1:35 WWII Soviet Ice cleats set for T-34 series

Ice cleats for T-34 tracks in 1:35 scale from E.T. Model

A photo-etched set imitating ice cleats, that is the grip attachments that were fitted to selected links of the tracks of Soviet T-34 family tanks. The parts are small and in a scale thickness, so on a model they look more convincing than any plastic substitute. It is not a kit of the tank, but a detail accessory for a model in 1:35 scale.

The real subject

An unmodified track loses its grip on ice and on a frozen rutted road. The cleats were therefore bolted or wedged onto some of the links and formed transverse projections that bit into the surface. They were usually fitted only to every few links, because fitting them all the way round would have increased both drag and wear. When they were not needed, they were carried, taken off, on the hull or on the fenders — and that is exactly the rewarding detail for a modeler, because it brings the otherwise empty upper surfaces of the vehicle to life.

Building and painting tips

The parts are small; work over a surface with a raised edge and use tweezers. Glue them with cyanoacrylate of gel consistency, which will not run into the track. Decide the spacing in advance and keep it regular along the whole length of the track. Degrease the metal before painting and spray a base coat. In service the cleats are rubbed down to bare metal, so it pays to scrape the paint off the edges carefully once it has dried, or to use a chipped-edge technique, and to add dust or mud pigments.

Who the set is for

• Modelers building the T-34 in winter use
• Builders of dioramas with snow and mud
• Those who want to bring the upper surfaces of the hull to life with stowed cleats
• More experienced modelers used to working with small photo-etched parts

The set is an accessory for a model, not a kit in its own right. It is supplied unassembled and unpainted; the base kit, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.