This is a Hasegawa 1/72nd scale model of the Pzkpf IV F2. This was the
workhorse of
the German armored forces from the mid to the end of the war. It appeared
in many
variants starting with a 50mm gun. This variant mounted the potent L48
gun. It was
smaller than the bigger Panthers and Tigers, but used less fuel and was
faster and more
maneuvrable plus it was cheaper and easier to build than its bigger
cousins. Its gun
could defeat most Allied armor. It is the opinion of most experts that if
the Germans
would have produced this tank in great numbers rather than diverting their
attention to
the more complicated Panthers and Tigers, the course of the war could have
been
changed. Its chassis was used in the assault guns and other tank killers
with equal
success. I was disappointed with the fit of this kit, especially the upper
to lower hull fit
and the rear turret box to turret fit which took a lot of work for such a
small kit. Don't
know what happened with Hasegawa on this one as their plane kits are noted
for their
perfect fit. The surface detail was very good though. The model is again
painted in the
familiar late war camoflage. It was weathered lightly , but other than
that it is box stock.
I would not recommend the Hasegawa small scale armor kits as they are
rather pricey
for the fit quality. I prefer the value of the Matchbox or Revell of
Germany kits.
Hasegawa does offer more variety. I used left over Aeromaster paints on
this one. One
word on Aeromaster. I feel these paints were the best I have used for
small scale
models. They go on very thin and cover well. They are pre lightened for
scale effect.
They were produced per Aeromaster specs by Floquil, but when Floquil was
taken over
my Testor's, Testor's refused to deal with Aeromaster and the line died.
Too bad cause
these paints were indeed awesome!!
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