1:72 Jagdpanther Early Production w/Zimmerit

Jagdpanther Early Production with Zimmerit - Dragon plastic kit, 1:72 scale

An injection-molded plastic kit of the German Jagdpanther tank destroyer in its early form, in 1:72 scale from Dragon. The model belongs to the manufacturer's finely detailed armor range, so even in this small scale it offers a richly worked surface - including the anti-magnetic paste (Zimmerit) reproduced on the parts themselves. The package also contains small photo-etched parts and one-piece tracks. The instructions in the box state the exact contents and the number of parts.

The real subject

The Jagdpanther (Sd.Kfz. 173) was one of the most successful German tank destroyers of the Second World War. It was built on the proven chassis of the Panther tank and combined a powerful 88 mm gun with the well-sloped armor of a low, closed casemate without a rotating turret. The early production batches carried Zimmerit on their vertical surfaces, a paste that prevented magnetic mines from sticking. Only around four hundred were built, which makes this machine an attractive and fairly rare subject.

Building and painting tips

Because of the fine and photo-etched parts this is a build for more experienced modelers. Finish the running gear and the lower hull before you close up the tub. Spray a primer and the basic three-color camouflage with an airbrush; a dark wash and drybrushing bring out the texture of the Zimmerit beautifully. Mud and dust pigments on the tracks and in the wheel wells give the machine a period, battle-worn look.

Who the model is for

• For more advanced modelers of German armor
• For lovers of detail who will appreciate Zimmerit on the parts themselves
• For builders in the small 1:72 scale and of dioramas of 1944 and 1945
• For collectors of a less usual tank destroyer subject

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