35 Sturmgeschutz Ausf. C/D


Dragon is offering a new 1:35 scale kit featuring the Sturmgeschutz
Ausf. C/D. The Sturmgeschutz III (StuG.III) has the distinction of being
Germany’s most widely produced AFV of WWII, with 10,619 eventually
manufactured. Based on the chassis of the Panzer III, it was cheaper and
faster to build since it did not have a rotating turret. Only 50 of the Ausf.
C were built in 1941. The StuG.III Ausf. D was identical to its predecessor
except for installation of an intercom system. A total of 150 Ausf. Ds were
built from May-September 1941.
Hot on the heels of the popular StuG.III Ausf. E comes this kit. This
1:35 scale rendition boasts many new plastic parts. These include a new
fighting compartment and roof, new fenders, final-drive hatches and
glacis, side pannier for the radio set and angled side sponsons. There is
even a brand new light guard for vehicles specific to the StuG.Abt.177 unit.
Like the StuG.III Ausf.E (#6688), this new kit also contains a complete
gun with its mount and fighting-compartment interior details.
StuG. fans will find
it a treat to assemble
thanks to the kit’s
superior level of
detail and engineering
excellence.
We will have a full
review upon release.
Thanks to The Hobby
Company Limited for the
information and images
www.hobbyco.net

4 Model Military International - February 2017

p 04 News 130B.indd 4 01/12/2016 10:04


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p 05 TigerSteel Book 130.indd 8 29/11/2016 11:07


Think Tank - M12 and M40 Self-Propelled Guns
The T6 pilot model for what
would become the M12 Gun
Motor Carriage (GMC) was
built on the chassis of the
M3 medium tank, modified
to carry the 155mm M1918M1
Grande Puissance Filloux
(GPF) gun, a development of
a WWI French design.

M12 AND M40 SELF-PROPELLED GUNS Bruce Culver explores the origins, development, production
and deployment of the M12 and M40 Self-Propelled Guns.

T
raditionally, artillery has adopted using rapid motorized great conflict got their first taste enormous losses in the war rebuilt
been called the “king troop movement. Towing and of mobile warfare during this first their economies and prayed for
of battle”, and in both emplacing artillery pieces takes “Russian Front” campaign. continued peace. A few far-sighted
World Wars in the 20th a certain amount of time. For individuals saw the need for better
century, artillery fire caused more the largely stagnant lines on the SELF-PROPELLED WEAPONS IN THE WEST mechanization. While J.F.C. Fuller
casualties than any other weapon. Western front in WWI, this was In the west, the British and in England pushed for an all-tank
Throughout recent human history, not a difficult situation, since once Germans both experimented with force, a number of other leaders
one of the problems in planning artillery was emplaced, it often did self-propelled weapons, mounting saw the need for a combined arms
for the use of artillery has been not move that much. The concern anti-aircraft guns on trucks and approach with tanks, artillery,
getting the guns to where they are was supplying artillery units with artillery pieces on a tank chassis, infantry and scouting units working
needed. In pre-industrial times, the vast amounts of ammunition such as the Gun Carrier, Mk I used together. They included Basil
infantry travelled by foot and expended in the great barrages by British units, and a German Liddell Hart in England, Adna
artillery was typically drawn by common in the Great War. prototype based on the A7V- Chaffee in the United States, Heinz
horses and could keep up with the On the Eastern Front, Germany derived Überlandwagen cargo Guderian in Germany and Gifford
movement of troops. A typical gun and Imperial Russia engaged in vehicle, mounting two field guns LeQuesne Martel in France.
section was pulled by a team of a far different kind of warfare. on pedestal mounts. However, Under pressure from Liddell Hart
horses and included the gun and While resources were more limited these were almost all improvised and others, the British proposed a
a caisson carrying ammunition than in the Western Campaign, weapons, many having a number of demonstration of the new theories
supplies and equipment. This had war on the Eastern Front involved problems in use. The truck-based and formed the Experimental
not changed for several hundred rapid movement with infantry types required good roads or firm Mechanised Force (EMF) in May
years, since the development of transported in trucks and ground to be mobile, and most 1927. This organization was to test
larger wheeled artillery pieces. supported by armoured cars and generally provided no protection the concept of combined arms,
The adoption of motorized cavalry for reconnaissance and for the crews. using elements of the British Army,
transport for infantry and support assaults, and truck-towed artillery After the end of the Great including tanks, armoured cars,
troops presented a problem for for fire support. Many German War, military budgets were cut artillery and infantry in lorries.
artillery units, as new tactics were officers prominent in the next as nations that had suffered the Chief among the developments

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for the EMF was a new self- PILOT VEHICLE
propelled artillery piece, the Birch Ordnance ordered a pilot vehicle
Gun. This was a purpose-built (T6) from the Rock Island Arsenal
system consisting of a QF 18 pdr in 1941, using the gun tube, recoil
(84mm) field gun mounted on the system and upper and lower
chassis of a Vickers Mk II tank, carriages from the 155mm M1917,
which gave it the same mobility as M1917A1, or M1918M1. These
the Vickers tank on which it was were American developments of
based. There were three variations, the French WWI 155mm Grand
all mounting the same weapon. The Puissance Filloux (GPF) artillery
Mk I was the proof of concept, and piece, and had been built in the US
the production Mk II had a number and used in service. The T6 pilot
of improvements to the chassis model was delivered to Aberdeen
and the gun, among them putting Proving Ground in early 1942, and
The M12 GMC was produced in 1942 and 1943. Only 100 were built, along with a similar number of M30 the recuperator below the barrel, testing revealed the chassis was
cargo carriers to supply ammunition and carry other supplies as needed. This example was one of the simplifying the complex sights, and a good gun platform and stable
early production models, later rebuilt for combat.
adding an armoured shield for the during firing. As was common for
crew. The 18 pdr was on a pintle long-range artillery, there was very
mount allowing full 360 degree little protection for the crew.
traverse and nearly 90 degrees The tests proved the great
of elevation, making the vehicle tactical advantage of the self-
suitable as an anti-aircraft weapon. propelled weapons over towed
The Birch Gun was considered to artillery. The T6 could move to
be the first practical self-propelled a new position several miles
artillery piece, but sadly, overly away and be ready to fire in 35
conservative General Staff officers minutes, compared to 3 hours
and the budgetary demands of for a towed gun. The original
supporting the large territorial hydraulically-operated rear spade
armies in British colonies conspired was damaged and proved to be
to end the largely successful EMF. unsuitable. It was replaced by a
The lessons learned were mostly cable-operated spade during the
forgotten and would have to be product redesign. A number of
learned again in the early years of other changes were made and the
The T14 was the pilot model for the dedicated cargo carrier for the T6/M12 GMC, and was later WW2. weapon was standardized as the
standardized as the M30. It was intended that every M12 would have its own M30 as a companion
In the United States, the M12 gun motor carriage (GMC). As
vehicle, but some M30s were used as general supply vehicles.
Ordnance Department built a the M12 could carry only 10 rounds
number of prototype self-propelled of ammunition, a companion
weapons, but most were not ammunition carrier was developed
adopted with the limited budgets as the T14 and standardized as the
of the 1920s and 30s. As the M30 cargo carrier, with a crew of
tensions in Europe moved toward six. The M30 could carry 40 rounds
war, it became obvious that the of 155mm ammunition, which was
US Army would have to be built separate – the shell was loaded
up and modernized. In June 1941, into the barrel first and then the
the Ordnance Department began a propellant (in cloth bags) was
study on using the chassis of the loaded into the breech behind the
new M3 medium tank to mount shell. The gun could be traversed
a 155mm gun to provide mobile 14 degrees to each side before the
heavy artillery support in the field, vehicle had to be repositioned.
though US artillery doctrine was to Elevation was from -3 degrees
use towed guns and there was little to +30 degrees, which limited
interest in a self-propelled design. the M12’s use as an indirect fire A

The M12 Gun Motor Carriage and M30 Cargo


Carrier were generally paired as seen in this
This M30 cargo carrier was part of the original production program, and used largely for training.
training photograph, the M30 carrying reserve
Later they were rebuilt for service in the European theatre. The M30 carried one .50 M2HB machine
ammunition. The M30s also often carried other
gun on a ring mount and three .30 M1 carbines for the crew.
supplies and on occasion had added welded
racks to store more materiel.

February 2017 - Model Military International 7

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Think Tank - M12 and M40 Self-Propelled Guns

This M12 of the 987th Field Artillery Battalion (FA Bn), seen north of Caumont, France in June 1944, was loaded with This M12 of the 987th FA Bn was seen near Bayeux, France, in June 1944 during the
separate rounds, shells and bagged powder charges. The shell was placed in a carrier and a ramming crew pushed it Normandy campaign. They were primarily used for direct fire missions due to the limited
into the barrel as seen here. elevation for the gun. They proved to be excellent in this role, and were valued for it.

B weapon. Often M12s were placed on INTO PRODUCTION Works remanufactured the 74 M12s accurate observation of artillery
earthen or built-up ramps to raise In mid-1942, Ordnance placed from February to May 1944. fire against enemy formations,
the front of the vehicle to increase orders for first 50, then 100, M12 The reworked M12s and M30s and the maximum range of the
the maximum elevation of the gun GMCs and a similar number of were assigned to the 258th, 557th, M12’s 155mm gun, 21,982 yards
for indirect fire. M30 cargo carriers. Deliveries ran 558th, 987th, and 991st Field (20,100m) allowed engagement of
Although the M12 was based on from September 1942 through Artillery Battalions (FA Bn), and targets outside the range of any
the chassis of the M3 medium tank, March 1943. Army Ground Forces landed in Normandy supporting other land-based artillery.
there were significant changes, stated that the 100 vehicles made the advance from the coast. As mentioned, the maximum
chief among the repositioning of would meet all projected needs, Although manoeuvrability in the elevation of the M12’s 155mm gun
the air-cooled Continental radial so they were used for training bocage country was poor, the was limited to only 30 degrees,
engine amidships to allow for the and developing tactics for self- M12s were able to keep up with the making the vehicle less suitable
gun mounting in the rear. While propelled heavy artillery, and a advancing troops and were often for high-angle indirect fire.
the T6 pilot had the early M3 significant number were placed in the only heavy artillery available. Improvised ramps of earth or built-
medium tank bogies, all production storage. Additional changes were Piper L-4 liaison planes operated up structures allowed the M12 to
models had the later heavy bogies recommended as discovered in the by many front line units provided fire at longer ranges than normal.
of the M4 medium tank. While training, and in the planning for
the driver and assistant driver the upcoming Normandy landings,
were protected in the forward it was intended to upgrade and
superstructure, the gun crew of modify 74 of the M12s and a similar
four men was out in the open. A number of M30 cargo carriers for
tarpaulin and removable frames use on the European continent. The
provided some weather protection decision was made in December
on the move. 1943 and Baldwin Locomotive

“Aiming Circle Annie” seen at the


moment of firing – note the crew
covering their ears against the
muzzle blast. Like many other
Allied vehicles in Europe, this M12
is covered with chalked messages
from citizens of liberated towns to
others in towns yet to be freed.

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However, this disadvantage was
matched by the unexpected value
of the M12 as a superb direct-fire
weapon, particularly effective
against German fortifications, in
particular the massive concrete
bunkers found in the Siegfried
Line and around the fortress city
of Metz. The M12 could fire a shell
with a special fuse that penetrated
up to 7 feet (2.1m) of concrete
before exploding. Often one or two
hits on a bunker were sufficient
to force the Germans inside to
surrender.
The M12’s 155mm GPF gun was
also a notably accurate weapon,
allowing good saturation of a
target area by relatively few guns
since they could repeat accurate
fire consistently. The high mobility
of the M12 chassis allowed the
vehicle to keep up with the rapid
The M12 used the WWI –vintage M1917 GPF 155mm gun, and in common with other larger artillery pieces, the ammunition was not fixed. It consisted of a advances of armoured divisions
shell that was rammed into the firing chamber as seen, followed by the propellant in a cloth bag. and mechanized units, even cross-
country. The performance of the
M12 was so good that calls went
out from using units for more
of these very valuable support
vehicles. And therein lay a serious
problem – the supply of 155mm
GPF guns had been exhausted and
no more were available to resume
production of the M12. And this led
to the next development, which
travelled down the same path.
When Artillery requested more
M12s to augment the ones in
service, Ordnance realized that
the only 155mm gun available
was the larger 155mm M1, often
referred to as the “Long Tom”.
The M12 chassis was too small
to accommodate the larger
weapon, and Ordnance decided
to build a larger vehicle, using
the components of the late-war
M4A3 Sherman, including the
horizontal volute spring suspension
(HVSS) chassis and 23” (58.4cm)
tracks, but retaining the earlier
Continental radial engine.
Five Sherman-based chassis,
“Adolf’s Assassin” was an M12 of the 991st FA Bn, seen here firing on German positions near Kornelmunster, Germany in September 1944. The gun was limited designated T83, were constructed,
in elevation, which made it less effective for indirect high-angle firing. In direct fire, it was successful.
widened to handle the greater A

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Think Tank - M12 and M40 Self-Propelled Guns

The M12 became famous as a “bunker buster”, as seen here near Grossenich, Germany in This M12 of the 557th FA Bn was seen near Morteau, France in November 1944. Note the folding chocks used to
November 1944. A penetrating shell could go through 7 feet (2.1 meters) of concrete before brace the forward tracks to stabilize the vehicle, the partial sand shields (usually removed), and the hoop frames
exploding, and one or two hits were usually enough to take a bunker out of action. for the cover tarpaulin.

