Entry 1: The "Original" 1/35 Scale Bergepanther Model Kit from Italeri.

 

Released in 1995, the kit was the first for a vehicle based on the famous German Panther Tank that was not used for fighting purposes but as a recovery and repair platform. Even though the molding was not as sharp as Tamiya or Dragon model's products, but none of them had a BergePanther. 

Then in 2006, ICM Models released it's version of the bergepanther but using majority Italeri mold parts.

 Modellers would have to wait until Takom Model's release in 2018 and Hobbyboss rendition in 2021.

The Build

The built was comparative simple compared to the latest offering by major kit makers. As this kit provided partial interior. I made up more parts from Evergreen Plastic products and surplus parts to enhance the details. Given the original rubber tracks were lacking in details. A set of aftermarket Panther Tank Tracks from SKP Model was added together with Voyager Model PE35981 set for Panther Tank A version, which greatly improved the details on this project. 

Additional Field Mount for Engine (made from Evergreen Plastic products and an engine from a FAMO halftrack  from Tamiya )

Interior 

Building scale models with interior requires painting before the parts are seal off.  Some modellers prefer to approach the interior by paint them on the sprue trees before assemblying. Personally, i prefer build each section as it is (engine, crew interior, etc) then airbrushing them before detailing painting. Experience have shown again and again, gluing painted parts together sometimes causes the plastic to dissolve and mess up the paint, though use thin cement like Tamiya Extra Thin Cement may fix this.

As for painting assembled parts, i have found that as long as it can be seen by the eye, any assembled part or section can be painted, be it very small paint brushes. 

As for the Bergepanther, the interior was painted, weathered and masked off before tackling the exterior assemblies like the hull, tracks, idler and sprocket and the big spade.

Black and White Painting method.

There are many ways to paint scale models. Some preferred priming all black or gray before applying colours. Others, would only shade the areas of shadow with back before applying colours. Some would do a mixture of both approach depending on the model kit and and their colours.  My painting style has been heavily influence by Spanish model builders for armour vehicles such as Mr. JOSE LUIS LOPEZ RUIZ and Mr. Miguel Jiménez. Both artist's published books have been good references for improving the scale model. These books are 

Painting Guide for AFV: of World War Two and Modern Era by Jose Luis Lopez (2014-07-19) 

F.A.Q.: Frequently Asked Questions on Afv Painting Techniques

To such, this time round i have attempted the Black and White method on this scale model kit.

 More on the painting the Bergepather on the next post.

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.