Panzer II Detail sets for 1:35 Tamiya Pz.Kpfw II from ET Models

[Shar2]

German Pz.Kpfw. II Ausf A/B/C detail updates

1:35 ET Models

These two new releases from ET Models are for the Tamiya Panzer II. The kit is a very nice kit in its own right, but could be transformed by the use of these sets.

[E35-185] Comprising of three sheets of relief etched brass, plus a resin shielded headlight and resin smoke discharger tubes, showing that this set is not as basic as the name on the header card suggests. Contained in the standard poly sleeve with the sheets taped to black card for protection with the instructions on the ubiquitous green A4 paper there is a wealth of detail to be added to the kit. The instructions are, as usual very clear and easy to read, with the very useful addition of diagrams of the kits hull and turret showing where all the sub-assemblies go. There are a number of kit details that need to be removed first before adding being replaced by etched parts and it may be an idea to remove all the areas mentioned in the instructions before starting the build. The modeller will also need to provide styrene or brass rod for certain parts.

Construction starts with the assembly of nine hand clamps and brackets before assembling the complex locking mechanism on the interior of the drivers hatch which will need to be left open to appreciate the work. The pioneer tools all receive new brackets and clamps as well as a new shovel blade. There is some more complex cage work for the left hand rear tool box and jack clamps along with clasps and hinges for the storage boxes. The grille on the right hand side rear of the engine deck is made up of separate frames and shutter bars which will look great when fitted. There are another couple of hatches on the engine deck that not only have external detail, but internal mechanisms too, so it would be a shame to fit them closed. The two storage boxes on the right hand fender are also included and will take some careful folding to get them square. The light cluster on the rear bulkhead is completely replaced, but will need the centre piece made out of plastic stock by the modeller. The exhaust receives a new, finer, perforated cover and the smoke dischargers on the rear bulkhead are very nicely detailed, with new resin barrels, holder, cover, brackets and tube cover chains, the whole assembly is then fitted to the exhaust cover. The turret receives new hatch details internally and externally, strengthening beam across the turret just in front of the hatches, lifting eyes and a pair of headphones which will require stretched sprue of very fine thread for the wires.

[E35-186] is for those modellers who find that the looks of the kits fenders are just too thick and bulky. Those fenders are completely replaced by etched items which not only look more to scale, but could be bent and modelled to look damaged more easily. The main fender parts are single piece items onto which all the brackets, bolt holes, supports and clamps are fitted. The front and rear mudguards will require some rod to more the basis of the hinges and also include strengthening strips and clamps for some incredibly fine detail.

Conclusion

Another pair of superb sets that will take the model to the next level of detail and also give the modeller a bit more of a challenge in making all the small parts and bending them to shape. As normally is the case with this type of set, patience and care are the watchwords and although some experience with PE would be beneficial it shouldn’t be insurmountable for the less experienced modeller to achieve a really good result. Highly recommended.

Review Sample courtesy of

[Panzer Vor!!!]

A lotta detail for a little panzer methinks but will be stunning when done