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106

MAY/JUNE 2019 • £6.95 UK $15.99


www.mengafvmodeller.com

MAGACH6B
WE BUILD THE MENG GAL BATASH
CONTENTS
2 Magach 6B
The Editor delves into Meng’s brand new IDF offering.

12 Das Beer Mule


Keep on Truckin’ with the new 1:35 FAUN from Das Werk.

20 God Save The King...maybe


Fabio Mosca’s Normandy diorama.

30 Beirut Bruiser
Cesar Jachan gets technical with his gun-slinging Toyota.

36 Panzerkampfwagen IV Part 24
The Editor continues detailing Trumpeter’s 1:16 kit.

46 Keeping Track
New releases.

56 South Atlantic Scorpion


Mark Neville’s 1:35 Falklands CVR(T)

Meng AFV Modeller is published Bimonthly by


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Editor and Designer: David Parker


AFV Modeller welcomes contributions from interested parties, but cannot accept any
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1
ISSN 2059-4305
MAGACH6B GAL BATASH
MODELLED BY DAVID PARKER

America’s ageing M60A1E2 is barely


recognisable under the suite of armour
upgrades designed by the IDF to
extend the life of the veteran AFV.
Along with the obvious radical visual
changes to the tank it also received an
upgraded Fire Control system and
enhanced performance of the engine.
These improvements saw the Magach
in service until it was withdrawn in
2006.

Meng’s 1:35 scale kit of the 6B looks


fantastic in the box in its sand-
coloured plastic it also comes with a
photoetched fret, clear moulded lights
and periscopes and a length of
braided wire rope for the turret tow
ropes. There is also a flexible plastic
sprue with the gun mantlet, concertina
sleeve for the gun and sealing strips
for the front trackguards.

2
MAGACH6B

3
MAGACH6B The M60 chassis has to be one of the more
complex AFV designs and therefore presents a
slightly daunting assembly task for the weary
modeller. The road wheels come with separately
moulded tires to accurately capture the lip on
the wheel which is excellent and similarly the
internal holes in the sprockets are replicated.
Meng have employed their usual working torsion
bar system which is really effective but I chose to
fix the ride height of mine during assembly. This
also allowed me to glue the three shock
absorber mounts on each side of the hull in
position as if you don’t the shafts have a
tendency to drop out of the housings.

The upper hull moulding matches


beautifully and the engine deck is also
well rendered with separately moulded
louvred sections. These fit snuggly so
it is worth taking time to dry fit each
piece before slapping on any glue.
Across the kit there are the
occasional location holes that
have to be drilled out, hinting at
other kits in the pipeline based
on this chassis ?

The belly armour drops onto the underside of the


hull without a problem but it is worth leaving the
fragile bow footsteps C12 separate until the final
assembly to avoid accidentally damaging them.
Below the impressive turret will shortly be
encased in the IDF upgrade package.

The flexible plastic mantlet cover which looked


like it might be problematic in fact fitted
beautifully and was fixed in place with my usual
Mr Cement S liquid glue.

4
The kit comes with a nice set of individual link
tracks and a jig to assemble them but as my
preference is always for a metal track I used a
set of the MasterClub replacement tracks for the
Magach. The trackguards can be assembled
separately if preferred and with separately
moulded stowage bin latches there really is
nothing to do but glue it together!
The precision assembly of the turret modules is
an absolute joy and they all locate flawlessly,
completely transforming the look of the tank!

The rear engine bay doors /


louvres deserve special
mention as they are assembled
from two interlocking parts for
each door which gives them an
extremely realistic appearance.

Although the kit has a moulded anti-slip it is impossible to Sand & Gravel glue was brush painted onto a panel and the VMS
replicate the correct texture in plastic so I turned to my trusted texture applied as quickly as possible. Any overspill was cleaned
VMS Hull texture to improve the anti-slip areas. I tackled one up and the anti-slip areas were treated with Mission Models Tan
panel at a time as larger areas are tricky and in this case the primer to improve adhesion.
turret cheek modules have some large areas to cover. The AK 5
Fighting fit!
This really is one of those kits where
assembly is a real pleasure and even
repetitive areas like the running gear were
painless. Apart from the tow ropes and my
own preference for the aftermarket tracks I
couldn’t find anything that cried out for
upgrading or additional details. The anti-slip
is worthwhile improvement but other than
that the Magach is ready for some paint!

6
MAGACH6B

The kit provides a nice set of moulded


plastic tow ropes to drape across the bow.
I decided to enhance these by replacing
the rope sections with brass picture
hanging wire. I soldered together two
pieces of the wire so that the joint would be
strong enough to withstand the shaping of
the cables. The collars were added from
strips of foil wrapped around and glued in
position and the kit towing eyes were drilled
out and the brass wire glued into them.

For consistency I used the same brass wire


to make the pair of turret-mounted tow
cables. I used lead wire to add the fixings
for the identification panels on the turret
basket. The basket looks complex but is
remarkably easy to assemble and the
identification panels are convincingly
rippled with holes in each corner for the
fixings.

7
MAGACH6B

Painting gets underway with a base mix of Mission


Models IDF Sand Grey MMP-037 and about 30% of
RLM02 Grau MMP-056 applied over a coat of MMP Tan
Primer. This was then sealed with a coat of satin varnish.
The fine details were then painted along with all the
markings with the exception of the rear mudguards and
lower hull markings were I used the kit decals. I also
brush painted the markings on the fire extinguishers and
the ammunition boxes.

Faced with the daunting blank canvas of the freshly


painted Magach I decided to start by weathering the
complex lower hull first using Lifecolor acrylics applied
as a wash. I then worked over the wash using the
airbrush to intensify the build up of dust on the hull.

Above the initial wash effects on the hull compared to


the airbushed version Right

8
Moving to the upper hull I employed
the same technique relying heavily
on the airbrush to build up the dust
deposits over the over the horizontal
surfaces. It allowed me to quickly
build up the density and has the
advantage of looking quite naturally
like dust. On the turret I
concentrated the dust build up on
the lower frontal areas of the cheek
armour and around the mantlet.
Colour washes were used to build
up the intensity across the turret
and to sit around raised details like
the rings on the gun barrel. I kept
areas around the turret hatches
cleaner to reflect the activity of the
crew.

Above work in progress on the turret showing the


densities of dust being built up towards the front of
the turret. All the turret roof weapons are dealt with
separately to improve access around the turret.

Right In selected areas I also added


some darker shades of the dust
tones, moving from sand into brown.
At this point I was ready to fit the
tracks. These had been sprayed in
an overall base grey brown colour
before being generously treated with
washes of the dust colour. The
contact surfaces of the links were
rubbed down with an abrasive to
remove the paint and give a realistic
dull metallic finish to the tracks.

9
Above The tracks were fitted which also allowed me to install the skirts. I replicated
photos of the vehicle in service in the excellent Desert Eagle books by only fitting the
front skirt sections and leaving the rear sections off the model.

Quick Crew
On the hunt for a quick solution to crewing the turret I dug out a Blast Models IDF
crewman’s torso and head as a basis for a Commander figure. I used copper wire to
establish the pose of the figure leaning in his hatch before quickly sculpting a couple
of new arms using Magic Sculp, after a couple of hours I had a completed figure
ready to be painted. Painting was done entirely using Lifecolor acrylics.

Armed and dangerous


Meng have undertaken upgrades of their turret-top MG mounts since their early IDF
releases so that they really are good to go straight from the box! Their new .50 Cal is
excellent with a choice of separately moulded barrels and the Magach kit also
provides the spent shell casing collector bag. I painted the weapons using Mr Metal
Color Dark Iron which was selectively buffed with a soft brush to create polished
areas of wear. The build up of oil and dust residue on the weapons was built up using
the same Lifecolor tones that I had used on the rest of the tank but then taking them
darker for areas of heavy build up below the mount and on the mantlet.

