1:350 WWII Soviet submarine K class, series XIV

Soviet K class submarine, Series XIV, 1:350 (Mikromir)

A submarine kit in 1:350 scale from the Ukrainian maker Mikromir. It is an unassembled and unpainted model meant to be glued, not a finished collector replica. 1:350 is a practical scale for submarines: the model stays a reasonable size on a shelf and still keeps the shapes of the hull and the conning tower legible. The detailed make-up of the package, the number of parts and any resin or photo-etched extras are listed on the box.

The real subject

Submarines of the K type, also designated Series XIV, were among the largest Soviet submarines of their day. They were designed as ocean-going boats with great range, able to operate far from base. Besides torpedo armament they also carried gun armament on deck, which was a usual combination on submarines of that generation. In the Second World War they were used above all in northern waters.

Building and painting tips

First glue the two halves of the hull together and give time to the seam along the centerline: on a submarine it is visible along the whole length of the model, so it pays to fill it and sand it carefully. Add small parts such as the periscopes, the railings and the deck armament only after the hull has been sanded, or you will break them off while working. Paint the hull with an airbrush in thin coats, and bring out the classic division into a dark upper surface and a different underwater shade with a soft transition rather than a hard edge. Keep the weathering restrained: sea water leaves fairly even grime and salt rather than marked rust streaks. The model looks good on a simple base or set into a resin water surface.

Who the model is for

• Modelers of ships and submarines in 1:350 scale
• Anyone interested in Soviet naval subjects of the Second World War period
• Builders with experience of short-run kits
• Those looking for a subject outside the usual range of the large manufacturers

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