B mass of the gun and mount, but open body like the M12. The crew ammunition carrier, the T30, was and subsequent testing was so
the general layout was the same was again seated to the left of designed, but only five were built. successful that the last two pilots
as the M12. Special castings were the gun in the rear compartment. The contract was cancelled and were converted to mount the 8 in.
added to adapt the wider hulls The 155mm M1, M1A1, or M2 was they were converted back to T83 (20.3cm) M1 howitzer, these two
to the standard M4 power train mounted in the rear compartment gun vehicles. The eventual practice vehicles being designated as T89.
components. As with the M12, and a cable-operated spade and was to use the M4A1 high speed Firing with the M1 howitzer was also
there was no special armour rear wall were at the rear. The tractor and M23 ammunition highly successful, and as part of
protection for the crew, as the T83 T83 could carry 20 rounds of trailer, which carried 96 rounds of the ‘Zebra’ mission to the European
was a long-range weapon. ready ammunition, again using 155mm ammunition for the M1 gun. theatre, one T83 and one T89 were
Two drivers were in the front separate shells and bagged The tractor also carried additional prepared for overseas shipping and
of the hull with the engine moved propellant charges. members of the gun crew. sent to the ETO. The T89 had been
up behind them and the 155mm M1 Unlike the M12, there was no The first T83 pilot vehicle built to accept either the 155mm M1
gun was mounted in the rear in an ammunition vehicle. A prototype was delivered in July 1944 or the 8 in. M1 howitzer. A

M12s of the 991st FA Bn fire on German lines near St. Lo, France
in July 1944. Note the use of ramps in front to improve the
limited elevation of the 155mm guns, increasing the effective
range as indirect fire artillery, a common expedient practice.

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This M12 seen near Houffalize, Belgium in December 1944 supported troops of the Third Soft mud was the bane of the mechanized army – not only was movement by road or cross-country very
Army during the Battle of the Bulge. Note the elevation gear below the gun’s recoil assembly difficult, but the recoil from firing sometimes caused the vehicles to sink further into the muck. This M12 was
and the interrupted screw threads that locked the breech during firing. about to fire, with the crew ready to reload.

This M12 supported troops of Patton’s Third Army in Echternath, Luxembourg in February 1945. The 557th FA Bn was part of the 9th Army as indicated on the M12 “The Persuader”, seen crossing a
The 155mm gun was very effective in reducing fortified or built-up targets like masonry buildings pontoon bridge over the Roer River near Linnich, Germany in February 1945. The 557th FA Bn often
commonly found in cities. Note the extended end connectors, many of them broken off. applied unit ID markings with chalk as extra stowage hid them.

This M30 cargo carrier of the 557th FA Bn crossed a temporary bridge near Linnich, Germany M12s supporting the 11th Armoured Division fire on German positions near Pruem, Germany in February 1945.
in February 1945. Note the European-manufactured extended end connectors EECs and the Timed multiple artillery fire was one of the most effective uses of artillery, and was a standard artillery tactic,
welded rebar railings to carry extra supplies. still used today.

This M12 was attached to the 103rd Infantry Division, seen here advancing in the fighting for Seen with the gun in full recoil during firing, this M12 was assigned to the 991st FA Bn, in the fighting for
the Siegfried Line in Germany in March 1945. M12s had by then achieved a good reputation for Normandy. Note the use of the camouflage netting for cover, supported by the tarpaulin hoop frames. The
attacking enemy fortified bunkers and other strong points. unit sign was red with gray markings.

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Think Tank - M12 and M40 Self-Propelled Guns
B IN ACTION
Arriving in Europe in February
1945, both the T83 and T89 were
assigned to the 991st FA Bn. In
order to standardize their weapons,
the 991st FA Bn replaced the 8 in.
howitzer on the T89 with another
155mm M1 “Long Tom” gun, and
this was used in the attack on
Cologne in March 1945. Later, the
M1 8 in. howitzer was re-installed
on the T89 and also used to
determine its effectiveness. This
was to be the only use of the
new gun motor carriage in WW2.
The T83 was standardized as the
M40 gun motor carriage (GMC)
in May 1945. The T89 was not
standardized until November
1945, as the M43 howitzer motor
carriage (HMC). Total production of
the T83/M40 was 418 by the end
of 1945, all built by the Pressed
Steel Car Company. 24 of these
were converted into T89/M43 8 in.
HMCs, and a further 24 T89/M43s
were manufactured by September
1945. The end of the war cancelled
most production contracts. The two
pilot models were used to the end
of the European campaign, along
with the remaining M12s and M30
cargo carriers. After the end of
This M12 supported troops of the 5th Infantry Division as they attacked enemy positions on the Siegfried Line in Luxembourg in February 1945. The heavy
the European campaign, Ordnance
rains and thick mud were major obstacles to vehicles attempting to advance, from Italy to Germany.
tested an experimental armoured

Field conditions in Europe in the fall of 1944 and all through 1945 were often quite bad, as seen here. The T83 pilot model for the new self-propelled 155mm M2 “long Tom” gun proved to be a successful
Thick mud and rain eventually required added extended end connectors (EECs) to improve flotation. design and needed little reworking before being adopted as the M40 GMC. It was similar in layout to
The shells were laid on tarpaulins to keep them clean. the earlier M12, which was too small to carry the M2 weapon.

The M40 was too late to be standardized in time to serve in numbers in WW2. A T83 pilot Due to concerns about the limited protection for the M40 crew, a wood mockup was created to show a proposed
of the M40 and a T89 pilot of the 8 in (205mm) Howitzer Motor Carriage (HMC) were crew armoured cover. The pilot was modified as seen here, but the extra armour was not adopted as the M40
sent to Europe for testing along with T26E3 Pershing heavy tanks in early 1945. usually operated well behind the front lines.

12 Model Military International - February 2017

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cover for the T83 that enclosed
most of the firing compartment,
but it was not adopted.

POST-WAR
The M40 and M43 were the
standard heavy artillery and heavy
The T83 pilot for the M40 GMC was sent to the European theater in This M40 GMC served in C Battery of the 204th FA Bn in Korea. The 155mm
howitzer weapons for the post-
early 1945 with the “Cobra” T26E3 Pershing tanks and the T89 8 in M2 gun proved to be an excellent weapon against Chinese fortifications and
war Army, despite their limited pilot HMC. They were both used by the 991st FA Bn in action, the T89 earthworks, and they served during the war. Each battery had four gun sections
numbers. Their next war took also mounting a 155mm M2 “Long Tom” gun for a time. of a gun and a supply vehicle.
place on the Korean peninsula,
where they proved to be very The maximum range of the 155mm M2 was over 25,700 yards
successful, providing accurate (23,500m), making it a versatile weapon. M40 GMCs often fired
fire support in difficult terrain. in a timed target barrage in which different guns fired at different
After the lines settled into a more times so that all the shells impacted on the target simultaneously.
stable situation, the M40s and
M43s often fired from prepared
positions, but in the earlier fluid
period, their mobility and effective
fire were widely appreciated.
Both the 155mm M1 and M1 8
in. howitzer had reputations for
extremely good accuracy. The
M1 howitzer was so admired that
Ordnance tried for some time
to duplicate its accurate fire
in different calibres and barrel
lengths, but never quite reached
the capability of the 8 in. design.

LEGACY
The M40 and M43 served for
a number of years after Korea
until they were replaced by more
advanced designs. The British
adopted the M40 as the “155mm
SP, M40” and named it the
‘Cardinal’ after their practice of
naming self-propelled artillery
after religious clergy. The M40
has fared fairly well in terms of
numbers left: at least eight are
known to exist. The M12, serving
in a war zone, and obsolescent at
the end of that conflict, was not
so fortunate. All of the M12 GMCs
and M30 cargo carriers in Europe
were scrapped. The lone survivor
is a prototype that was displayed
at Aberdeen Proving Ground
for decades. It was recently The M43 Howitzer Motor Carriage (HMC) was essentially identical to This M43 HMC was in A Co., 1st Bn of the Republic of Korea (ROK) 5th
transferred to the Army’s Artillery the M40 but mounted an M1 or M2 8 in (205mm) howitzer. The chassis Infantry Division, photographed near the “Punchbowl” in 1951 during the
School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and superstructure were the same as the M40. Only 48 were built before Korean War, following the Inchon landings, the Chinese intervention, and
production halted at the end of the war. the later 1951 advance to the north.
the last of the breed, but with an
enviable reputation. ■
This M40 GMC served during
the Korean War, the first major
combat use of the M40. The
155mm M2 long gun had a
greater range and the M40 could
elevate the gun higher, making
the vehicle very useful for both
direct and indirect fire missions.

February 2017 - Model Military International 13

p 06-13 M12&M40 TT 130B.indd 13 01/12/2016 10:06


KIT PREVIEW Dragon 1:35 10.5cm Stuh.42 Ausf. E/F • Kit No. 6834

Dragon has
mixed some
sprues from
earlier releases
and added new
parts to create
an interesting New parts are found here.
infantry
support Stug.
Graham Tetley
takes a look. Superb detail on the casemate side.

TRACKED INFANTRY SUPPORT


D
ragon’s onslaught on all the inner idler rings in 12 (yes, through open hatches but, once
things Stug continues 12!) pieces of etch. On the rear again, we are missing the shell
unabated with the latest hull we have new parts for a more ejection basket. Dragon have the
1:35 scale StuH.42 detailed smoke candle rack. part in their inventory (I know, I
version. First seeing action in Turning to the fenders, they have it in a Cyberhobby Stug III
November 1942, these modified have superb detail both top and detail set) and with something
vehicles had a 10.5cm howitzer bottom but be prepared to do like 265 unused parts in the box
and were designed to provide some surgery as part of each (which you are paying for in the
infantry support. Photos of them fender has to be removed, the asking price) I believe it is quite
in action show them equipped with front mudguards carved off and shoddy of Dragon not to give is
Winterketten so you can guess on replaced with etch and also some one little part that is so noticeable
what the next release may be! holes filled. The tools come with by its omission. There are also no New roof detail.
This boxing draws many parts moulded-on clamps which do clear parts supplied.
from previously released Stug look the part and are certainly The kit instructions are
kits (6620, 6644 and 6756 to more robust than the etched standard Dragon and whilst I have
name but a few) although there equivalents. The antenna trough is done a quick check I cannot say
is something new in this box. We included and its new mounts are for certain that it is error free.
have a mix ‘n’ match of existing found on the etched fret. Markings are provided for three
sprues but do get a new Sprue F The upper hull consists of three vehicles with only one from an
Detail on the fender undersides.
which provides the superstructure sections covering the glacis, identified unit.
roof, hatches and other bits. casemate, and engine deck. We appear to have here a
The etched fret is also new and The glacis has the extra armour comprehensive StuH 42 so that,
provides front fenders exclusive plates present which you have to in my view, this kit scores highly.
to this version. The tracks cut sections out of to fit around It is a shame that Dragon are
provided are of the DS type and the towing pintles. Fortunately, simplifying their new kits by
they still contain enough flash and Dragon has this marked on the cutting back on Magic Tracks and
soft detail to ensure that I will inside of the parts so modifying clear parts (yet over a third of the
be replacing them. Fortunately, them will be a doddle. The plastic in the box is unused) but The new smoke candle racks.
Voyager is new to the market with casemate is molded as a large not cutting the price. What is in
some replacement track sets and tub with additional separate side the box though is cleanly moulded
early reviews appear to be good. panniers into which go the radios. and with an excellent level of
I shall be seeking some out in due The casemate roof is newly detail that will not disappoint. As
course. tooled with all hatches being always with an in-box review I
The lower hull consists of separate parts meaning that you cannot comment on parts fit and
a large single piece tub with can view the interior, however bloopers, but if it is like similar
excellent detail on the exterior the casemate sides are devoid Dragon Stugs that I have built
and interior surfaces including of detail apart from a couple of there should be no major issues.
hull bottom detail for various stowed MP40’s which do come ■ Even the front casement gets the weld treatment.
access hatches and ports. The with etched slings and securing Thanks to The Hobby Company
kit suspension follows the now- straps. Consult your references if Limited for the sample
familiar DML Pz III/StuG III family you want to add additional detail. www.hobbyco.net
and comprises of moveable The floor and rear bulkheads
torsion bars onto which the swing have finely detailed compartments
arms attach. The road wheels, and tread plate included however
sprockets & idlers include some the ammunition compartments
sharp detail although, despite are missing. The gun breech and DS Track detail.
being marketed as a ‘Smart’ Kit, mount are highly detailed and
Dragon has decided to provide do give you enough to look at

Lower hull detail. Marking


options.
New etched parts.
14 Model Military International - February 2017

p 14 StuH42 Pre 130B.indd 14 01/12/2016 10:07


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p 15 ADs Collated 130.indd 8 29/11/2016 11:21


FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:35 U.S. Self-Propelled 155mm Gun M40 • Kit No. 35351

HEAVY
HITTER
PART TWO – FIGURES, ACCESSORIES AND PAINTING
Brett Green builds and paints the eight figures included with Tamiya’s new 1:35
scale U.S. M40 Self Propelled Gun, and also paints and weathers the vehicle.
16 Model Military International - February 2017

p 16-25 M40 Pt2 130B.indd 16 01/12/2016 10:10


W
ith the model
assembled, I was at
a fork in the road.
Should I paint the
vehicle, or work on the figures?
I am not a figure modeller by
any stretch of the imagination, but
I do appreciate the sense of scale The figures are all broken
down in a similar fashion
and context that they can add to – separate legs and arms,
an otherwise plain vehicle. torso, head and helmet.
I decided to assemble and paint
the figures next.
The figures are presented on a grey sprue.
EIGHT IS ENOUGH
Tamiya includes eight crew figures
with their M40. The crew is in The eight bodies assembled.
the act of loading a shell into the
breech. Although the prospect of
painting eight figures seemed to be
quite daunting, I managed to get a
bit of a production line going and it
was easier than I had expected.
Tamiya figures have been
steadily improving over the last
decade, to the point where these
guys need no enhancement
beyond careful painting. The poses
are natural, and the sculpting
is excellent. Facial features are
very realistic and of course the
standard of moulding is everything
you would expect from Tamiya.
The figures were assembled
using Revell Contacta cement, but
the heads were not glued in place
just yet. The heads were drilled
and mounted on toothpicks to
make handling easier. I also added
a tag from Tamiya masking tape
with the figure’s identifying letter.
With eight figures, I wanted to
make sure I could match the heads
to the bodies when painting was
complete!
First the figures were primed -
bodies using Tamiya Grey Primer
and heads Tamiya Fine White
Primer, both straight from the
spray can.
Next, the heads were sprayed The rammers have their hands moulded to the ram rod. Very clever. Facial detail is good
with Tamiya XF-15 Flesh as a on all eight heads.
base for the skin tones. This was
followed by a fairly heavy wash
of thinned Rowney Georgian Oil
Paint 221 Burnt Sienna, which
flowed nicely into low-lying areas Brett the
including the mouths and eyes. Impaler! The
Painting of the skin tones heads were
continued with mixes of Vallejo each mounted
Model Color 70815 Basic Skintone on a toothpick
and labelled
and 342 Highlights Flesh. The
with Tamiya
paler shades were carefully masking tape.
applied to the bridge of the nose,
cheekbones, outlines of the ears
and the tip of the chin.
The eyes and mouths were
highlighted with a very thin mix of
Vallejo Panzer Aces 337 Highlight
Ger. (Black) applied with a 10/0
brush.
For the uniforms, I wanted to
display a range of shades depicting
different textures and fabric
fading. The first step was to spray
all the bodies with Tamiya acrylic A

February 2017 - Model Military International 17

p 16-25 M40 Pt2 130B.indd 17 01/12/2016 10:10


FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:35 U.S. Self-Propelled 155mm Gun M40 • Kit No. 35351

The heads received a sprayed coat of Tamiya White Primer… …followed by a base colour of Tamiya XF-15 Flesh.

