1:48 Schweres Wurfgerat s.Wu.R.40

Schweres Wurfgerät s.Wu.R.40 in 1:48 scale (Hauler)

A small kit of a launching device for heavy unguided rockets. Unlike most of the Hauler range this is not an accessory for a kit you have already bought but an object in its own right that can be built on its own. The maker is the Czech brand Hauler.

The real subject

The designation schweres Wurfgerät applied to a simple frame launcher used by the German army in the Second World War. The rocket was launched straight from the transport crate, which was placed into an inclined frame. The frames were produced in wooden as well as metal form, were set on the ground or on a bank, or were mounted on the sides of half-track vehicles. The device was cheap and quick to put up, but accuracy was low, and it was therefore used for area fire at short range, against fortified positions and built-up areas for instance.

Building and painting tips

First check the parts dry and clean the flash off. On small parts super glue works well, as it reliably joins resin and photo-etched metal alike, where cement for plastic does not work. Degrease the assembly before painting and apply a thin primer. Wooden sections paint up well from a light base, over which a darker glaze is drawn in the direction of the grain; metal parts will take a darker base and a light accent on the edges with a dry brush. At the end dust pigment in the lower part of the frame helps, so that the object does not look as if it were floating above the base.

Who it is for

• builders of dioramas in 1:48 scale looking for an unusual additional scene
• modelers focused on artillery and rocket equipment
• those who want to add a small structure in its own right to a vehicle kit
• modelers used to working with small parts and super glue

It is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and figures are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.