10
MAGACH6B

11
Pour yourself a cold one, sit back and we’ll tell you all about the new FAUN L900
and Sonderanhänger 115 from the new boys from Bremen, Das Werk

12
The FAUN L900 was manufactured from 1937 to 1939 and is a typical
design of the larger trucks of the period, with it’s long ‘snout’ it reminds
me of the kind of trucks I drew pictures of when I was five! FAUN are still
manufacturing specialist vehicles to this day in Germany

The heavy FAUN L900 with the 10to sd.Ah. 115 Trailer was used to transport two Panzer I's or
II's and the other early war smaller and lighter tanks and AFV's of the Wehrmacht, one of the
biggest customers supplied with this combination. The Leichte Divisionen (Light Panzer)
Divisions) of the German Wehrmacht used this combination of truck and trailer until the Light
Divisions were converted into regular tank divisions and the FAUNs and trailers were moved to
the heavy maintenance companies of the tank regiments and used until the end of WW II
which opens up some great modelling opportunities.

rk N eville
y Ma
o d e lled b
m

Cast your mind back to the previous issue and you’ll remember we
previewed a pretty exciting new kit from a new player to the model kit
market, Das Werk. Powered by the giant German hobby supplier Modellbau
König who have assembled a team of experts to work on their debut
project (including German manufacturer Customscale who have produced a
resin kit of the L900 in the past and FAUN themselves) which is impressive
and certainly ambitious with their choice of subject and quality of the
presentation. The packaging and instruction booklets are on a par with the
highly regarded Wingnut Wings aircraft kits, beautifully done and packed
with cool touches throughout including QR code links to online videos of
some of the assembly steps; simply point your smart-phone camera at the
barcode and up pops the footage as if by magic! Modellbau König are
based not far from the famous Becks brewery making it the perfect regional 13
heavy load for the Faun.
Brass rod and a jig are
The screen is provided, as on the
provided if you wish to
real vehicle, in two sections and
create the hood bows. The
needs careful alignment. A fresh
fixing points require some
scalpel blade and Tamiya tape
careful drilling but the idea
provide masking duties.
works well.
Rear view mirrors
and semaphores are
delicately moulded
but need handling
carefully...yes I
managed to snap
one...

The kit pushes the limits of the soft vinyl material


used to mould the tyres. The detail is good and
mould seams are minimal but a model of this
stature probably warrants some resin versions (also
available from Das werk).

The front carriage remains movable. Pay attention to your


chosen final configurations the ramps (shown stowed here)
can be posed in several positions. The handles for the
tensioners should be fixed after the tensioner bars (not prior
as the instructions state). The ‘loops’ of the tensioners appear
to attach to the tow points on a Panzer II, probably best to
leave these unattached until you’re decided on your load.

Winch details are included although no


The ramps here are suggestion of the cable arrangement or a
shown in the stowed / powered spool on the truck chassis; perhaps
transport mode. not a feature of the FAUN and used when the
Choose your trailer was towed by other vehicles?
configuration and
familiarise yourself
with the call-outs Not usually fans of moulded wood grain, we
throughout the must admit the kit designers have got this
instructions. just right (easier to see in the painted

The grey sprues give a good first impression


of the kit, certainly up to the expectations of
what a modern kit should deliver with
excellent detail and minimal clean-up.
There’s a lot of wheels and tyres involved,
the tyres are supplied in the usual soft black
vinyl with excellent detail to the side-walls
and tread. The vintage crossply tyres are
particularly ‘tall’ and may be susceptible to
some distortion due to the limits of the
material, Das Werk also have available a set
of resin replacements. Building enjoyment
has been key in the design of the kit and it’s
obvious that seasoned modellers have been
involved heavily in the project’s development
with enough detail, for example the chassis
and drive-train, without becoming very
fragile and frustrating. Some great touches
of note are three options of ride height for
the truck’s rear axles depending on your
chosen load (make sure to check the
correction to the instructions as the part
numbers are the wrong way round) and
some brass rod and a jig to create the tilt
bows.
The trailer can be assembled in three
configurations of loading and transporting
and it really sends the imagination running
wild with suitable loads and diorama
potential.
14
The top brace and strengthening ribs of the rear
mudguards are all supplied as separate pieces which
required a little liquid putty to bridge the gaps.

The rear carriage can be displayed separate if you’re


showing a ‘loading’ scenario. As with most kits, some
photoetch from the aftermarket guys could add a little
finesse in areas such as the number plate housing.

The cab hood is optional and beautifully


done with a very natural look. A full
canvass tarpaulin cover for the rear load
bed to the same standard would have
been something else, but maybe a little
too much to expect. Will anyone be
brave enough to produce an
aftermarket one in resin? Massive!
The drop-sides can be
displayed...well...dropped should
you wish. The fit into the hinges is
excellent and can be left in place
without adhesive in case you
change plans during the build.

Our wheels are set tight to the mudguards


with the most compressed leaf springs
chosen, just what you would expect
carrying 5,000 Litres of beer!

Cab interior detail is good enough for what’s visible with


the hood in place. Shift levers and pedals are supplied as
separate parts. If leaving the hood off maybe adding some
texture or creases to the seats would add some character?

15
We’d decided on an overall dunkelgrau finish for that
early-war look. There’s an option of a later three-tone
scheme offered if that takes your fancy. A black
primer is perfect for the dark grey as it acts as a pre-
shade also and as we’re having great results at the
moment with the Mission Models range went with a
good solid coat of their primer. MM’s primer seems
to ‘bite’ into the plastic more than the regular
colours, more like a lacquer based paint which
proves a solid base to key the colour coat.

Mission’s dunkelgrau really does


have the right hue, look at original
colour images of early war German
vehicles; they grey has very little
contrast with even the black of the
tyres. There seems to have been a
modelling trend of rendering this
colour lighter and lighter almost to a
point of pale blue, great for showing
paint chipping and rust but
ultimately unrealistic for our tastes.

The first step of the dry and dusty look was


a coat of hairspray straight from the can.
Well documented now, the ‘Hairspay’
technique provides an unstable barrier on
which you can airbrush and remove the top
colour by scrubbing with water. As well as
worn paint effects it’s perfect for patchy dirt
with a pleasing random and brushed-
off look. AK’s 701 Grau was
chosen for this first step.

The next layer of dust needed


to be softer and was
achieved with the water-
based AquaLine (Dry Earth)
from Wilder. This is a very
controllable product which is
also forgiving as it can be
readjusted with a damp
brush. Once dry it has a
perfectly matt finish and
works well as a wash to start
highlighting details.

The cab floor had some dust


tones added and the steering
wheel and seats were picked
out in Vallejo Air Black which
has a nice slight sheen when
dry. Decals are provided for
the dials, these are difficult to
sit into the recesses on the
dash which are quite deep.
Trim the clear film close to the
print or they wont fit.

Wheels also got the hairspray / acrylic treatment


followed by a heavy dusting of pigment powder.
The pigment was rubbed away with a piece of
cloth leaving it engrained in the tyre tread and
side-wall details

16
We figured the wooden panels on the bed of the trailer and
ramps would have the appearance of bare timber similar to
scaffolding boards and as you still see on truck beds. The panels
were masked and airbrushed in neutral tones. Using a paper
mask allows some highlights and subtle differences in
shades between the panels.
The cab canvas was given a base colour of RAF
Tan airbrushed ‘directionally’ from above
over the black primer, this provides
highlights and shadows easily.

To add some
texture a lighter
tone was stippled
with a broad stiff-
bristled brush.

The next stage was layers of filters and washes to


add further depth and enhance details. On the lighter
dust areas dark washes work well and on the grey
some more intense dust colours from white and
yellow ochre oil paint. A dark grey finish can certainly
look interesting building the effects in layers like this.

The effects of the oil paint washes can be seen


taking shape here, in particular the beautifully
moulded wood grain really starts to show. Stains
from oil and liquid spills were applied to the ramps
and bed of the trailer, also note the tones added to
the tensioners and winch to indicate dirt collecting on
the lubricated parts. Lifecolor produce a nice ‘Grease
Effect’colour which adds a realistic sheen. The metal
ramps would in theory get a bit of a hammering so
these were weathered accordingly.

On the inside of the truck bed the planks have been


given subtle washes of oil colours and various stains.
The heavy dust deposits are done with pigment
powder loaded onto a brush and ‘tapped’ to give a
random disposition and sharp contrast.

A few final touches of paint damage were the final weathering


step. Vallejo German Camo Black-Brown is a great colour to
represent bare metal where paint has chipped or worn away
completely. This was applied with a small piece of sponge
with a gentle dabbing motion, just catching the corners of
some high-traffic areas such as the cab steps. Over the dark
brown a soft pencil was carefully rubbed to give a subtle
metallic sheen. The pencil was also employed to add tiny
scuffs and scratches in logical areas such as handles, corners
and the bolts and fasteners of the trailer and truck bed. Tiny
areas of rust stains add a welcome touch of colour interest.

17
18
Das Werk have set the bar pretty high for a first release with
an undoubtedly impressive display piece which is sure to star
in many dioramas in the near future. A very comfortable kit to
build (albeit with the few amendments to the instructions to
note) with little fuss and high levels of detail straight from the
box. We’d give the resin wheel set some consideration and
no doubt there will be other aftermarket parts
released including photoetch; many
modellers I’m sure will want to go to
town with extra detail and of course
the choice of loads. How about a
fighter fuselage or Seehund sub?!