B XF-67 NATO Green. I then mixed a faded shade. Further highlights WEAPONS OF MASS PRODUCTION box using Blu-Tack. They were
paler shade by adding XF-21 Sky. I were dry-brushed using various Tamiya supplies a generous supply stuck into the Blu-Tack nose-first,
masked the tunics from two figures shades of Vallejo acrylics, creating of shells and their packing with effectively masking the tip too.
and the trousers from another two more variety and fading to the their M40 kit. This was not precise, but I was able
figures and sprayed them in the basic uniform colours. I chose to use the beautiful to touch up the demarcation with a
paler shade. I also sprayed two The helmets were sprayed with turned brass shells included with fine brush afterwards.
complete figures in this mix. Tamiya XF-61 Olive Drab. A couple Tamiya’s optional metal barrel set The masked shells were sprayed
A wash of thinned Mig of paler mixes were sprayed over for the two rounds used directly Tamiya XF-61 Olive Drab, followed
Productions 502 Abteilung four of these, resulting in subtle by the figures – one for the by two coats of Future Floor Polish.
Abt.050 Olive Green oil paint variation. kneeling crew figure and one in The masks were removed and the
mixed with Winsor & Newton Lamp The heads, helmets and bodies the loading crutch. yellow stencil decals applied to the
Black was brushed over the darker were now assembled. I masked a band around each glossy surface. I quite liked the
uniform colour and allowed to dry. The figure painting was shell with Tamiya tape cut to the look of the dark, glossy Olive Drab
A thin wash of the Olive Green oil completed with two coats of Alclad appropriate width. The rounds paired with the shiny metal finish,
paint alone was applied over the II Flat Clear. were then attached to a small paint so I dispensed with the flat coat. A

Helmets were sprayed separately. Several


shades of Olive Drab were used for variety.

This was followed by a fairly heavy wash of Rowney Georgian Oil Paint 221 Burnt Sienna thinned with
Ronson lighter fluid.

Painting of the skin tones continued with mixes of Vallejo The eyes and mouths were highlighted
Model Color 70815 Basic Skintone and 342 Highlights Flesh. with a very thin mix of Vallejo Panzer
Aces 337 Highlight Ger. (Black)
applied with a 10/0 brush.

18 Model Military International - February 2017

p 16-25 M40 Pt2 130B.indd 18 01/12/2016 10:10


Contemporary photos from the Korean War show wide
variations in U.S. Army uniform colours due to fading and
different fabrics. I wanted to replicate these variations.

The bodies were prepared with a coat of Tamiya Grey Primer straight from the
spray can.

The base uniform colours were


mixed from Tamiya XF-67 NATO
Green and XF-21 Sky.
Step One was to spray all the bodies in overall XF-67 NATO Green.

Selective
trousers and
tunics were
masked off in
preparation for
a faded coat.

The contrast looks extreme here but this will be toned down by the shading and highlights.

Mig Productions 502


Abteilung Abt.050 Olive This was brushed over the darker uniform colour.
Green oil paint was mixed
with Winsor & Newton Lamp
Black and thinned with A thin wash of the
Ronson lighter fluid. Olive Green oil paint
alone was applied
over the faded shade.
Further highlights
were dry-brushed
using various shades
of Vallejo acrylics.

February 2017 - Model Military International 19

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FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:35 U.S. Self-Propelled 155mm Gun M40 • Kit No. 35351

The fit between the ends of the


arms and the hands moulded to
the ram rod is perfect.

A band was masked around each shell


with Tamiya tape cut to the appropriate
width. The rounds were then attached to
a small paint box using Blu-Tack.

The masked shells were sprayed Tamiya XF-61 Olive


Drab, followed by two coats of Future Floor Polish.

The decals for the shell are included


I assumed that the guy with the binoculars was the with the aftermarket turned barrel
Commander, so I commissioned him as a Lieutenant set.
with a white stripe on the front of his helmet. Two crew members carrying the shell in the ammo crutch.

The figures at work.


The kit instructions
indicate where each
of the figures goes.

20 Model Military International - February 2017

p 16-25 M40 Pt2 130B.indd 20 13/12/2016 14:49


The vehicle components were prepared
with a quick coat of Tamiya Grey Primer.

B NEW PAINT IN TOWN 022 Olive Drab Faded 3 sprayed peeling. Sanding results in a nice I then did some light dry-
I prefaced the camouflage painting on horizontal surfaces and the feathered edge. This augurs well brushing in a pale shade of Olive
with an overall coat of Tamiya Grey top of some of the prominent for hairspray technique and other Drab using a soft, wide brush.
Primer straight from the spray can. vertical surfaces. Finally, selective weathering. Details such as tool heads and
This revealed a few visible seams. I highlights were sprayed using • Future over the top of the paint handles, vision blocks, spare track
mixed some super glue with talcum MMP-021 Olive Drab Faded 2. does not darken the colour (some links, tow cables and tyres were
powder to create a fast-setting, Here are my observations about other paints do darken under picked out using Vallejo acrylics
easily sandable filler and spread it using these new Mission Model Future). and a fine brush.
on the seams. A few minutes later acrylic paints: The entire exterior of the model
it was dry enough to sand flat. • I like the squeezable plastic I didn’t want to hide the fading was sprayed with Future floor
Mission Models has just bottles. You can unscrew and effect under layers of filters and polish and the kit decals were
launched a new range of acrylic remove the tops as well as use washes, so I kept my weathering applied. These behaved perfectly
model paints. They also offer the built in dropper. fairly low key. I applied a selective under a coat of Mr Mark Setter
paint thinners and a polyurethane • I also really like the Olive Drab pin wash to bolts, panel lines and decal setting solution. The decals
mix additive. The poly additive is base and fading shades. structural features using an acrylic were then sealed under another
designed to increase durability. • All the colours dried noticeably wash of Future floor polish, water coat of Future floor polish.
I had a chance to test these out darker than the colour in the plus a few drops of Tamiya XF-1 Flat When dry, the entire model was
on my M40. bottle. Black and XF-64 Red Brown paints. coated with Alclad II Klear Kote A
I started with a mix that was • The paint sprayed perfectly
too thin (i.e. too much thinner), so through my Iwata HP C+ airbrush.
initial coverage was not perfect. There wasn’t a hint of clogging or
Jon Tamkin from Mission Models spiderwebbing.
advised me to forget what I knew • Odor is almost non-existent -
The primer coat revealed a
about model paint thinning when very family (i.e. wife) friendly. couple of visible seams. These
using these paints. Even though • The paint does spray more were filled and sanded before
the mix might look thick in the smoothly with some poly in the painting commenced.
cup, it would spray well and cover mix.
completely with a small amount • The paint stays quite thick
of thinner and poly. He suggested looking and wet on the model’s
a mix of 20 drops paint, three surface, but it self-levels
drops drops of thinner and two beautifully to a smooth, hard
drops of poly. finish with just a hint of eggshell
I sprayed the entire model in the satin.
base Olive Drab shade, Item No. • Once a full coat was applied,
MMP-026. subsequent coats were effortless.
This was followed by a 50/50 • When dry, the paint is tough and
mix of the base shade and MMP- sandable. There is no lifting or

February 2017 - Model Military International 21

p 16-25 M40 Pt2 130B.indd 21 01/12/2016 10:17


FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:35 U.S. Self-Propelled 155mm Gun M40 • Kit No. 35351

Mission Models’ new range of acrylic paints Mission Models also offers thinners, a At first I sprayed with a mix that was too thin. Even so, the paint was tough
were used for the camouflage colours. polyurethane additive and a grey primer. and sandable with a nice feathered edge.

Coverage was better with less thinner.

This was followed by a 50/50 mix of the base shade and


MMP-022 Olive Drab Faded 3 sprayed on horizontal surfaces
and the top of some of the prominent vertical surfaces.

An acrylic wash was mixed from Future floor This was applied as a selective pin wash to bolts, panel lines and
polish, water plus a few drops of Tamiya XF-1 structural features.
Finally, selective highlights Flat Black and XF-64 Red Brown paints.
were sprayed using MMP-021
Olive Drab Faded 2.

Kit decals were applied


Some light dry-brushing in a pale shade of Olive over two coats of Future
Drab was applied using a soft, wide brush. floor polish.

22 Model Military International - February 2017

p 16-25 M40 Pt2 130B.indd 22 01/12/2016 10:18


Details such as tool heads and
handles, vision blocks, spare
track links, tow cables and tyres
were picked out using Vallejo
acrylics and a fine brush.

When dry, the entire


model was coated with
Alclad II Klear Kote Flat.

The tracks were sprayed with a


50/50 mix of Tamiya XF-1 Flat Maru Easy Mud European Earth was
Black and XF-64 Red Brown. mixed with water and brushed onto
the tracks. The excess was rubbed
off with a dry cloth before the
mixture had a chance to fully dry.

The vision blocks in the cupola were brushed


with Gator’s Grip Thin Blend Acrylic Glue to
simulate armoured glass.

February 2017 - Model Military International 23

p 16-25 M40 Pt2 130B.indd 23 01/12/2016 10:17


FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:35 U.S. Self-Propelled 155mm Gun M40 • Kit No. 35351

B Flat. I added dust to the lower


superstructure sides and higher
on the rear sides using heavily
thinned Tamiya acrylic XF-57 Buff
and XF-55 Deck Tan.
I also scattered loose MIG
Pigments on the fighting
compartment floor and rear deck
of the vehicle. These were sealed
with Alclad II Klear Kote Flat.
The tracks were sprayed with
a 50/50 mix of Tamiya XF-1 Flat
Black and XF-64 Red Brown. I
then brushed on Maru Easy Mud
European Earth mixed with water.
The excess was rubbed off with a
“Dust” was sprayed
dry cloth before the mixture had a on the lower
chance to fully dry. superstructure sides
At this stage the gun and the and higher on the rear
tracks were added to the vehicle, sides using heavily
and the completed crew figures thinned Tamiya
acrylic XF-57 Buff
could be posed in their positions. and XF-55 Deck Tan.

CONCLUSION
Tamiya's 1:35 scale M40 SPG is a
well detailed model with a nicely
fitted out fighting compartment
and a set of crew figures that lifts
it into the category of instant
vignette.
The decision to include full
length flexible tracks is entirely
appropriate considering the tracks
are "live" on HVSS suspension
and were therefore stretched taut
while fitted to the vehicle, and the
workable nature of the gun and
other features is a useful attribute.
I really enjoyed this project, and
Loose MIG Pigments
I am pleased with the overall effect
were scattered on the
of the eight crew figures combined fighting compartment
with the vehicle. ■ floor and rear deck of
the vehicle. These were
Modelspec sealed with Alclad II
Klear Kote Flat.
Tamiya 1:35 U.S. Self-Propelled 155mm Gun M40.
Kit No. 35351
Accessories and Decals:
Tamiya Detail-Up Parts Series Item No. 12670 -
1:35 U.S. M40 Metal Gun Barrel Set
Tools and Materials:
Tamiya Extra Thin Liquid Cement
Revell Contacta Professional Cement
Selley’s Supa Glue
Tamiya 10mm Masking Tape
Gator’s Grip Acrylic Glue
Paints and Finishing Products:
Mission Models acrylic paints, thinners and
polyurethane additive
Tamiya Acrylics
Vallejo Acrylics
Future Floor Polish
Alclad II Klear Kote Flat

✓ Excellent fit; high level of detail; useful and


clever workable elements; excellent crew
figures in appropriate action poses.
✗ Nothing worth mentioning.
Available from
Thanks to Tamiya for the sample www.tamiya.com
Tamiya kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby
Company Limited www.hobbyco.net The gun and tracks were added
to the completed vehicle.
Rating

24 Model Military International - February 2017

p 16-25 M40 Pt2 130B.indd 24 01/12/2016 10:18


Finally, the figures were added.
The figures tell a story when
posed in the vehicle.

Strips of self-adhesive
Chrome bare metal foil were
used to represent the sliding
sections of the equilibrators.

February 2017 - Model Military International 25

p 16-25 M40 Pt2 130B.indd 25 01/12/2016 10:18


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Telephone Number........................................................................................................................ Doolittle Media, Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, UK
Tel; +44(0)1525 222573 Fax; +44(0)1525 222574 Online; www.modelmilitary.com
Email ....................................................................................................................................................... (Photocopies of this form are acceptable)

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FEATURE ARTICLE Mirror Models 1:35 CMP C15A Lorry Van Truck • Kit No. 35101

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DESERT T
he Canadian Military Pattern
truck was a class of military
truck made in large numbers

LORRY
in Canada during World War II
to British Army specifications for use in
the armies of the British Commonwealth
Allies. Standard designs were drawn up
just before the beginning of the war.
CMP trucks were also sent to the
Soviet Union following the German
invasion of Russia as part of Canada's
Lend-Lease program to the Allies. During
the war, CMP trucks saw service around
the world in the North African Campaign,
the Allied invasion of Sicily, the Italian
Campaign, the Russian Front, the Burma
Campaign, the Battle of the Philippines
José Brito creates a North African scene (1941-42), the liberation of Northwest

for Mirror Models’ 1:35 scale C15A lorry. Europe, and the Western Allied invasion
of Germany.
CMP trucks also saw service in
post-war conflicts in Indonesia, French
Indochina, and the Portuguese colonies
in Africa. Most CMP trucks were
manufactured by the Chevrolet division
of General Motors of Canada Ltd and
by the Ford Motor Company of Canada.
Just over 400,000 CMP trucks were
manufactured in Canada, accounting
for roughly half of the 815,729 military
vehicles made in Canada during World
War II. Chevrolet-built CMP trucks had
a 215 cu in (3.5 L), 85 bhp (63.4 kW)
straight-6 overhead-valve engine. Cab
design changed twice, first designed
at Ford, second and third cab designs -
called No. 11, 12 and 13. First two types
were similar; the main difference being a
two-part radiator grille in No.12 cab, its
upper part was opened with a bonnet,
which was known as the "Alligator cab".
The production of CMP truck bodies
in Canada was subcontracted out to
smaller companies in Ontario and
Manitoba, organized into the wartime
Steel Body Manufacturers Association
by the Department of Munitions and
Supply.
The wide variety of truck body designs
included general service, water tanker,
fuel tanker, vehicle recovery, dental
clinic, mobile laundry, wireless house,
machinery, folding boat transport, and
anti-tank gun portee.

