Rubicon Models

Rubicon Models => Showcase & Gallery => Topic started by: ultravanillasmurf on September 03, 2015, 04:01:13 pm

Title: UVS models: Salute 2021 11/12/2020
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on September 03, 2015, 04:01:13 pm
Hi,

This is my first table ready Rubicon kit and my first post.

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-px-Jcjx2Fuk/VeffbiqxS6I/AAAAAAAAA7E/Vy18TgRFgvk/s1600/tiger7.png)


The vehicle id is based on the Abteitung 508 format, and I think the smoke dischargers are wrong for a late war Tiger.

Oh, and someone has started to clean the first outer wheel, not sure why.

A Crooked Dice William Killen for scale.

Now once I have the German stowage set I can finish the M4A3.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on November 29, 2015, 06:01:09 pm
Work In Progress Panzer III with help from the German Stowage set.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wEowuZMqz44/VlbFhm7yKuI/AAAAAAAABLI/VpVtytDEDBM/s1600/panzeriii-1.png)
The brown box fouls the turret slightly, an HO scale item.

Two jerry cans are behind the rail and the large crate sits on the rear deck, both secured with microstrip straps. There is a bucket hanging off the back as well. There is spare track on the roof and between the machine gun and the driver's hatch. Brackets secure them in place (I added the bracket to the short piece after the photograph was taken).

I have added additional soft stowage from greenstuff and a covered crate (two of the HO boxes covered with greenstuff).  There is still more to add.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on November 29, 2015, 06:10:55 pm
Work In Progress M4A3.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rvsMbxG8ZUg/VM5OBP6QHmI/AAAAAAAAA3s/MQex7Ch4OGI/s1600/m4a3side2.png)

This has been on hold for quite a while, mainly because I have no idea what to do with it. If I had done my research I would have used the 75mm turret with the 76mm gun as an M4A3E4 (with or without the Company B decals).

http://the.shadock.free.fr/sherman_minutia/m4a3e4/m4a3e4.html (http://the.shadock.free.fr/sherman_minutia/m4a3e4/m4a3e4.html)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on December 01, 2015, 07:16:06 pm
I like how your DAK Panzer III is progressing.  I'd consider replacing the tracks, running gear and exhaust with the StuG III's, which are much more accurate.  You also need to 'lose' one of the row of 4 armoured louvres on the engine deck, as there should only be 3.   

Regarding your M4A3, consider doing some work on the turret to get it looking more like the real thing.  It's mostly a case of carving away the lower part of the bustle, and rounding everything off.  Nice idea to do an M4A3E4 - but do you want a Pakistani tank?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 03, 2015, 01:09:56 am

Thanks.

Rats, I had not got as far as checking the Stug III. Not sure how easy it would be to remove the cover. The cover is slightly above the air filter, so it might be possible. Of course I undercoated it last night.

I thought the E4 would go nice with Artizan's Big Joe and Co figures (and the Company B decals). There is a temptation to build a "Furry" T34 from the T34 leftovers to go with it.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on December 05, 2015, 12:03:50 pm
It's the louvres nearer the turret which are wrong.  Here's how the engine deck should look:
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 05, 2015, 06:13:51 pm
Thanks for the picture.

Looking at the model, the air filter, the etched item in your picture (that is what I assume it is) is higher than the cover, but only just, which makes access difficult. Not having a  millling tool, it will require scalpel work at a very limited angle from the front (the top of your picture).

I ended up looking at the PSC site for a deck picture, my limited library did not have any deck pictures, and I only have the late war Barford book (my lazy look up book) which uses the III for the what it is page but no overhead view, though it does have the Stug.

I think I will put this to one side while I complete the Crusader and the post war T34 and return to it later.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QG0QnzBho0/Vl3mWiJYgcI/AAAAAAAABNY/qbcVhe1HR88/s1600/T34-85-2.png)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xld-O-RA_mo/Vl3mWn5yrkI/AAAAAAAABNU/jX008eEVqhk/s1600/T34-85-1.png)

The T34 has some turret shape tweaks to better match the IWM example.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on December 05, 2015, 08:58:10 pm
Looking at the model, the air filter, the etched item in your picture (that is what I assume it is) is higher than the cover, but only just, which makes access difficult. Not having a  millling tool, it will require scalpel work at a very limited angle from the front (the top of your picture).

No, I'm talking about the rectangular armoured louvres, not the air intakes.  If you look at the Rubicon Panzer III, it has a row of 4 louvres across the deck, while the (correct) model above only has 3.

The Crusader looks very nice - I haven't seen the kit assembled.  Mine will be the AA version.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 15, 2015, 01:55:33 am
Hi, sorry I have been off grid (work...).

The air filters are higher than the cover that needs to be removed, so access is either from the turret space or perpendicular to the cover, as I lack a milling device it would be the former.

The Crusader went together nicely, the only problem is the turret half joins, it needs to be perfect before gluing, as those rivets make post gluing clean up difficult.

More spare track pieces would be nice, Pinky's picture shows additional pieces.

There will be an AA one next.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 15, 2015, 03:27:51 am
The air filters are higher than the cover that needs to be removed, so access is either from the turret space or perpendicular to the cover, as I lack a milling device it would be the former.
Of course if anyone has any ideas on alternative methods that would be helpful.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: H0ffmn on December 15, 2015, 08:46:48 am
You could drill out the fourth air filter, from the inside of the hull,as it is raised up and hollow below the engine deck. You could then fill it with putty and carefully sand it flat
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: H0ffmn on December 15, 2015, 10:18:16 am
Or if the hull is already assembled,you could drill out the fourth air filter from the top along the edges of the air filter,file the edges off so that it is flat with the engine deck,then fill the hole with putty and sand it flat with the engine deck
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 15, 2015, 04:52:52 pm
Thanks.

Due to the excellent design of the Rubicon models, I tend to leave them in three or four components right up to the last moment (the Sherman having the transmission cover loose).

The cover has a convenient inner shape so the suggestion of drilling from behind sounds like a good idea.

I will dig out the pin drill out tonight.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 05, 2016, 06:55:25 am
Progress at last.

First, I drilled the cover.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lndg2RJymcs/VrPQlFjS4DI/AAAAAAAABRI/H8yKYdIooTg/s1600/panzeriii-drilled2.png)
Then I filled the gap with plastic card and filled the remains with milliput.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H7Jjec0BCiY/VrPQllTJGII/AAAAAAAABRU/pcsItupA1H4/s1600/panzeriii-fix1.png)
A Crooked Dice 70's television British Corporal shares the workspace.

This (the Panzer III) was sanded with a bespoke sanding stick (craft lolly stick cut to size to apply sand paper in the limited space.

Now colour undercoated.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HmkFOElFNTg/VrPQl59gqZI/AAAAAAAABRY/aGtfw2iPKYM/s1600/panzeriii-undercoat1.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 05, 2016, 09:54:14 am
Nice bit of surgery there . Always a pain to find something needs to be removed when most of the kit is glued together   ::) . For sanding sticks I use cheap fiber board women's nail files from the dollar store . I get around 40 for a buck .  Easy to trim to a very narrow width to get those seams on fenders and other small spaces .  It's pretty much use them once and throw away as they plug up with plastic  but  at such a cheap price  who cares
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on February 05, 2016, 10:36:05 am
Nice job removing the louvre and filling the space.  I would probably have cheated and just covered the space with a tarpaulin...

I like your stowage - it looks very natural.  You are very good at sculpting the soft stowage too.  There's an art to making stowage look as though it's been put there by the crew and not just randomly stuck to the model. 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 06, 2016, 06:47:02 pm
Thanks.

My concern is trying to work out where crew would place kit, so it does foul hatches or the turret and does not sit on ventilators, exhausts, crank handle sockets....

The Steve Zaloga Osprey modelling book on the Sherman 76mm has some useful pointers.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 14, 2016, 02:41:13 am
So I have finished the Panzer III M (for the moment).

Pinky and I have both looking for evidence of Panzer III M's in North Africa. Pinky found an example in a Concorde book, and I found one in the Osprey book. There may be another picture in the Osprey book - there is a posed picture shot from the right rear showing a number of British soldiers with BREN guns, it has the same single number on the turret bin.

On page five of the Osprey New Vanguard book on the Panzer III there is a picture of an M knocked out in Tunisia. This is my attempt at a similar picture. The angle is not quite right.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bio8zD7A57I/Vr9wrThe_hI/AAAAAAAABRs/JcBDiIJrXb8/s1600/panzeriii-finished2.png)
The number on the turret side is not quite the right size, and lacks the outlining described in the text (the one on the turret bin does have white outlining - unfortunately I did not realise when I was putting the transfers on the model).
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vcNzr4QSH7A/Vr9wrxckZsI/AAAAAAAABRw/dCX_bu2R6SI/s1600/panzeriii-finished3.png)
Soft stowage is green stuff, hard stowage is a mixture of Rubicon stowage (jerry cans, crate, bucket) and scratch built items (some using HO scale boxes as a core).
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SNvKGUgzLjg/Vr9wrdfhshI/AAAAAAAABRo/8eDzlKAxr5s/s1600/panzeriii-finished1.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: chrismanu87 on February 14, 2016, 05:11:25 am
@ultravanillasmurf
This panzer is very good, which colour have you used?
 :P
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on February 14, 2016, 12:23:57 pm
Great to see this painted, UVS.  The stowage is really good - it looks very authentic (the helmets hanging from the smoke dischargers etc).  I wish I could get my hands on more of those railway crates - I had a pile of them but they've been frittered away over the years.  I'd suggest just a bit more shading around the hatches, to enhance the detail.

Here are a couple of photos of Ausf Ms in Tunisia, including the Osprey photo that UVS mentioned.  I think they were with 10th Panzer Division, which used single-digit turret numbers.  They seem to have been painted in Dunkelgelb (i.e. not the usual Gelbraun), but it's hard to be sure.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 14, 2016, 03:55:27 pm
Thanks for the nice comments.

The base colour (as spotted by Pinky) is PSC DunkelGelb,  plate B3 (an N) in the Osprey book is described as being in the mustard colour (together with olive green!) that was popular for tanks in Tunisia.

