1:72 Ferdinand/Elephant drivers set for Trumpeter

CMK 1:72 Ferdinand and Elephant - a set for the driver's space

A resin accessory for a modeler who is building the heavy tank destroyer in 1:72 scale. The set relates to the front part of the hull, where the driver sits. Unlike the sister set from the same maker, the name gives both designations of the machine, Ferdinand as well as Elephant. The particular extent of the package is stated on the box.

Ferdinand and Elephant - why two names

This is one type in two build states. The original form carried the designation Ferdinand; after a later modification the machines received, among other things, a machine gun mount in the front of the hull and a commander's cupola on the roof of the fighting compartment, and the name Elephant has been used since. For a modeler that has a practical consequence: the front of the hull, that is the area around the driver's station, is among the places where the two forms differ most. A set that gives both designations is therefore tied in type to both states.

Building tips

The core of the work lies in fitting the resin into the plastic. First try dry where the part will seat in the hull and remove any excess plastic inside with a scalpel or a burr at low speed. Never force a resin part in; it is hard and does not flex, so instead of adapting it will spread the joint of the hull open, and that is visible on a finished model as a gap along the whole seam. When a part will not go in, take material off the plastic, not off the casting. Only once it seats without pressure should you glue with cyanoacrylate glue. Check the fit after the upper part of the hull is closed as well, while something can still be adjusted.

Who the set is for

• Builders of the Ferdinand or the Elephant in 1:72 scale
• Modelers who are fine-tuning the front area of the hull
• Those who know how to take plastic off so that a resin part seats without pressure
• Builders willing to check the contents of the package on the box

This is an accessory for a kit, not a complete model. It is supplied unassembled and unpainted; the kit, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.