1:35 IJA Medium Tank Type 1 Chi-He

Japanese Type 1 Chi-He medium tank 1:35 (FineMolds)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the Type 1 Chi-He medium tank of the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) in 1:35 scale from the Japanese manufacturer FineMolds. It is an unassembled model meant to be glued and painted; the box contains plastic parts, instructions and decals. FineMolds is one of the quality Japanese brands with a feel for the fine detail of Japanese equipment of the Second World War.

The real subject

The Type 1 Chi-He was a medium tank developed as an improved successor to the widespread Type 97 Chi-Ha. It received a stronger, partly welded hull, a more powerful engine and a turret with a 47 mm gun derived from the Shinhoto Chi-Ha variant. The vehicle was operated by a crew of five. It was built in fairly small numbers and most of the machines stayed on the home islands as a reserve for defense; it practically never took part in larger fighting. For lovers of Japanese armor it is an interesting and less usual subject.

Building and painting tips

Glue the plastic with thin modeling cement, which is drawn into the joints by capillary action. It pays to assemble and paint the running gear and any interior before closing the hull and fitting the turret, because once it is glued you will no longer reach some places. Apply a primer before painting and ideally spray with an airbrush. For faithful weathering use washes to bring out the rivets and recesses and pigments for dust and mud effects on the running gear and the underside of the hull.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of Japanese armor of the Second World War
• Modelers who appreciate the fine workmanship of FineMolds
• Anyone interested in less usual subjects for a collection in 1:35 scale
• More advanced beginners as well as experienced armor builders

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