1:35 Russian BTR-50PK APC

The Soviet BTR-50PK in 1:35 scale (Trumpeter)

A plastic kit of the Soviet tracked amphibious armored personnel carrier BTR-50PK. The model in 1:35 scale captures the characteristic low amphibious hull, the tracked running gear with rubber tracks and photo-etched parts for the engine grille; the exact contents follow the particular edition.

The real subject

Unlike most of the BTR family, the BTR-50 is a tracked vehicle - it grows out of the chassis of the amphibious tank PT-76 and was among the first fully amphibious tracked carriers. In the water it is driven by water jets. The PK version received an enclosed armored roof and chemical protection, which raised the protection of the troops compared with the earlier open configuration. The vehicle spread to armies around the world. Its low silhouette and its ability to swim made it a practical means of moving infantry quickly across water obstacles.

Building and painting tips

First assemble the running gear and the lower tub of the hull - with amphibious vehicles, watch for clean and firm joints. Glue the plastic with thin cement and the photo-etch with cyanoacrylate glue. Lay down a primer and spray with an airbrush; the flat surfaces of the hull are brought to life by a wash into the seams, a dry brush on the edges and dust and mud pigments around the tracks, which will suggest a drive out of the water. The rubber tracks are glued with cyanoacrylate glue; check their length and tension before fitting them.

Who the model is for

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

• Collectors of Soviet amphibious equipment
• Modelers who enjoy a tracked running gear
• Builders of dioramas with a water or cross-country scene
• Anyone interested in vehicles derived from the PT-76