The PSC spray is a slightly different shade to the Vallejo one so needs careful shading in. The highlights are Army Painter Skeleton Bone.

Following Pinky's suggestion I will run some Citadel Earthshade round the hatches, but first back to dressing up the Crusader. I have found a nice picture of the rear deck in the Osprey Operation Crusader book.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 17, 2016, 07:33:19 pm
I wish I could get my hands on more of those railway crates - I had a pile of them but they've been frittered away over the years.
Knightwing International supply them in the UK: PM101 Crates, Barrels and Sacks. Not sure who actually makes them,
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 11, 2016, 04:39:36 pm
Okay, a couple of work in progress pictures.

First the Crusader (yes I am still working on it).

Thanks to Pinky I have a picture showing the stowage rail (and Osprey have a rear view picture in Campaign 220: Operation Crusader).

I do worry that Crusader MkIIIs do not have the stowage rail, but it is now a bit late.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PJ2d_7xdBqw/VuKAXycXaLI/AAAAAAAABSs/s2UVNppKXvgzio2ubOgmySkwc0EYIIW0A/s1600/crusaderwip3.png)
I should have checked the position of the end of the long six pounder with the turret rotated to the rear, luckily it just fits but I will need to be careful with the stowage when I sculpt it.

From the Osprey picture, I am building a jerry can rack to go above the radiator grill (yes I used the grill that does not take the spare fuel tank). This is a work in progress shot.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ltJX-GcD4-A/VuJ9pKxCC5I/AAAAAAAABSU/YvG8ZqW71XgrVcbkhsKaN2yzoTmpwceCg/s1600/jerrycanrack2.png)
Four cans from the German Stowage set with the rack made from 0.030" square section Slaters micro strip and straps made from 0.030" by 0.010" micro strip. The end pieces of the rack need to be added and a lot of trimming is required.

It is being built on a glass plate to make it easy to remove.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 12, 2016, 01:11:58 pm
Crusader IIIs definitely had the 'stowage rails', but they were actually part of the 'sunshade' device, which was intended to disguise the tank as a truck.  The rails (which were flat, not rounded) were attached to brackets that were welded to the sand shields.  A Crusader III with the sunshade device fittings would often (but not always) be painted in a wavy sand/black camo with the middle 3 roadwheels painted black.  The rails were a convenient place for hanging stowage.  I'd put up some photos for you, but I still can't upload them.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 12, 2016, 04:29:15 pm
Thanks.

I did wonder about their intended use, the tanks had rather a lot of tarpaulins so I wondered if they were used to break up their profile when at rest. I thought I had seen a picture of one with lots of 'lean-to' shelter (not the Tunisia photograph in the Osprey Crusader book - page 23).I did not realise it was part of the lorry disguise.

Now that would be an interesting option.

You are right that the rail on the skirts is rectangular in section, but I am going to need to add a lot of rod to the tarpaulins.

I will have a look in Churchill's Wizards and see if they have more details.

Thanks.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 12, 2016, 05:42:04 pm
That sunshade device wasn't carried on the tank when not in use.  The tarpaulins you've seen hanging from Crusaders (and Grants and Shermans) were indeed shelters etc. for the crew.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 12, 2016, 08:03:57 pm
Thank for letting me know, less bits to add to the tank.

Edit: rats, two mistakes (possibly three): Poor choice of stowage to work on, now I have to wait for the green stuff to set; I have hung a tarpaulin from the rail rather than from the rail's hangers - it is too low. Last issue is the tarpaulin hanging over the left side - it first fouled the turret (fixed) but while fixing it I ran out of time to sculpt the rest of it (see first problem). It will need reworking.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 13, 2016, 01:57:17 am
I'm sure you'll fix these issues, given your skill at sculpting stowage.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 13, 2016, 07:24:35 am
Thanks.

Current state of the tank:
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lElOKUuZWIk/VuSe4PfVCBI/AAAAAAAABTQ/NEPsyq4SupYbDkmg42xXG_-lv46N2q4hw/s1600/crusaderwip7.png)

You can see how the tarpaulin is low on the right hand side.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMhmqZ4n-mo/VuSe4DRBe5I/AAAAAAAABTI/1O7h-XAVfnE1Xiv4sLmFeBlnzNDwBdxqw/s1600/crusaderwip8.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 13, 2016, 07:42:16 am
Looking really good . I can never get my Green Stuff to do what I want , what's your secret ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 13, 2016, 11:46:54 am
I can never get my Green Stuff to do what I want , what's your secret ?

Me neither!

That said, I think the front end of the rolled tarp on the right side is defying gravity a bit.  You could also hang a few Tamiya British knapsacks off the side rails.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 13, 2016, 04:24:05 pm
That said, I think the front end of the rolled tarp on the right side is defying gravity a bit.  You could also hang a few Tamiya British knapsacks off the side rails.
I have been concerned with the left side, I had not noticed that.
It is also true of the back of the tarp.

I will claim there are tent poles wrapped up in it ^___^.

Somewhere I have some 4.X mm square section evergreen strip which I used for backpacks on one of the Shermans, they will be added to the side rails as you suggest.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 13, 2016, 06:07:33 pm
I can never get my Green Stuff to do what I want , what's your secret ?
Me neither!
Thanks for the kind words.

I do not always get it to work, just look at the left side of the Crusader. I have just bought my third GW pack of greenstuff, I bought the first when the Fellowship of the Ring game came out, so I have not used it much.

Here are some rambling thoughts.

(Note, I will use the word sculpting, but in no way am I claiming to be able to sculpt anywhere on the same planet as Kev White or the Perry twins - it is just more efficient than saying poking clumsily with the pointy end of a scalpel).

I try and limit what I am sculpting, so, if I want some British back packs, I make an armature out of Evergreen square section strip and add a flap and straps from micro strip. Once that is dry I use green stuff to make it look less like a box. One of my Bolt Action Shermans has a couple of those backpacks. The Crusader has a tarp wrapped box on the left rear mudguard, I used an HO scale box as an armature pinned to the mudguard.

The other thing is that though greenstuff is sticky, it does not stick enough on flat surfaces. I drill the location and glue plastic rod to the surface to provide a firm anchorage point and an indication of the intended height (too much facial reconstruction on television ^___^). You can see examples on the Crusader.

Tools wise, most of the work is done with my trusty Swann Morton scalpel with a 10A blade and a Hasslefree blister pack containing water in the back (also used as a pallette). I do have an old pipe scraper tool, not mine I hasten to add which gets used for sculpting (proper tools are available).

I have previously used a piece of PTFE sheet taped to plastic card as a non stick surface, but after 20 years it is not very non stick. I have just started using an off cut of what I am told is PTFE which made rolling the greenstuff a lot easier.

The key things are:
Real examples- look at pictures of the real thing and models that look right. The Osprey modelling book on the US 76mm Sherman has some nice examples.
Placement - where is the item going, how would it flow. Is it clear of intakes and exhausts, hatches and viewing ports?
Gravity- yup slightly forgot that, fabric items will sag, think how gravity will affect the shape.
Fixings - related to gravity above. How is the item fixed so it does not fall off and how does that affect the shape.
Story - it is there for a reason, what is that reason: covering or holding something down or stopping something moving.
Time - greenstuff remains soft but not workable for a period of time, work on items so that you will not be putting finger prints on your previous work.

Simple blanket/tarpaulin roll on a horizontal surface:

Drill the surface in two or more places and glue in suitable lengths of plastic rod. Ensure they do not interfere on the underside.

Cut and mix your greenstuff. Roll it into a suitable diameter sausage of the required length (actually make it slightly longer and cut off square). PTFE material might make it easier, or use polythene. Remember some people are allergic to the epoxy, so gloves might be required.

Square up the ends.

Place the greenstuff on the surface and flatten it out, making sure the ends remain squarish.

With the end of the scalpel work your way round the end of the roll teasing the edge of the end out in a full squashed circle, this is the outer part of the roll. Then work your way in in a spiral. Use plenty of water.

Next, having noted where you are going to tie the roll to the surface, with the wet scalpel make two parallel marks for the strap. If the strap is attached beyond the roll, extend the strap.

Carefully, being careful to not 'tear' the surface, with the scalpel depress the surface at a shallow angle from the strap to give some depth to the strap. Add some creases.

Repeat for the other straps.

Now some rolls will have an exposed end, you need to make a smooth line along the roll, missing the straps, gently depressing the lower material while lifting the upper to make a nice edge. When you reach the end, tuck the lower part underneath the upper.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 14, 2016, 12:11:16 am
Nope, not happy with the left hand tarp:
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-As86Io3_6l4/VuWP8HKm1SI/AAAAAAAABTo/N2YReazs_0MBKOhw7m_F4jpGxG-RFpyYA/s1600/crusaderwip12.png)

So I have removed it.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kI1T8x4n2RE/VuWP8nwpDNI/AAAAAAAABTw/g6hmQaDdHJs1ZMT7EFqnRmtSh9GVfdfxw/s1600/crusaderwip14.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 14, 2016, 12:44:07 am
Thanks for sharing you method , I'll have to pick up some new GS and give it a try, the stuff I have is dead .I didn't close the container tight and it dried out   ::)  I thought that tarp looked pretty good actually .There are lots of pictures of badly loaded / tied on equipment , some blocking the turret or even dragging on the ground . Things do shift on a moving vehicle , I guess it depends if the photos are taken during a routine  route march from A to B,  where you have time to put things right  before you leave  or a bug out under fire where stuff is just thrown on the vehicle as you get out of Dodge !
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 14, 2016, 01:30:51 am
Nope, not happy with the left hand tarp:

So I have removed it.

I do that kind of thing all the time.  Which is why everything takes so long to finish.  That, and I keep starting new kits...
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 14, 2016, 02:55:43 am
Thanks.

@Ripley, I kept mine in a Coppleston castings blister pack (and the two sheets of plastic). It did cease to be adhesive after a number of years.

A good way to practice is to put a strip of sticky tape on a piece of wood (you know the one you use to hold figures when spray painting) and then drill through it with a pin vice. Put some rod of required diameter in the hole and use that to hold your test piece. Once set, it can be removed. If you like the piece, you can just drill a hole in your model, shorten the plastic rod and glue it on.