For now I think we’ll pour a beer and


admire our handy-work.

19
G o d t hse av e
Ki n g
. . . m ay b e
Fabio Mosca’s
stunning
diorama

20
21
NORREY EN BESSIN, NORMANDY JUNE 1944...
The dreaded landing has just happened, the coasts of Normandy With the failure of this German counter-offensive the Canadians
have been the choice of the Allied high command. In the Caen managed to maintain defensive positions until the next launch of
sector. On June 7, 1944, the Regina Rifles Regiment (commanded the Epsom operation on June 26, 1944.
by Lieutenant Colonel F. M. Matheson), belonging to the 7th
Brigade of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, took the town of The diorama ... a story in history
Norrey-en-Bessin without a fight. During the sortie between the night of 8 and 9 June the elements
With Norrey to the south and Bretteville the Orgueilleuse were in of the 12th SS Panzer Division managed to capture a jeep from
fact able to control the N13 road from Bayeux to Caen. the Regina Rifles and to take a prisoner. Now off to the rear under
The night between 8 and 9 June 23 Panther tanks of the 3. the eyes of Max Wunche and the panther 326 commanded by SS-
Panzerkompanie of the 1st battalion (commanded by the SS- Unterscharfuhrer Eismann who will lose his life in the sortie of
Sturmbannführer Arnold Jürgensen) of the SS Panzerregiment 12 June 9th.
(commanded by the SS-Standartenführer Max Wünsche) carried
out an armoured raid from Rots to Bretteville-l'Orgueilleuse and Panther A
Norrey-en-Bessin, but they could not break the Canadian The base kit is Dragon (6538). The zimmerit was reproduced with
resistance. Mori Mori Putty. It is a two-part filler that perfectly simulates the
At about 12.30 on 9 June, 12th SS Panzer Division Panthers Zimmerit. As it is quick drying, I recommend texturing small
attempted a new sortie to Norrey this time passing beneath the portions at a time. All the tool stowage has been improved or
railway underpass. In this direction the attack over flat ground in scratchbuilt, the photoetched locking clips are the incorrect design
broad daylight, was exposed on its flank to the Canadian anti-tank so they have been replaced by scratchbuilt clips of the correct
guns presumably positioned towards Bretteville, which proceeded design for the Ausf. A. The protective cover for the MG ball mount
to knock out 7 of the 12 tanks. was scratchbuilt in plasticard along with the gun cleaning cylinder
which I constructed from sheet metal and damaged. The front
hatch stops were rebuilt adding also the springs. The anti-aircraft
MG mount is an upgrade from the 1120 range, and the tracks are
from Friulmodel.

Don’t overlook the Dragon


Panthers you may have in
your collection, they still
produce a very nice
rendition with some
additional tweaks and
details.

Mori-Mori putty is an
effective old favourite for
replicating zimmerit.

Mr Surfacer stippled on the


cast cupola adds to the realism
of the texture. Note the
exsquisitly detailed 1120
MG mount

22
The Panther 326 of 12th SS Panzer regiment carries
a 3-tone camouflage, and the turret numbers were
painted by hand as was the case with the regiment.
For this model I wanted to try the AK Real Colours,
range for the base colours. For weathering I tried not
to weigh down the zimmerit but work it with chipping
and light deposits of dust. The remainder of the tank
not covered by the zimmerit was first treated with
filters to break up the various areas a little, then
chipping with Vallejo 822, scratches with light yellow
on the dunkelgelb and dunkelgelb on green and red.
The numbers were hand painted just to emulate the
real vehicle. Introducing some imperfections, I paid
special attention to the shurtzen, taking care to paint
a different camouflage pattern, also varying the
shades on the two shurtzen without zimmerit to
reinforce the idea of repositioning them with others
from another tank.

The SdKFZ 251/7


I started from the Dragon model (6223) built almost entirely from the box. The
improvements concerned the wheels that are from Panzerart, the FriulModel
tracks, and the rear scratchbuilt fenders. The MG42 late with the open feed cover
is a product from HDMODELS (HDMD35034). To reproduce the effect of the
perforated metal on the stowage bins, I cut out a square of plastic and replaced it
with a sheet metal version with three bullet holes in it. The vehicle was painted
with the Japanese Gaia colours. For this model I wanted to try a solution that had
happened to me accidentally the previous time. I applied a red brown base and
then proceeded to paint the camouflage pattern. With the tweezers I added the
real scratches into the not yet completely dry paint. The results seemed
satisfactory to me. I proceeded to weather with the same techniques used for the
Panther. The numbers and other markings are decals from the Stardecals range
and the shipping stencils are from Archer Fine Transfers.

23
I wanted to reproduce the prelude to the
attack of the third company of the 12th SS
Panzer Regiment adding all the characteristic
elements of the Normandy urban landscape.
The house has been carved entirely from
plaster, working from a photo. French
windows and shutters have been scratchbuilt
in palsticard and wood as well as the dormer
window. The roof is a Miniart product (35518).
The fireplace was scracthbuilt in balsafoam,
as was the gutter in sections from sheet
metal. Finally the rooftop weather vane was
scratchbuilt in plasticard adding the letters in
photoetch. The surrounding walls have been
built in plaster as well as the pavement. The
street cobbles are from Miniart reference
Walls and pavement are cast (36043), and the telegraph pole is from
from plaster with the roof and HDMODELS (HDMD35016) while the wall
frame details from MiniArt. lamp is also an HDMODELS product
(HDMD35042). For the interior I built a trunk
inspired by some photographs, inserted
frames and a Pickelhaube helmet printed in
3D by HDMODELS as well as a dressmaker's
mannequin HDMODELS (HDMD35043). The
field telephone is also printed in 3D.

The advertising was built in subtle layers following


reference carefully and utilising paper masks
printed from the computer.

24
Willys Jeep
The kit is from the Bronco (cb35106), is a nice kit that also provides
the trailer. The engine is fairly detailed even if I had to add some
missing items. I proceeded to replace the wheels with SKP model
(SKP 246). As a Canadian jeep I had to make a couple of changes.
The first one concerns the lightmount that is inserted in place of the
normal left hand light, while the right light has been covered by the
bridge load made from thin sheet metal, riveting the edge and
painting the number with masks. The bonnet and the windshield have
been removed. The Jeep has been painted with Tamiya colours. In
this case the green variations were achieved with Abteilung oils.
Weathering as above, and have to thanks my friend Fabrizio Mercuri
for helping me to weather the Jeep. Also thanks to my other friend
Stefano De Paolis for painting the Canadian wounded soldier. I
enjoyed inserting several things in the trailer to give even a touch of
colour.

The figures belong to different companies, from


Alpine to Mantis, Miniart, ST from Rosengrant,
Dugs. 4 figures were changed in the poses. Being
the 12th SS I enjoyed mixing the different
camouflage patterns, going from Dot to palm tree
to autumn to Italian camouflage.

25
26
CONCLUSIONS
I've always been fond of Dioramas, it's
because I grew up with the work of
Verlinden and Bob Letterman. I loved
to see the complexity of their
creations and I am still convinced that
the Diorama is the pinacle of
expression for the modeller because it
combines vehicles, figures, setting
and historical location.
Not only the pinacle of expression but
maximum level of difficulty, which
requires meticulous historical research
to avoid running into obvious errors.

SPECIAL THANKS
Finally a real special thanks to:
Peter Usher for advice on painting the
house;
Fabrizio de Petrillo for 3Dprinting and
modeling support;
Stefano Appetiti for support and
references

27
30
Introduction and decorated with Christian religious symbols
Despite the large variety of inspiring local of the Virgin Mary, Christ and saints.
‘exotic’ Lebanese fighting vehicles of all kinds
and calibre, most of the modelling subjects Toyota Time
concerning Lebanon conflicts show Israeli or The Toyota from Mig Productions is a 15 year
Syrian tanks. old kit, but if you plan to build a 1960s/70s
Toyota this is the only decent 1:35 product you’ll
Being a Lebanese Modeller I felt it was about find. An older resin kit is not really for beginners!
time for a purely Lebanese project. Resin parts were all washed and were shot with
I had to dig into the past, re-visit books, a grey base coat of primer from Tamiya. The kit
newspapers, get my souvenirs back, the street was built straight from the box. A first assembly
fighting ambiance and the surroundings of my was done ‘dry’, then fixed with CA glue very
war-torn city. I was supported by Samer Kassis’ carefully ensuring neat alignment. The wheels,
(of Hobby Shop Lebanon) immense archive, the too bulky in my opinion, were kept as is. I was
most important one in the region in terms of too lazy to replace them with the excellent DEF
diversity, quantity and accuracy. Model ones; they will go on my next Toyota.
No extra work was invested on the cab. The kit
The decision was taken to create a small but is decent without being brilliant but I had limited
intense scene common in 1976 in my city of time to spend (as many modellers do).
Beirut. Toyotas were widely used by all militias
with all kind of mounted weapons, heavy The Toyota was airbrushed with a grey base
machine guns (DShK, Cal 50, ZPU-1, ZPU-2, coat from Tamiya. Then I applied a thin layer of
KPV’s) or recoilless guns (B10, B11, and AK RC Light Green and let it dry for a day or
106mm). My choice was a “PNL” vehicle. “PNL” two. Sand Beige diluted with a light tint of yellow
is a Christian Lebanese party; Parti National was sprayed all over the vehicle, lighter on top
Liberal. Most of their vehicles had a mixed surfaces, and darker on the sides.
civilian aspect, military green, local camouflages

