1:100 Type 95 Ha-Go Japanese light tank

Type 95 Ha-Go — a Japanese light tank 1:100, Zebranomodel

A kit of the Japanese Type 95 Ha-Go light tank in 1:100 scale from Zebranomodel. This item represents the basic combat guise of the type, as against the command versions, which the manufacturer issues separately. The small scale makes the model a compact piece for a display case or a gaming table. The material, the number of parts and the contents of the package are not stated here.

The real subject

The Type 95 Ha-Go was a Japanese light tank of the 1930s and one of the most numerously built Japanese types. It was powered by an air-cooled diesel engine, which was an unusual solution at the time of its creation and an advantage in cold and heat alike. Characteristic features were the bell-crank suspension and a single-man turret, in which the commander also worked the 37 mm main weapon. Machine guns made up the secondary armament. Its light construction and low weight made transport and mobility easier, but the protection remained thin.

Building and painting tips

First lay the parts out and check them against the instructions, as at this scale a small piece is easily lost. Sand the parting lines down with fine abrasive paper and choose the glue to suit the material of the parts, that is thin cement for plastic and cyanoacrylate for resin. Apply the primer thinly. Japanese schemes tend to be multicolored with blotches, which at a small scale come off better in a softer rendering, even stippled with a brush. Keep the patina within bounds: one wash into the recesses, a gentle emphasis of the edges and light dust on the running gear.

Who the model is for

• collectors of Japanese armored subjects
• modelers building a collection in a uniform 1:100 scale
• players of tabletop games with ground subjects
• beginners who want a quick and straightforward project

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.