Tamiya 35209 - 1:35 German Pz.Kpfw. IV Ausf.H Sd.Kfz.161 Early Version

Plastic model kit of the Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.H tank (early version) in 1:35 scale

Tamiya 35209 depicts the Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.H – the most prolifically produced version of the German medium tank, regarded as its mature form. The Pz.Kpfw.IV was the backbone of the German armoured divisions throughout the Second World War, often called their 'workhorse'. The H version was armed with the long-barrelled 7.5 cm KwK 40 L/48 gun and fitted with side skirts (Schürzen) protecting against anti-tank rounds. The model has over 280 parts.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues (over 280 parts) with hull, turret and running-gear parts
• Side skirts (Schürzen)
• Optional hatches (open/closed) and optional rear panels
• Towing cables, tools, spare track links and wheels
• Vinyl tracks plus a decal sheet and illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Item number: 35209
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: approx. 169 mm
• Skill level: beginner/intermediate

Note: glue, paints and modelling tools are not included. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

As a Tamiya-tooled kit it features good parts fit. Before gluing, decide on the arrangement of the hatches and rear panels. It is best to fit the side skirts after painting the hull; emphasise the final result with a wash, dry-brushing and weathering.

Tools you'll need:

• Modelling nippers for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for cleaning up sprue-gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Brushes of various sizes and modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Panel-line wash to emphasise detail, plus dry-brushing
• Pigments and paints for weathering effects (mud, dust, rust)

About the vehicle – Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.H:

The Pz.Kpfw.IV was one of the most important German tanks of the Second World War, produced throughout the conflict. The Ausf.H version, the most prolifically built, received the long-barrelled 7.5 cm gun able to engage Allied tanks, plus side skirts increasing protection. These machines fought on all fronts.

Original vehicle specifications:

• Length (with gun): approx. 7.0 m
• Width: approx. 2.9 m
• Height: approx. 2.7 m
• Combat weight: approx. 25 t
• Powerplant: Maybach HL120 petrol engine (V12), approx. 300 hp
• Max speed: approx. 38 km/h
• Armament: 7.5 cm KwK 40 L/48 gun; two machine guns
• Crew: 5
• Feature: most-produced variant, side skirts (Schürzen)

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 in Shizuoka, regarded as the heart of Japan's model-making industry. It launched its first injection-moulded plastic kit in 1960 and soon set a global benchmark for quality thanks to precise tooling and excellent parts fit. The 1:35 Military Miniature series is one of the most highly regarded military model lines in the world. Beyond plastic kits in many scales, the company offers a full range of accessories: paints, glues, tools and brushes. Tamiya operates in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable brands in the hobby.