Military Model Scene

Coupled with a magazine, 'The World at War', this is the first in a new series of 1/72 models, coupled with an associated magazine, a new joint venture between Guideline Publications and IBG.  Apparently 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 A that I can think of.

The Pz III Ausf A is particularly recognisable for the spring suspension on the hull side plates and the 5 much larger than what became the more common 6 wheel torsion bar suspension of the later variants.  It was armed with a 37mm main gun, and 2x MG34 alongside on an internal mantlet.  The magazine provides the details of this variant, including development and combat use in the invasion of Poland in 1939.  The magazine is also 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 very quickly and neatly. 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.  I look forward to seeing what the follow-ups will be but this is a good start.

​

I bought mine through Tiger Hobbies here in the UK.

​

Robin