Yes stowage can shift, but it needs to have a story and I did not feel it was right. Its replacement is not perfect (it is held by attachments at the ends only, there should be slightly more sag).

Now I am waiting for it to set, I have added three armatures for packs.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 14, 2016, 03:02:46 am
Nope, not happy with the left hand tarp:

So I have removed it.

I do that kind of thing all the time.  Which is why everything takes so long to finish.  That, and I keep starting new kits...

Me too...

This (http://thedicebaglady.net/bad-squiddo-games-tank-commanders/) has inspired me to finally dig out the Rubicon T34/75.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 14, 2016, 04:20:22 am
LOL  . I ordered mine yesterday . I've got 9 T-34s , so one needs a female crew . I've got pictures in one of my books , somewhere , of a female Russian tank ace and her T-34 named Faithful Wife , or something like that . Will have to practice my freehand painting to put the name on the side of the turret  :)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: chrismanu87 on March 14, 2016, 09:54:05 pm
LOL  . I ordered mine yesterday . I've got 9 T-34s , so one needs a female crew . I've got pictures in one of my books , somewhere , of a female Russian tank ace and her T-34 named Faithful Wife , or something like that . Will have to practice my freehand painting to put the name on the side of the turret  :)
I know this story....a model will be great!
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 19, 2016, 07:33:59 pm
For various reasons I have not been updating the work in progress Crusader.

So I replaced the tarp and added armatures for the packs out of 4.7mm square section tube.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HutjmqJjoSA/Vu00DI3zPdI/AAAAAAAABUE/ZUAaVCCTdusRe_9X4m85jLD5-87bIsjwA/s1600/crusaderwip16.png)
The armatures are pinned to the sand shields. They are then filled with greenstuff and detailed with micro strip.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hZFNPBPylEc/Vu00DpYXfWI/AAAAAAAABUM/tHCPkhsIliYydm2AjQ38Ylfo0DofCDkeA/s1600/crusaderwip18.png)

So it was then undercoated, first with Citadel Chaos Black then Humbrol Desert Yellow. It does look rather dark, I do wonder if Desert Tan would be better.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nhG0hqbZM_s/Vu00D8tgJqI/AAAAAAAABUY/wgyUiLnB390UBEVQl8DAniOrSw841OYHA/s1600/crusaderwip22.png)
What do you think?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 19, 2016, 10:39:54 pm
Looking really good . I'll have to try your method of making packs . Have you thought of casting a few in resin to keep a supply of extras for other builds ? Always seems it takes quite a while to scratch a detail part or 10 , but casting parts , once you get the initial mold made , takes 5 minutes . The color does look a little dark . Maybe try dry brushing a lighter color over top ? I usually try  various shades of dry brush on the under side of my tanks , which I paint , but no one ever sees . Could also try a wash , I just got a Vallejo Desert Dust wash ( # 76.522 ) , which I'm going to try on my Tunisian Tiger and Panzer III N .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 20, 2016, 01:19:17 am
The stowage really captures the look of an Alamein-era Crusader. 

I wouldn't worry about the base colour being too dark.  Once you've shaded it and highlighted it, it'll be fine.   
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 20, 2016, 05:40:06 pm
Thanks for the thoughts.

@Ripley - I hod not thought of casting the packs, that is a good idea, it would also make them more consistent. My local Hobbyz R Uz franchise sells casting kits, I will have a look.

I will have a look for the Vallejo dust wash.

Normally the underside of my vehicles remains Chaos Black, though having read a BA painting guide, the underside of the Crusader is Mournfang Brown (an attempt a spray shading of the wheels). The underside of an Empress T90 is patch painted where I was trying to match PSC Russian Tank Green spray with any acrylic paint.

This morning I block painted everything that is not hull colour and once that is dry I will give it a serious dry brushing with desert tan. I will then give it a light wash before detail painting, decals, shading,highlighting and weathering.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 27, 2016, 08:39:31 pm
So, this is nearly finished (it was only after taking the pictures I noticed I had forgotten to paint the lens of the lamp on the turret, and I need to install the brush guard for the right hand headlight).

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gRE21tOSch0/VvfRvadLGgI/AAAAAAAABVg/lHfKiTgAWBY8uLa9ksQLHMOM_S64jgRlw/s1600/crusaderwip37.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u0MWQJHdrxE/VvfRva2eyVI/AAAAAAAABVc/608cGoalsZI2k5pPj39XnVTij0dXZlzkg/s1600/crusaderwip36.png)
I think the ID flashes are a bit far forward.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ERzD2PgLJ7s/VvfRvFibjhI/AAAAAAAABVY/CF0RADi0lbIkMbNlIWq-rFRFkKGh04AJw/s1600/crusaderwip35.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UVxCs338uJc/VvfRvAAZ6CI/AAAAAAAABVU/H6S5AlwAZbw0KyFlhsxx_t5P0d8QAtJjw/s1600/crusaderwip34.png)
And almost none of the contemporary photographs have unit markers, perhaps due to over zealous censors?
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ejCDnny7tls/VvfRuxJ2vDI/AAAAAAAABVQ/403TkbUc_Hw6ZYO8QbBr3M3T3-wbvYx8A/s1600/crusaderwip33.png)

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 31, 2016, 11:34:09 pm
I missed this update.  The colour looks right (in fact it looks just like my Airfix Crusaders, which were painted in Humbrol "8th Army Desert Sand").  I think it needs some more shading though, to add some depth to the colour and make the rivet detail 'pop'.  Nothing too dramatic - just a subtle wash.  I wouldn't overdo the rust effects; contrary to the belief of a lot of modellers that tanks should be rust-streaked, in fact most AFVs didn't last long enough to develop the level of rusting that's common on models. 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 03, 2016, 04:10:56 pm
Thanks.

The base was Humbrol 93 dry brushed with Humbrol 237. I used Desert Yellow (93) as the base coat for my Perry  Eighth Army figures.

I agree about the rust, the only bits I deliberately rust are spare track, and in this case only sparingly.

I have used some Citadel Earthshade on joints and for shading raised detail, but they do look a bit like rust (I normally use original Citadel Flesh Wash for rust streaks and shading). The Citadel Nuln oil might be better for the joints, I used it round the turret hatch.

What has surprised me is the difference between my "daylight" work light and flash photographs.

Work light:
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RSgOZCzOoZY/VvfRuFPmw_I/AAAAAAAABU0/WYbw1qJm9MQkfvragbZ-ycpNqn9g-Ig4A/s1600/crusaderwip26.png)
Flash:
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gRE21tOSch0/VvfRvadLGgI/AAAAAAAABVg/lHfKiTgAWBY8uLa9ksQLHMOM_S64jgRlw/s1600/crusaderwip37.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 03, 2016, 05:58:44 pm
Looking good.  I think your flash has bleached out some of the shading.  Maybe a bit of wear and tear on the paint around the hatches?  Again, 'chipping' is often wildly overdone, but some bare metal would look realistic.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 23, 2016, 03:32:55 am
Well, Salute provided a few things to build and paint...
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-98bbrzW83uA/VxpmlfVQ7QI/AAAAAAAABYs/rMhEyfMXhi48FOfIN0L7NnGy50rxqeCpQCLcB/s1600/rubiconstack1.png)

I also bought some PSC British Tank spray useful as only one of the above is not going to be undercoated green.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 23, 2016, 07:12:30 am
So, the Hetzer has been assembled.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i826rXZvFgU/Vxqp0DhnZgI/AAAAAAAABa0/M2Toc_hjoqIcm2luaCholFnljhV-pz-NwCLcB/s1600/hetzer1-1.png)

There is some work required on the tracks at the rear:
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qP971yBCoeU/Vxqp0MEW67I/AAAAAAAABa4/8cJdybq81_kKZmj3HvkGP2Zhxg0XZx-jQCLcB/s1600/hetzer1-2.png)
I have fitted the exhaust set with the silencer.

And the other side:
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VrJkaV5tUgY/Vxqp0DpjdLI/AAAAAAAABaw/uAFLSjuG_ec9oK0xIgmOK06gXlujknV-QCLcB/s1600/hetzer1-3.png)

I have fitted the driver's periscope with the cover, later models deleted the armoured cover but it was fitted with a rain cover.

I am not sure there is much to add, none of the photographs I have found of Hetzers show any additional equipment attached. Photographs of the similar G13 are a another matter.

Now will the weather be suitable for spray painting on Saturday?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 23, 2016, 07:56:27 am
So yours is an early version.  It's a great kit, isn't it.  The level of detail and precision is very high.

You're right about the lack of stowage on these vehicles (which is odd considering how little more internal space they had - where did the crew put all their stuff?).  You sometimes see a jerrycan slung on the side.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 23, 2016, 03:49:09 pm
I was using the May 1945 model from the Osprey modelling book as inspiration, it is based on the US Aberdeen Proving Ground example. It has the plain silencer and the covered periscope. The instructions do not say which is which but the picture of the Camp Borden example on page 74 shows the C frame periscope and is labeled "Early". Post war and museum pictures are of course not reliable.

The October 1944 upgrade does seem to describe the periscope with the light metal cover, unfortunately it also describes the replacement of the (plain) silencer. Oh, and I put the notch in the plate for the other exhaust.

Have you also noticed how many pictures are posed so the barrel obscures the periscope?

On the title page of the Osprey New Vanguard (2001 edition) they have discovered a right hand drive example, which is almost identical to the left hand drive one on page 4.

There is a picture on page 7 of the Horst Scheibert book that shows a Hetzer that if it was an American M3 would have the crew up on report for untidiness.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on April 23, 2016, 08:49:15 pm
Right hand drive , must be a proto type vehicle , as the Pzr 38 T chassis it was based on was RHD .  ( and Marder III ) . Really don't see much beyond a couple of jerry cans as on vehicle stowage in any WW2 pictures I've found , and lots of tree braches as cammo . Any that have the long rows of track hung vertically , look to be post war G 13s , as that was SOP for the Swiss vehicles . And of course lots of stowage on the many model kits shown on various sites , we modelers have to use up all those neat plastic and resin detail parts cluttering up our parts box  :) . IMO the angle of the vehicle sides is just too steep to really make it worth trying to keep stowage there . Plus the naked Hetzer was a small vehicle that could slip into the woods easily , I'm thinking with stowage it would get hung up or you'ld just lose it , knocked of by branches . There's a great walk around article on Armorama  , lots of in detail picture of the Hetzer . Plus lots of drawing of  color schemes  and a photo gallery on the Tank Encyclopedia site .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 23, 2016, 11:19:32 pm
The photo on the first page of the Osprey book has just been reversed.  Everything on the vehicle is the opposite of where it should be - even the Notek light. The photo on page 4 is the same photo only the right way around.

