WWII bed-spring Armour for T34/85, JS-2 - 1:35 ET Model

[Mike]

WWII bedspring Armour for T34/85, JS-2

1:35 ET Model

The Russians pioneered stand-off armour by burning mattresses to leave just the wire springs and attaching them to the outer hulls of their tanks. This caused the Panzer faust rounds to detonate slightly away from the main hull, which caused the penetrating jet of molten metal to dissipate somewhat before it actually hit the "proper" armour. It's the same principle as German schürzen, and the more modern bar armour that we're seeing in Afghanistan today.

This Photo-Etch (PE) set is relatively straight-forward in construction, but you will need some kind of longer bending tool for the long folds that create the bed-frames. Each section is made up of the frame itself, which has folded over edges to simulate the angle-iron outer frame, some of which are double-folded to give a C-shaped profile. These are then attached to the tank's hull by metal brackets, folded up from the long parts on the larger fret. The brackets differ depending on where they are to be installed, so take care when assembling them so you get it right. Five different types in all, and the position of each one is detailed on the diagrams at the end of the instructions.

Conclusion

If you haven't got one of those kits with the bed-spring armour in, then this is one for you. It's simple enough for all but the novice PE operative, but that's only really because of the long bends on the bed frames. If you're confident you can manage the bends, don't hesitate.

Highly recommended.

Available soon in the UK from White Ensign Models

Review Sample courtesy of