THE C15A FROM MIRROR MODEL


Mirror Models Ltd. is a relatively new
modelling company but is already a
valuable asset to the scale modelling
scene. Besides the top quality of their
models, they also offer some very
original subjects.
Their new C15A lorry van truck is a
fine example of that. It’s a multimedia kit
and all we need to make a fine model is
inside the box. Once we open it, we will
find top quality plastic parts, flawless
casting resin parts, crisply printed
decals, photo-etch parts, concise and
clear instructions (with step-by-step
assembling pictures) and some wire
parts for the small detail work. So, what
more can we ask for?
Mirror Models is definitely one of the
most prolific and original companies out

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FEATURE ARTICLE Mirror Models 1:35 CMP C15A Lorry Van Truck • Kit No. 35101

Construction

The resin parts provided in the kit are flawless and with a super nice Small modelling saws are very useful to remove resin blocks. All we Once sanded, the resin item looks really nice and the tyre pattern is
detail. Some resin blocks need to be removed and this task can be have to do is make the cut very near to the final part and use a sand undamaged. That’s why we always make the cut near the resin part
easily achieved with the help of a small saw. paper to finish the job. and finish the job with a sand paper.

To get the best shapes and results I usually use tools from Small Shop These small parts will be used in the suspension and according the Small metallic parts were glued in place with the help of Deluxe
Tools. We can make hundreds of these small parts and always with the clear and concise step-by-step instruction pictures. Materials Rocket Hot. Being an ultra-thin glue solution, it’s ideal to
same shape and size. Once done, all we have to do is glue them in place. work in the capillarity method.

The engine is also very detailed and a pleasure to build. Sadly will be For the modeller who wants to show the engine, Mirror Models kit Mirror Models kit provide a very complete photo-etch sheet and with
completely invisible once the model finished. provides clear parts for the hood and like that the engine will be parts covering the entire model. They will improve and add an extra
visible. touch of detail. To get the best results from the photo-etch parts, I
use tools from the Small Shop range. They make this task much easier
and are really time savers.

Small sink holes were filled in the new Perfect Plastic Putty from Deluxe
Materials. This new putty is water soluble, dries fast and once dry is
rock hard. Can be easily sanded and the final touch is very smooth.

Some other sink markings can easily be removed with the help of a round point scalpel.
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In order to add that extra touch of realism we can In this case I heated and stretched a cotton bud The small and delicate parts were glued with the The window shield was carefully masked with the
always make some scratch-built parts. tube and with the help of a fine wire I replicated the help of Deluxe Materials Rocket Hot, using the help of Tristar masking tape and with the help of a
back door hinges. same approach. brand new scalpel blade. We must be careful in this
step in order to not damage the clear parts.

PAINTING

Several details before painting. All those details will make the difference
once the model finished.

The model fully assembled and ready for


painting. Note how all the extra work and
details really improves the final look. The
combination of resin, plastic, photo-etch and
scratch work is really worth all the effort.

Since the beginning, my idea


was to make a C15A captured
and being used by the German
forces in the North of Africa.
So, this was a great opportunity
to use the new Vallejo paint set
dedicated to German vehicles
painted in dark yellow.

The new Vallejo AFV Painting Systems are a group of


paint sets developed to replicate the zenith effects into
the models. Inside every set we will find a primer, the
base colour as also colours for the shadows and lights.
This is a completely different and much more accurate
technique when compared with the modulation style.

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FEATURE ARTICLE Mirror Models 1:35 CMP C15A Lorry Van Truck • Kit No. 35101

In these pictures we can clearly


see how the Zenith Technique
looks very realistic. With the
Zenith Technique we do not see
aggressive colour contrasts
and panels painted in several
different colours.

In the modulation style,


the model looks like a 3D
CAD job. With the Zenith
technique approach, the
light effects are accurately
represented on the model.

With this technique the model is


exposed to the light and the paint
is applied in the same fashion as
if the model was exposed under a
spot light. The colour transitions
are ultra-smooth and the model
have a higher visual interest.

The model painted in the Zenith Technique.


We can clearly see the smooth colour
transitions and the effects of the zenith light.

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Before starting the weathering and finishing, we must apply the decals. The model was airbrushed in I used the new MIG Productions decal solutions for this project -MIG Productions Decal Set and the MIG
Vallejo Gloss Varnish 70510 for a smooth, decal-ready surface. Productions Decal Softener.

The decals were cut from the sheet with the help of a brand new scalpel. Mirror Models decals are The decal is submerged into water and all we have to do is wait a few minutes until the decal peel from
crisply printed and do not have much flash. the underlay sheet.

A small quantity of MIG Productions Decal Set was applied. This formula will increase the decal adhesion The decal is gently transferred to the desired spot with the help of tweezers.
into the model surface.

The excess of water is removed with the help of a cotton bud. In this stage we can also make some Once the decal in the final place we apply MIG Productions Decal Softener. This formula will soften the
corrections to the decal position. decal and increase the setting. Let the decal untouched and when the formula is fully dry, the decal will
look great and will look like painted over the surface.

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FEATURE ARTICLE Mirror Models 1:35 CMP C15A Lorry Van Truck • Kit No. 35101
With all the decals in place,
the model is ready for the
weathering and finishing. Before
Weathering and Finishing the weathering and finishing, the
models only look as super toys, but
very soon this is about to change.

The entire model received


a well thinned layer of MIG
Productions Neutral Wash. This
layer must be applied with the
help of a medium size flat brush.
This neutral colour will help to
blend, even more, all the colours
from the zenith transformation.

Mig Productions wash solutions


can be thinned in Mig Productions
Thinner for Washes.

A well thinned layer of MIG Productions Mud Splash was also Several MIG Productions filters were applied in the side vertical surfaces in MIG Productions oil colours Buff and Basic Flesh Tone were
applied in the rear cargo door. order to increase the colour variation. applied to represent the humidity streaks in the body frame

MIG Productions Standard rust Effects and Light Rust Effects washes were applied as pin washes. Pin The dusty look was achieved in Mig Productions pigments. Several colours must be used in order to get a
washes must be applied in very small quantities and in the most prominent recessed parts. more realistic look. In the meantime we must have some care. The colours must be accurate and in the right
spots. Also, we must not overdo this process; otherwise our model will look inaccurate and unrealistic.
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The pigments were fixed in place with the help of Mig Productions Pigment Fixer. All we have to do is apply During this process the model will turn very dark and it seems that the pigments disappear, but once the
several drops over the pigments by brush and let it dry without touching. fixer and thinner evaporates the pigments will appear again and they will look very natural and realistic.

Value Gear is a new company specialized in military accessories., All the Value Gear items were airbrushed in Vallejo Surface Once the primer was dry, the wooden boxes were airbrushed in
Especially tents, tarps and boxes. The detail is amazing and the Primer 70601 Grey Primer. Vallejo primers dry very fast and turn Vallejo Model Air colours. In this particular case, with colours from
resin casting totally flawless so I decided to try them! the surface very smooth, ideal for airbrushing. They must be their new Vallejo AFV Painting System – Russian Green 4BO.
airbrushed in several layers in order to keep the surface detail.

All the tents and tarps


from Value Gear were
painted in Vallejo Model
Colour. The detail is very
nice and the sets very
diversified.

MIG Production Absolute Chipping was used in order to achieve an


extra touch of realism. Some of the boxes were previously painted
in a cream colour and then a layer of MIG Productions Absolute
Chipping was applied. Once dry, a green paint coat was applied
and, once again, when dry it was peeled of with the help of MIG
Productions Absolute Chipping. The result is very accurate and
easily achieved.

The oil or fuel drums were airbrushed in a grey colour and then For an accurate and realistic weathering and finishing, several Several washes from MIG Productions were combined to get that
thousands of small scratches were applied with the help of a small washes and filters from MIG Productions range, were applied. extra touch of realism to the wooden boxes.
sponge. The colour applied was the Vallejo Model Colour SS Cam.
Black Brown (2).

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FEATURE ARTICLE Mirror Models 1:35 CMP C15A Lorry Van Truck • Kit No. 35101

The weathering in the spare


tracks was achieved in MIG
Productions Absolute Chipping
and the exposed metal areas
were obtained with the help of
a rough san paper.

Like the spare tracks are in metal (Friulmodel), all we have to do is sand the paint job and show the metal
underneath. The final look is very accurate and realistic.

Base and Diorama I’m a diorama builder and this project was no exception.
This time I decided to use an item from MIG Productions.
The Panzer III & Stug III Stalingrad Base. Depict the name,
this item can be used in a wide range of situations. In this
case I will use it in a North of Africa scenario.

This is a massive
plaster item and the
detail is top quality.

The tank track markings must be disguised and nothing better for this task than using the new Metal barbed wire poles from the Portuguese company RMG were applied. This stuff is a common presence in my
MIG Productions MUD solutions. In this case the P500 Europe Dry Mud (Fine Texture) and P501 projects and this time it was no exception. Small items like that can add an extra touch of realism to the scene.
Europe Dry Mud (Rough Texture). Both combined to achieve a convincing ground texture. Also, they can tell a story or add an historical / geographical background.

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The palm trees are from U-Model
company and are lovely. All we have to do
is apply some volume to the trunk top. For
that we combine Deluxe Materials Scenic
Spray Glue with G.E.M. (Garage Exclusive
Models, from Portugal) ground cover.

The palm tree leaves are photo-


etch and previously bended. All
we have to do is airbrush them in
Vallejo Model Air 71002 Yellow
and 71006 Cam. Light Green.

The base was


airbrushed in several
dark colours, including
black and brown.

Once dry, several pigment colours were applied directly from the jar and fixed in place with the
help of MIG Productions Pigment Fixer.

The metal poles and barbed wire were weathered with the help of MIG Productions Standard
Rust Effects and Light Rust Effects washes.

The base wood parts were weathered in MIG Productions Wood Ageing Solution and Dark washes.

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FEATURE ARTICLE Mirror Models 1:35 CMP C15A Lorry Van Truck • Kit No. 35101

Figures

I always place figures in my


dioramas. Even a single figure
can add the “human factor”,
scale and tell a story. This
project was no exception.

The figure is a MIG Productions item.


The resin item MP 35-319 Afrika
Korps Motorcyclist.

The figure was painted in my usual


fashion; oil colours for the flesh areas
and Vallejo Model Colour for clothes,
accessories…

CONCLUSION

The C-15A from Mirror Models is a


lovely kit and it can be transformed
into a stunning model even if build
“out of the box”.
This was a very enjoyable project
and a great opportunity to add
another diorama to my collection.
Hope you like it. Be safe!

The completed model,


ready to be added to
the base.

A view of the rear


of the vehicle.

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A slice of the
North African
desert!

Modelspec
Mirror Models 1:35 CMP C15A Lorry Van Truck.
Kit No. 35101
Items Used:
• 1:35 Mig Productions - Afrika Korps Motorcyclist -
MP 35-319
• 1:35 Mig Productions - The Panzer III & Stug III
Stalingrad Base – MP 35-007
• 1:35 RMG Resin Models - Metal barbed wire poles
– Item 002
• MiniNatur (several items)
• Model Scene (several items)
• 1:35 U-Model, Palm Tree
• Value Gear Details (several items)
Materials and Paints:
• Hood glue
• Deluxe Materials glue solutions
• Heat isolation foam
• Wood base
• Injected plastic
• Resin parts
• Plastic card
• Metal parts
• Vallejo primers, acrylics and thinners
• MIG Productions oils, washes, pigments, filters
and thinners
• Graphite soft pencil
• Plus Model Lead Wire
References Used:
Several internet sites and forums

✓ Both C-15A and MIG Productions items are


great subjects.
✗ Nothing I can remember.
Available from
Mirror Models kits are available online and from
hobby shops worldwide.

Rating

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KIT PREVIEW Dragon 1:35 M60 Patton • Kit No. 3553

Lovely moulding.

Andy King
discovers the
changes and
improvements
in Dragon’s
latest attempt The improved hull looks better at the front.

at the M60
family.