I thought yours is meant to be an early version because the muffler on the exhaust was replaced with the Flamm-Vernichter in October 1944.  The perforated stowage box was replaced earlier - Rubicon's instructions are wrong on that point.  I think yours should have the armoured visor and earlier roadwheels, but there were a lot of inconsistencies.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 24, 2016, 04:19:20 am
It was supposed to be a very late War one, hence using the May 1945 article from the Osprey modelling book.

The silencer cover (heat guard) was deleted May-June 1944, so this silencer is valid between then and October.when the short exhaust replaced it and the new periscope was used. So it is a transition model built in October.

Hopefully I will get the next one right ^___^.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on April 24, 2016, 07:51:19 am
Don't worry about it . German WW2 factories started using new parts as soon  they were delivered , when they ran out , they went back to using the old parts till more new ones arrived . That's why you see A panther hulls with D turrets , and 80 mm nose armored hull  Stugs with 50 mm plus 30 mm bolted driver plates .  I've seen pictures of  Hetzers with a mix of old and new parts , even one with different hole patterns in each of  the idler wheels .  Just make sure you bring a photo to prove it to the judges at a hobby show  ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 24, 2016, 09:11:57 am
The silencer cover (heat guard) was deleted May-June 1944, so this silencer is valid between then and October.when the short exhaust replaced it and the new periscope was used. So it is a transition model built in October.

Yeah, you're right.  There was an interim exhaust configuration.  In terms of small production details like this, the Jagdpanzer 38t is almost as confusing as the Sherman.  I built mine as a late version, but I think I used the wrong towing hook configuration.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 27, 2016, 05:48:57 am
Work in Progress Stuart VI.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RSkQvwOfDcI/Vx_fs-alzLI/AAAAAAAABbU/5kiNi_0G0Rkr_GmAEDqjHwhM31l3TpJ5ACLcB/s1600/m5a1-1.png)
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7NUXqxXLfRQ/Vx_fs4QjuYI/AAAAAAAABbY/cO8Yxvnde1YMUD6hBPG9MEHcpAnomjtpACLcB/s1600/m5a1-2.png)

The turret is the earlier format, as is the hull. There are some areas that need tidying up (visible at this magnification) and stowage needs to be added.

Thanks to Pinky for the research on usage.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 27, 2016, 08:37:55 am
It's such a cool little model...

I found it's necessary to use some filler along the top of the glacis.  And on the turret rear.  Otherwise it went together very nicely.

Are you keeping the sandshields?  Seems appropriate, given the Brits were keen on them.  I look forward to seeing it stowed up with UVS-style stowage.  What colour will you paint it?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 27, 2016, 04:38:33 pm
It's such a cool little model...
It is, now any idea where I can get the parts of a 1/56 scale 1969 Cadillac Eldorado for the next one? I have a crew for it.

My main problem was getting the gun mantlet in place. This is the second attempt.

The Irish Guards picture from BTIN has the sandshields missing, so I will leave them off. It does leave the rear lower hull looking very exposed.

Colour is an interesting point. Theoretically as a US supplied vehicle it should be Olive Drab, but then my existing M4 Shermans should also be in the same colour. I will probably use PSC British Tank spray which is close to Vallejo Russian Uniform green.

Interestingly the plates in Camouflage and Markings - Armour in Theatre Normandy Campaign: British and Canadian forces Volume 2 from Scale armour Modelling have the British vehicles in a shade of green. Though in the text it does say the British version of Olive Drab was slightly green.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 27, 2016, 05:47:15 pm
If you're leaving the sandshields off, then you'd probably want to remove the sections under the rear overhang (as well as the locating tabs under the rear fenders).  The lower section of the front fenders was also normally removed, leaving a rounded shape.

I agree it probably should be US Olive Drab, but I'd paint it the same way as your other British tanks (one imagines the Guards probably repainted their tanks).  British Olive Drab was apparently more of a green colour than US Olive Drab. 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 27, 2016, 11:51:05 pm
I see your point, it looks like Honey will be wearing her long skirt when she goes out to party.

I think making the required changes on the already assembled model makes messing it up too likely.

Something for the next one, when I have some more reference books.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 28, 2016, 09:49:49 am
Yes, it's always painful doing any major work on a finished model.  I recently realised that one of the side armour pieces on my almost-completed Panzer IV was crooked; fixing that removed a lot of paint.  Anyway, you could keep the front half of her skirt, and just remove the back half.  Less work, although you'd need to fill the angled cutaway under the hull sides.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 28, 2016, 04:39:52 pm
The mislabeled picture of an M5 seems to show the rear part of the sand shield still in place.

However, I have fitted the full length shield on the right side and subject to being able to put the upper and lower hulls back together (I had problems with the Crusader and the first BA Panther after putting on the skirts - the second is being undercoated black and then fitting the skirt before spray painting it DunkelGelb) will do the same on the left. There will be some filling required, but better now than when painted ^___^.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 02, 2016, 04:18:29 pm
A bit quiet on the update front. Pictures to follow.

Fitted sand shields (for a later build there is a nice picture in the Fortin book of what they look like after a bit of use).

Undercoated chassis.

Fitted armatures for packs, three on turret, one on front mudguard (the owner is also on latrine duty). Added two Warlord British helmets (with mesh covers) hanging from what I take to be turret lifting rings.

Drilled and glued plastic rod for soft stowage positions and one to position the handle of a bucket off of the rear vertical plate, it will be hidden under a tarp. One is positioned on the right rest corner and so will cover the missing track holder.

I am still working round how to model the spare track. That is not in the first stowage set.

The Allied stowage set contains the missing AA MMG mount, but that can be added later.

The plan is to glue the upper and lower hull together and then fit the soft stowage. The bucket will be the last part I fit.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 13, 2016, 03:36:53 pm
This is a detail from the first Panther from the Warlord "Armoured Fury" box set, mainly because I have used the spare track links from the Rubicon German Stowage set and the vehicle number from the Rubicon Tiger decals.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PygKuBk9E0o/VzV7oGANX_I/AAAAAAAABb4/465cAIJs3IwGafIXGVTuLAXJx5y7JywjwCKgB/s1600/panther2-8.png)

I do need to go back and tidy up the tools, I had not noticed the missing paint on the lower part of the tools on the hull.

Unlike Steve, I did not feel brave enough to try and get the numbers over the track links. I do wonder if I should have fitted the mounting hooks for the missing track links.

More pictures here: http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/warlord-games-panther-a.html

I have one and a half of the links left, so with some careful use of soft stowage I should have enough to add to the Rubicon Panther G.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 13, 2016, 08:23:59 pm
Looks really good . I built my BA Panther  before Rubicon released their Stowage set , so I used the upper track run for add on armor . Since the wheels are hidden by the side skirts , no one notices . Also did the same with the  BA Panzer IV .  :D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on May 14, 2016, 12:12:37 pm
Agreed - nice job.  I like Warlord's Panther; I think they depicted the Zimmerit well.  I see from your blog that you also replaced the spare track stowage with Rubicon tracks - good attention to detail!

I've found Vallejo a bit uncooperative for brush painting.  Did you have any issues?  It would be nice not to have to mix all the colours.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 14, 2016, 02:42:42 pm
Thanks.

@Ripley: good idea. Many years ago I built a Cromwell T55 that I fitted with Skirts to look like an illustration from Twilight 2000. I cut one of the road wheels in half, used the two halves on the chassis leaving one as a spare on the turret. I must find it and the M1A2 Giraffe some time.

@Pinky: Vallejo are my preferred paints. I have had no problem brush painting over Citadel Chaos Black spray but the Army Painter and PSC sprays do have a slightly shiny surface that requires two coats, like the Panther above.

I like being able to just pick up a bottle rather than trying to mix a consistent colour. I just wish PSC had matched their sprays to the Vallejo colours (I am still looking for a match to their Soviet tank colour).

On the other side of the hull I doubled up the supplied spare track (after some filling to get the two pieces to mesh) as a lot of photographs show two rows of track (I think the Rubicon kit has two out of the box). On the picture above I cut a Rubicon four in line piece in half and hung it on a rack made from Micro Strip. I probably should have used the long piece as the four link pieces are used on the turrets (hence I now have one and a half pieces for my Rubicon Panther G).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 14, 2016, 08:53:39 pm
If done carefully , the Rubicon spare  track can be cut into single links . I use a Dollar Store nail file to clean out between the joints of the track , tedious work  but the results look good . Do wish Rubicon had made a few  2 piece links like we advised instead of that 9 link piece . Of course you could use it on a Tiger I , not the right style of  track of course , but not many folks will notice  ::) .After spending what seems like days searching the web , I found a use for it .  Long runs of Panther track was used on Churchills as extra armor on the turret   , so I'll use it on the   BA plastic Churchill , when ever they get around to releasing it .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on May 14, 2016, 10:11:27 pm
After spending what seems like days searching the web , I found a use for it .  Long runs of Panther track was used on Churchills as extra armor on the turret   , so I'll use it on the   BA plastic Churchill , when ever they get around to releasing it .

And on Shermans - both British and American.  Usually wrapped around the turret sides.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 15, 2016, 04:24:40 am
After spending what seems like days searching the web , I found a use for it .  Long runs of Panther track was used on Churchills as extra armor on the turret   , so I'll use it on the   BA plastic Churchill , when ever they get around to releasing it .

And on Sherman - both British and American.  Usually wrapped around the turret sides.

