1:72 U-Boot VII Exterior set - part I - Turret for

The real subject

The conning tower gives a Type VII submarine its unmistakable silhouette. The boat was steered from the bridge at its top while running on the surface, lookouts were posted from there, and the tower also carried the periscope masts and other equipment. It is by the small alterations to the tower that individual boats and their later rebuilds are most easily told apart.

What the set solves

The set is designated as an exterior set, part one, and deals with the conning tower in 1:72 scale. It therefore covers the part of the model that a viewer notices first and where careful building shows most. Before buying, compare the scale, the version of the submarine and the shape of the tower with your own kit and with the manufacturer's instructions. The extent of the parts is likewise given in the instructions.

Building and painting tips

Dry-fit the parts first and only then glue them; on a superstructure every deviation shows up in how upright the whole tower stands. Cut the excess material off with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand the rest down. Wash and degrease the surface before painting. Attach fine sections such as railings and masts only after the base shade has been sprayed, otherwise they snap off easily during handling.

Who it is for

The set is for modelers who want to take the submarine beyond the level of the parts in the box and who are used to working with small sections. It also suits a model standing in a display case on a water base, because from that viewpoint the tower is the most conspicuous of all. The submarine kit is not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.