Panzerkampfwagen V Panther Ausf. A

[Stuart]

Tamiya PE tool - is that one of those scraper types.

Yes, you use it like a rake across the putty to create the ridges, jogging it slightly every few mm to create the perpendicular breaks in the pattern. On most German tanks using Zimm, the ridges were horizontal while the breaks were vertical. However on the Panther, for some reason the ones that used the ridged style Zimm, the ridges were vertical while the breaks were horizontal… certainly more of a challenge to apply.

Thanks Carlos, I might get on of those, and thanks for the explanation.

[Stikpusher]

These are the Tamiya zimmerit tools. The .5 and .7 on the items refers to the spacing on the tools, with the .7 having wider spacing between the teeth.



These are the builds that I’ve done with these tools and putty for the zimmerit



Nichimo King Tiger was my first attempt and where I learned about the spacing using the Tamiya tools



Italeri Stug.IV was my second shot and I used both sizes of tools, with the size differences being noticeable



Tamiya Sturmpanzer IV was the last and best effort/result of this technique… at least in my mind…

[Stuart]

Thanks Carlos - I shall get a set. All of those beasts look excellent! It does look like a really effective technique.

I wouldn't have want to be the guy applying this stuff at the factory!

[Stikpusher]

I imagine at the factory it was done with a trowel to slather on, then adding the texturing… like stucco onto a building exterior,

[Gary Brantley]

You know it really looks like that mud that tile-setters spread out to lay the tiles on. They even rake it with a toothed spreader that leaves similar ridges.

[BlackSheep214]

Getting too antsy but need to find time to head out to Performance Hobbies in Webster (2 1/2 drive from me) soon. I've been wanting to go back there the last few years to pick up some kits and supplies. I'm hoping they now carry AK Interactive paint since I'm almost out of Dark Yellow RAL 7028.

[LyleW]

This one is on pause until I order Tamiya Zimmerit decals/stickers. I had been working on the T-34/76 as well but not posting any progress builds. The T-34/76 is on pause as well - need to order correct colors before going any further. I guess I’ll have to resume finishing up the He-111 that’s been fighting me with all that PE cable cutter assembly.

Finally got mine a couple of days ago. First order never showed up. Hmmm......The replacement did. Anyway, these are actually for-real stickers, not water slide decals. I've not see this before. Not sure about the adhesion.

[BlackSheep214]

Yeah, I am aware they're stickers. Just gotta go slow in applying g them and maybe some trimming excess (or not) involved.

[LyleW]

I did the rear and sides of the turret this morning. They cut easily, get some embroidery scissors or something similar and cut on the line, and an extra, really sharp knife blade.

They seem to be somewhat transparent and any paint already applied will be visible?. Looks. Like repainting will be needed.

[BlackSheep214]

Following your progress. Got all kinds of scissors including curved embroidery type. Need to borrow/steal a pair in my sewing jar upstairs.

Still have a few Z series Xacto blades. Noticing they’re hard to find now. Walmart is where I usually find them. Haven’t seen them on their shelves in a year. Time to look elsewhere for them.