King Tiger Porsche zimmerit 1/35

Zimmerit for the King Tiger Porsche in 1:35 scale

The set deals with one specific surface detail of a model of the Tiger II with the Porsche-type turret in 1:35 scale, namely the texture of the Zimmerit. Reproducing this coating by hand with putty is among the most laborious and least rewarding parts of the build, because it is hard to keep the pattern regular across the whole hull and turret. A ready-made set shortens the work and, above all, makes it consistent, so the pattern comes out the same on every surface. The set is cut to the shapes of one particular variant of the vehicle, which is why it cannot be used on another turret version without alterations.

The real subject

Zimmerit was a paste-like compound applied during the war to the vertical surfaces of German armored vehicles; once dry it formed a coarse texture with a regular pattern. It was applied in several typical patterns, which differed by factory and by period. The Tiger II, carried under the designation Sd.Kfz. 182, was built with two turret versions; the earlier of them, known as the Porsche-type turret, has a rounded front and angled sides.

Building and painting tips

Before you commit the set, dry-fit every surface and check that it matches the shape of your own kit; small differences between model manufacturers are normal. The surface of the model has to be clean, degreased and free of putty residue. Work in smaller sections and move from the large flat areas toward the edges. When you are done, apply a thin primer to even the texture out, and only then paint. Zimmerit texture holds washes and dry-brushing superbly, so it is worth spending time on exactly this stage, where the model gains the most.

Who the set is for

• Builders of a Tiger II model with the Porsche-type turret in 1:35 scale
• Modelers who want a regular texture without hand-applied putty
• More experienced builders who can handle fitting it to a particular kit
• Collectors of large-scale armor models