Nevs 1/35 Aufklärungspanzer 38t Build

[Nev]

In box review of Ark models 1/35 Aufklärungspanzer 38t

Background and sprue shots to follow soon. Hope you enjoy!

[youtube]ODoEpL7rnXI[/youtube]

[Nev]

Ok so some inaccuracies in the video came to light once I did some more research.

So here is some History and images of the original vehicle:

History: Since production of the fully tracked reconnaissance vehicle ‘Luchs’ (Lynx) was scheduled to end in January 1944 after only 100 had been built. Plans were made to provide an alternative by using the chassis of Pz Kpfw 38(t) returned for repair. From December 1943 BMM were to convert 118 tanks by April 1944. After delays, however, only 70 chassis were prepared in February and March 1944. Only 15 of the units without the 2cm Hangelafette (2cm Swivel mounting) were delivered, and 13 of these were held back by In6 until at least November 1944. BMM proposed two designs for the 7.5cm KwK version. Later, an Aufklarer auf Fgst Jagdpanzer 38(t) mit 7.5cm K51 L/24 was tested, because it was intended to have a reconnaissance vehicle using the 38(t) chassis built along side the jagdpanzer 38(t) and Jagdpanzer 38(d) from mid 1945.

Specific features: A new superstructure was fitted to the old Pz Kpfw 38(t) chassis and on that was mounted the 2cm Hangelafette 38 turret as used for Sd Kfz 250/9, 251/23 and 234/1/ The 7.5cm mounting was achieved by extending the sides of the new superstructure upwards.

Combat service: Issued to armoured reconnaissance companies from April 1944. Saw service on both Eastern and Western fronts till the end of the war.











box shots and build to follow

[Andreas]

That's a interesting looking tank. Good luck with your project

[rwsmith14]

Cool Subject !!

[Nev]

Made a start with internals. Fits ok just a lot of clean up and filling on the pin marks. Planning to make it rough and ready so Mr surfacer will be used by the ton





also managed to solve the anti grenade dilemma. I managed to pick this up for about 6 quid better than I can do and a hell of a lot better than the kits parts!

[Nev]

Finished the tub and painted the fighting compartment.

I used a mix of Ultimate washes, and AK weathering products. As it has an open turret I needed to show some contrast to the outside.





So far this kit has been fun to do apart from a lot of clean up and some ill fitting parts. I have looked at the Dragon version of this tank and I think I could do a much better build using that kit... But I guess it is fun to experiment on cheaper kits from time to time and I need so much more practice!

[fly1ngdutchm4n]

Very interesting kit you have here!
I'm doing a cheaper kit myself build out of the box.
It's a challenge to get all seams filled and getting part fitted.
You are doing a great job so far!

[Nev]

Thanks fella! Yes it is a bit of pig this one hopefully can make it shine

[Nev]

Ok finished the tub was not happy with the look of the inside weathering, so I spent a good day on it and finally got the look i was after. Inside will have some rotten leaf scatter, put into the corners to show debris buildup, as it has been deserted!! I was struggling to find a story for this build, but i think I may have my idea now.





Outside shot.



top half should be a breeze then I can paint this one up!

Nev

[Nev]

Still plugging away...

All primed ready for base coat:







Base coated:





And Camo on:







Gloss coat and weathering to do. I found this kit a total pig I had to omit the back tool boxes and the grenade mesh, as was laughbly bad!! Will I buy a cheap kit for giggles again... Hell No!!!

[MarkVerploeg]

Nice work so far Nev
I like the interior , you did a great job there
Keep up the good work

[Nev]

Thanks Mark, really appreciate that mate

[rwsmith14]

Camo looks great !!

[gaz45]

very nice work there mate

[Nev]

Cheers fellas!

[Nev]

All done and dusted. I omitted the Grenade mesh because the kit just didn't give a viable version that would have looked satisfactory. I may add an aftermarket one at some point but to be honest think I am done with this.

Would I recommend a cheapo kit for giggles again... Hell No!! But I have learnt some good techniques, so yes it was worthwhile doing the build.

Will upload more picks in the reveal section:

[MarkVerploeg]

Great build mate
That is cool looking mini tank
Personally i wouldn't bother to get a pe set for it
If you think it is done , it is done
And you would end up with a complete pe set for the turret anyway just for 2 screens
I had the same for my 250/9 wich had the flyscreen mesh for the screens so i went online to find a replacement and found sets for the turret or for the full kit i was building
They cost the same so i picked a full upgrade set but if you only use the screens it would be a waste of money in my opinion

[Nev]

I think you are right mate. Messed up the one I was going to use so will leave it at this.
It has been a good learning curve so worthwhile in the end.

Anyway really Glad you like it fella on to the next one