This is a review of the metal gun barrel set accessory package associated with Tamiya’s kit of the Panther Auf.D, kit number 35345.

This accessory package comes with both a plastic sprue containing a detailed breech for the 75mm main gun as well as the metal barrel that is a direct replacement for the plastic barrel supplied in the basic package.

The breech assembly is made up of 14 detailed parts including the scope and coaxial mg breech as well as parts to create the geared elevation system within the turret. There is also a single leftover piece that implies that this accessory kit may be for more than one make of Panther. The gun barrel is beautifully turned in aluminum and is a direct swap-out with no modifications necessary.

If you leave the emergency escape hatch on the turret open (as I did) the breech assembly is fairly visible through the open hatchway. If not, I’m not sure if it would be particularly visible on the final model. However, since the basic Tamiya turret for this kit includes not only opening emergency escape hatch but also pistol ports and shell ejection port, one could do a nice job of giving this lovely assembly some visibility if one chooses.

Although not necessary for the completion of a fine Panther Auf.D, this accessory kit does make into a very well detailed addition if one chooses to go this route. Highly recommended.

My hats off to both Tamiya/USA and IPMS/USA for a chance to review this nice addition to my Panther kit.