One of my Shermans has a piece of Panzer IV track on the glacis (from the BA kit). I suspect the Sherman Vs will be be benefiting from the Rubicon Panther and Tiger track while I wait for the Allied stowage set.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 15, 2016, 06:55:01 am
Really hope someone makes an extra full sets of Sherman track . I want to model a Canadian Firefly with Sherman track links completely covering the glacis plate and hull sides . Or else I'll have to cast them in resin ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on May 15, 2016, 11:29:13 am
I know Canadian Firefly you are mean.  I bet that tank had high fuel consumption!  Sounds as though you'll be buying a lot of Allied stowage sets...
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 16, 2016, 09:57:45 pm
I have this image in my head of a Sherman crew waking up one morning and finding their tank up on bricks and all the track missing.

A number of units had a track fetish.

At least with the Allied stowage we will have the wheels to go on the front. Full front track sets might be an opportunity for S and S to do in resin (other manufacturers are available).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 17, 2016, 08:23:44 am
There would be a variety of track pieces to mold . I would like some of those 3 piece track racks seen on the glacis plate of  British tanks , some short ( 4 -6 piece )  track with the chevrons and teeth  facing up , a large amount of single pieces without teeth  to weld  ( glue  ::) ) onto the hull front and side , and last but not least a few loose track teeth to hang on wire between the head lights . I think for the most part I'm going to have to cast my own .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: stevepalffy on May 17, 2016, 06:13:20 pm
You guys should probably  move this over to general coments/discusuon......?
As there is bugger all on this thread as far as completed work ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 18, 2016, 12:42:27 am
You guys should probably  move this over to general coments/discusuon......?
As there is bugger all on this thread as far as completed work ?
Well I am famous for my speedy production, I still have some third edition wombles still on their sprues and I am still using original Rogue Trader mark six womble helmets on figures.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 21, 2016, 03:22:56 pm
So, some slight developments on the M5A1 front.

As mentioned I have added the armatures and the fixing posts.You can also see the filling piece I added to the hull where the glacis joins the deck. I had to remove and refit the glacis as it was too high.

A feature of the photographs I have been able to find was two parallel structures on the glacis in front of the driver. That was added using Slaters Micro Strip.

The first tarpaulin has been sculpted on the front right mud guard, with fixing straps aligned with the underlying features. A standard Bolt Action helmet has been "hung" from the turret lifting ring. It should be a proper "Tanker" helmet, but no one makes them (yet - hint).

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2cTI8QbACR8/Vz64mgG_z8I/AAAAAAAABcc/Wm2THbiBdMQ9HU7dY7Vu3LhfJnftrXpFACLcB/s1600/m5a1-5.png)

The driver has his pack slung on the left front mud guard, an incentive not to drive through too many puddles. Another Bolt Action helmet is on the turret lifting ring on this side. Additional helmets will be added to the stowage on the glacis.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BptUBPgRNis/Vz64mqiUPKI/AAAAAAAABcg/nEN4bZpDu0cg-shldLL8aywHBElos5acACKgB/s1600/m5a1-6.png)
The first tarpaulin on the rear of the tank shows the fixing posts almost projecting through it. Additional stowage will be added on top. You can also see the handle of the bucket. Some filling of the sand shields will be needed.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EBRihqMOZDU/Vz64mqHsrhI/AAAAAAAABcg/M5eGAVqveqAltBVI9t1Wf99wXMF7WD7kgCKgB/s1600/m5a1-7.png)
I am not sure if I will try and scratch build the spare track on the right rear quarter, as you can see, I have added a post for some sculpted stowage on the left.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 22, 2016, 04:05:03 am
Nice work on this little tank . Your green stuff rear tarp looks ace , mine end up looking like old tea towels   ::) .  I've seen a few picture of Stuarts with those strips in front of the driver , think they might be for the drivers wind shield supports , but no conclusive photos found . Any ideas anyone ? Pictures show the glacis plate does extend over the roof plate . Really can't see from your pictures  if you fixed a problem or mucked it up  :o . Been there, done that  :'( Question , can't really tell from your pictures and Rubicon's plans on the forum  , but does the track on the Stuart ( & M4A3 Sherman ) have a tooth at the end of each track shoe or between each track shoe ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 22, 2016, 05:14:54 am
Thanks.

The teeth appear to be on the shoes not between the shoes.

If you place the glacis against the mudguard supports, the glacis leaves a gap at the top (Pinky had a similar issue).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 22, 2016, 05:24:33 am
If you place the glacis against the mudguard supports, the glacis leaves a gap at the top (Pinky had a similar issue).

Just found a photograph of an M5 with sand shields, there should be a gap between the supports and the glacis, I have the glacis plate in the wrong place.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 22, 2016, 10:09:40 am
That's too bad . But that's what stowage is for , to cover up the little mistakes ( or in my case the thumb print in the paint ! ) Even with kit instructions , always good to check with photos of the real thing . I've been building kits for over 40 years and still get out my books when building a new kit .   If the teeth are on the end of the track shoes , then Rubicon  messed  up ( as Monogram did on their 1/32 scale kits 40 years ago ) . Stuart and Sherman track have teeth bolted in the middle of two track shoes . It looks like the Allied Stowage set has the correct tooth set up on the spare track sections . I wonder how many guys have missed this little mistake ? Well a dark wash and some mud and no ones the wiser  ;D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on May 22, 2016, 10:49:24 am
I do like UVS's stowage!  And I like the way each piece is carefully anchored by a peg. 

The M5A1 glacis has an odd gap along the inner side of the top edge.  I filled it with greenstuff, but it's awkward to get at.  The top of the glacis should sit above the hull roof.

The brackets UVS has added were for the driver's windshield, for when it was folded down.

I didn't notice the tracks are wrong.  I think Tamiya made the same mistake as well.  There are of course no inner guide teeth either, but it's not noticeable.  I wonder if the guide teeth were placed where they are for moulding reasons i.e. so Rubicon could mould the line between each track block?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 22, 2016, 12:48:17 pm
It's probably to do with molding the tracks and wheel sets as one complete piece . The BA Sherman has the teeth in the correct place , but that track is molded as a separate piece from the wheels , and that kit has it's own problems  .  Really never gave much thought before on the complexities of molding plastic kits , it seems the less parts in a kit , the much harder it is to design .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 22, 2016, 02:59:31 pm
Yup, should have looked harder.

The root of the problem was originally not fitting the sand shields, I had assembled the glacis in the correct location with a slight overhang on the top deck.

When I attached the sand shields (without reference to the instructions) the brackets looked wrong so I moved the glacis down, creating the gap at the top.

None of my books have pictures with sand shields, it was not until I looked on Preserved Tanks that I found the one at the Patton museum.

Ho hum.

Back to the Hetzer...

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on May 22, 2016, 09:47:51 pm
We've all done this.  I'm sure you can fix it.  Depending on the cement you used you may be able to pull the glacis off and reposition it.

The Tankograd series is a great source of details like this.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 22, 2016, 11:15:08 pm
Depending  on the cement you used you may be able to pull the glacis off and reposition it.
You know those pegs you were admiring....
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 22, 2016, 11:41:25 pm
Question , can't really tell from your pictures and Rubicon's plans on the forum  , but does the track on the Stuart ( & M4A3 Sherman ) have a tooth at the end of each track shoe or between each track shoe ?

Okay, as I was re-grabbing detail shots, here is the track.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r3GPigkOiUc/V0HSiGXb9zI/AAAAAAAABeA/N2O5VE-FaQM_-yQ2bkh06_yBVfL0dQlwgCLcB/s1600/m5a1-10.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 22, 2016, 11:43:22 pm
Here are the before (probably correct):
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fso2JX6NYUE/V0HPiyBEDwI/AAAAAAAABd0/GToiQxHv0CAQgggR0sqt_tMShXsUbDpMACLcB/s1600/m5a1-8.png)
And after (probably not correct):
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sRKJu-1uSv4/V0HPi6XfwHI/AAAAAAAABdw/Gx8hrqcYZRYqZW-wWwFYhDl7dD9tU2cngCLcB/s1600/m5a1-9.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 23, 2016, 06:00:40 am
Yes your 1st hull picture is right . It does look weird though, like somethings missing . It looks like the M5 was designed using  the old style  M3 lower hull and adding an angled glacis which over hung the transmission housing  creating more room in the hull. Never noticed it before , as I never really cared for this tank . Your build has given me some inspiration , so I should get at least one to add to my Canadian or Polish troops . 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on May 23, 2016, 10:45:42 am
I agree with Ripley.  Can't you prise the glacis off?  BTW - you also need to re-shape the lifting eyes on the glacis, as they should be rounded.  The brackets for the driver's windshield are "L" shaped, not flat.

Ripley - despite these small detail issues, the Rubicon M5A1 is a lovely kit, and really captures the look of the actual tank.  I've bought 5 of these kits so far; 2 are being built as gun tanks, and the other 3 will be built as the Recce version.  I'm looking forward to covering these with stowage from the Allied Stowage Set.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 23, 2016, 05:13:58 pm
Ripley - despite these small detail issues, the Rubicon M5A1 is a lovely kit, and really captures the look of the actual tank.  I've bought 5 of these kits so far; 2 are being built as gun tanks, and the other 3 will be built as the Recce version.  I'm looking forward to covering these with stowage from the Allied Stowage Set.
I agree it is a nice kit, for me there two idiot proofing failures, a more positive location for the glacis plate and the main gun mount, mine is a bit squint. There are two detail issues, the lifting rings and the turret lamp. I am looking at fabricating the rings. When I build a second tank I will use the turret light off of an M4. Two improvements would be separate grousers and the spare track (and the .30 for the earlier turret - so I do not have to wait for the Allied stowage set).

The Hetzer is now undercoated, between the showers yesterday.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 23, 2016, 09:29:30 pm
The BA Sherman needs lift rings as well . I think molding them on as bumps  was easier than casting them as separate bits . Each tank has 7 plus towing shackles , more tiny parts taking up sprue space and annoying those who are gamers in the crowd   ::) .  I replaced them using 1.5 / 2 mm Plastruct  rod . It would be nice if the light guards and lights were separate pieces, but again more tiny parts .    I know as modelers we want more detail , but as a gamers , we want quick , low parts count builds that can take handling on the table .  As Rubicon push forward with each new release , they are adding more built in detail and figuring out how to make the small parts look more realistic . I would like to see more options for open hatches though . I agree the molded on grousers don't look right , should have been a separate piece not unlike the turret track pieces on the Tiger kit . Should be easy to remove from the turret  and make some with Plastruct plastic rods .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 24, 2016, 12:29:07 am
Not so much an issue with the BA Sherman, at least on the front:

http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/bolt-action-m4-sherman-i-lift-rings.html

I drilled the front ones through with a 1.2mm drill (the right rear one is obscured by tools but the left rear one is pretty easy to do).