M60 IMPROVED
T
he M60 tank was issues. In this new kit the hull is could try brushing on liquid glue
developed from the now 2mm longer, which makes to try and smooth them out.
Moulding quality is all you Excellent detail on
earlier M48 Patton the front glacis plate angle look Only one colour option is given
would expect. the road wheels.
in 1957 and entered better, the front hull to the turret for an overall green (which should
service with the US Army in ring is 3mm wider, the drivers really be a satin finish) M60 from
1960. It had a crew of four, was escape hatch underneath is the 2nd Battalion, 64th Armour
armed with the 105mm M68 now oval and new tooled engine Regiment 1964 but doesn’t give
gun, weighed in at over 45 tons, doors have been added. The any clue as to where the tank was
had an operational range of 300 side loading air cleaners from stationed. Colour call outs are
miles (500km) and could reach the M48 are included but these from the Mr Hobby range only.
30 mph (48km/h) on open roads. are correct for the early M60, It’s the first time an early M60
The tank has undergone many the aluminium road wheels with has been produced in 1:35 as
upgrades over the years and the reinforcing fins are correct, prior to this the only way to get
although it was retired from US the turret is newly tooled and one involved back dating either
The turret.
service in the 1990s the M60 is compared to photos matches the Tamiya, Academy or ESCI/ Italeri
still being used today by other shape pretty well and the tracks kits with a Chesapeake Model
nations and incredibly the subject are the early T97E2 type. Design turret which I doubt is
of a planned major upgrade by The hull and turret have the available anymore.
Raytheon, the M60A3 SLEP nice ‘cast’ texture that featured As I said earlier, Dragon’s
(Service Life Extension Plan). on their M60A2, the indent for M60A2 got a real kicking after it
This is the second M60 that the filler cap on the left has now was released (including by yours
Dragon has released recently (the been removed as there is only truly) and I must admit that when
first being the M60A2), and this one on M60s and overall the I received this one I wasn’t very
particular version is the first of detail on parts is what we have hopeful, especially when looking
the family. As before, there are come to expect from Dragon. at the sprues and seeing M48
parts from Dragon’s earlier M48 That’s the good stuff out of stamped on them. Drive sprockets.
so for this kit you get nine sprues the way so it’s onto the nit-picks. However, things HAVE been
moulded in grey styrene, one To kick off the gun barrel seems improved upon (apart from the
clear sprue, a small decal sheet, too thin in diameter, there are tracks) and it appears Dragon is
an even smaller sheet of etch no lightening holes in the drive actually listening to the concerns
metal, a length of wire, DS Vinyl sprockets, no cover is included raised by others. It’s not perfect
gun mantlet and barrel covers for the MG in the commanders and still needs some extras like
and DS Vinyl tracks. cupola, the DS Vinyl cover for a new barrel and tracks but it
When Dragon released their the gun mantlet is from the M48 bodes well for any future M60
M60A2 it was received poorly and slightly too big and the vinyl family members after a decidedly
due to the errors included such tracks have mould-pin marks shaky start. ■
as the use of parts from the on some of the inside faces
Thanks to The Hobby Company
M48, the hull length and the and along with the flash will be
Limited for the sample
rear engine doors being the main difficult to remove although you
www.hobbyco.net
The tracks are the same as the flawed M60A2.

The gun barrel is still too thin

Kit decals.
40 Model Military International - February 2017

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THE RESEARCH SQUAD
Tiger
A Modern study of Fgst.NR. 250031
The Research Squad are pleased to announce the
release of Tiger: Modern Study of Fgst. NR. 250031,
a complete photo study of the Aberdeen 712 Tiger
tank. The Research Squad were given given special
permission by the collection and Aberdeen Proving
Ground Museum to fully document this important
vehicle in order to create a photographic record
for any future restoration work. This includes a full
exterior walk-around, a complete documentation of
the interior and also a detailed study of the engine
compartment and engine.
To this end the knowledge and expertise of many
contributors were brought together, not least of which
were our two technical editors, Liejon Schoot and Rob
Veenendaal, without whose massive contribution this book
would not have been completed.
208 pages
+/- 690 images.
69 technical diagrams (including 27 selected re-mastered
diagrams at A4 size)

This includes:

Only ■ a full exterior walk-around,


■ a complete documentation of the interior

£29 .99
■ a detailed study of the engine compartment.
■ a history of the vehicle from capture to present date
■ a veteran interview with the driver of Maj. Leuder
s p&p plu ■ a history of the vehicle from capture to present date
■ a technical article by Liejon Schoot and Rob Veenendaal
on the Vorpanzer design

NOW IN STOCK AND SHIPPING!


PLACE YOUR ORDER NOW ON TEL: 01525 222573 FAX: 01525 222574

Tiger: A Modern study of Fgst.NR. 250031 P&P: UK; £2.00
Europe; £4.00
World-Wide airmail; £6.00
RESEARCH SQUAD TIGER Please debit my credit/debit card for £ ....................................... Cheques payable to: Doolittle Media Ltd.

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Please mail this form to;
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Telephone Number....................................................................................... Tel; +44(0)1525 222573 Fax; +44(0)1525 222574 Online; www.doolittlemedia.com
(Photocopies of this form are acceptable)

www.doolittlemedia.comwww.doolittlemedia.comwww.doolittlemedia.com

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FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:48 US Tank Destroyer M10 Mid Production • Kit No. 32519

OPERATION
COBRA 1944
PART TWO – FIGURES AND BASE
Kamil Feliks Sztarbala details and paints the crew figures and also
builds the base for his 1:48 scale Operation Cobra diorama.

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In the case of the gunner, I had to
change the pose of one of the legs.
I started by cutting it off.

FIGURES
The gunner and commander were sourced from
Gasoline’s ‘US & French TD M10 Crew’ set. As the Next, I made a few more cuts in
figures had been originally posed for sitting on the different places, and subsequently
turret edges, they required some modification. glued the leg into the desired pose.

‘Magic Sculp’ epoxy putty was used for improving


the uniform folds and adjusting the figures to
conform to the seats inside the turret.

As the Gaso.line set


included only the
standard army helmets
and some fancy-looking
berets, I had to borrow
the typical tank crew
helmets from Black
Dog’s stowage, and fit
these to the heads.

The infantry figures


were kit-bashed from
Tamiya and Wargames
Factory offerings.
Above all, the latter
manufacturer provided
the heads, whilst most
of the equipment came
from the former.

Here it must be emphasized


that ‘unsophisticated’
is often really a gentle
adjective when speaking
about Tamiya’s 1/48 scale
figure quality.

Of course, I didn’t have to


only fit the combat gear or
replacement arms, but also
rework many details.

One must be prepared for serious


surgery with sandpaper and sharp
scalpel blades being involved. Take
note, other figure manufacturers,
I’m still counting on you!

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FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:48 US Tank Destroyer M10 Mid Production • Kit No. 32519

Once the figures had been assembled and primed with Tamiya XF-1 ‘Flat Black’, I could
then deal with the uniforms. The jackets were airbrushed with AK-interactive AK3072 Next, I painted the combat gear with AK-interactive AK3076 ‘Canvas Tone’. Highlights
‘M-42 Uniform Green Ochre Khaki’. This base colour was mixed with Vallejo 70917 were created with a mixture of the base tone and Vallejo 70986 ‘Deck Tan’, whilst for
‘Beige’ for adding the highlights and Vallejo 70941 ‘Burnt Umber’ for the shadows. the shadows, I added a small quantity of Vallejo 70302 ‘Dark Rust’.

The wooden portions of the weapons and shovel handles


were finished with various acrylic colours from the LifeColor For painting the faces and hands, I used three tones from the AK-interactive AK3010
CS20 ‘Weathered Wood’ set. ‘Flesh and Skin Color’ set, ie. AK3012 ‘Light Flesh’ as the basecoat, AK3011 ‘Base Flesh’
for the shadows, and AK3013 ‘Highlight Flesh’ for the highlights.

To make this process easier,


I additionally mixed the
colours on a palette, creating
a full range of skin tones,
from the darkest to the
lightest one.

At this stage, I could


paint the insignia and
other details on the upper
parts of the figures.

I then sealed the latter with a layer of matte varnish, and


focused on the trousers. In the case of the G.I. figures, I first
applied AK-interactive AK3074 ‘US Olive Drab’ as a basecoat,
and subsequently added the highlights with AK3033 ‘Leather
Highlights’. For the shadows, I used AK3034 ‘Leather Dark Shadow’.

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The trousers of the crewmen received similar treatment, utilizing AK-interactive
AK3071 ‘M-43 Uniform Green Olive’ (base colour), Vallejo 70334 ‘German Tank
Crew’ (highlights) and Vallejo 70302 ‘Dark Rust’ (shadows).

Afterwards,
I painted the
leggings in the
same way as the
combat gear.

The boots were finished with


various leather tones from
the AK-Interactive AK3030
‘Leather and Buckles’ set.

The M10 crewmen could now be


fixed to the seats with cyano.

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FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:48 US Tank Destroyer M10 Mid Production • Kit No. 32519

BASE

I began setting up the scene during the kit construction process. Once I’d assembled the figures,
I chose the best arrangement.

With the vehicle and figures complete, I could


determine the exact size of the base and
prepare a suitable piece of styrodur foam.

The latter was glued


within a boxed structure,
constructed from pieces of
balsa wood. Next, I adjusted
the edges of the box to the
level of the ground and
spread some acrylic paste
over the entire piece.

To create the road surface,


I mixed some wall tile
adhesive with a number of
earthy pigment tones.

The mixture was applied over chosen areas with a metal spatula. Before it had fully dried, I smoothed the surface with a wetted finger. When the surface was dry, but still malleable, I imprinted the tracks
with a DYI tool…

…and added further track marks by running an old kit with movable Any imprints that were too distinct, were smoothed by tapping a Finally, I imprinted the M10’s tracks in the position where the kit would
wheels, across the ground. piece of dry sponge onto the surface. be attached, in order to ensure its proper adhesion to the ground.

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To prepare the chosen areas for adding a little vegetation, I poured into them some sand of varying I then speckled the road with the same enamel products from MiG’s Ammo ‘Mud Splashes’ range, that
grades, along with a dark earthy pigment. This was sealed with A.MiG-2012 ‘Sand and Gravel Glue’. had been previously used for weathering the lower hull tub of the kit.

The enamels were distributed along the road surface with a long-bristled brush. Afterwards, I poured Reality In Scale SCAT03 ‘Nature-in-a-Pot Fine Autumn Forest Scatter’ over the
roadsides, and fixed this with A.MiG-2012 ‘Sand and Gravel Glue’.

SCAT01 ‘Stony Meadow Scatter’ from the same manufacturer, was additionally applied over the front Next, I selected a few short lengths of tiny root material, soaked them with A.MiG-2012 ‘Sand and Gravel
area of the base. Various mixtures of groundwork scatter material available from the Dutch company, Glue’, and subsequently dipped in Landscapes in Detail LANDS-102 ‘Mosses’. This way, I created some
allow for easy and realistic representation of meadows, litter and other overgrown terrain surfaces. small bushes…

…which were then fixed with white glue. The finished vegetation was again sealed with A.MiG-2012 ‘Sand and Gravel Glue’.

February 2017 - Model Military International 47

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FEATURE ARTICLE Tamiya 1:48 US Tank Destroyer M10 Mid Production • Kit No. 32519

The area behind the vehicle had to be utilized somehow. The idea Once I’d sealed the paper sign with a layer of clear varnish, I glued it The front side of the sign was attached to a piece of masking tape,
came after browsing some archive photos. One of these featured a to a piece of 0.25mm styrene sheet, and cut the latter to the correct allowing for priming the backside with flat black. Next, I rubbed Uschi
‘Touring Club de France’ sign. I draw a similar sign in a few sizes that shape. I then recreated the screws with lengths of 0.1mm plastic rod. van der Rosten’s ‘Metal Polishing Powder Steel Type’ onto the surface.
would be suitable for 1:48 scale, using MS Paint, and printed this onto
a thin paper sheet.

To add the rust effects, I used the water-based liquid The post was made from a piece of foam Next, I airbrushed a layer of AK-Interactive Thanks to this technique, I could now easily add some
weathering pigments from LifeColor’s LP02 ‘Rust Wizard’ PVC. I wiped its surface with coarse AK088 ‘Worn Effects Fluid’ over the post. This realistic damage to the paint layer with a wet brush.
set. These were blown from a brush onto the surface. sandpaper to create the woodgrain, and was followed by painting it with Tamiya XF-2
subsequently gave it a suitable colour by ‘Flat White’ that had been purposely diluted
applying a small quantity of brown oil paint. with water to weaken the paint adhesion.

Afterwards, I attached the sign to the post, and added some The finished sign was mounted into a small aperture in the ground.
fine, rusty streaks, using LifeColor’s liquid pigment.

To finish the base, I now


only had to add a small
quantity of tiny vegetation
here and there.

Both the kit and figures


were fixed to the surface
with two-part epoxy glue.

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Modelspec
Tamiya 1:48 US Tank Destroyer M10 Mid Production
Kit No. 32519
Accessories and sets
• Black Dog 1:48 scale US M10 Tank Destroyer
Accessories Set – Item No. T48005
• Aber 1:48 scale US Tank Destroyer M10 detail set –
Item No. 48022
• RB-Model 1:48 scale 76.2 mm (3 cale) M7 L/55
M10 Wolverine metal barrel – Item No. 48B18
• RB-Model 1:48 scale 12,7mm (0,5”) Browning M2
metal barrel – Item No. 48B48
• Gaso.Line 1:48 scale US / French TD M10 Crew
figure set – Item No. GAS50361
• Tamiya 1:48 scale US Infantry GI figure set – Kit
#32513
• Wargames Factory 28mm WWII American Infantry
The completed diorama figure set – Item No. WGF-W2002
viewed from above. Tools and Modelling Products:
• Tamiya Extra Thin Cement
• C.A. Glue
• Styrene Sheet, Strip and Rod
• Magic Sculp Epoxy Putty
• Mr. Paint Mr.Scriber Narrow
• RP Toolz Punch and Die Tool Set
• Styrodur Foam
• Balsa Wood
• Landscapes in Detail LANDS-102 Mosses
• Reality In Scale SCAT01 Stony Meadow Scatter
• Reality In Scale SCAT03 Nature-in-a-Pot Fine
The extra effort spent customising Autumn Forest Scatter
the figures was well worthwhile.
Paints and Finishing Products:
Paints:
• Tamiya (acrylic and enamel)
• Mr.Hobby
• Mr.Paint
• AK-Interactive
• Hataka
• Lifecolor
• Vallejo
Mr.Hobby Clear Varnishes
Microscale Decal Solutions
8B Pencil
Abteilung 502 oils and thinner
LifeColor LP02 Rust Wizard
MIG Productions P220 Dark Wash
Talens White Spirit
Uschi van der Rosten Metal Polishing Powder
Steel Type
AK-Interactive weathering products:
• AK045 Dark Brown Wash
• AK084 Engine Oil
• AK088 Worn Effects Fluid
• AK2071 Paneliner for Brown and Green Camouflage
• AK4061 Sand Yellow Deposit
The diorama is • AK4062 Light Dust Deposit
interesting from Ammo MIG weathering products:
all angles. • A.MIG-1408 Fresh Engine Oil
• A.MiG-1750 Dry Earth
• A.MiG-1751 Dry Steppe
• A.MIG-1753 Turned Dirt
• A.MiG-1755 Wet Ground
• A.MiG-2012 Sand and Gravel Glue

✓ Good level of detail; generally excellent fit;


appealing subject.
✗ White Metal lower hull detail is a bit soft.
Available from
Tamiya kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby
Company Limited - www.hobbyco.net

Rating

February 2017 - Model Military International 49

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SHOW REPORT Yorkshire War Weekend 2016-11-20

THA’S GOING T’TANK SHOW YORKSHIRE WAR WEEKEND 8 - 10


JULY 2016

Graham Tetley attends a military vehicle show close to home.