31
Chipping was done using AK Worn Effects, Toyota kit, it’s different design ads a touch under Virgin Mary, note the red tracer
applied in between paint layers, trying to of interest to the right side. The mirror arm rounds. On the bonnet the PNL logo in red,
get an abused look, Toyotas worked hard was fixed in position but without the actual green and white was hand painted, I
with minimum maintenance. Chipping was mirror adding more of the damaged couldn’t find any decals to suit my
enhanced by some hand painting micro- appearance. Also the front indicator is requirements. The interior of Toyota’s rear
effects. I always feel more comfortable and missing on purpose and front left headlight was intensively weathered using chipping
in control with my brush when enhancing is broken, sculpted, then painted with AK effect, rust, and oil traces.
details. Metallic Colour. The cable was added for a The Mig Productions tailgate was replaced
Lebanon is a humid country with heavy touch of detail. by Meng parts from their later model
winters bringing rain and snow, so streaked Toyota range, details are much better.
rust traces and light textures were also The Toyoya’s front end had to get a special Hand painted local camouflage was
added sparingly on the most exposed and look with the local Christian militia style. A applied and the Arabic word
fragile parts and edges. To give more religious ‘shield’ with an image of the Virgin “Al Moodameeron”. It means “Destroyers”,
accuracy to a Lebanese operated Mary was installed centrally to protect the an actual name of a “PNL” special unit.
‘Technical’, the left front side of the Toyota fighters when in the combat zone. Many
was painted in deep red, representing an military vehicles were decorated with Oil colours were used to enhance some
extra part added from a scrap vehicle. This religious and extravagant banners between effects here and there. Finally, a filter was
was frequent when shooting and 1975 and 1990. The model company ETA’s applied overall to fix, mix and unify.
manoeuvring in the narrow Beirut streets. religious Icons were very useful here. A .50
The spare wheel was taken from another Cal belt was also fixed shown hanging
32
Meng’s ZPU-1: Ammunition boxes were usually kept open to
It made my day when Meng announced their avoid jamming and easy reloads. Ammo belts
Soviet AA guns. They filled a big gap, bringing were taken from Meng’s ZPU-2. The 14.5mm
accurate and highly detailed kits to the belt looks superb.
market. To complete the kit, I have added an empty
ZPU-1, 2, 4 and ZU-23 are all excellent kits belt of 8 to 9 rounds, hanging from the
fully detailed and very well moulded. I ejector, on the left side. ZPU’s in action eject
selected the ZPU-1 to be installed on my the empty cases from below, and belts are
Toyota. In the Lebanese war, ZPU-1 and 2 evacuated every ten rounds from the left.
were frequently seen on such vehicles. ZU-23 Paint is AK Russian Green with highlights
is heavier and needs a larger more stable done by adding olive green. The barrel is
base when shooting because of its high fire supposed to be a Gun Metal tone but Matt
rate. Black is more accurate due to the heat of the
ZPU-1 is an easy kit to build with crisp detail rapid firing rate in action. Rust and oil traces
but I wanted to correct a couple of issues. were added and the 14.5mm belts were
The gun barrel appeared too long to me so painted as the original ones, inserting a tracer
was shortened 8-9 mm and the gun handle red round in between 3 to 4 explosive cases.
looked too large and high for my version so I Tracers help especially in the urban
built a more accurate one. A manual hand- surroundings to lay accurate fire. I also added
wheel is missing on the upper crank for my Red Zebra’s 14.5mm extra ammo boxes.
version which was also added. The optical They look outstanding, I have ordered them
sight is basic, even if rarely used when firing especially from the UK, as well as ZPU-2 and
on ground targets I added a few details to the ZPU-4 boxes.
kit part. (www.redzebramodels.co.uk)

Diorama : rain marks were lightly applied on all sides. were layered for depth and interest. Oil
I wanted this to be engaging, tight and Filters and washes were added at a final traces were painted here and there adding
packed with detail. I started by cutting cork stage to give it the ‘weary’ look. more drama and unrest to my street.
sheet to make pavements and elevate the Bullet impacts were carefully painted, one The pavement was done using embossed
wall. An old Verlinden plaster wall was by one, copying what I have seen for so plastic card, It was chosen because it
selected for it’s interesting shape. The wall many years on Beirut’s walls. When a looks close to Beirut’s pavements in the
has enough hight to hide and protect a bullet strikes a wall there are so many 70’s.
vehicle. My Toyota could position itself and explosive and destructive effects that
fire few bursts over the wall without being happens to the paint, cement and stone. Pavement borders came from Plus Model
noticed, and then move away to reload. AK ‘Asphalt’ was layered on the base with painted light yellow with a brown wash.
With a sharp X-Acto blade bullet impacts a spatula. The effect is stunning and easy The wooden pylon was installed at the side
were created to enhance the intensity of a to apply. Leaving it to dry for two days I to give hight to the composition. As often
street fighting scene. I was satisfied by the decided to enrich the road textures “a la happens when street fighting erupts,
effects and result. Ruben Gonzalez” referring to his Diorama cables are cut down and they fall to
FAQ book. ground, this adds desolation to the scene.
The wall was painted with a grey base Cat litter grit, Industrial and dust pigments Bullet impacts were carefully drilled into
colour then I added AK White, Light Yellow, were used for rubble and textures, the the post and a little greenery was created
and Beige applied by airbrush. Oil colours whole base was fixed and sealed using AK behind the wall. It adds contrast and colour
were applied to accentuate the wall Sand and Gravel Fixer. More rubble was to the diorama.
volumes and shadows. Traces of dirt and added on the sides and middle of the road.
Oil Colours and pigments from similar tints
33
34
Many smaller items were selected to enrich and detail the scene. I started by
generously littering the ground with empty shells all around the Toyota, on the
pavements and over the wall. With rapid fire the ejector goes crazy spraying
empty cases everywhere. Empty shells are not 14.5 but 20mm from Voyager
Model. They work for me, close enough! When you go to war, you go with plenty
of ammunition, so 14.5mm ammunition boxes from KMT were piled on the
pavements, they look perfect after painting.

On the other side of the diorama, many 106mm empty shells, cases and
ammunition crates are strewn on the ground. In combat these things are simply
cast aside and litter the streets. Cases for the 106mm were drilled to give
realism. Some are displayed open and dispersed in a balanced and composed
way. Fine pigment was added to fix them to the ground. Ammunition boxes were
heavily chipped by some careful, fine brushwork. The water bottle and grease can
were my final touches to create my little corner of 1970s Beirut.

35
Panzerkampfwagen
David Parker builds Trumpeter’s 1:16 kit Part Twenty Four

This installment is focussed on fitting the ammunition storage shell cases which fortunately worked well. Various inaccuracies in
inside the hull, something which proved to be extremely time- the shape and design of the sponson ammunition lockers meant
consuming mostly because of the sheer number of shells required that these had to be mostly rebuilt. Finally I started to work on the
and the various steps required to complete each shell. I also had fabric covers for the floor and sponson lockers.
to develop some new approaches to replicating the colours of the

The control box for the footswitch involved a degree of guesswork as I dont The wiring which connects to the generator is fixed to a mounting strip,
think there is an intact example in existance. There are partial examples attached to the hull wall. I used the same woven nylon chord that I have used
where the front cover has been removed and I was able to use these to judge throughout to make the cabling.
the size and produce a reasonably convincing switch box.

The switch box was connected in and the cable clamps were made from self- One picture but days of work! Each shell has three sprue points that must be
adhesive aluminium strip which was then painted in situ to match the rest. cleaned up as well as a seam line. Each shell was then subjected to a multi-
stage progressive polishing process using different grades of sanding sticks to
bring the surface of the cartridge cases to a polished finish.

