1:48 STURMTIGER (38 cm RW61 Assault mortar) [Vol.1 – Basic set]

Sturmtiger (38 cm RW61) 1:48 — photo-etched basic set, Vol.1, Aber

This is a photo-etched metal detail set in 1:48 scale from the Polish maker Aber. It is not a model of the vehicle but an accessory meant to refine a build of the German Sturmtiger heavy rocket assault vehicle. The basic set (Vol.1) deals with the main areas of the hull and the superstructure, where injection-molded plastic cannot render the true thickness and texture of the parts.

The real subject

The Sturmtiger came about by rebuilding the chassis of the Tiger I heavy tank into a carrier for the 380 mm RW61 rocket launcher. The projectiles, originally of a naval type, were meant for destroying fortifications and buildings in city fighting. Only a few dozen vehicles were built and they were committed in the closing phase of the Second World War.

Building and painting tips

Separate the photo-etched parts with a sharp knife on a hard mat or with photo-etch scissors, and make the bends in a bending tool or along a steel ruler. Glue them with cyanoacrylate glue and degrease the surfaces beforehand. Lay down a base coat suitable for metal before painting, otherwise the paint holds badly on the etched parts.

Who the set is for

• Modelers of military vehicles in 1:48 scale
• Builders of German vehicles on the Tiger I chassis
• More experienced modelers who have already worked with photo-etch
• Collectors who want to take a model beyond what the kit offers

This is a detail set, not a complete model. Glue, paints and the base kit are not included in the package.