1:35 Late barrel for Valentine Mk.II to VII or Matilda Mk.III/IV with Besa MG barrel

Late Barrel for the Valentine and the Matilda 1:35 from Aber

Turned metal barrels in 1:35 scale for models of the British Valentine tanks in the Mk.II to Mk.VII versions and the Matilda Mk.III and Mk.IV, this time in the late barrel form. The barrel of the Besa machine gun is included. The manufacturer lists the early form as a separate item, so check against the machine you are building which of the two you need.

The real subject

British infantry tanks were built to accompany infantry: slow, but with heavy armor that in North Africa long resisted ordinary anti-tank weapons. Both the Valentine and the Matilda carried a 2-pounder gun and a coaxial Besa machine gun. Large numbers of machines went under deliveries to the Soviet Union, where they served until domestic designs replaced them.

Building and painting tips

Cut the plastic barrel off as close to the turret as possible and drill the seating so that the pin of the metal barrel sits firmly without passing right through. Degrease the metal with alcohol and apply a primer, otherwise the paint will not hold on the smooth surface. It is bonded with super glue, that is, cyanoacrylate, applied drop by drop. Fit the barrel at the very end of the build so that it is not bent during handling, and check its axis by eye from the front while the glue sets. Fit the thin machine gun barrel last of all.

Who the set is for

• modelers of British Second World War vehicles in 1:35
• builders of infantry tanks and of deliveries to the Soviet Union
• anyone who wants metal barrels with open muzzles
• modelers who dislike the parting line on a plastic barrel

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