1:72 Panzer in the Desert # 6. PzKpfw IV Ausf F2/G, in North Africa

Panzer in the Desert 6 decals for the PzKpfw IV

The sixth part of the desert series from Star Decals rounds out models of PzKpfw IV tanks in the Ausf F2 and Ausf G versions from the North African campaign, and that in 1:72 scale. It is not a kit but markings for a model. The sixth part of the series moves on to heavier types than those the previous sets covered.

The Ausf F2 and Ausf G in the desert

The Ausf F2 version meant a fundamental turn for the PzKpfw IV. In place of the short support howitzer it was given a long 75mm gun, with which the tank could deal with an opponent even at long range. The Ausf G went on with this weapon and added small modifications of the hull and the turret. The first vehicles with the long barrel reached North Africa in 1942 and the British side had a nickname of its own for them. The difference between the short and the long barrel is visible on a model at once and changes the whole impression of the vehicle.

How to tackle the markings

A long barrel tempts you to hold the model by the turret, but it is precisely the turret sides that most of the insignia belong on. Support the model from underneath, therefore, and do not handle the turret after application. Desert dust settled in the pressings looks credible only once it lies over a fixed design, not under it.

Who the set suits

• modelers of German hardware from the North African campaign
• builders who tell the versions of the PzKpfw IV apart by armament
• anyone interested in desert weathering and dusty surfaces
• collectors of the small scale completing a thematic series