Must dust the models ^___^.

I agree that simplicity is the watchword for gamers, I am now building up a collection of BA shackles that I have not fitted (saying that two part shackles are on my next stowage wish list, to attach the loops from the first set to the tank).

The Crusader has the option of wire brush guards, I still have to try and fit one set (having lost the one piece plastic version). The option of one piece and more complicated but accurate separate components is a great idea and is to be commended.
 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 24, 2016, 01:39:43 am
I replaced all 4 on the hull and 3 on the turret on the BA Sherman . As well the BA Cromwell needed them added to the turret , which I did then promptly covered in cammo netting  ::) . Also added new ones to the Crusader AA , the ones on it are way too small and bump like .  I like to add more 3D style tools , either building them up with green stuff or removing the plastic bit and totally remaking a new part . For example the Crusader AA needed a 5 foot pry bar and shovel on the rear left side stowage bins and my early Tiger needed a long handled square shovel on the nose plate .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 24, 2016, 02:48:57 am
I had not noticed the lifting rings on the Cromwell turret. I have just undercoated mine...

The left rear turret lifting ring on at least one of my M4s ended up being removed as I thought it was a mould problem.

The representation of tools etc are variable, the ones on the BA Panther being a bad example.

Something for Rubicon to add to an accessory sprue?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 24, 2016, 04:08:25 am
There are no lift rings on the Cromwell turret , totally missing  :o  The Crusader turrets have them represented  but very small and just look like bumps . An easy fix ,triangular in shape with a hole , the trick is getting 4 the same size  ;D . I do think we could use a Allies / Axis tool set . I've added some tools to tanks by kit bashing / making my own , but a complete set would be much easier to use .   For example the BA M4 Sherman should have a sledge hammer , large wrench and a engine crank on the rear hull plate . All M4 tanks ( & M4A1 ) with the radial engine had the crank ,its one of the ways to identify that tank version from the rear , a real oversight  IMO .  We could also use the  British style fire extinguishers that were found on Brit Sherman  turrets or rear engine deck .  Some of the German tanks could benefit  by a separate jack , the ones molded on are too small in structure , as well we need  loose  S or C hooks to attach tow cables to panzer III , IV and Stugs  . All in all I think that those of us who are more modelers in this scale would get some if they were released . I know I have 2 or 3 sets in 1/35 scale , even though almost all kits in that scale come with complete tools . You can never have enough choice in detail parts .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 24, 2016, 04:40:34 am
That is what I meant - I had not noticed that the photographs and drawings showed turret lifting rings.

A market for photo etch accessories?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 24, 2016, 06:49:34 am
The " rings" are attached to the big upper bolts on the turret sides , hard to see in some photos . And I think photo etch would be way too small in this scale , I don't even like the 1/35 stuff . Maybe fenders on the Tiger or Stug / Pzr IV side skirts
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 24, 2016, 03:33:23 pm
When you see them, you cannot unsee them ^___^.

I have used photo etch, but not on AFVs, they have tended to be larger pieces.

If this was a Rubicon model I would suggest they put them on an accessory sprue with a locating peg, remove the existing bolt and replace it with a bolt with attached lifting ring (having drilled a locating hole).

The original Leopard 2 always reminded me of the Cromwell.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on May 26, 2016, 11:16:35 am
I solve the missing lifting ring issue with stowage.  Helmets, usually.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 26, 2016, 03:25:53 pm
I am still thinking of what to do with the lifting rings.

It distracts me while I am painting spots, lots of spots....
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 29, 2016, 03:46:04 pm
Well on the M5A1 front I have removed the two lifting ring "things" from the front glacis and replaced them with 0.7mm brass rod bent to shape (well some shape). I was going to use 1mm, but I was not able to bend it into the required radius with the tools available.

Photographs to follow.

By the way, too many spots?
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pi8cxT8adE0/V0qc1CqX9GI/AAAAAAAABek/fMoYoFuyzakI1US8aUA6KS0PWkJJWlXnQCLcB/s1600/hetzer1-4.png)
I can imagine at the end of the week the BMM supervisor seeing the finished vehicle and saying "very nice, but what about the rest of the week's production?".
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on May 30, 2016, 12:11:15 am
"By the way, too many spots?" - maybe a few but It's hard to say  - once the colours have been muted a little (filters, weathering etc) the effect will be less strident. Certainly most of the images I've found of models tend to have fewer, but pictures of actual period vehicles are ofter not very helpful, being faded, over/under-exposed or damaged in some way - the clear pictres I've found often turn out to be re-enacters atrfully aged (as is probably the case with this one).

(http://s33.postimg.org/srgxy1rx7/4c6488b53fad6032980b1f76c6b57b6b.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/srgxy1rx7/)


Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 31, 2016, 02:50:36 pm
So painting over the spots is very time consuming, if the paint is too thick I get structures on the surface, if it is too thin it does not cover.

Phase one picture:
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--i8-e1SuEfc/V00q0fsntCI/AAAAAAAABe0/8mLDVxdnroMjIXCYyf8pGv2zSYGOyeFCgCLcB/s1600/hetzer1-5.png)

It needs another couple of layers before I start weathering etc.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 31, 2016, 03:27:16 pm
Back to the M5A1.

I removed the moulded on "handrail" lifting rings and drilled two holes each. The holes were 1mm, but I was unable to bend the 1mm brass rod so used 0.7mm rod.

Once fitted, I applied the liquid poly to the ring and allowed it to flow down to the glacis. It appears to have filled the holes, but also one of the rings.It might need reaming out a bit.

Left side.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pzmt_cAUBAw/V00uAG69pfI/AAAAAAAABfI/8n5Lx3LhLFU4HLA1LElcxSn_9NtyEZboQCLcB/s1600/m5a1-11.png)

Right side.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xWGdZUaNNS0/V00t_0fgeuI/AAAAAAAABfA/ljoOMgJRcWkUkzQVFuRWd7z1NrX0IsJ2wCLcB/s1600/m5a1-12.png)

In detail.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3IOoRo6-ib8/V00uAAidKQI/AAAAAAAABfE/939eNlNQEecEVezhst1WxPjsOnpsfK2YQCLcB/s1600/m5a1-13.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 31, 2016, 08:40:36 pm
Looking good smurf . A easier item to use would be a paper clip , they come in a couple of sizes / diameters and are easy to bend and cut , plus you get about a 100 in a box for very little $ . Also good for hand rails on Russian tanks and tarp supports on trucks . Talk about old school model building  :)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 01, 2016, 11:33:34 pm
The Jagdpanzer 38t - I think the revised dots look much better.  I find there's been a bit of adjustment to this scale if you're used to 1/72 and 1/35.  My first camo attempt was definitely overscale.

The M5A1 - I really like the stowage; it looks very 'British'.  Are you going to fix the addition to the top edge of the glacis?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 02, 2016, 03:54:13 pm
@Ripley: Thanks. I had not thought of paper clips, probably afraid of Audits ^____^.

I picked up a Bill Bedford 7mm scale handrail jig a while back. It is an etched sheet with holes to allow you to bend 0.7mm wire accurately to length. I will dig it out. I used it on the wip T34/85. I am sure there is a quarter scale equivalent.

@Pinky: the nearest I have come to painting ambush pattern was on some Ground Zero Games 25mm NSL power armour, I suspect that it why the JgPnzr 38 was so so dotty^___.^.

I might use some more microstrip to extend the glacis, I need to look at the original photographs to see if that will work.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 17, 2016, 01:40:52 am
Work continues at a glacial rate.

I have built up the glacis (I placed the glacis too low).
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7CWIF3Zrgu4/V2LNGI1aOaI/AAAAAAAABgg/TKAbDu1HgIEVsNXvC6zjRgrPyvKjhFHDwCLcB/s1600/m5a1-14.png)
I used microstrip to build up the raised glacis top.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WNRKr2_v4MQ/V2LNGE_vnKI/AAAAAAAABgk/WOybwnFZlVUW9EmCZZUVen2El_Oytz_bACLcB/s1600/m5a1-15.png)
I have also added some additional stowage.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v2VqAHWmjtI/V2LNXGne0OI/AAAAAAAABgw/07SjNLxieA4rBRr0eepXUo_PeAVtAGuOQCLcB/s1600/m5a1-16.png)
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ncZz9i_Wa0/V2LNXNBQRRI/AAAAAAAABgs/j7i6h1tkYCE3G4Z5o358DJTIqM_ePxBaACLcB/s1600/m5a1-17.png)
I have some basing to do, so I will probably try to smooth out the transition with some of the Milliput (not Lilliput).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 17, 2016, 01:48:40 am
And here is part of the infantry support for the Panzer III.

Perry Miniatures Africa Korp.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOvjpz_WjEs/V2LPcBav4lI/AAAAAAAABhM/zwJHBQ7wrpMn08-VdS8gAjLyf0ADEldPgCLcB/s1600/dak4.png)

A slight diversion from the ongoing M5 and jagdpanzer 38(T).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 17, 2016, 08:02:06 am
Great work on your M5 . The stowage looks fantastic . My 2 part green stuff items still look like cr@p !  ::)  I've found the liquid GS from GW works really good on evening out joints , and sands well. And your AK trooper looks fantastic
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 17, 2016, 03:50:26 pm
Thanks.

When I started I found the main difficulty was holding the item without it distorting and getting fingerprints all over it. I then remembered a documentary on facial reconstruction (in the days before non steam powered computers) where the artist/anthropologist used pegs to provide depth information (and an anchor).

I would suggest"making" a practice tool, comprising a piece of 2 X 3cm wood about 10cm long (dimensions not really important just handy to hold), wrap it in cling film and drill two holes to suit either rod or paper clip.

