Tamiya Panzer IV/70(A)

Introduction

Once again Tamiya excites the modeling world with a nearly completely new kit based on the Panzer IV chassis. There are seven sprues in the box, labeled A-E, with only the A sprue being a previously released sprue with the Panzer IV J kit. Also included in the box are a delicately produced photoetch sheet for the schurzen and decal markings for two variants. As expected a well written construction manual and a historical reference pamphlet are included. 

History

There is an excellent historical summary of the vehicle in the included pamphlet but a brief description follows. As the war progressed and the armor of Russian tanks increased, the German's looked to mount the 7.5 cm L70 gun from the Panther on the Panzer IV chassis. The initial attempt to mount the gun in the turret was not successful. Following this failure, Alkett was able to design a stopgap solution that mounted the gun in a fixed armored casemate. This vehicle was designated the Panzer IV/70 (A). From August 1944 to March 1945, a total of 270 vehicles were produced.

Contents

Sprue A

This is the only sprue present from a previous kit. The kit utilizes the shocks, wheel hubs, and drive sprocket.

Sprue B

This sprue contains mainly the parts of the main body and casement. As you can see, there is excellent detail on the rolled plate texture and weld seams.

Sprue C 

A nice slide modeled barrel is included, as is a nicely detailed cast mantlet.

Sprue D

Well detailed commander figure and schurzen hangers are on this sprue. 

Sprue E

This contains the link and length track as well as the rest of the suspension components. The track lengths depict a gentle sag which is very well produced. As a bonus I do not see any knock out marks to fix on the track links!

Tub/Hull

Decals and Photoetch

The Thoma shields are excellent with almost the woven feel of the original. Also, check out the decal for the fire extinguisher.  

Summary

Another great kit from Tamiya. The price point ($51.00) is awesome for the detail and precision of the kit and what I know will be an easy and enjoyable build. There is no noticeable flash or knock out marks to be seen. The improved detail on the rolled texture and cast mantlet are great. The weld and flame cut steel details are likely in scale but may not satisfy the most discerning among us. Otherwise, this is a new tooled masterpiece. 

Highly Recommended for Beginner to Advanced builders.

Thanks goes out to Tamiya for this review kit.

Reviewed by matthew schaefer

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