StuG III Ausf. F8 "Early Production"

Takom No.8013

1:35th Scale

Introduction

Takom has continued their Blitz series of kits with the StuG III Ausf. F8 Early Production in 1:35th scale. The Blitz line features a comparatively low parts count, high detail, and quicker assembly. These kits do not include detailed interiors, also in keeping with the overall lower price of these kits. This release brings another welcome addition to their line of StuG III and StuH 42 vehicles.

The Sturmgeschütz came into existence as the result of a 1936 order given to develop an armored vehicle, mounting a 7.5cm Sturmpanzerkanone (StuK), for close infantry support. The experimental series vehicles were constructed on the chassis of five (5) Pz.Kpfw III Ausf. B. Once successful testing had been completed the StuG III Ausf. A was ordered into production during January 1940. The Ausf. A shared the same basic hull, drive, and suspension components as the 5ZW on which the Pz.Kpfw III Ausf. F was built. In 1941, hastened by encounters with KV-1 and T-34 tanks on the Eastern Front, a request from Hitler to increase the armor of the StuG and mount a larger 7.5cm StuK made its way through the German High Command. A new StuG entered production in March 1942, armed with the 7.5cm StuK40 L/43 and fitted with additional armor. The change to a long gun also marked a change in the role of the StuG to that of tank destroyer. The final production StuG III Ausf. F were upgraded to the StuK40 L/48 gun. Starting in September 1942 an improved hull design, similar to the 8ZW design of the Pz.Kpfw III Ausf. J/L, was introduced in the StuG III Ausf. F8. The side plates of the hull were extended as towing brackets, numerous improvements to the rear deck and ventilation were introduced, as well as increasing the thickness of the front and rear armor. The production of the Ausf. F8 lasted until December 1942. During this time an increase in demand for the StuG led to production of the Pz.Kpfw III being cut short. German manufacturer Alkett built a small portion of the Ausf. F8 on any already completed Pz. III M hulls. These machines can be identified by single-piece, forward-opening hatches over the final drives. The StuG III Ausf. F8 were issued to existing units to replace losses sustained in the fighting of 1942 and to expand unit strength of StuG companies.

Initial Impression

The box is compact and faced with outstanding art work by Jason Wong. Inside the box, Takom has provided eleven (11) plastic sprues and a lower h