History

The Sd.Kfz.6 Mittlerer Zugkraftwagen was designed by Bussing-Nag and Mercedes Benz as a prime mover for the German army – one of a number of half-track designs. The unit was produced during the 1930’s. The Sd.Kfz.6 had a five ton pulling force, capable of pulling off the road. It was built from 1935 to 1943 in several versions. In 1942, production ceased, and the Sd.Kfz.11 took its place, as this unit was cheaper and easier to manufacture. The pioneer version had a passenger body of up to 15 soldiers. This vehicle weighed 9 tons and was powered by a 6 cylinder 115 php Maybach NL54 engine, with a maximum speed of 50 km per hour.

Items in the Box

The model is made from injection-molded plastic, tan in color, with thirteen good presentation instructions, decal sheet and clear window and lens sheet, and a photo-etch sheet.

Construction

Initially, I started with the chassis build-up, then proceeded to the front end steering mechanism. Next added was the transmission wench and rear chassis details. I assembled the motor and its accessories. Paint was applied to the chassis, and then I added the pre-painted drive wheels and idler wheels. At this time the motor and drive shaft were added to the chassis. Having completed this, I added the fenders and their accessories. (Extreme care must be taken as the parts are very fragile and break easily.) I personally had to replace the fender guides with brass wire. Next, I assembled the driver and passenger areas together with the dashboard and its accessories. Note: I also pre-painted these items. At this point, I went to rear seating area, assembling the floor and undercarriage, then the seats and side entry ways. Note: the rifle butt holders and the seat frames were added at this point. Next, the rear trunk door was added and left in the open position. I then worked on the rag roof, and deviated at this point and added tissue paper to the roof, making it look more like canvas, as well as cutting the rear view canvas and laying it down, as shown in the photos. I also replaced the stanchions from plastic to brass wire, nesting it into the seat backs (it proved to be a much better arrangement).

Paint

Paint used on the chassis – Model Master; on the roof – acrylic. I then proceeded to weather the chassis with rust color paint and black-washed the roof. Paint went on well. After a few days, I added the decals, over-coating with Testor’s Dullcote.

Conclusion

The kit went together well. Many tiny parts. The kit is for the more experienced modeler. I am disappointed that the manufacturer did not add some figures, but pleased that Bronco went out of its way to include many rifles, ammo, and backpacks.

I wish to thank Dragon Models USA, Bronco Models and IPMS/USA for allowing me to review this great kit.