She sure came out looking sweet Steve! I’m currently working on a Mid production Tamiya for the group build which is going to be an OOB build. Had to throw that in buddy. Now let’s talk about this here Tiger of yours! First I want to say that the “hot iron technique” you applied, is probably one of the best I have ever seen but, there should be a “note of caution” for less experienced builders that this technique is not for beginners! ( I don’t think you’d argue that point with me). You know how I feel about Fruil tracks? You’ve taught me everything there is about them and I love um. just wish they were a little cheaper. Not being real famaliar with the “Academy Tiger” and seeing your side skirts, I was wondering if they come as a single piece, or did you modify them to look individual? I’m contemplating doing this on the one piece Tamiya skirts. Also the weld seam on the top of the turret perimeter, did you simply make a long rolled length of putty and lay it on the perimeter of the turret or did you mask a fine line and create the weld bead? Sorry to bug you with all the questions Steve, but the only way I can ever hope to do work as nice as yours is to learn your techniques. My compliments on a beautiful build and thanks for sharing your secrets with us. Semper Fi, Mike
Hey good to hear from you. Yes I agree about the hot iron technique, novice modelers beware. That being said, I would recommend it to try. Just invest the 10 bucks on a 15W soldering iron with a small tip and practice on junk plastic, it really is incredibly easy and it is actually hard to screw it up, once you’ve practiced it.
This is the AFV Club kit, not the Academy buddy. But, Yes I razor sawed the mud guards to give them some separation. They come as a single piece, but they just look too damn perfect and almost all Tiger pics in the field show them flopping all over the place or missing/bent up.
As for the weld seam, I CAREFULLY taped around the turret roof perimeter and applied Tamiya white putty, stitching the weld beads in with the edge of a #11 blade.
I’m waiting for a mid-production myself, (hopefully DML) I am really itching to do the Tunisian 504th Tiger as well. Good luck on you mid kitty and don’t be shy about posting those progress pics outside of the group build threads!
Thanks for the reply to all my questions Steve! I did catch myself on the Academy/AFV kit thing. Thats what happens when ya get middle-aged. Lol. I’m going to try your weld seam technique on my mid- production Kitty as you call it. I’ll post a pic of it when I get it done, but I created a bit of a mess playing with oils last-nite so I’ve got some stripping to do on the Tiger before I can go forward. Once again, always enjoy your commentary and tips. Semper Fi, Mike
I value praise and criticism equally, it is a learning experience. Could you be more specific as to your “bright color” issue? Maybe there is something I’m not seeing.
[:0]STEVE, MY MAN!!! It did turn out darn nice!![:D] Got nothin’ bad to say 'bout your work, sry took so long to get to you, didn’t know you were done[:I].
Get to work on your next one[;)],
Bill
Great job on the Tiger. Just one question, I didn’t realize that the Tiger had zimm applied to the horizontal part of the front glacis plate. I’ve seen pics with them and without, which is more accurate?
All the Tiger boys had a real discussion a few days back on this one. Seems like some had it, some didn’t. Just look at the references and decide the which way is best for you. There are published photos with the plate zimmed and not zimmed, choose your poison my friend.
I only just got this cit today and found your posting when doing a search on the forum.
That is a wonderful build, you even included the log
A few questions: #1. I am building this one back to back to the DML early, is the stand out of the turret roof correct?
Did the late Tiger have a thicker roof or is this incorrect?
The DML early kit shows the the sides and roof in line with the weld seam flush ore even under the side of the turret. The AFV late roof stands out quit heavy.
The boxart really looks flush. #2. Where all late Tigers Zimm coated. I admire the job you did on this one but I just can not find the patience :S
Great build Buckeye Boy!!!Glqad to see someone else embrace the hot Zim method!!! I love it also.Like you said, the more ya do it the easier and better it gets.Again, great job buddy!!!Outstanding!!
Yes, the late versions did have increased thickness on the turret roof armor. It was necessary to add the weld seam as this kit does not replicate it.
Yes, all late Tiger 1’s should have zimmerit. There are some examples of very late depot retro-fit vehicles (i.e.-mid production turrets affixed to late production hulls) that were fielded without zimmerit, but they are few and far between.
You are very welcome. Just a tip, make sure you “draw” the zim pattern on first with a drafting pencil. It is very important to “scale” the pattern. your strokes should be about 2 to 3mm. Also, you can keep your pattern parallel and perpendicular this way.
