Entry 7: The case of a more powerful Sturmtiger?

 Tiger tanks and their variants are well known throughout the modelling world as one of the must built, especially for AFV modellers. This was the case for the Sturmmörserwagen 606/4 mit 38 cm RW 61 otherwise known as the STRUMTIGER. The rare variant released initially as resin kits in 1987 and 1990 and was followed by the first release in plastic by Tamiya in 1994. Kit Number 35177 was a sensation back in the mid 90s in terms of quality, it reigned supreme until AFV Club's release 12 years later.

Tamiya 1:35 Scale German Assault Mortar Sturmtiger Model Kit, 38 cm

Two was purchased in Hong Kong back in 1997, together with turned aluminium mortar shells and a edurard PE set. These sat on storage until mid January 2025 (29 years!) until i decided to have a crack at it. I 've to admit what put me off all these years was the photo etch set and the need to want it done correctly. Rye Field model released its beautiful version in 2018 was also a kick in the pants to start so stash built. With the rising cost of model kits, what better idea to save money and build those kits purchased. 

Therefore, i set about motivating myself to start..... part of me does not want a stock built. How do i make it interesting?

The Sturmtiger armed with a 380mm RW61 mortar on a Tiger I chassis was a German assault gun used for urban fighting. Built byAlkett  or (Altmärkische Kettenwerk GmbH), a German company that played a significant role in the development and production of armored vehicles during World War II such as the Sturmgeschütz III and IV and of course, the Sturmmörser Tiger.

Coming back to the kit, i decided to research more about the fearsome 380mm RW61 rocket-propelled mortar. ..."The barrel was radically different in design to other guns, with a cast outer body and a liner inside made from steel about 12 mm thick. Into this liner were cut nine rifling grooves into which splines on the rocket would sit and then rotate during firing."... "together with the splines which went into the rifling of the gun caused the shell to rotate clockwise in flight for stability."... (Source: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/nazi_germany/sturmtiger.php)  And hence since barrel length affects accuracy and flight stability of a shell round. IT will be interesting to see a Sturmtiger with a lengthen barrel. 

The first bit was to create the length mortar using a surplus barrel saw off using a razor saw. The two part was taped down before gluing them together.

Lengthen Mortar Barrel

Compared to the Orignal Mortar Barrel.

With the modification completed, its to to add the Photo Etch to the select location and paint the interior and weathered them to give a used look.

AFV Club 1/35 38cm RW6-1 L/5.4 Assault Rocket for Sturmtiger Plastic Model Kit

1/35 Resin Figure Model GK Kits Sturmtiger Crew 5 Soldier Unassembled and Unpainted kit

Interior 

Model Casten SK-3 1/35 Tiger I Tank Track Transportation Movable

Entry 0: Scale Modelling as a Hobby

About me and this blog

I have been into scale modelling as a hobby for the past 43 years. It has been and still is, a great way de-stress with me-time. My interest started as with most young boys with a bag of plastic green soldiers mixed with old reels of Old Movies from the 50s and 60s to present. 

What captures me about military scale models are its forms, details and possible colour combinations. As a experience builder, I've built scale models either Out Of the Box (OOB) or with some form modification. Modification includes adding aftermarket parts such as resin parts, brass-etch, the latest 3-D printed parts or just good scrap and surplus parts to make the scale model them more interesting. I made this blog to share with like minded scale model enthusiast and other new comers thinking of taking up this cool hobby.

What is Scale Modelling?

Scale modelling is a meticulous and rewarding hobby that involves the construction of miniature replicas of various subjects, including vehicles, aircraft, ships, buildings, and even figures. Enthusiasts often select model kits of a specific scale, such as 1/72 or 1/48, which represents the ratio of the model to the real object. This hobby requires a blend of creativity, patience, and precision, as modellers must meticulously assemble, paint, and detail their projects to achieve accurate representations. Scale modelling not only enhances fine motor skills and attention to detail but also provides a platform for individuals to express their artistic vision. Furthermore, the hobby fosters a vibrant community where enthusiasts can share techniques, participate in competitions, and collaborate on projects, thus enriching the overall experience.

Genre in plastic model kits 

Good old "English Electric Canberra" from Airfix 1/72 scale

 When it comes to plastic model kits, the genres are as diverse as the hobbies themselves! There are aircraft, military vehicles, ships, cars, and even sci-fi models. Each genre has its own unique charm. For example, aircraft models often focus on historical accuracy, with enthusiasts going to great lengths to replicate famous planes down to the smallest decal. Military models, on the other hand, can take you on a journey through different eras of history, allowing you to recreate epic dioramas right on your workbench!

1/24 Scale "Nissan Skyline GTR-32" from Fujimi

Then you have the car enthusiasts, who might be all about that glossy finish and engine detail. Whether it's classic muscle cars or modern supercars, the joy of assembling a model can be just as thrilling as driving the real thing (minus the speed limits!). And let’s not forget about sci-fi models, where the imagination runs wild! 

Classic " Gunpla Kits" in 1/144 scale from the popular anime Gundam Series

Kits based on movies or video games allow you to bring your favorite fictional worlds to life, whether it’s a sleek spaceship or a giant robot.

I hoped you will enjoy my entries into this wonder hobby and find them help as ideas for your next or new scale modelling project. HAVE Fun with this hobby! Let move on to my first post of a variation of the Famous World War II German Panther Tank . The German BergePanther or recovery / repair tank.