1:72 T-34/85 medium tank Chinese People‘s Volunteer Army (Korean War)

T-34/85 Chinese People's Volunteer Army (Korean War) 1:72 (Flyhawk)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the Soviet T-34/85 medium tank in the form used by the Chinese People's Volunteer Army in the Korean War, in 1:72 scale from Flyhawk. Flyhawk is among the best in the small scale: its molds are marked by a high number of fine parts and filigree detail, which makes the model one rather for more demanding builders. The finish carries the markings and the scheme of the Chinese volunteer units.

The real subject

The T-34/85 was the improved version of the legendary Soviet medium tank, armed with a more powerful 85 mm gun in a larger three-man turret. The combination of good mobility, sloped armor and strong armament made it one of the most widespread tanks of its day. After the founding of the People's Republic of China the Soviet Union supplied T-34/85s to the Chinese army, and machines of this type were used in the Korean War as well.

Building and painting tips

Given how fine the parts are, follow the instructions and clean the parts up carefully. Finish and paint the running gear and the lower hull before you close it up, as the weathering then goes better. Use a thin modeling cement on the plastic and cyanoacrylate glue on the small parts. Lay on a primer before painting, spray the dark green scheme with an airbrush and bring the whole to life with washes into the hollows, dust pigments on the running gear and a fine pick-out of the edges with a dry-brush.

Who the model is for

• collectors of T-34 tanks in the small 1:72 scale
• anyone interested in the Korean War and Chinese armor
• more experienced modelers who will appreciate Flyhawk's fine detail
• builders of display models and small dioramas

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