For the most visible of the stowed rounds ABER have released turned Ammunition lockers came next and the hinged shelves that carry the shells
aluminium grenades which are far better detailed than the kit ones. I used a have solid moulded racks. I used scrap strips of brass from the kit shell base
burr in a mini drill to carefully thin the drilled out tops of the cases to accept etching fret which were just the correct width. These were shaped over the
the new grenades. Note the polished cases and photoetched base which are solid kit versions and then fitted in their place.
36
supplied by Trumpeter.
The shells of the lockers were also reworked in plastic card as the
photoetched kit versions were not correct and each locker has a different
design. Only the reworked base plate and rear plate were retained.

Another missing detail is the locking bar which holds the rounds securely by As well as the shell lockers there is also a locker to hold the MG ammunition
clamping them to the top shelf. Gurtsacks. This is the kit part supplied as photoetch but modified to give the
cut out 1 on the front edge.

The locker was then detailed by adding the hangers made from aluminium The lockers were painted based on photos showing the Nibelungenwerk
sheet folded into a U shape. The locking bar was made from scrap photoetch factory production line where the bins have a very dark interior colour. Earlier
fret and the feet were made from plastic strip. Ausf appear to have Hellgrau RAL 840 interiors but I went with red oxide
which appears to match the factory photos better.

For some inexplicable reason the MG locker is finished in overall Elfenbein. Back to the shells and I wanted to replicate a mix of cartidge case finishes
Note the the fixing brackets that have now been added to it with parkerised, lacquered and brass washed. All based on a steel case I
sprayed Alclad Steel over all the unprimed cases 2. For the parkerised finish 37
this was oversprayed with Gunze Mr Metal Color Iron 3.
Scuffs on the casing are simple to add by rolling a cocktail stick over the The finished effect is very convincing and contact between the shells only
surface creating bright areas. enhances it further.

For the lacquered cases I had a real lacquered small arms casing to match The brass washed cases also had the steel base coat. I worked over this with
to. These had the same Alclad steel basecoat although it probably had no Uschi van der Rosten steel polishing powder bring the cases to a high shine
effect on the final finish. Gunze Mr Metal Color Stainless was mixed with Mr finish. I then worked over this with AK Interactive True Metal Paste mixing
Metal Color Bronze (green metallic) and a touch of Gunze H83 Grey. This was Brass, Gun Metal and Copper in different proportions
my base tone which was then tinted with Gunze clear orange for the more
brown shades and polished with a soft cloth when dry.

The grenades were then painted and the long process of adding the decals The interiors of the lockers were weathered and the lockers were loaded one
started. I used the AFV Modeller wet transfer decals as they have no carrier shelf at a time and the shelves were loaded from the bottom up, here the
38 film which is a big help when working onto metallic finishes. final shelf is ready to be fitted.
A quick dry fit of the pair of lockers in the hull to check appearances. There is weathered to reflect the condition of shells seen in archive images which are
a roof brace which fits in the gap between the lockers on both sides of the surprisingly chipped and scuffed.
hull which has yet to be constructed. The shells are deliberately heavily

The smaller RHS locker was left with one empty shelf to add some interest. The three floor lockers had already been assembled and painted but not
weathered. The inner surfaces were dirtied up and the floor level area was
also treated using an airbrush to apply the dirty tones.

The corners and edges of the bins were given some areas of heavy wear and The bins were loaded up with the shells, again they were grouped by type as
the floor level area of the centre bin was given some heavy scuffing. A pencil indicated by the markings on the base plates of the shells.
was used to add scuffs around the holes which hold the shells.

I was especially pleased with the reflective finish on the brass washed shells The front floor mounted bin behind the driver was weathered in a similar way
which contrasts with the other finishes. Some touching up of the shell base and then loaded with the appropriate ammunition. 39
rims is required in one or two examples.
I wanted to add the canvas cover to the bin and I considered using the spare I rolled out sheets of Magic Sculp putty using talcum powder to prevent the
kit bin as former for the cover with a blue foam block added to replicate the putty from sticking. I pressed them between pieces of fabric to give it a fabric
shells filling the bin. texture and cut it to size.

The sheets of putty were laid in position on the bin. I used the loaded bin I folded back one of the corners of the cover to show where the few rounds
rather than the dummy version I had prepared. Positioning the sheets was not had been removed.
easy as the natural stickiness of the putty had been dulled by the talcum

All the sponson lockers would have had covers as well and these were made in the
same way but some partly open, some fully open.

40
The project continues in the next Issue
new releases
KEEPING TRACK

Tamiya 1:35 M551 Sheridan


This certainly seems a very popular release with Tamiya revisiting and the tracks are done as link-and-length (common with other
one of their previous releases in their legendary Military Miniatures recent Tamiya releases) with good detail including subtle texture
series. Tamiya's first attempt at the Sheridan dates back to 1973 to the rubber pads. The upper hull features the rotating driver's
and just doesn't come close to modern kit standards and station which can be left moveable should you wish but we're left
Academy's release in 2005 soon quashed any excitement with it's to cut nylon mesh for the engine screens on the rear deck, if you
poor accuracy and detail. So a brand new kit from Tamiya is great want photoetch for this and the front field mod. RPG/bush screen
news and it's a beauty. Typically Tamiya throughout, the stunning Tamiya have produced a detail set which also includes an
box art tops a moderately sized carton with the contents moulded aluminium gun tube. The kit gun tube is actually very impressive,
in olive green across five sprues, it hits a balance of good detail slide moulded in a single piece with internal rifling and the rest of
and great 'build-ability' even for the more novice modeller. The the turret equally as good with subtle weld detail and busy cupola
single piece upper-hull is beautifully done with crisp detail and the and .50cal detail without looking too complicated to assemble.
characteristic rivet heads captured perfectly, the lower hull is Three excellent figures top-off an exciting release from Tamiya,
46
constructed from separate plates and all feedback reports a look out for a full build feature in the next issue.
superb fit throughout the kit. Road wheels capture the look well
Tamiya 1:35 British Tank Destroyer M10 IIC Achilles
Following their all-new M10 U.S. Tank Destroyer release from a detail to flesh-out the interior without getting too bogged-down
couple of years back (hard to believe!) here's the British 17 pdr. with hundreds of parts. The upper hull is also new with good
version 'Achilles'. Our sample is a pre-production test-shot (hence detail and a few grumbles such as solid-moulded handles, easy
the pale grey styrene, the production kit will be in their regular to fix should you wish. Much of the turret interior will be obscured
olive green) but this will be pretty much as the production kit. The if you use the excellent crew figures, common with their recent
lower hull, running gear and tracks are as we had with the M10 open topped vehicles these are a great addition and will create
with simple assembly and good detail; before you sneer at 'rubber an excellent little action vignette helped by the empty shell cases
band' tracks remember the actual tracks were 'live' and depicted and stowage also included. Tamiya continue to do things their
well by single bands. The detail on the track is also good and a own way; enjoyable and simple builds which look good from the
new style of sprocket is included on the 'British version' sprues. box or provide more advanced modellers an excellent base to
These sprues also include the turret and a decent amount of add some aftermarket photoetch and detailing.

AK Interactive Weathering Pencils


Watercolour pencils are a good way of
achieving sharp and controlled marks or
streaks when weathering and AK have
stepped-up with colours and sets specifically
designed for modellers. Application can be
onto most paint surfaces and blended with
water should you wish to create more subtle
effects. Sets are in five colours with groups
such as ‘Chipping and Aging’, ‘Rust and
Streaking’ and ‘Dirt and Marks’. Also available
individually, these are inexpensive and will last
a modelling lifetime, get over to
www.ak-interactive.com for more details and
video tutorials 47
Renault FT & M1917 If you've not seen any of these 'Photosniper 3D' books from Kagero they're a unique mix of hyper-
Jacek Szafrański, Samir realistic 3D rendered illustrations and walk-around style images of preserved vehicles, a brief
Karmieh history and some period photos are thrown in also for good measure. The 3D drawings offer the
Published by Kagero kind of views impossible by any other means and appear to be thoroughly researched making this
Softback format, 185 pages an excellent modelling reference especially if you're planning Takom's full interior 1:16 version. The
ISBN 9788366148048 book covers both cast and riveted turret models. A great visual reference to what's regarded as
www.casematepublishers.co.uk one of the first 'modern' tanks. Our thanks to Casemate UK distributors of Kagero publications.

Dragon 1:35 MGM-52 Lance Missile


Drawing on parts from their existing M752 tracked launcher, cleanly moulded with decent detail and looking over the
Dragon now give the option of a towed Lance launcher with new instructions the angle of the missile is adjustable although only a
trailer parts. A separate kit is available of the M688 firing mode can be built with the outriggers extended. A full quota
loader/transporter but this kit is solely the trailer and ballistic of markings is included on the decal sheet. Good kit of a niche
missile used from the early 1970s to the early '90s. Parts are all subject.

