1:72 Sd.Kfz.138/1 Bizon Self-propelled gun

UM 1:72 Sd.Kfz.138/1 Bison German self-propelled gun (Unimodel)

A short-run injection-molded plastic kit in 1:72 scale from the Ukrainian manufacturer UM (Unimodel). The real subject is the German Sd.Kfz.138/1 self-propelled infantry gun (known in the modeling world under the nickname Bison and close to the Grille type), built on the chassis of the Pz.Kpfw.38(t) light tank. The package contains molded plastic, link-and-length tracks and photo-etched extras. The open superstructure makes the model a rewarding object for detailing the fighting compartment.

The real subject

The Sd.Kfz.138/1 came about by mounting the heavy 15 cm sIG 33 infantry gun on the proven 38(t) chassis. It served for direct fire support of the infantry, where it replaced the barely mobile towed guns. The tall, partly open armored superstructure protected the crew and the massive weapon; vehicles of this type were deployed on a number of fronts of the Second World War.

Building and painting tips

First assemble the running gear and the link-and-length tracks, and only then close up the hull and build the superstructure. Clean the flash off the short-run parts; glue the plastic with thin cement and the photo-etch with cyanoacrylate. Paint the open fighting compartment and emphasize it with a wash, and apply pigments for dust and mud on the running gear. The large barrel and the shield will take a fine edge highlight.

Who the model is for

• For collectors of German self-propelled guns in 1:72 scale.
• For builders of equipment on the Pz.38(t) chassis.
• For lovers of detailing open fighting compartments.
• For more advanced modelers who get on with short-run tooling.

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