Military Model Scene

Coupled with a magazine, 'The World at War', this is the second in this new series of 1/72 models, coupled with an associated magazine, a new joint venture between Guideline Publications and IBG.  They plan 10 issues a year.  Well priced, partly thanks to it being a print publication so attracts no VAT, meaning the kit that comes with it makes the whole package a very good deal for the modeller. The kit is nicely detailed, though one of what I describe as a simplified 'wargames' style model.  In recent years they are proving very successful in the marketplace.  This is the first small scale plastic kit of the early Ausf a1 that I can think of.

The Pz IV Ausf A is a very early variant, so good to see this available in an easy to build plastic kit.  Detail is nicely done in fact, with the early single piece escape hatches moulded in place on the sides of the turret and the early 'dustbin' style cupola.  I found the fit of parts to be good and assembly is quick.  The colour scheme they suggest is for Panzer Grey with a disruptive pattern of dark brown, suited to the early campaign in Poland and France.  The colour scheme is shown in colour on the back and sides of the box.  All the hatches are moulded in a closed position.

The magazine is printed with dual language text, both English and German.  It also includes the assembly instructions for building the kit, rather than it being included either within the box as a separate sheet or being printed on the box itself.  Transfers are also included in the box.  

The kit is nicely detailed and assembles easily enough. The single piece track/running gear parts work well and it is great to have a plastic kit of the Ausf A now on the market at a reasonable price.  I look forward to seeing what the next follow-ups will be but this is looking good.

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I bought mine through Tiger Hobbies here in the UK.

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Robin