1:72 Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind

Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind 1:72, Flyhawk

A kit of the German Wirbelwind anti-aircraft tank in 1:72 scale from Flyhawk. It is a new mold and, besides the injection-molded plastic, the set contains photo-etched parts, 3D-printed components and turned metal gun barrels. The assembly is therefore more demanding than that of an ordinary small kit and matches the approach that the manufacturer is known for in the small scales.

The real subject

The Wirbelwind came about toward the end of the war by converting the chassis of the Panzer IV tank. In place of the original turret sat an open nine-sided turret with the four-barrel 20 mm Flakvierling 38 gun, which covered columns and battle groups against low-flying aircraft. The open top gave the crew a good view and allowed quick reloading, but it did not protect them against shell splinters. The powerplant remained that of the donor tank, a Maybach spark-ignition V12. Only a few vehicles were built and they reached units in the last year of the war.

Building and painting tips

Finish the running gear and the inside of the turret before you close the assembly, because the open turret gives a view inside. Bend the photo-etched parts over a metal edge and glue them with cyanoacrylate. Degrease the metal gun barrels before painting and apply a primer to them, or the paint will not hold. Late German camouflage is completed by earthy pigments on the running surfaces and a dusty cast on the lower hull.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of German equipment from the end of the Second World War.
• Modelers in 1:72 scale who want a high degree of detail.
• Builders with experience of photo-etched parts and small parts.

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