1:35 Panzer IV J - Part 2 (tamiya)

Photo-etched accessories for the Panzer IV Ausf. J

Photo-etched parts for a model of the German Panzer IV tank in the Ausf. J version in 1:35 scale, that is for the late production variant of this type. The item is listed as the second part of the series and, according to the name, it is built for the Tamiya kit.

What etched metal can do on a model

Metal sheet can be made in a thickness that injection-molded plastic cannot reach. The difference shows everywhere the material is supposed to be thin in reality: at the edges of covers, at eyes, clasps and brackets, on perforated surfaces. A plastic part is necessarily thicker in such a place and gives itself away by the shadow that an over-wide edge casts. Etched metal removes this shortcoming and also adds slight deformation to the model if you want to suggest it, because metal can be bent exactly where you need it.

• Photo-etched parts for a model of the Panzer IV Ausf. J, 1:35 scale
• The second part of the series, complemented by further parts on offer
• According to the name, built for the Tamiya kit
• Thin metal replaces thicker plastic parts
• An add-on set, not a standalone model

Building tips

Before buying, compare which elements on the model you want to deal with, because the series is divided into parts and each of them aims elsewhere. Separate the parts from the fret with a sharp blade on a hard surface and level the remains of the tab with a fine file. Make the bend against the scored line between flat jaws or in a bending tool and press along the whole length of the edge. Degrease the metal with alcohol before gluing and join it with cyanoacrylate glue; cement for plastic does not hold on it. Apply the paint over an adhesion primer in a thin coat, otherwise it peels off the etched metal during handling.

The set is intended as an accessory to a kit. The kit, paints and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.