Armoured Vehicles of
the Modern German
Army 2019

Ralph Zwilling A bang-up-to-date ‘catalogue’ of the Bundeswehr’s range of vehicles in all of the various
Published by Tankograd versions with Tankograd’s usual quality images and presentation. Each vehicle has a technical
Softback format, 136 pages description and detailed information about how and when they are used. Many of the vehicles
German / English text are shown ‘in the field’ on exercise which offers superb painting and weathering reference and
48 with so many of these vehicles available as mainstream kits this is a great reference for modern
ISBN 419127111990701
subject modellers.
Panzerjäger Elefant
Modelling Porsche’s Panzerjäger inside & out
Liejon Schoot
Published by AFV Modeller
Softback format, 100 pages
ISBN 9780993564659
www.afvmodeller.com

Do you hear that? Yes, it’s the distant sound of us blowing


our own trumpet and announcing this brand new addition to
our range of books. Master scratch-builder, Liejon Schoot
shares his staggering build of the Elefant in 1:35 with full
interior. Using the Dragon kit as a basis for the exterior,
Liejon has completely scratch built the stunning interior
which is illustrated step by step with large format images
providing not only superb reference but also the modelling
techniques used to complete every detailed component.
Along with the modelling is a wealth of unique and
previously unpublished images of the ex-Aberdeen Proving
Ground Elefant, it’s original condition and the clear images
provided specifically by the museum proved invaluable in
accurately representing the incredible engineering
displayed by these ambitious machines. A must-have for
any German armour enthusiast or any modeller wishing to
improve their conversion or scratchbuilding techniques.

Operational History
of Hungarian
Armoured troops in
WWII
Peter Mujzer With some really interesting vehicles in both 1:35 and 1:72 available in recent years this
'Photosnoper 28' book is a great companion to Hungarian Armour of WWII (Photosniper
Published by Kagero 26) that we looked at several issues back. The major action involving Hungarian forces
Softback format, 156 pages alongside it's Axis allies is explained in accessible detail accompanied by some excellent
ISBN 9788366148079 period images and bespoke maps.The M Turán, M Zrinyi, M Nimrod, Toldi variants and
www.casematepublishers.co.uk the M Casaba armoured cars all feature along with German and captured vehicles. A
good selection of top-quality colour profiles and several pages of colorised black and
white images show what attractive modelling subjects Hungarian AFVs are with some 49
cracking alternative finishes for the StuG III. Great introduction to the subject and
excellent value.
Dragon 1:35 Pz.Kpfw.III (3.7cm) (T) Ausf.F
"Operation Seelöwe"
Here's an interesting addition to Dragon's range of excellent Dragon have produced a few new sprues including a cupola and
Panzer IIIs, no, it doesn't have a tumble-drier on board, it's a gun mantlet rubber cover in flexible DS styrene. The enormous
Tauch-Panzer (diving/submersible tank) tested for the planned breathing hose is also moulded in the soft material allowing your
invasion of the British mainland in 1940 (nobody mention Brexit…) choice of position. As always the box is packed with beautifully
Basically over 150 Panzer IIIs were converted to be capable of detailed sprues but it looks like close to half the parts won't be
submersion of up to 15 metres and for up to 20 minutes allowing used following Dragon's 'mix-and-match' of parts from various kits.
launching from a safe off-shore distance. Air intake was made This kit I'm sure was available under the cyberhobby sub-brand
possible via the 18 metre snorkel tube with the end attached to a but this new boxing differs with DS single piece tracks and a
floating buoy complete with wireless antenna (which seems to be bonus figure of General Guderian. Another beautifully detailed
omitted in the kit?). With various rubber covers, seals and fittings Dragon Panzer III.

Tetra Model Works


Tetra have been serving up some great detail sets for armour and set ME-35058 but for Takom’s Ausf.A which also includes side
ship modellers for some time now and we’ve samples of some of skirt armour. Very comprehensive sets and very nicely done.
their latest releases. For the ever popular Panther is set ME- Another Takom kit in line for the super-detail treatment is their T-
35059 for Meng’s 1:35 Ausf.A Late with a great selection of the 54 Late with a great selection of finer details including all of the
usual finer details and also includes the full rear stowage bins, rear engine deck screens and frames. Fuel drum mounting
50 excellent intake screens and a brass tube for the cleaning rods. brackets and straps look a challenge but will look superb. Take a
An excellent touch is the tubular posts for the ‘C’hooks complete look at www.tetramodel.com or get in touch at
with hole for the retaining pin and chain. More of the same with info@tetramodel.com
Zvezda 1:35 Terminator 2
As with the movie, Terminator 2 follows Zvezda's very nice of guide horns which will certainly help less experienced builders
Terminator which is upgraded to the latest version of Russia's (although being such a complexed vehicle in reality there's still a
formidable fire support combat vehicle. The design of the kit is as high parts count and some demanding assembly not to mention
usual from Zvezda; no-fuss or frills which of course keeps the the radical digital pattern camo!). A weak point of the kit is the
price low. What's important though is the quality of the moulding nylon mesh provided for the intake screens, most of us will be
and detail which we're immediately reminded is pretty good looking to aftermarket photoetch to replace this but at such a
indeed. The original kit is a few years old now and has been budget cost for the kit it's not a deal-breaker. Zvezda kits have
updated with a new sprue mainly dedicated to the latest weapons certainly come a long way in recent years and their production
systems. There's some very sharp and fine detail throughout and quality can match the best on the market, well worth considering
some clever touches like the link and length tracks with long runs especially if you're on a budget.

Bitskrieg 1:16 Panzer IV towing


brackets (early and late)
Bitskrieg have added another upgrade to their excellent range of 1:16
Panzer IV parts for the Trumpeter kits. This set of bow towing brackets will
suit all the Trumpeter range apart form a later Ausf.J when the brackets
were no longer fitted and the hull sides extended to make towing points.
The brackets come with separately moulded fixing bolts and a choice of
locking bar design. The accurate notch system which locates the locking
bar is correctly replicated and there is a length of chain supplied to tether
the locking bars. Excellent detail and a must have upgrade for the large
scale kits. www.quickwheelstore.com/bitskrieg.html 51
F.A.Q.3
Rubén González
Published by AK Interactive
Softback format, 465 pages
(available in English or Spanish)
ISBN 8435568300286
www.ak-interactive.com

Who remembers telephone directories? Weighing in at over 450 painting and weathering explained in comprehensive detail but
pages this latest in AK's FAQ (frequently asked questions) series also construction and detailing techniques with an interesting
certainly has that kind of feel to it! Award winning Spanish chapter on the 3D printing revolution looking at the future of
modeller Rubén González (with help from other contributors who modelling. Specific 'modern' features such as barracuda netting
are all renowned modellers, many gracing our pages in the past) and anti-slip coatings are covered in detail. A monumental
takes a bang-up-to-date look at the most modern methods being amount of work has gone into this encyclopaedia and it certainly
used to get the ultimate satisfaction from our hobby. The focus is shows; beautifully presented and focussing on every technique
on modern military hardware (1970s to present day) with not only imaginable with an excellent gallery of inspiring work.

Magach 6A/6B M60A1 in IDF


Service Part 3
Michael Mass and Adam O'Brien
Published by Desert Eagle
Softback format, 82 pages
ISBN 978965 7700 129
www.deserteagle-publishing.com
If our Meng Magach (Hebrew meaning Battering Ram) has you features the human element of the men and machines at work;
excited to build your own then this excellent new Desert Eagle this time a chapter on the 600th Brigade has some excellent
release is just in time. This third volume in their series focusses on images and an interesting account of one tank's action and
the 'Souped-up' long turreted M60s acquired by the Israelis in the subsequent un-earthing many years later and reuniting with the
52 1970s and steadily upgraded to suit their needs. Along with the crew. Excellent images, excellent text and excellent modelling
usual clear and precise detail of the upgrades, Mr Mass always reference as always.
Zvezda 1:35 "Grad" BM-21
Utilising the excellent Ural-4320 all-terrain truck kit they released a straight from the box. A big feature of the vehicle is the huge
couple of years back, Zvezda have released the mobile 122mm wheels and tyres, Zvezda have made a nice job moulding the
multiple launch rocket system "Grad" version. This is a very highly tyres in vinyl with some fine side-wall lettering and detail but many
detailed and very well moulded kit typical of Zvezda's latest tooling will be looking to the available aftermarket resin versions
with excellent finesse throughout. Full chassis and engine detail available. Considering the fantastic value of the kit a set of resin
feature with an option to open the engine cover and doors, couple wheels still wont break the bank, a really impressive kit Zvezda!
this with the complex nature of the rocket launcher it's not a kit Our thanks to the Hobby Company, Zvezda and Tamiya UK
you could recommend to a beginner; more of a model to be distributors, for our sample kits.
appreciated by an experienced builder which should look great