The greenstuff should not stick to the clingfilm so you can remove it, if you like it, you can use it, if not you can try again.

I use Evergreen plastic rod.

I find that it is best to make one stowage item at a time,  a bed roll is about 4 - 5mm of greenstuff strip. New greenstuff is a lot more pliable and sticky (the first tanks used some I bought along with the GW fellowship Of The Ring game, that was hard work).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 01, 2016, 12:50:48 am
It is back, and ready for painting...
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TSHgaZklWp8/V54qZaKyUaI/AAAAAAAABiI/aZ-C4uA7eDQA2yvNHbAWMNynl4PBaaSJgCLcB/s1600/m5a1-18.png)
I added a spare track holder on the rear right (it should project out further, I doubt you could fit in the spare track, but if I made it too prominent it might break in use).
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-te-Qi0B4h4o/V54qZoHSm1I/AAAAAAAABiQ/Rwp0PjIrU-og33X9qdyyMXIw9POz5dQmQCLcB/s1600/m5a1-19.png)
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AiQoq6cfj9U/V54qZo-Z5nI/AAAAAAAABiM/kDkzDk2UUeYodl4vUWslJR_jqP_LMrSdgCLcB/s1600/m5a1-20.png)
I covered the one on the left with a sack hanging from the lift ring.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3ehmaO98Vdk/V54qZ_zCQXI/AAAAAAAABiU/IU-hNAIfKnM6z9tKfv7k89YfVYL4BamHwCLcB/s1600/m5a1-21.png)
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7I_aUniG7NA/V54qZ3Oa4CI/AAAAAAAABiY/VWbzL5mN4FIXqvjleMdfNLK8f0rdPr5LACLcB/s1600/m5a1-22.png)
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfFCmNVKlwI/V54qZ6uJkWI/AAAAAAAABic/e-n0wb2QBOg2fD8Y_yLbvQ5gVqwbjtkjgCLcB/s1600/m5a1-23.png)
It is currently undercoated and has had its first top coat.

So at this rate it might be finished by Christmas...
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 05, 2016, 03:01:22 pm
Not actually an update (I progress slowly) but a link with some walk rounds and photographs.

http://www.primeportal.net/tanks/m5a1_stuart.htm

Of course non period photographs have to be viewed as such.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on August 05, 2016, 04:31:08 pm
Once again, you really know how to sculpt soft stowage.  This looks very authentic.  How about some hessian as well?  It's a very 'British' feature (and would also mean you could hide the upper edge of the glacis)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 06, 2016, 04:45:12 pm
Thanks for the comments.

I did model hessian camouflage nets on a Roco Kanone many years ago, I am not sure where it is now. The Sherman Vs may well get some modelled.

Here is a test photograph of the tank block painted.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ok3oZnBRF2g/V6WgvQhmGxI/AAAAAAAABis/5EmY7H8dYEY4gV0x39_1m7d_08JOkkELACLcB/s1600/m5a1partpaint.png)
I do not think the crease in the glacis is too noticeable. I do need to fill a gap in the turret join and the grousers need some tidying up.

I did notice on the previous link a detail picture of the driver's windscreen device.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on August 06, 2016, 08:50:11 pm
Looking good, I'm with Pinky with regards to your sculpting of soft stowage - it's excellent!
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on August 06, 2016, 10:43:08 pm
The colour looks good.  What is it?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 07, 2016, 02:21:30 am
Thanks.

The base colour is PSC British Tank spray over Citadel Chaos Black spray. It is almost but not quite the same as Vallejo Russian Uniform green.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 13, 2016, 04:19:41 pm
Still have some weathering to complete on the M5A1 (my blog highlights the current woes) but here are two pictures of the model that are not too bad:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dWtfERaI4Ac/V67VZ-4bfoI/AAAAAAAABjE/5-KiNG3-yVAZwc30tiVyfopFR8J7qvh9QCLcB/s1600/m5a1-26.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QhznEfErggk/V67VaEVhf0I/AAAAAAAABjI/pIFKfO8ZqzQs0BUhOkKQZoVYZU4xpNWMQCLcB/s1600/m5a1-27.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 15, 2016, 03:12:48 pm
Panther G work in progress.

Originally this was going to be painted up like Cuckoo (not as Cuckoo as it was covered with zimmerit) but for various reasons it is going to be painted as a German vehicle.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qh0G4Or1mHk/V7Fo51cGq-I/AAAAAAAABjs/Hljh637kop4KZjYk4xupmGAZ3G7rdHFVgCLcB/s320/panther-g-1.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 15, 2016, 03:16:17 pm
The M5A1 is as complete as it gets.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u_7eX3PhSzw/V7FqHVsHbQI/AAAAAAAABkE/Uk1qy1awrGoOH_G5mF1WjB6T9tf74LynwCLcB/s320/m5a1-29.png)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PVDFcZQkrGc/V7FqHSPxBoI/AAAAAAAABkA/WgVj8MY52ekE28wIONHNs_1y7Xf6f3ymgCLcB/s320/m5a1-31.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aIoY9yHm2bA/V7FqHgED4hI/AAAAAAAABkM/pii3h-QG3JYxfQPzm2qJQGsIF8l78PGDACLcB/s320/m5a1-32.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2SOsfM01O4/V7FqHmdPxUI/AAAAAAAABkQ/F0wgFI6KibgOxl8AsTkCTkd7DKS_n94iACLcB/s320/m5a1-33.png)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-peryER8VbZ4/V7FqH63tJJI/AAAAAAAABkU/BtEU8kU1z7k00hpWcA4LayBU48QoibpQACLcB/s320/m5a1-34.png)

And a comparison with the Sherman (they are the same colour, but the M5A1 is grubbier).

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sl_UNwamQcs/V7FqMkvu7dI/AAAAAAAABkY/JzA3_Ejz7qwixie_oM9n6djgLTM8dSk_gCLcB/s320/m4m5a1-2.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on November 25, 2016, 05:05:37 pm
I make haste slowly on other projects.

The German Stowage set continues to find use on other vehicles, a Weird War Puma (using a PSC Panther cupola as an IR searchlight) with Rubicon fuel drum and pump and the Stug III with crate and drum (and previously seen with added track pieces).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Vv-feRtQPs/WDTLmsqAIbI/AAAAAAAABnk/Uu29zk9-B_oVS7h6q92eataFFmBosmU3gCEw/s1600/puma-3.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lrYBTMwMjrg/WDTKBYryrRI/AAAAAAAABnQ/HVmh3YuJ-NYMEUu7jAaaE_dPEhVMQObDACLcB/s1600/stugiii-5.png)

The wheels on the Puma will be painted separately, hence why only the outer ones are pushed on the axles.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on November 29, 2016, 06:55:09 am
This is a Supply Counter for The Walking Dead game, made using part A28 from the Allied Stowage set..
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g-R40wzwPds/WDyy14ytnkI/AAAAAAAABoE/nZ4q1OBdjzMUK2YR8gobPXt3WyA9vRWqwCLcB/s1600/supplycounter1-1.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y-8XXiUA16Q/WDyy1_3s6nI/AAAAAAAABoI/ujmLJFN269wpEcMXEvWF83IRxR3VGUVQQCLcB/s1600/supplycounter1-3.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4oWMvQNN5hE/WDyy2YEt81I/AAAAAAAABoM/023W8ttZ-4g36L2PN2S9Vxlf1jMKGNp9QCLcB/s1600/supplycounter1-4.png)

The number is from the original M4A3 decal set.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on November 29, 2016, 09:48:54 am
Nice use of the hessian-covered crates!  The stowage sets can be used to create really attractive objectives.  I have a couple of artfully arranged piles of crates and a big group of oil barrels.

I find attaching oil barrels to smaller vehicles like armoured cars a bit unconvincing.  They sometimes appear on the engine decks of tanks, but that's about it.  But if your Weird War vehicles are meant to be self-sufficient survivors (I'm not familiar with the game fluff), then it's fine.  I like the StuG - I think you could add even more of your wonderful soft stowage to it.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on November 29, 2016, 05:33:01 pm
Thanks.

If I had thought a bit more on it, I would have placed the drum on the rear instead of the spare wheel as on the side would make it unstable.

The idea for the vehicle was as part of a long range reconnaissance strike team operating behind the Western Allied lines (Allied air superiority is not a feature of Konflikt'47). Rubicon 251 and 250 models will provide transport for infantry.  They need to be fairly self sufficient, hence the fuel drums.

The setting is fine (for a "diesel-punk" setting) at the tactical level, strategically not so much as there would still be the same resource shortages that occurred in reality.

The Stug is still work in progress, I do worry about covering ventilation etc.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on November 30, 2016, 09:57:59 am
The idea for the vehicle was as part of a long range reconnaissance strike team operating behind the Western Allied lines (Allied air superiority is not a feature of Konflikt'47). Rubicon 251 and 250 models will provide transport for infantry.  They need to be fairly self sufficient, hence the fuel drums.

Maybe add some more prominent brackets etc for the stowage?  That would sell the idea that it's kitted out for long range operations.  And if you strapped a barrel on each side, perhaps with some fuel leads, it would look like more deliberate, if you know what I mean.

Quote
The Stug is still work in progress, I do worry about covering ventilation etc.

StuG crews seem to have been happy to cover the engine deck in stowage, regardless of the engine deck vents.  I've noticed that US tank crews also seem to have placed stowage over engine deck ventilation.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on November 30, 2016, 11:44:49 pm
A full 50 gallon /200 litre fuel drum weights 250 - 300 pounds  so strong tie downs ( chains ) would be needed , as well as a transfer pump because you wouldn't want to lift the drum on to the vehicle when full  :o .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 01, 2016, 02:01:47 am
A full 50 gallon /200 litre fuel drum weights 250 - 300 pounds  so strong tie downs ( chains ) would be needed , as well as a transfer pump because you wouldn't want to lift the drum on to the vehicle when full  :o .
Thanks

That is going to stress the suspension. I will see if I can remove the storage compartment on the right mudguards and add another drum for balance.