M
y wife is always being a Bradford lad I don’t need BOYS’ TOYS D, chassis number 90678, from
searching for different to use the motorway to get there. This year, I wanted to see Jon ‘Sonderverband 288’ that was
things to do and places Unfortunately, the typical British Phillip’s restored Stug IIID. I have in North Africa in Summer 1942.
to go with our daughter weather meant that it rained most been following this on Facebook It was captured by the British in
so you can imagine her face when of the Saturday but that didn’t for some time and the Yorkshire North Africa and was taken to the
I suggested trudging through a deter the hardy souls that turned War Weekend was to be its first UK for tests and study. It ended up
muddy field looking at tanks. One up. The Sunday was better with outing. I missed it running around being recovered from the Pirbright
had to resort to a little subterfuge a little bit of blue skies and fewer the arena but even static it is firing range by Kevin Wheatcroft
to persuade her though – for a showers, but at least it provided a simply superb and I hope that the but Jon Phillips then acquired it
few days before I kept asking my modeller’s lesson on what running accompanying photos show just and fully restored it to running
daughter (she is 2 and a half years through mud looks like on a tank! how much work has been put in to condition. I didn’t have the heart to
old) if she wants to see the tanks. The show is divided into six get this former wreck into what tell the re-enactors that they were
So a few days of Hollie saying ‘I areas, the German, Allied WWII, it is today. The back story is that all wearing the wrong uniforms for
want to see tanks’ worked a treat! Post War and WW1 areas are where it is an Sd.Kfz. 142 Stug. III Ausf. the desert!
You see, there are many military we find the vehicles and re-enactor
vehicle shows around the UK but displays and then there is a
very rarely are they in my back Vendor area and the battle arena.
yard. Every year though around Food drink were also there with
300 vintage vehicles descend on a display of 1940’s Entertainment
Hunsworth Farm in East Bierley, and dancing in the main Marquee.
Bradford, to churn up some dirt There was a beer Tent (Bradford’s
and entertain us Yorkshire folk. Salamander Brewery were in
The venue is ideal to get to, being attendance) however the ale was
just off the M62 and at the centre not at 1940’s prices and I was
of the motorway network, but driving!

Beautifully restored
Stug IIID.

Where would re-enactors be without FV432s?

50 Model Military International - February 2017

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Ever wondered
Aside from the Stug, there was wanted a German helmet or what a Hellcat's
an M5A1 Stuart, M24 Chaffee, M18 Jerrycan you were in luck and rear looked like?
Hellcat, M36 Jackson, a T34/85, there was even someone selling a One Hellcat ready
Valetine DD, Comet, Cromwell and de-activated AK47 for £220 but to hit the arena.
a Chieftain in the tank category, my wife wouldn’t let me buy it.
along with three FV432 alterations Next year she stays at home!
to depict a Stug III, Panzer III and
M24 Chaffee. There were also NEXT YEAR
many Jeeps, Universal Carriers, The event is on next year and
Dingo’s, a Gaz 66 (or 67), soft booked for 7 and 8 of July.
skins, trucks, Kettenkrads and For further details you can
Kubelwagens running around visit the event website at http://
and a replica Spitfire as well. A nelz60.moonfruit.com/. Let’s hope
main attraction this year was that the sun manages to shine for
the Diamond T 75th Anniversary it but, if you are in the North of
and many variants were on show, England, this is a fantastic day out
both static and taking part in the to attend.
procession in the arena. I hope that the accompanying
The vendors were almost all photos give you a flavour of what
militaria with one sole trader was on show and who knows, our
selling mainly Airfix kits. If you paths may cross there next year. ■

All serious peace talks need a good Hog Roast. Wanna buy a Jerry can?

Can't beat a bit of Comet.

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SHOW REPORT Yorkshire War Weekend 2016-11-20

One Beautiful M24 Chaffee.

The American brough at M36 Jackson to the party. Bradford City Centre watch out!

Something not quite right with this Chaffee. Plenty of softskins on show.

52 Model Military International - February 2017

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One pristine ARP Fire Engine.

This was the Stug’s first public showing. Panzer Porn at its best. Getting her into tanks at an early age!

Don't fancy his chances!

February 2017 - Model Military International 53

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Book Reviews
WORLD WAR TWO
INFANTRY FIRE SUPPORT
TACTICS
ELITE NO. 214
BY GORDON L ROTTMAN
OSPREY PUBLISHING
ISBN: 978-1-4728-1546-0
Osprey Publishing’s latest title in the
long running ELITE series is dedicated
to WWII Infantry Fire Support Tactics
and covers a complex and broad
subject. This book covers the support
available to the Infantry forces of the
Germans, US, Commonwealth and
BRITISH LIGHT TANKS 1927-45 Russians. It gives a great insight into
MARKS I - VI how this support evolved and was
employed throughout the war.
NEW VANGUARD NO. 217
BY DAVID FLETCHER Given the scope covered this is an
OSPREY PUBLISHING ambitious title which the author is
ISBN: 978-1-78200-377-9 constrained in by the number of
David Fletcher is no stranger to most people who pages this format allows. Having
study the evolution of British armoured forces and said that the author gives a great
equipment, having been the long-time curator of the overview which is well supported
Bovington Tank Museum and the author of many by diagrams, tactical overviews and
titles on the subject of British AFVs. colour plates of the weapons and
His latest title in the adds to the extensive Osprey their typical employment. The Author
New Vanguard series and addresses the little is also well versed in Fire Support
documented British Light Tank series that made the tactics having served in Vietnam and
backbone of her Early War Armoured formations. beyond with US Special forces as a
There is little in print documenting these fascinating weapons specialist.
vehicles this title fills this niche nicely with the I found this an interesting read and
revised New Vanguard Format having many the author has done well to separate
photographs and colour plates to support the the different national approaches
informative narrative. and structures. The selection of fire
The majority of British AFVs in 1939 were the support covered goes right up to
Light Tank series from Vickers. These were totally the divisional AT organic to some
outclassed by the more modern German AFV Infantry divisions and covers the
designs but were forced to soldier on until adequate unique artillery of infantry divisions
replacements could be fielded. This title documents in a number of Armies. It covers
their development during the depression years and everything fronm the Sections fire
their subsequent service in France and Belgium in support base of the LMG right
1940 where almost all those deployed remained in through to the brigade level heavy
France after the withdrawal of the BEF at Dunkirk weapons companies with Light
and the Western Desert, Greece and Crete. The book Artillery and heavy mortars and
covers all the major variants from the development medium / heavy MGs.
of the Mk I through to the wartime Mk VI series and The book is follows the standard
is broken into the following chapters covering: format for the range and includes the
1. Introduction. following chapters:
2. Prototypes and predecessors. 1. Introduction.
3. Mk II 2. Infantry Fire Support Weapons.
4. Mk III 3. Weapons Effects
5. Mk IV 4. Fire Support Units
6. MK V 5. Tactical Employment
7. L4E1: The Superintendent of Design’s tank 6. Example
8. The Mk VI series 7. Conclusion
9. On Active Service: France - Mediterranean 8. Bibliography
10. Summary 9. Index
11. Bibliography The title is broad in scope and high
12. Index on detail despite the small amount
This is an important and informative title that gives of pages available. It will give the
the reader a good insight into the British Light reader a good insight into Infantry
tank family and usage of tanks in the desperation support in WWII and as such is easy
of the early war years. It is backed up by a good to recommend whether particularly
collection of photos and excellent colour plates to the wargamers amongst us who
covering a variety of these often colourful and from experience sometimes struggle
interesting vehicles from there protype through to with the employment and make up
their valiant service in France and the Mediterranean of such support. This is a broad topic
theatres of WWII. With the recent interest from and one that could really have been
model manufacturers and certain computer games down over a number of volumes
this title offers an important if brief history of the covering different periods of the war
development of these obsolete but important but it gives a very good overview of
vehicles. I’d highly recommend this title to historians, the subject.
armour enthusiasts and modellers. Recommended.
Highly Recommended. Osprey books are available online
Osprey books are available online from their website from their website
www.ospreypublishing.com www.ospreypublishing.com
Al Bowie Al Bowie

54 Model Military International - February 2017

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SOVIET ARMOUR IN FOREIGN COLOURS
BY CHRIS MEDDINGS
INSIDE THE ARMOUR PUBLICATIONS
ISBN: 9780993258824
This is the third book from Inside The Armour Publications and with the help
of highly respected modellers Jose Brito, Kristoff Pulinckx, Andy Taylor, Ivan
Cocker, Norio Takemura, Ken Abrams and Alex Long it takes a look at Soviet
built armour as used by other nation states.
What you get are some VERY in depth builds of seven vehicles that feature a
lot of outstanding detail inside and out, especially on the Shilka. All the models
featured except for the BTR-40A and Egyptian T-54 have been built by Chris
and apart from his BMP-1 have been painted by some of the modellers noted
above. The builds are mostly in the SBS (Step By Step) photographic style but
they also have a good amount of text to read through as well.
The book features full colour images all the way through with some very useful
reference photos of various armoured vehicles from Patrick Winnepenninckx’s
time of military service in Afghanistan (these will also give you some excellent
diorama ideas), and a walk-around courtesy of Dinh Nguyen Anh Vu of a T-54
from the PAVN (Peoples Army of Vietnam) that is on display in Ho Chi Minh
City. There is a ‘how-to’ on painting figures for AFV modellers by Alex Long
and also included is a small decal sheet and etched engine grills for a T-55.
The decals themselves are nicely printed by the Fantasy Printshop, in perfect
register and give three finishing options for T-54s, two of which relate to builds
in the book with decal placement instructions given near the end. The etch is
supplied by Voyager, the instructions for which are printed inside the book.
As well as the in depth builds there are a lot of tips and tricks included for
finishing the models along with ideas for groundwork.
Taking a look at the opening chapter and Chris certainly chucks in everything
but the kitchen sink with the amount of detail he incorporates into the old
Dragon kit and just goes to prove that an old kit can be made into a show
stopper. Ivan Cocker finishes it off with a superb finish and diorama setting.
Also thanks are due to Chris for invoking one of the Rules of Modelling that
requires manufacturers to release a brand new kit after someone completes an
in depth build like this, namely Meng and their Shilka.
The overall quality is very good and the book is surprisingly heavy, the only
nitpicks I could find were a few spelling mistakes here and there and the text
on page 69 repeated on page 71. Knowing Chris I can only put this down to
the printers.
I liked the honesty shown in the BTR-40A article where the builder, rather than
hide the mistakes he made during construction included them as a warning to
others who wish to build their own.
I wasn’t sure what to make of the book at first as sometimes the inclusion of
built models can spoil an otherwise excellent reference source however the
quality of the builds, the finish of them and the reference photo’s make this a
very valuable addition to the library, so much so I can see a trip to the stash to
dig out some Russian armour.
Inspiring stuff!
Highly Recommended.
Many thanks to Inside The Armour Publications for the review sample www.
insidethearmour.com
Andy King

February 2017 - Model Military International 55

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

ITALERI
1:35 SCALE AUSTRO-HUNGARIAN INFANTRY AND ITALIAN INFANTRY
KIT NOS. 6528 AND 6532
Recently arrived for review are these two sets of undercuts on pockets, shoulder straps etc., all M91 rifles and carbines, M1889 revolvers, Glisenti
figures from Italeri depicting Austro-Hungarian the little indents on the webbing straps make the M1910 and Berretta M1915 pistols, bayonets,
and Italian troops from WWI. figures really stand out, facial features are also trench clubs, grenades etc and three types of
Now the mere mention of Italeri and figures very nicely rendered too. the Adrian helmet. Personal equipment such as
in the same sentence usually causes me some The figures are posed as advancing into battle canteens, backpacks, entrenching tools are also
concern and trepidation as, let’s face it, their and all wear the grey uniform of the period, included.
figures were never the best. However when I interestingly the box art shows the figures Assembly instructions in both sets are printed
opened the boxes I was very relieved to see the wearing helmets whilst the printed instructions on a separate sheet and colours quoted are for
ICM logo on the sprues so this review will be a show them wearing peaked caps. Both types Italeri’s own paint range along with Federal
bit longer! of headwear are included so you can mix and Standard equivalents.
Starting with the Austro-Hungarian set and match if you wish. The weapons (from set If you can get past the iffy box artwork when
as usual with ICM you get four figures and a 35671) in the kit include Schwarzlose M1908 and looking at these two sets, be assured that the
selection of personal equipment on one sprue 1912 machine guns, Mannlicher M1895 rifles quality of the figures inside is far better and well
and more equipment and weapons on a second. and carbines, Steyr M1912 pistols and holsters, worth the investment, although if you can get
Moulding quality is good with only a little flash bayonets, grenades and trench knives. them in the original ICM boxes they will be a bit
here and there although there are seam lines on For the set of Italian infantry, the comments cheaper.
most parts but these are easily removed with a about moulding and detail quality apply equally, Definitely Recommended!
sharp blade. the figures are again posed as advancing and Many thanks to The Hobby Company Limited for
The moulding detail is very good indeed and not weapons (from set 35686) include Villar-Perosa the sample www.hobbyco.net
far off the quality of resin figures. Things like the M1915 sub-machine guns, Mannlicher-Carcano Brett Green

HAULER
1:35 SCALE MILITARY PROVISIONS
ITEM NO. HLU35091
This versatile set will really add life to your figures,
creating an instant vignette or additional detail for a
diorama.
Hauler has provided a wide range of fresh food,
containers and even a wheeled cart made up from 42
parts in perfectly cast grey resin.
There are several wooden boxes full of fruit and
vegetables, large bread rolls, cheese, wine bottles,
buckets, two different sacks of potatoes, a milk urn, a
knife and some smallgoods. The resin trolley is made up
from several pieces including separate spoked wheels.
Cleanup should not be difficult and
painting will be downright fun.
These provisions should cover several
projects, and will represent a very useful
addition to your accessory drawer.
Highly Recommended.
Thanks to Hauler for the sample
www.hauler.cz
Brett Green

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KIT PREVIEW Ryefield Model 1:35 M1A1 Abrams • Kit No. RM-5006

The upper hull features non-slip texture where


appropriate.

The one-piece upper turret shell.

DESERT STORMER
Moulding quality is excellent.