German and Russian Tank In the 'New Wave' of European armour modelling of the early 2000s, Belgium's Mario
Models 1939-1945 Eens was a regular medal winner amongst stiff competition and continues to impress
to this day with his modelling art. Five Russian and German WWII subjects (including a
Mario Eens
figure painting guide) feature in this compilation of step-by-step building and painting
Published by Casemate UK projects where Mario shares his techniques and materials used to create his master
Hardback format, 132 pages works. A very nicely presented book which covers a good variety of finishes from
ISBN 9781612007359 African desert to winter whitewash with good tips on detailing. 53
www.casematepublishers.co.uk
Zvezda 1:35 T-28 Soviet Medium
If you liked Zvezda's recent T-35 release this latest new-tooled T- looking vehicle it's no surprise. With so many wheels and
28 is bound to get you excited too. Ironically titled a 'Medium suspension components it's welcome that the tracks are in a link-
Tank' this multi-turreted monster was available many moons ago and-length format, a version can be built without the armour plate
in 1:35 from Alanger and ICM and more recently from Hobby skirts showing off all of the detail. The kit has plenty of finesse
Boss. So how does this all-new version fair? The usual bullet-proof with nicely rendered fasteners and weld beads throughout but no
corrugated box (with printed outer sleeve) is packed with dark fancy photoetch; nylon mesh is provided for intake screens which
green sprues showing some really nice moulding and detail. won't please everyone. Another really nice kit from Zvezda offering
Some parts (namely turrets) are carried over from the T-35 and it superb value.
looks a pretty involved build, but as it's such a complicated

Blitz
A great acompanying set of crew figures are available for the new Blitz 25mm
Hotchkiss CA resin French anti-aircraft gun gun kit with all figures available
separately. The Artilleur (with optional head), Tireur (gunner) and commander
(also with optional head) are part of the Blitz Premier range. If you have an
interest in French armour and military miniatures and aren’t aware of Blitz,
54 head over to www.blitz-kit.fr and be prepared to give your credit or debit card
a hammering! Manifique!
Takom 1:35 Jagdpanther G1 Late Production
The fully detailed interior that is included in the kit makes it a destroyer. The link and length style of track that was featured in
bumper box of sprues by any standard! Following on from their the Panther is also used here. The kit includes a choice of three
acclaimed full interior Panther kits the Jagdpanther features the styles of gun mantlet and two different roof plates to reflect the
same high quality super crisp approach for what will be an different location of the ventilator cover. The optional stowage bin
involved build given the complexity and number of parts but for the back of the fighting compartment is included. Like the
exactly what the serious modeller is looking for. The subtle Panthers the skirt plates are moulded in one piece which will
differences in the design of the Jagdpanther hull interior mean turning to aftermarket if you want to fit just a few of the
compared to the Panther have been replicated with different skirts rather than the whole set. The kit includes some lovely
cooling pipes and completely new hull sidewall mouldings. The photoetched engine deck screens, two lengths of braided copper
new more complex firewall is beautifully rendered and of course rope and a choice of markings for 4 different vehicles and decals
there is a totally new hull floor. The Maybach engine is carried for the interior details too. An undeniably impressive kit with a
over from the Panthers as is much of the engine bay. Takom have stunning rendition of the complex interior. Purists may want to
made an excellent job of the 88mm gun and its mount however upgrade things like the tracks and skirts but it really is good to go 55
the ammunition load provides only one type of shell, high from the box and to a very high standard.
explosive, no armour piercing at all which is bizarre in a tank
1:35 The Falklands conflict has always struck a
bit of a chord with me, being brought up reading
Commando comic books and watching 1970s war
movies this was really the first time I remember
seeing the brutality of ‘real’ war in colour on the TV
news builtins. I was in my early teens; this small
group of islands looked bleak and cold and the
conflict there is regarded one of the last
‘traditionally fought’ wars in modern history. Many
people I knew had friends and relatives serving in
the British forces but few people had actually
heard of the Falklands until those ten weeks in
1982.

On April 2nd Argentina invaded and occupied the


Falkland Islands (and, the following day, South
Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands) in an
attempt to establish the sovereignty it had claimed
over them.It wasn’t until May 21st that British forces
arrived and were able to land around San
Carlos Water and attempt the recapture of
the islands (Operation Sutton).

56
fv101 CVR-T

SCORPION
MARK NEVILLE builds a Falklands
version of the British Boy Racer

57
Aircraft modellers, or indeed Naval modellers, have opportunity to Longdon and later when they attacked Wireless Ridge.
research and build subjects from the period but for armour The CVR(T)s also gave fire support to the Scots Guards as they
modellers we’re pretty limited, especially with subjects from the attacked Mount Tumbledown. Following the ceasefire, four
UK forces. Only four Scimitar and four Scorpion (Combat Vehicle CVR(T)s led 2 Para into the capital, Stanley, carrying the
Reconnaissance-Tracked) of the Blues and Royals were used on Regimental flag. The Scorpions had fired an average of 60 rounds
the islands in support roles. Anything heavier than the CVR(T)s apiece and the Scimitars over 100 rounds each.
wouldn’t have been suitable to the boggy ground of the islands let
alone more difficult to transport and successfully land. At this moment in time if you want to build any Scorpion or
The Scorpions and Scimitars were divided into two troops with two Scimitar in 1:35 you’re limited to the AFV Club kit which is showing
Scorpions and two Scimitars each plus a single Samson recovery it’s twenty-plus year vintage. Not a bad kit by any means, but not
vehicle. At first, they found themselves ferrying general stores to the standards we’d expect these days for detail and finesse.
forward before taking on a more offensive role with 2 Para at Bluff The turret shape has also been commented on in the past but if
Cove. On the night of 11th and 12th of June the you fancy an accurate and detailed CVR(T) all hope is not lost
Scorpions took part in the thanks to the guys at Scorpion Miniature Models who not only
offensive on Mount produce their own updates, conversions and detail sets but are
stockists of Hong Kong Creations Workshop, FC Model Trend and
the AFV Club kits and track sets. All of the conversion and detail
sets have an ‘old school’ feel of hand produced masters (without
the latest CAD and 3D printing) which show really nice casting
and detail and it really pops-out under a coat of paint. So with
all of my homework completed by the ‘bigger boys’ (well, the
infinitely more knowledgable) it was time to have a crack at
my own rendition of a Falklands fighting machine.

The etched mudguards are


certainly a worthwhile addition
and worth the effort.
Note the redundant holes from
the removal of the wading
screens.

OLD-SCHOOL STYLE
The first surgery to the base kit is the most folding the inner returns the opposite way
heavy-handed and best completed first. One squared everything up.
feature that lets the kit down are the heavy Next the upper-hull requires the earlier style
edges to the mudguards which look way bolted cover letting in. Again the plastic is thick
overscale. SMM provide a photoetched set and a P cutter is best. The resin part (SMM3511)
(SMM3516) which consists of a ‘frame’ complete is a good fit with only some dissolved putty
with redundant fixing holes where the early needed to close the gap. Some bolt heads were
wading screen equipment was attached. A P- added to the adjacent plate as per the SMM
cutter was used on the lower hull tub as it’s instructions (which are pretty
pretty thick. My photoetch had a slight curve good across all of the sets).
(understandable for a large area) but I found

I’d recommend plenty dry-fits of the


suspension and wheels to allow
proper spacing and alignment.

A Falklands vehicle requires running gear


back-dating from the kit version. The
suspension and idler wheels are provided
in set SM3509. The instructions give some
measurements to guide positions but I’d
recommend fitting the rearmost wheel
before mounting the idler unit to ensure
correct spacing.

The smaller connecting arms and bump-stops are


tricky to fit but some medium, slower drying CA glue
is a help with positioning. The kit lower hull is void of
any detail on the underside which won’t bother most
of us. AFV Club’s individual link tracks were chosen
(early version AF 35290) as the regular rubber-band
versions don’t quite cut-it for detail. The track links
are easily de-sprued from a single runner but are
rather small and fragile requiring a touch of Mr
Cement Thin to hold everything together. If you
usually add your tracks after painting best of luck!
Having already planned typically muddy running gear
I’d decided this wasn’t an issue in this case.
58
AFV Club provide a
Falkland’s features such as nice aluminium barrel
the extinguisher and cable in the kit. The HKCW
reel are nicely detailed. mantlet provides a
tight fit and required a
tiny amount of resin
removed; better than
trying to position a
loose fitting barrel.

