Tauchpanzer III Ausf H Smart Kit

Published on
December 27, 2015
Review Author(s)
Scale
1/35
MSRP
$80.00
Product / Stock #
6775
Company: Dragon Models - Website: Visit Site
Provided by: Dragon Models - Website: Visit Site
Product Picture

Background

Originally designed with breathing and wading apparatus to support the Wehrmacht’s amphibious invasion of Great Britain during Operation Sea Lion, the Panzer III Tauchpanzer never had the opportunity to wade ashore on the British Isles following the Luftwaffe’s defeat in the Battle of Britain. Despite the denial of the opportunity to tread on British soil, Tauchpanzer III’s saw duty on the Eastern Front against the Red Army.

The Kit

Based on earlier Dragon Panzer III releases, the introduction of the Tauchpanzer Ausf. H brings a somewhat obscure Panzer III variant to the modeler’s workbench. Molded in light gray styrene, the Tauchpanzer III kit is a mix of Panzer III, Panzer IV, and unique Tauchpanzer III sprues, with three frets of photoetch and two decal sheets.

Detail is crisp and ample on the hundreds of finely molded parts. Although high in parts-count at first glance, quick examination of the instruction sheet reveals roughly 1/3 are excess and not to be used. Tracks are of the DS variety and are thin and well-formed. Interior detail is limited to the turret, and is concentrated in the breech assembly. Turret and hull hatches may be posed open or closed. Markings are provided for 3 Tauchpanzer III’s.

Instructions are Dragon’s standard fare, printed in black, white, and blue. Construction sequence is typical for most armor pieces, starting with the running gear, building up lower and upper hull areas, topping things off with the turret and adding the tracks for the finishing touch.

Recommendation

In conclusion, Dragon’s Tauchpanzer III Ausf. H is a welcome addition for German armor fans. This kit is recommended for models of intermediate skill level or higher.

Thanks to Dragon USA for the sample and to IPMS/USA for the opportunity to review this kit.

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