The Editor examines the contents of Ryefield Model’s


latest 1:35 scale Abrams, a Desert Storm M1A1.

T
he M1 Abrams is tanks. It added protection in and should still look great on the
an American third- the rear and side of the tank to finished model. A clear sprue is included.
generation main battle improve fighting ability in urban Rye Field’s surface textures
tank. Highly mobile, environments.* are the best of all the Abrams
designed for modern armoured Ryefield released a 1:35 scale kits currently available, with
ground warfare, the M1 is well M1A1 TUSK / M1A2 SEP Abrams convincing and restrained non-slip
armed and heavily armoured. TUSK 1 / M1A2 SEP Abrams texture on the top of the hull and
Notable features include the TUSK II kit in 2016. This was an the turret.
use of a powerful multi-fuel impressive and highly detailed The instructions are laid out
turbine engine, the adoption of model with 1,899 parts. I was logically and the options are
sophisticated composite armour, suitably impressed, with my only clearly indicated in different
and separate ammunition storage real criticism relating to the sections and with colour coding. The tracks are all new and will be much easier to
in a blow-out compartment for somewhat intimidating tracks with Baskets and railings are all assemble.
crew safety. Weighing nearly 68 six parts per link. My point was presented in injection moulded
short tons (almost 62 metric that the Abrams’ track is “live”, plastic, and they look great.
tons), it is one of the heaviest and therefore does not sag at The road wheels are attached
main battle tanks in service. all along the top run. Unless you to swing arms, which in turn
Three main versions of the M1 want to display your Abrams on attach to workable torsion bars.
Abrams have been deployed, the uneven ground (or buzz it around Once again, the road wheels are
M1, M1A1, and M1A2, incorporating the lounge room), the workable sensibly and simply moulded
improved armament, protection, feature is not really relevant. The with the tyres as outer and inner
and electronics. These majority of the track run is hidden wheels.
* Historical background courtesy of Wikipedia.

improvements and other upgrades behind skirts and armour anyway. Most of the engineering The separate guide horns and some of the individual
to in-service tanks have allowed This new kit is specific to decisions to do with parts links.
this long-serving vehicle to remain Operation Desert Storm, being an breakdown seem to be quite
in front-line service. In addition, early (1991) version of the M1A1 modeller friendly.
development for the improved prior to the upgrades fitted after In common with their previous
M1A3 version has been known bitter experience in the urban Abrams release, I impressed with
since 2009. environs of Iraq. the quality of Ryefield Model’s
Due to the vulnerability of The kit comprises a much more 1:35 scale Desert Storm M1A1.
tanks in urban combat, the Tank build-friendly 557 parts in dark It is beautifully detailed, offers
Urban Survival Kit (or TUSK) yellow plastic, 202 parts in grey an interesting and historically
was issued to some M1 Abrams (tracks) and 75 parts in clear. important version and looks Lovely machine gun detail.
Let’s start with the tracks. eminently buildable, especially
These are brand new link-and- with the simpler tracks!
length affairs with long sections I look forward to seeing where
for the top and bottom runs Ryefield Model heads from now on!
plus 48 individual links to run Highly Recommended to
around the drive sprockets and experienced modellers. ■
idler wheels. The guide teeth are
separate parts. Compared to the Thanks to Ryefield Model
six-part links in the earlier release, for the sample
these will be a breeze to assemble www.ryefield-model.com
The kit’s photo-etch.
Markings for three
vehicles are supplied. February 2017 - Model Military International 57

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CLASSY HOBBY 1:16 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN II AUSF. L LUCHS, 4TH PANZER DIVISION • KIT NO. MC16003

LATE
LUCHS
The Editor unpacks Classy Hobby’s
latest large-scale Luchs.

T
he Panzer II was the backbone of the Despite being 30% heavier than the Panzer II links on the glacis, smoke dischargers o the turret
Panzercorps during the early Blitzkrieg Ausf. C, the Luchs lived up to its requirement for and additional armour on the lower forward hull.
campaigns. However, the Battle of speed. Its 180hp Maybach engine and six-speed The new kit comprises 510 parts in pale grey
France proved that the thin armour ZF transmission propelled the machine at over 60 plastic, 12 parts in clear and 208 track links in
and inadequate armament of the kilometres per hour. This speed was essential, as its brown plastic. Multimedia parts include a photo-
Panzer II made it unsuitable for operations against maximum armour of 30mm was no thicker than its etched fret with a further 70 parts, a length of
other tanks. Nevertheless, development of the obsolete predecessor. Armament comprised one KwK metal cable and a bag of steel track pins.
design continued. The final production model 38 20mm cannon and one co-axial machine gun. Moulding quality is generally very good, with just a
was the Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. L Sd.Kfz. 123 131 Luchs' were manufactured between April 1942 little bit of light flash here and there.
"Luchs" (Lynx). and May 1943. These vehicles were deployed to The kit is broken down conventionally, with a “flat
It was later redesignated Panzerspähwagen "Luchs". Wehrmacht Panzer and reconnaissance units on the pack” lower hull comprising a floor (incorporating
The Luchs was designed as a fast armoured Eastern and Western fronts. the front hull plate), sides and arear plate. The
reconnaissance vehicle. The general layout of the The final 31 Luchs were armed with the very space between the rear plate and the engine bay is
Ausf. L was similar to the Ausf. D and E versions of effective L/60 50mm anti-tank gun. filled with fan belt and engine fan detail. This detail
the Panzer II. The most noticeable distinguishing Classy Hobby released their 1:16 will be visible through the ventilator grilles on the
feature was the interleaved suspension, more Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. L Luchs in April 2016. engine deck, so it is very welcome.
commonly associated with the Tiger and Panther. The debut offering was the standard version. There is no other interior detail inside the hull.
In fact, with its stocky, squared-off design, Classy Hobby’s second 1:16 Panzerkampfwagen The running gear is made up from internal mounts
overlapping road wheels and general profile II Ausf. L Luchs represents one of the machines in for the working torsion bars, the torsion bars
somewhat resembling a Tiger I, this little vehicle service with the 4th Panzer Division. These Luchs’ themselves, and the relatively simple interleaved
must have given an unjustified shock to many were subtly different, being fitted with a rack on the road wheels, drive sprockets and idler wheel, shock
Allied and Soviet tank commanders! forward hull for idler wheel tyre sections, spare track absorbers and smaller detail parts. The wheels are

Lower hull plate. The upper hull centre section. Note the One of the separate hull side parts. Rear upper hull section with part of the rear
sprocket teeth moulded onto the turret ring. grill moulded in place.

Tools have clasp detail moulded in place. The upper turret shell. Nice radio face detail. The early-style rear turret plate and Commander’s hatch.

The modest-sized photo-etched fret. Clear parts including vision scopes and headlight lenses. Three marking schemes are included.

58 Model Military International - February 2017

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moulded with the tyres in injection moulded plastic. Both early and late style rear turret plates are CONCLUSION
The tracks are made up from individual single links included. The late style had a wider hatch. The rear In common with their debut offering, this version
and are joined with metal pins, just like the real hatch is hinged and may be left to open and close of Classy Hobby’s 1:16 scale Luchs is an impressive
thing. The links feature solid guide horns with with careful application of glue. The late version and very buildable kit.
a lightening “dent” in the outer surfaces. This is also had a modified Commander’s hatch and some The model features a well-detailed exterior with
accurate. different turret details. These are also provided in interior detail where it is needed most – inside the
All the hatches are separate parts so they may be the kit and pointed out in the instructions. turret, which will be visible through open hatches,
posed open or closed. Note that the crew’s hull The gun barrel and muzzle is a single plastic piece. and underneath the large open cast grilles of the
hatches actually swing down inside the vehicle. The main gun, sight and coaxial MG 34 are nicely rear engine deck. Stowage and turret configuration
Visors are well detailed including clear vision blocks detailed. options are welcome, and are all clearly pointed
and may be posed open or closed. Plenty of external stowage is supplied, including out in the instructions.
The upper hull is broken down into forward, mid spare tracks, stowage boxes and jerry cans. The tracks are quite straightforward too, with just
and rear sub-assemblies, while the turret is made The three vehicles are all finished in a mottle of one piece per link and steel pin assembly.
up from an upper shell and separate parts for the Dark Green over Dark Yellow. The decals are simple, The option of two crew figures is very welcome too.
mantlet, bottom and rear plates. The interior of the colours are good and registration perfect on my Highly Recommended.
turret bristles with detail including the radio, crew sample. Thanks to Classy Hobby for the sample
seats, visors, water bottles and stowage. www.classy-hobby.com

Metal track pins


The outer surfaces of the individual track links. Inner face detail – nicely done. and tow cable. The kit decal sheet.

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


DRAGON
1:72 SCALE
CHURCHILL MK.III AVRE
KIT NO. 7327
During WWII, due to the efforts of General Percy Hobart, some Churchill tanks
were converted by having their main armament removed and replaced by a
short-range explosive charge launcher firing a 290mm diameter charge. Named
AVRE (Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers) it was designed for demolishing
roadblocks, enemy strong points, and other obstacles.
Dragon’s Churchills are certainly well done and arguably the best in plastic in
this scale. On opening the box we are met with four sprues, an upper & lower
hull and a set of DS Tracks. Molding is sharp and crisp throughout with plenty
of fine detail and only a little bit of flash on some bits. There are only 84 parts
present of which six are unused so this will be a quick and easy build.
There are only 5 steps in the instructions and the first involves the turret. All
hatches are separate so you can put a figure in them however there is no
interior detail to see.
Next up is the running gear and here Dragon has moulded the suspension and
road wheel units into two halves per side. No detail is lost by doing it this way
as most of what is there is hidden behind the superstructure sides anyway. The
option is there to shorten the DS Tracks if necessary however with the upper
run hidden you can simply glue them in place and forget about any sloppy fit
problems.
Both upper and lower hulls come as single pieces and a test-fit of the main
Detail in DS tracks. Not bad for small scale. Here are the new bits.
parts reveals a good match overall. There is a little bit of surgery involved
(opening up some holes and shaving off some detail) but nothing that basic
modelling skills can’t solve.
I should add that the instructions are clearly drawn and I have not noticed
any mistakes so far. Markings are provided for two vehicles, both from 79th Close up of the front armour.
Division in Europe during 1944, and are clearly printed.
This is a lovely little kit. The standard of detail throughout is superb and the fit
(so far) is very good. I like it and would give it a 9/10.
Highly Recommended
Rear engine deck detail. Marking options.
Thanks to The Hobby Company Limited for the sample www.hobbyco.net Pretty nice for one-piece
mouldings!

February 2017 - Model Military International 59

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1:48 Scale – A round-up of the latest news and releases
HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
H
ow much is too much (in dollar terms) for a single model kit. I know what
my limit is, but what is yours? I ask this, as I have just seen the price of the
Trumpeter 1:48 scale Type VIIC U-Boat. My inner voice said....”are you serious
dude?”. Not only is the model huge dimensionally but it would be kind of
difficult to display. Even so, I know that if someone offered an update for it, I would
probably go out and purchase that also! We are looking at hundreds of dollars here.
I raised this question on Facebook a while ago and received a number of responses.
One of the more enlighten ones was from Mr. Roy Chow. He said “We shouldn’t fool
ourselves with the ‘I spend $100 but it gives me 6 months of fun/activity’ argument”. It’s
true, for that project you’re spending six months on -- but what about the $800 on kits
and accessories that sit on your shelf for months and years during that six months you’re
building that one kit? That’s where the insanity lies. That one kit for $100? I get it. The
$800 for the other five or six never to see the light of day? Madness.
Which also raised the old question, how big is your stash?. The other thing that came to
mind was how big is too big? To my mind the 1:48 scale U-Boat probably falls into that
category. I honestly could not display it anywhere. Not to mention the amount of time it
would take me to build it. Given my current snail’s pace it would take me years but still
with all this logical thinking I still find myself drawn to it (much in the same way as a 32nd
B-17). I know I would never build it, but I still want it!

Until Next Time


Luke Pitt

BRONCO
1:48 SCALE
GERMAN WWII JERRY CANS & OIL DRUMS
ITEM NO. FB4020
Bronco seems to be producing more aircraft related products of late and I
believe that this set is intended for that market segment. However, that’s not to
say that we armour guys can’t use a good product as well!
24 1:48 scale multi-part Jerry cans are included with each can consisting of 5
parts. Like their 1:35 scale counterparts, Bronco has nailed these and they are
the best 1:48 scale examples of these
available in plastic today. Eight oil drums
are included as well, in three different
varieties. Like the Jerry cans, these
are probably the best I have seen in
plastic. The ends even have inscriptions
on them. Rounding out the set is the
inclusion of two hand pumps. This set
is very impressive as their more detailed
than any of the other plastic renditions
that I have seen in 1:48 scale to date.
Highly Recommended.
Thanks to Bronco for the review
samples www.cn-bronco.com
Luke Pitt

60 Model Military International - February 2017

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Luke Pitt explores the wonderful world
of 1:48 scale models and after market.