The Scorpions also


carried ammo boxes
designed for the
Scimitar’s 30mm
cannon.

The Scimitars mounted


ammo boxes across
the front mudguards
but the blast from the
Scorpion’s 76mm gun
was found to blow the
tops off the boxes so
they were removed
before reaching the
CVR(T)s were expected to perhaps have island.
made an amphibious landing and were
fitted with a vent outlet for the gearbox.
The HKCW set supplied the outlet fitting The Scorpions and Scimitars had their
and also the flexi-hose which runs along headlamps either turned or removed in combat
the side of the vehicle. I chose to leave under orders of some of the commanders to
mine off as most were removed shortly avoid the driver inadvertently switching them on
after landing. at night exposing their position to the enemy.

The HKCW turret is certainly of a


better proportion when compared to
the kit parts and has much improved
detail and angles. The AFV Club kit
parts (dark green parts) fit the resin
parts without any problems.

Rear view mirrors were removed and the


arms turned inwards. The new arms The AFV Club
were made from brass rod inserted into stowage bin cover is
a hole drilled in the mounting bracket. unrealistic so I
sculpted my own from
Magic Sculpt epoxy
putty simply rolled
thin and laid over
some plastic scrap.
The ties were made
from stretched sprue.

The kit periscopes are


retained but show sink-
Some CVR(T)s had marks on the faces
a spare drive which was easily filled
sprocket ring with a drop of CA glue.
bolted to the
transmission cover.

With a mix of materials I always like to put a good primer


down. Mr Surfacer 1500 applied straight from the aerosol
can is convenient and shrinks while drying to a pleasingly
smooth surface suitable for most subsequent colour coats.
Now all of the detail starts to show and the black acts as a
good pre-shade coat for green. Note now the smoke
candles have been fitted (either side of the mantlet).
Scorpions only tended to field the 3-tube versions not
supplied in the kit but included in the SMM Scorpion turret
detail set SM3512. Several SMM sets have been used but
they’re really good value, take into account the low price of
the AFV Club kit and this project still doesn’t break the bank.
Note I added some wiring detail to the rear lamp units and
the antenna bases. www.scorpion-miniature-models.co.uk
has good detailed walk arounds. A black Scorpion would look pretty
cool, don’t you think? Mr Surfacer
always comes up trumps.

59
MUD SLINGER

1 Mission Models Modern US Green was chosen as a good match


to the colour images and I wanted something a little ‘greener’
knowing the amount of dust and grime I was planning to add
wouldn’t kill the colour completely. This sprayed beautifully with a
few drops of their thinner and a couple of drops of their clear
polymer. With the available images available of the four Scorpions it
was difficult to determine exactly which one was which and even
harder to determine the exact pattern of the black cammo. I’ve
gone for shapes and areas which seem quite generic to all CRV-Ts
of the period. Before landing on the Falklands all eight vehicles had
their markings over-painted making recognition even more difficult.

2 Reference photos show the Scorpions to be


pretty filthy with ten weeks in the harsh
conditions of the South Atlantic certainly
showing. A combination of dried mud and dirt
with more recent, wetter deposits of the peaty
earth was the way to go. My first step was
some dried-on and brushed-off deposits
starting with a coat of AK Interactive’s
‘Chipping Fluid’; this is commonly known as
the hairspray technique which involves a coat
2 of hairspray (or specific fluid as this)

After a dusting of tan acrylic with the airbrush I


waited ten minutes and began scrubbing the
surface with a damp, old brush. This lifts random
scratches and patches revealing the base
colours. Following this I’ve added layers of
washes and ‘splatters’ using the Wilder ‘Aqua
Line’ earth water-based colour. This paint acts
like Gouache and is easy to control with a very
flat finish; just what you want for replicating dry
earth and dust.

An up-to-date kit would probably provide the


periscope optics as clear pieces, many colour
images show a dark blue appearance to the
lenses for which drawing ink has been used.

If replicating a vehicle operating in drier


conditions I’d usually stop here with the
dirt. Note I’ve started to base-coat
some of the stowage.

3 3 Now it was time to add some life and


dimension with oil paint filters and washes.
Yellow Ochre is used to just tint some thinners
which is applied panel by panel in different
strengths of tone. Burnt Umber (also heavily
thinned) is used to ‘wash’ around details while
the surface is still damp from the filter coat. I
worked back and forth with these techniques
and added some more intense areas of dirt
with diluted oil colours.
Some detail painting was also started; note the
blue tint of the periscopes, brush painted with
drawing ink.
60
The kit-supplied photoetched mesh screen for the
exhaust is pretty good and treated with some
subtle rust tones working from photographs.

Some of the finer detail gets lost under all of that


mud! I was beginning to think the rubber band
tracks may have sufficed...

4 Now for some mud. There’s so many ways to create


mud effects; from home-brewed concoctions combining
4
paint with real earth ground to a fine powder, flour or
plaster. Now we’ve a huge choice of ready-to-go mud and
muck from many manufacturers. Here I’ve used some of
the AV Vallejo range of acrylic ‘Environment’ and
weathering effects. The range performs very well with
pleasing results and can be inter-mixed easily.

My first coat is the excellent ‘Mud and Grass’ to imitate


earlier dried-on clumps of peaty earth concentrating on
areas prone to sods being thrown around by the tracks of
the speedy Scorpion crossing the soft ground of the
islands. The next coating was ‘Russian Thick Mud’ and
also a mixture of the two effects which creates the layered
effect of dry and fresh deposits. Note the sheen of the
‘wet’ / fresh earth. Finally some oil colour washes pick out The textures of the Vallejo earth effects
the details further around the wheel hubs and tracks. I found worked really well combined
with the layers of dry dirt and dust.

I prefer to include at least one figure with a vehicle to add some life and
scale, unfortunately 1980s British subjects are few and far between.
After a fruitless search for the kind of pose I wanted it was into the
spares box for a dig around which turned up a WWII German parka
torso which with a few mods has the look of the 1980s British
counterpart. In addition to the parka to add to the cold and
damp atmosphere I’ve gone for gloves with the commander
clutching his own ‘hunting’ binoculars. The head with beret is
from a modern Bundeswehr set (I’m yet to adjust the
badge here).

As usual I’ll make my excuses for rushing to paint


figures! A coat of black with a ‘directional light’
white airbrushed from above gave a good start
to shading and highlighting. Everything was
finished with Lifecolor acrylics in a couple of
hours paying attention to the ruddy complexion
of the commander’s face, again to emphasise
the cold weather conditions.

61
From the outset I had an image in mind of the typical Falklands
terrain with the Scorpion moving at pace (If I’m not mistaken, the
CVR-T still holds the World’s fastest ‘tank’ record), I wanted to try
and capture a little suggestion of movement. As already
mentioned, the soft peaty ground of the South Atlantic islands isn’t
really tank terrain but at around eight tons even the Scorpions and
Scimitars still churned-up the earth.

Groundwork of course can make or break a model, even if you’re


not confident with scale groundwork there are so many ready to
use products now on the market. Step-up Model Scene; we’ve
had some samples for a while now waiting for their moment,
supplied as a ‘mat’ of around A4 size these products are available
in various natural environments. FT23 is ‘Late Summer, stony’ and
looked perfect for the sparse terrain of the South Atlantic islands
and has a really hand-made and natural appearance to it.
Cheating? You bet! Simply cut to the size of the base (supplied by
Pete Watson, a regular around UK model shows) you’re ready to
go within minutes. Although the base then couldn’t be much
simpler a critical factor is the pose and stance of the Scorpion
suggesting movement. Cutting two furrows into the grass-mat the
Scorpion is sat at an angle and slightly lower on the left side (with
the track tensions displayed to suit on each side). The same
Vallejo textures were then added to give a real dug-in look and tiny
clumps carefully added around the rear of the tracks to suggest
flying mud.

A few areas of wet earth were added to complete the groundwork


and the edges touched up by airbrushing some dark brown and
black acrylic. I hope you agree by adding the converted figure and
the simple groundwork there’s little doubt this is one of the four
Scorpions deployed during the Falklands conflict.

We’d like to thank Michael Shakleton of


Scorpion Miniature Models www.scorpion-
miniature-models for his depth of
knowledge and the conversion parts and
Paul Alderton (ex Scorpion gunner) for his
advice and the loan of the factory manual.

62
63
Panzerjäger
E L E FA N T
MODELLING PORSCHE’S PANZERJÄGER INSIDE & OUT
LIEJON SCHOOT
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