1:72 Panzer IV Ausf.G

Panzer IV Ausf.G in 1:72 scale (UM)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the German Panzer IV medium tank in the Ausf.G production version in 1:72 scale. The model is supplied as a kit to be glued and painted. The number of parts, the type of tracks and the marking schemes offered are given in the instructions supplied with the kit.

The real subject

The Panzer IV was the most numerously built German medium tank of the Second World War and went through a long series of production versions. The Ausf.G variant is among those on which the original short weapon had already been replaced by a long-barreled 75 mm gun; that change turned a support vehicle into a full-fledged anti-tank weapon. Vehicles of this version were commonly fitted with side skirts of sheet metal protecting the hull and the turret.

Building and painting tips

Start with the running gear, because once the hull is closed up the wheels can no longer be reached. Leave the side skirts loose, if the kit holds them, and glue them on only after the hull is sprayed, or you will not get behind them with a brush or an airbrush. Shape the tracks so that the upper run has a slight sag. Spray the base shade in thin coats and then the camouflage freehand from an airbrush at low pressure. A dark wash and a light dry brush along the edges bring the detail out well. Build up dust and mud with pigments working from the bottom up; keep small chips on the edges sparing, so that the vehicle does not look more worn out than you intend.

Who the model is for

• For collectors of military vehicles in 1:72 scale.
• For modelers putting together the development series of one type of tank.
• For builders of dioramas needing several vehicles together.
• For anyone after a classic subject that also suits practicing weathering.

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