Academy Military 1/35 WWII German Panzer IV Ausf H Version Medium Tank (New Tool) Kit

This kit follows along the same design philosophy as other recent releases like the M1A2 Abrams series and K2 MBT. Molded in tan styrene, this kit is presented on nine parts trees (duplicate trees not shown). The hull and turret surfaces are not molded with Zimmerit, so earlier versions of the tank will be no-doubt forthcoming, but given that this version did have Zimmerit applied, Academy has found an innovative way to represent the textured surfaces without the use of any putties or other such materials. Included in the kit are a set of resin-printed decals produced by DEF. These decals have the texture of the Zimmerit and they are applied like any waterslide decals. Experienced armor modelers have seen resin-printed decals like these before, but it is nice to see Academy make good use of this option as well.

Among the features and options presented in this kit:

• All new-tooled parts
• Color-coded instructions (blue-gray for current parts being assembled, white for completed subassemblies, gray for optional parts choices
• Multi-part lower hull which provides greater strength and surface details
• Lower hull has no holes for motorization
• New upper hull with anti-slip surfaces molded into the top surfaces (appears to be in the correct areas)
• Hull uses overlays to capture the specific details of the version represented in the kit
• Detailed suspension and roadwheels on lower hull
• Rubber (vinyl) track runs
• Positionable crew hatches
• Side skirts can be made removable
• Choice of main gun muzzle brake
• Detailed stowage and pioneering tools on hull
• Detailed turret
• MG mount on commander's turret

Color profiles and decals for three subjects are included:

• 615, 12 SS Panzer Div 'Hitlerjugend', Normandy, 1944
• 618, 12 SS Panzer Div 'Hitlerjugend', Normandy, 1944
• 635, 12 SS Panzer Div 'Hitlerjugend', Normandy, 1944