TANK WORKSHOP
1:48 SCALE
OPEL BLITZ WHEELS (8 HOLE) STANDARD MILITARY TREAD
ITEM NO: TWS 48121
Tamiya has released two 1:48 scale Opel Blitz trucks over the years. The first
was a reboxing of the Italeri kit and the second was their own version.
Both kits had the six-holed pattern early wheel, which was a bit odd as
most photos show the latter pattern 8-hole pattern wheel. All this can now
be addressed with this new release from Tank Workshop. These wheels
were mastered by Dennis Loep via CAD and then 3D printed to form the
master on which these resin castings were based.
The casting exhibits a very fine pebble like texture but this is only apparent
under extreme magnification. To all intents and purposs, these are perfect
replacements for the Tamiya kits and exhibit far more detail in both tread
pattern and side wall detail than their plastic cousins.
The thing that always strikes me about Tank Workshop products is that they
are sensibly priced, and these are no exception.
Highly Recommended.
Thanks to The Tank Workshop for the sample www.tankworkshop.com

TAMIYA
1:48 SCALE JAPANESE LIGHT ARMOURED VEHICLE
KIT NO. 32590
This new 1:48 scale Tamiya kit of the Japanese Light Armoured Vehicle is
in fact the Komatsu LAV (Light Armoured Vehicle) which is in service with
the Japan Ground Self Defense Forces. Introduced in 2002, the vehicle was
deployed in the Iraq War. The LAV is produced by the Komatsu Defense
Systems Division in Komatsu, Japan. The vehicle bears a passing resemblance
to the Panhard VBL (which in this reviewer’s mind is almost like an armored
sport car), that is in service with the French Army.
The kit comprises 82 parts in dark green plastic, 9 parts in clear plastic, and
a decal sheet accompanied by a first rate instruction sheet. The molding is
first class, with no cleanup needed except for a few fine molding seams. The
detail is so fine in places it defies belief. For example, the small rivet detail of
the body sides is quite simply breathtaking. The tyre tread pattern with its
distinctive bias ply tire is reproduced in a clever way. Each wheel is providing
in front and rear sections onto which four tread sections are placed around
the rim. This will look familiar to anyone who has seen Tamiya’s 1:32
Mosquito as the same method, is employed.
The chassis is a one-piece plastic molding onto which are attached the
front and rear suspension units, and which in turn are made up from
separate drive units. The large body molding is a state of the art affair but,
unfortunately makes no provision for any of the crew doors to be modelled
in the open position. This is a shame as the interior is fairly well kitted
out. The crew seats have nice details, with the rear seats having separate
cushions with detail on the back plates.
The exterior details on this kit are superb, take for example the “stowage
rack” the thin round pipe that make up this rack are really impressive.
The roof has separate weapons ring in which the well-molded machine gun
can be mounted.
A small but rather nice decal sheet is provided. This includes the dial faces
for the instrument panel as well as markings for three brown and green
Japanese camouflaged examples.
To my mind, this is one of the best 1:48 scale armour releases produced by
Tamiya to date. Basically it looks like a pantographed version of their 1:35
scale offering. After putting a few of the main body parts together for this
review, I can report the kit just clicks together. Tamiya is the master of what I
would describe as “detailed simplicity” and this kit is further evidence of that.
Highly Recommended.
Thanks to Tamiya Japan for the sample www.tamiya.com
Tamiya kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby Company Limited
www.hobbyco.net
Luke Pitt

February 2017 - Model Military International 61

p 60-61 48Scale 130B.indd 61 01/12/2016 10:51


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p 62 Buyers Guide 130.indd 62 29/11/2016 11:14


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p 63 ModellersGuide 130.indd 1 29/11/2016 11:15


Contact Details - for companies featured in MMI... NOn
ACCURATE ARMOUR/ DELUXE MATERIALS MILICAST MODEL CO., SCHIFFER BOOKS in UK
ARMOUR DISTRIBUTION www.deluxematerials.co.uk 9 Rannoch St., Battlefield, Glasgow G44 4DF, Scotland Bushwood Books, No.6 Marksbury Avenue,
Units 15-16 Kingston Industrial Estate, info@deluxematerials.com Tel/Fax; 0141 633 1400 Kew Gardens, Surrey TW9 4JF, UK.
Port Glasgow, Inverclyde, PA14 5DG Scotland. Tel; 01529 455 0340 milicastmodels@hotmail.com Tel; 020 8392 8585, 020 8392 9876,
Tel; 01475 743 955 www.milicast.com email; info@bushwodbooks.co.uk
Fax; 01475 743746 DRAGON MODELS
www.accurate-armour.com (The Hobby Company in UK) MISSION MODELS SCHUMO KITS
Dragon Models Ltd, Kong Nam Ind. Building B1-10F, (ETCHMATE, GRABHANDLER, MICRO CHISEL) www.schumo-kits.com
ADALBERTUS 603-609 Castle Peak Road, Tsuen Wan NT, www.etchmate.com
Iberyjska 7/49, 02-764 , Warsaw,Poland Hong Kong Fax; (HK) 4110587 www.missionmodels.com SDV MODEL
adalbertus@adalbertus.com.pl www.dragonmodelsltd.com Tel; 818 842 1885 www.sdvmodel.cz
www.adalbertus.com.pl (For 1:6 Action Figures, please contact Amerang in UK) Fax; 818 842 1886
info@missionmodels.com, SIMPLE 2 TRADE
THE AIRBRUSH COMPANY Ltd ECHELON FINE DETAILS sales@missionmodels.com, No 2 Hollywood Lane, Hollywood,
Unit 7 Marlborough Road, Lancing Business Park, Available from; wwwaccurate-armour.com & orders@missionmodels.com Birmingham, B47 5PP
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Tel; 08700 660 445 THE ARMORY; M&MODELS www.simple2trade.com
www.airbrushes.com FRIENDSHIP MODELS 9329 S. Cicero Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453, USA
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ALCLAD II LACQUER Tel; 0131 665 0866 (Swash, Tasca, Gap, Yosci, Royal Model)
5 St Georges Close, Bacton, Norfolk. NR12 0LL Mobile; 07877166225 MODEL WHOLESALE UK LTD No.7 Gordons Way, Oxted, Surrey RH8 0LN UK
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MORI, YOSCI; SMARTMODELLING www.greatnorthroads.co.uk Simi Valley, CA 93065, USA.
No.7 Gordons Way, Oxted, Surrey RH8 0LN. UK
email svfarrugia@yahoo.co.uk www.monroeperdu.com SWANN-MORTON
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smartmodelling@smart7.fsworld.co.uk Owlerton Green, Sheffield, S6 2BJ
HANNANTS ORDNANCE MODELS Tel; +44 (0)114 234 4231
Harbour Road, Oulton Broad, Via; www.steelmodels.com Fax; +44 (0)114 231 4966
AMPERSAND PUBLISHING Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR32 2LZ,
(via Historex Agents in UK) General: info@swann-morton.com
235 NE 6th Avenue #4 Delray Beach,
Tel; 01502 517444 PACIFIC COAST MODELS www.craftknives.com
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www.hannants.co.uk info@pacmodels.com TAMIYA JAPAN
Tel; 561-266 9686
sales@hannants.co.uk www.pacmodels.com Tamiya, Inc., 3-7 Ondawara Suruga-ku,
Fax; 561-266-9786
Shizuoka 422-8610 JAPAN
ARCHER HISTOREX AGENTS PANZERWRECKS www.tamiya.com
Wellington House, 157 Snargate Street, PO Box 164, Heathfield, Sussex TN21 8WA, UK
(Historex in UK)
Dover, Kent, CT17 9BZ, UK www.panzerwrecks.com TAMIYA UK;
PO Box 1277 Youngsville, NC 27596-1277, USA
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Fax; 01304 204528. PLUS MODEL Garforth Place, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, MK5 8PG, UK
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BADGER AIR-BRUSH COMPANY sales@historex-agents.co.uk
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www.hlj.com (Trumpeter & AFV Club in UK) Pocketbond in the UK
BISON DECALS Bachmann Europe PLC
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HUSSAR PRODUCTIONS, CANADA Moat Way, Barwell, Leics, LE9 8EY VERLINDEN PRODUCTIONS
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www.icm.com.ua QUICKBOOST www.acrylicosvallejo.com
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CALIBRE 35 ITALERI VLS CORPORATION
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Via Pradazzo, 6, I-40012 Calderara Di Reno, Orchard Mews, 18C High Street, (TRAKZ, WINGZ, CUSTOM DIORAMICS, WARRIORS);
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Tel; 01803 558520 P.O. Box 114, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA13 0WY. 8532 Lamar Drive, Huntington Beach, CA 92647, USA
www.cammett.co.uk
www.just-bases.co.uk Tel/Fax; 01229 430 749 Tomsmodelworks@aol.com
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CLASSIC PUBLICATIONS JUST KITS www.sbmodels.net
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4 High Street, Botley, Southampton, SO30 2EA WWII PRODUCTIONS, AUSTRALIA
Leics UK. LE10 1YF
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www.justkitsandmodels.co.uk PO Box 794, Cheltenham GL52 3ZW, UK Tel; +61 (0)2 4967 3205
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Fax; 01455 233 737 RICHARDSBLC@aol.com Fax; +61 (0)2 4967 3207
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Fax; 01773 513344 Tel; 01473 464311 (The Hobby Company in UK)
CREATIVE MODELS LTD orders@modeldesignconstruction.com
(Mig Productions, Vallejo, Accurate Miniatures) www.sbxmodelshop.co.uk Promishlennaia Str.,2, Lobnya, Moscow Region,
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MIG PRODUCTIONS SCHIFFER BOOKS
DARTMOOR MILITARY MODELS (Creative Models in UK) Schiffer Publishing, 4880 Lower Valley Rd,
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Exeter, EX5 3LJ, England 08750 Molins de Rei, Barcelona, Spain www.schifferbooks.com
Tel; 01392 881271 www.migproductions.com
www.dartmoormilitarymodels.com

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

64 Model Military International - February 2017

p 64-65 Contact NI 130B.indd 64 01/12/2016 10:52


Next Issue
On sale 2nd February 2017
LAND BATTLESHIP!
Luke Pitt builds Hobby Boss’s
1:35 scale T-35, and Bruce Culver
ISSUE No.130 Febuary 2017,
explores Soviet heavy tanks in a
Published January 5th 2017
new Think Tank research piece.
Editor; Brett Green
Group Editor; Marcus Nicholls
Publisher; Alan Harman
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Rafe Morrissey tackles this new conversion. cannot guarantee the appearance of the © Doolittle Media 2017

above projects, but we’ll try our best!

February 2017 - Model Military International 65

p 64-65 Contact NI 130B.indd 65 01/12/2016 10:52


The Last Post...
Drive sprockets & smaller bits.
DRAGON 1:35 JAGDTIGER HENSCHEL PRODUCTION TYPE W/12.8CM PAK80 (L/66) • KIT NO. 6827

The new gun barrel.

Graham Tetley
examines an
old favourite
with some new
additions.

NEW 1:35 DRAGON Armour plate texture.

JAGDTIGER
I
n 1944 the designers at Krupp proposed to install from being set back in the collar by about 4mm
a larger gun in the Jagdtiger superstructure. too far. The rumour for this error is that Dragon’s The etched steel parts.
Despite making the vehicle even more difficult to designers measured the Aberdeen example and its
move around, doing so would have resulted in the barrel is partly in recoil. Both barrels come split into
gun’s breach extending out of the Jagdtiger’s upper halves so be prepared to do some sanding to remove
casemate thus exposing the crew. The drawings the join lines. My method is to clamp the halves
for this proposed conversion show armoured sides together tightly, seal it with liquid glue and then,
extending from the rear superstructure out along when dry, smooth it down with wire wool.
the engine deck, but, as it never got past the draw- This is actually quite a simple build with the only
ing stage, we will never know what the real thing thing to watch out for being some small gaps where
would have looked like. the casemate front & rear join to the sides. All tools
For this release, Dragon gives us their standard have their straps moulded on with no clasps so seek
Jagdtiger model dating all the way back to 6050 in out etched parts if you wish. Dragon has provided
1995 and 6285 in 2005. We get with it a new sprue us with three-piece track guards and whilst it would
for the gun barrel and an updated sprue containing have been nice to have them all as individual parts
the drive sprockets and other smaller parts. With 15 the detail is adequate.
sprues in total, we also get an etched steel fret con- The kit’s Magic Tracks come in two parts and it
taining the engine grilles, tie downs & other bits plus was noticed that the smaller links do suffer from Close-up of the drive sprocket.
some wire for the tow ropes. The basic kit has stood flash. A test fit reveals that they are very tight so
the test of time well and has some crisp detail pre- I recommend you file the inners surfaces down.
sent on all parts. Sadly, the metal barrel and other Generally, I am a big fan of Magic Tracks but these
goodies from 6285 have been dropped from this kit will need some clean-up time devoted to each link.
but, love them or hate them (and I love them!), Magic Still, they are better that DS Tracks in my view.
Tracks are provided although each link has some Markings are limited to a series of simple crosses
knock-out pin marks that would benefit from being but, as this is a ‘What if?’ vehicle you can add what-
removed. There is some flash present on some of the ever markings you see fit.
parts but nothing major.
Being an older Dragon kit, the instructions are CONCLUSION
clear and uncluttered with no errors that I have yet As this is a model of a vehicle that only saw action
spotted. There is some very fine weld detail and cast on a drawing board I cannot be too critical of accu-
texture to the armour plate which needs no improve- racy. For Dragon to do a proper job we should have
ment. A basic gun breach is provided but please bear had in the box the extended armour panels for the
in mind that it would be incorrect for this particular engine deck but some plastic card can put that right.
version as would probably be its position on the I am told that this fictional Jagdtiger is a top scorer No detail skimped on the road wheels.
floor. However it does give you something to see in ‘World of Tanks’ so it is probably aimed at that
through the hatches if you wish to have them open. market – if so, it is one way that new modellers can
Not mentioned as an option, but you do get it on the find a way into this hobby so has to be welcomed.
sprues, is the gun barrel for the regular Jagdtiger The basic Jagdtiger kit is sound although it would
so you could build it as such if you wish. Do bear in benefit from some etched improvements, especially
mind though that the same gun mantlet & collar are for the tools and fenders. It comes recommended
provided in the kit and the original barrel suffered with a 6/10 from me. ■ Track links, and flash.

66 Model Military International - February 2016

p 66 LastPost 130B.indd 66 01/12/2016 10:53


x t
Ne io n
he a t
T ner
Ge

T-14 Armata 1/35 (3670)

Zvezda’s T-14 Armata is perhaps the most accurate version of this kit on
the market. The complex geometry of the hull and the turret is perfectly
reproduced with a very high level of detail and a fine plastic texture. This
kit was engineered in cooperation with UralVagonZavod (UVZ), the Russian
factory that actually manufactured the real tank. Even the details of the
bottom lower hull are shown and all grilles are reproduced in fine plastic!

This kit consists of 410 parts with 10 grey plastic sprues and one with clear
parts. The tracks are in hard plastic segments and very easy to assemble.
Included are two decal sheets, one for the 2016 Victory Day parade in
Moscow, and one for the new Russian Army tank unit, established in 2016.

The T-14 Armata is a unique tank. For the first time in the tank history
Russian designers have transformed the turret into an unmanned combat
module and placed the crew in an isolated armoured capsule. The
Armata's complex armour supported by an active protection system is able
to withstand the hit of any existing anti-tank weapon. The powerful gun with
auto-loader directed by complex aiming system surpasses any existing or
forthcoming tanks of other countries.

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

p 67 Zvezda 130.indd 1 29/11/2016 11:17

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