This is the Tamiya 1/35 kit with PE Grenade screen.
I used to do some kits when I was a kid and have admired them for a long while. I’m 31 now and after 20 years, give or take, I’m back into it.
I’m really new but this forum and other resources have helped. I have built and painted the hull and added some wear and tear. Next, I’ll add the remaining vehicle parts (no stowage) and add weathering via some washes in lighter and darker tones, some rust where the wear is (shown) and finally a flat coat as it seams shiny to me.
I painted the kit with a can as I don’t have an airbrush yet, which is tough - it seems pretty orange to me, also. I’ll use a brush to finish the kit. I have been working on a camo net using gauze (thanks to those who provided that idea) and will replace the plastic blanket with a cloth one. Not sure what to do about the lights…one option is to cover them with helmets.[?] The undercarriage(springs, engine, etc.) is also a question mark…I thought I would just coat it all in rust.
Lookin good so far. If it makes you feel any better, I dont have an airbrush either. I attached some photos of my build thus far. Since we both already knew we were doing it. I used Panzer Gray to match my 251/1. Plan on using them in a diorama. Let me know what you think. I think have a lot of work to do. BTW, I am 30 and just returned to the hobby after 20 years. This is only my thrid one that I have done.
I see the difference in experience for sure. I put too much of the details on before I painted. Your’s looks really good in gray. Did you put on an undercoat? Are you going to add anything to the kit or do it straight out of the box?
Yeah I put on a primer first. Then I did it in Panzer Gray. I might build it OOTB. I am not sure yet. It really is a sweet kit and an easy build. How about you?? Going to add anything to it?? I just bought a book on German Recce Vehicles so I am waiting for that to come. That way maybe I can get some ideas.
Just what I mentioned above and maybe and extra cable on the back…not sure about anything else. The first kit I did this year was an old Revell 1/72 Stug3 and this Tamiya kit is in another class. Careful with the smaller bits…I broke 2 removing them from the sprue.
I don’t remember who but it was suggested by someone here to cut a length of gauze remove some fibres, soak it in white glue with water, form it to replace the plastic net. I’ll make it into a roll and try it mixed with tea leaves for foliage…maybe. My wife is willing to donate an old fine linen dish towel for a division’s worth of vlankets or tent stowage. Verlinden sells similar items but I’m an artist! I can make it myself. [:)]
I forgot to mention that I will use tin foil for the straps.
You guys are both doing a real nice job on your SdKfz223’s! It’s kind of funny cause I’m working on one myself, a little further along, but it looked just like yours a couple of days ago.
I agree with you guys in that this was a fun build, and a nice change from building up indy tracks. It’s also a good way to improve your weathering, and washing skills, without going to great expense. I’ve still got to dullecoat, and weather my little “223”. Keep the progress pictures coming guys, you’re doing a good job. Semper Fi, mike
Man Mike you did a sweet job on the build. Very nice. I see you stayed with the Afirca Korps colors. Since I dont own an airbrush, I had to go with something that I can do out of a spray can. Besides, it matches my 251/1 Ausf C. I plan on putting them togther in a diorama at some point. I also have another 251/1, 222, 234/2, and the 232. They are a nice change from tanks. Keep up the good work.
Look forward to seeing your progress guys, I’m trying to convince my wife that I need to get some weathering powders, I’ve seen some very dramatic results here on the forum with the use of them. Have played with pastels a little, but still haven’t quite figured out how to get the best results! Like you stated Jeff, these small kits can really augment a nice diorama. It sounds like you’ve got a plan in your head for an interesting one. Semper Fi, mike
Havent even gotten to the headlights yet. If you look in the Halftrack GB on page either the last one or the one before that, petbat has some interesting tips for headlights. It is well worth it and I am going to give it a try. As for the underside, I dont know. I have to do some research, hence me waiting for my stinkin book to arrive!!! [:(] Stupid mail hasnt brought it yet!! [V]
Yeah I have a plan. I am thinking summertime '41 or '42 on the Eastern front. Other than that, need more planning. As for weathering powders, let me know if you get them. Right now I am using pastels. Always interested in new ideas. Now I just need to get a freakin airbrush. Much too expensive right now though. [:(][:(]
I’ll try to cover them. My local hobby shop sells plastic sheets. I’m going to have to work on this kit tonight. All this talk won’t let me wait until Saturday.
jifor, I wouldn’t go too crazy with the rust on the undercarriage of the 223, especially if you’re going with a N. African scheme. The operation of the vehicle across sandy areas would continuosly sand blast the undercarriage, keeping the rust to a minimum. I would just paint the whole thing in your base color then drybrush a little rust on the suspention parts, then dirty it up a bit. IMHO, people tend to go a little overboard with the rust, myself included at times. Subtle is better.
