Zvezda 1/35 Panzer III Ausf.F
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Background
The German Panzer III was an evolutionary development from the lessons
learned in the field with the Panzer I and Panzer II series. The Panzer
I and Panzer II were classed as light tanks, while the Panzer III and
Panzer IV were medium tanks. While the light tanks were ideal for most
of the Blitz campaigns, it would be up to the new medium tanks to deal
with enemy armor and fortified opposition.
The Panzer III was developed with an anti-tank gun in the turret and
two machine guns. By mid-1940, the Panzer III Ausf.F was armed with a
37mm main gun. The Panzer III Ausf.F would see distinguished service in
Russia as well as in North Africa.
The Kit
Zvezda's Panzer III Ausf.F is molded in light gray styrene and is presented
on six parts trees, plus one lower hull section and a pair of 'rubberband'
tracks molded in silver. The kit is free of flash and ejector pin marks
in visible places. Detailing is nicely molded into the kit where appropriate.
Nicer still, none of the usual details that appear on other kits are cast
onto the hull and fenders of this kit. Specifically, the fender brackets,
pioneering tools and lighting are all separate pieces. Nice job Zvezda!
The lower hull is nicely detailed as well and there are no holes in
the hull for motorization. In addition, there are no 'air gaps' between
the upper and lower hulls when assembled. This model is designed for the
modeler, not the toy market.
The only down side to the kit is that it is designed to be posed 'buttoned
up'. The drivers compartment hatches, turret side hatches and most of
the rear deck are closed up. Only the commander's hatch can really be
posed open. While this isn't necessarily a bad thing are there is no interior
to this kit, it does get in the way of the superdetailer or the modeler
who'd love to stuff the four new Warriors' Panzer III crew figures (reviewed
elsewhere in this issue) into the open hatches.
Markings are provided for three examples:
04, Captured and pressed into service by the Soviet Army
An unnumbered example of the German Army, Easter Front, 1941
431, German Army, Eastern Front, 1941
Conclusion
Zvezda kits are nicely detailed, reasonably priced and offer the novice
as well as the experienced modeler a great project. Recommended!
My sincere thanks to Squadron Mail
Order for this review sample!
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