1:72 V3000SM Maultier with Flak 38

V3000SM Maultier with the Flak 38 1:72 (IBG Models)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the German half-track truck Maultier armed with the 20 mm Flak 38 anti-aircraft gun. The model from the Polish maker IBG Models contains plastic sprues, a clear part, two photo-etched frets and a color decal sheet. The separate engine hood makes it possible to reveal the powerplant and to display the model with a view into the engine bay.

The real subject

The Maultier came about by converting a standard truck, on which the rear wheels were replaced by a tracked running gear derived from the Panzer I tank, which markedly improved its mobility across country. The version with the 20 mm Flak 38 gun served as a mobile anti-aircraft and ground-attack weapon; German air defense units made wide use of this type of automatic cannon.

Building and painting tips

Pay attention to the tracked running gear and the interior of the body, which are hard to paint once assembled. Bond the plastic with liquid cement and the photo-etched parts with super glue. The gun comes into its own after a filler primer and spraying with an airbrush; fine-tune the patina with washes and pigments for mud and dust effects. The hood can be left hinged for a view of the engine.

Who the model is for

• those interested in German half-track vehicles and anti-aircraft equipment
• builders of Second World War dioramas in 1:72 scale
• modelers who want to display an open engine bay
• collectors of Wehrmacht equipment

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.