There was a series of firsts for me on this kit. First time I had to cut parts off and relocate them. Specifically two return rollers. Although the kit claims to be an Ausf A it really isn't. That was one of two mods you have to make to it. The other was cutting out a hatch and replacing it with another. Like I said, I'd never done this stuff. Stik talked me down off the ledge and got me through it.
This was also my first experience with individual track links. Turns out it was easier to do than I thought. I didn't even have to bother Stik with that!
Then when I was almost finished, came another first. This kit is circa 1997 and when I went to apply the decals . . . they disintegrated before my eyes. Never had that happen. So I ordered some aftermarket decals from Star. They worked great!
Also, I'd never put decals on a figure before. But I had an old set of Verlinden Waffen-SS decals that (of course) Stik gave me a few years back. So I slapped 'em on Wittmann. They also worked well.
Also the first time I used AK Real Colors (for the interior). Brushed it on. I hate it. It sucks. No matter what I did to it, thin it, etc. it left huge brush marks. At least the figure mostly covers that up.
I added a resin stowage set from Value Gear on the back. I can't say enough about Steve from that company. What a cool dude. He even sent me a bunch of freebies along with it.
As you are all more experienced than I am, you probably already know about his stuff. If not, check out valuegeardetails.comOh, another first. My phone which had a pretty good camera crapped out on me. So I had to use another one that was not as good.
So here it is. Please be kind.
Tip: you can click on these pics to see them full size.
Again, many thanks to Sir Stikpusher. I asked him at LEAST a question a day about techniques, uniform colors, etc.
He is a GOD. Even if he is a bully.