There is a Rubicon pump on the engine deck behind the drum, and a hose (solder) on the deck on the other side.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 02, 2016, 03:34:38 am
So, I have removed the box and sanded the surface smooth. I need to fill the holes with milliput before fixing the second drum on the right side.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5-ppu-XESJA/WEB3tOUbS7I/AAAAAAAABow/qTfErBfW-Uk16GyyI63937zpEXf64WPggCLcB/s1600/puma-8.png)

The second drum is ready for fixing and then the fuel pipe can be replaced on the deck.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: airborne on December 03, 2016, 04:09:15 am
Nice modelling your work never fails to impress My wife and I . Like yourself  I`m using the sets for Project Z ,I returned my Walking Dead K.S. brilliant sculpts but when they arrived the cars, barracades , supply cashes and some figures were scaled all over the place. Eileen and myself have 99% of our figures in 1/56th When standing next to our collection it was land of the gaints. Rubicon have given me the idea of a Military Conservation group for Zombie/ Survival games and the W.G.F Americans and Germans mix well with the Survivors, I see you use a Crooked Dice figure as your scale ref . Have you any idea how there range would work with our collection. Thank You Geoff and Eileen Maybury. Alias Airborne and Gingernut.   
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 03, 2016, 04:50:34 am
Thanks

I have some scale comparisons on my blog:
Warlord Russian and US (Project Z weapons)
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2016/11/post-war-bolt-action-miniatures.html

Walking Dead and Project Z
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2016/11/walking-dead-all-out-war-game.html

Project Z
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/apocalypse-survivors.html

Empress
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2016/11/empress-miniatures-and-crooked-dice.html

Hasslefree and Crooked Dice
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/some-assembly-required-agents.html

Spectre SUV
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/salute-2016.html


http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/dorothy-thought-she-was-not-in-kansas.html

May Killen and Zombie Vixens
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/girl-power.html

Studio Miniatures
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/new-zombies-2.html

Walking Dead Vehicles
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2016/12/walking-dead-all-out-war-scenery.html

Apologies to Rubicon for not particularly relevant items.

There are scale comparisons for Rubicon and Warlord vehicles on the blog.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: airborne on December 05, 2016, 04:00:13 am
Thank you for the photos , god you would have saved us £70 ( the total of our returned Walking dead) if we had seen these before .These are just what you need before making purchases. Love to have a Zombie info swap would you like our e-mail address.  Thank you Rubicon for allowing two modellers  to get the most from our collections.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Rubicon Models on December 05, 2016, 12:01:59 pm
Thank you Rubicon for allowing two modellers to get the most from our collections.

We are modellers ourselves, exchange of ideas and topics are not a major issue with this forum.  ;)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 25, 2016, 05:58:07 pm
Cleaned up damaged area on the mudguard and added the second fuel drum (the white bits are supposedly where the driver and gunner IR vision gear would be mounted).
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Du6JCzqJJO4/WFxYesKTdrI/AAAAAAAABsI/3dwYUK8VqLUwnUbg3pr0BMm9A-w5niXfACLcB/s1600/puma-11.png).

The Tankograd Volks Armee T34 book should inspire me to finish the Rubicon T34.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Captain Blood on December 26, 2016, 04:28:30 pm
Great work with the Green Stuff  8)

Green Stuff 'soft stowage' - tarps etc - looks a great deal better than plastic kit items which always look too stiff and never seems to sit quite right.
I've just invested in the two Rubicon Models stowage sets (Allied and German) and they're packed with many and various useful parts. But some of the rolled up items just look a bit too 'sharp' somehow, to convincingly represent rolled up heavy fabrics. (Other than that - brilliant kits though).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 26, 2016, 04:55:07 pm
Thanks.

The "hard" items from the storage set are very useful, I have not use the soft items from either set, though they may be used on top of greenstuff stowage (there are similar smokes in he Osprey M4 new M3/5 modelling books.

There are a number of items on my stowage wish list, water bottles (I used some Wargames Factory water bottles on the Panzer III) and British packs and tanker helmets.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on December 27, 2016, 10:34:05 am
I'm very envious of UVS's soft stowage sculpting skills.  Having mastered the art, he can drape realistic looking stowage anywhere.  I am sticking with the 1/48 Tamiya stuff, which I think looks better than Rubicon's (sorry Rubicon!).  If you push it together, it looks pretty good, and the overscale appearance goes with the proportions of the figures.

(https://s30.postimg.org/prnkf7r6l/IMG_20161227_1041537.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/prnkf7r6l/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 02, 2017, 04:55:15 pm
Nice model Pinky. What track have you round the turret?

The first Sherman V is assembled and is being fitted with stowage (more detail and review on blog) but I am using the Rubicon Allied Stowage set to supply the racked spare links.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DygYBKuyHMU/WGdy5_U06QI/AAAAAAAABtk/2U6IzJmtQ9YgUFHuM3Zapr7kKSmeOBnhACEw/s1600/m4a4-sparetrack1.png)

As you can see the supplied links are rather large and will not fit in the standard location (the racks are centre and in front of the driver's hood). I cut the Rubicon six link track in half to make the required two sets of three (for further models I would hope to make a better job).

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mzWKUlzUy6s/WGdy5faPkmI/AAAAAAAABtk/clFBez0_ErwtkFBSlMBsGGYYu-NRHja6wCEw/s1600/m4a4-sparetrack2.png)

As you can see, even with the Rubicon pieces it is a tight fit.

Other stowage will cover the ratty bits on the track links.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 03, 2017, 09:47:38 am
Nice model Pinky. What track have you found the turret?

It's the Panther track from the Rubicon stowage set.  I've only found one photo of an ETO US Army Sherman with tracks welded to the turret (the British did it more often), but I thought it looked good.

I have the Sherman V kit.  I didn't realise that the spare tracks don't fit.  One problem with using Rubicon tracks is that they are noticeably different to the kit tracks.  Would it be better to replicate the brackets as well? 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 03, 2017, 12:48:54 pm
Pinky , all the early / narrow  ( not E8) Sherman track pads were interchangable , you can find pictures of plain rubber block , rubber with chevron ( the arrow V ) and even some steel types all mounted  on the same tank as well as being used as spares  . The 3 pad bracket can mount vertically or horizontally on the glacis plate  , check a few photos of Brit or Canadian units , the Yanks never used it as it was a Brit piece of kit ( now someone will find a photo of a Yank Sherman with this mounted , lol ) . Remember , it was the teeth at the end of track that held it together , when mounted flat in the rack the pad chevrons could face either direction , again check photos  . Judging from your picture of the track rack , the Warlord track looks to be the all metal pad ( thin metal chevron  ) and the Rubicon , the rubber pad with the large rubber chevron  . There were 12 styles of narrow track ( 3 styles of rubber , 5 steel with metal chevron and 4 with metal 3 cleat pads ) Only the flat rubber type used the groucers , those things mounted on the side of the M-10 and the turret of the  M-5 Stuarts , if the  tank had steel track it didn't even mount the groucers in the rack , thus saving weight , the flat rubber tracked Shermans kept the groucers in a compartment under those little air scoops on the rear engine deck
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 03, 2017, 02:08:45 pm
Pinky , all the early / narrow  ( not E8) Sherman track pads were interchangable...

I know, Ripley - but the Rubicon spare tracks don't match the tracks on the tank itself.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 03, 2017, 05:42:07 pm
Thanks for the comments.
Pinky , all the early / narrow  ( not E8) Sherman track pads were interchangable...
I know, Ripley - but the Rubicon spare tracks don't match the tracks on the tank itself.

I think Ripley's point is that you could find mixed track pads on the same track run, hence also on the spare racks.

In my defence I did not notice the difference between the track run and the Rubicon track, though the supplied racked track looks different as well.

I have added the racks (splitting microstrip was entertaining).

Using the supplied spare track would work horizontally.

Observation is obviously not my forte, I also only spotted the W^D on the Allied jerry can yesterday even after the original discussion on the stowage thread.

Other spare track arrangements are available, including sets with the teeth, thought that requires the removal of the extraction marks on the inside of the moulding.

Hard stowage on the glacis is is complete, I will post some pictures later. Now to decide what to add on the engine deck.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 03, 2017, 10:53:41 pm
I hear you about being observant , I've had some Squadron / Signal books for 30 plus years and every once in a while , a whole new detail will jump out at me . Why have I never noticed that before ! Now I have to fix my model kit  ... :o   I find books are better than the internet , as you can flip back and forth between pages and sometimes find different pictures ( Pathe , Life Magazine or German Signal magazine ) of the same vehicle taken from a different angle   or later on in the battle .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 04, 2017, 02:41:24 am
Well, I have some good news on the old Sherman I front, the IWM Sherman V and the British Tanks in Normandy book have squadron markers on second Armoured Battalion vehicles..

I do like books as a resource, hence my growing collection.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 04, 2017, 04:34:03 pm
Just to prove it is not just the stowage sets, here is the first work in progress shots of the Katyusha.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KxjnKaQHSZ0/WGyvH319BwI/AAAAAAAABuI/T-grCEBfV18OCsuv7fk4KqHhHuyHMR4PACLcB/s1600/studebaker1.png)
Comparison shot with an Empress Technical.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h-gy51tvuGo/WGyvHy-scVI/AAAAAAAABuE/rH9Cc7optp4l06u4IRXo8d93EMTOyKKuwCLcB/s1600/studebaker-compare1.png)

In another thread Pinky mentioned having difficulty joining Rubicon parts to Warlord parts, I had not experienced that, however the load bed and sides of this kit behaved more like the strange ABS type plastic Mongoose used on their Starship Troopers figures. I had a great deal of difficulty obtaining a bond between the parts (I had to roughen the narrow part of the join and apply liquid poly three or more times - there was also much picking the bits off the floor).

The rest of the kit has gone together well, though I have still to start on the actual launcher.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 04, 2017, 04:39:34 pm
Details of the glacis stowage on the Sherman V.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8rHGbXCOknI/WGytyIEJM3I/AAAAAAAABt0/j2MYCYCbvOgmV6cpr91dNFLjdNtEPCWQwCLcB/s1600/m4a4-detail2.png)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1p3fhbiwWgg/WGytyDUsSTI/AAAAAAAABt4/WmMYOBQtYMMuBeFsLg9LhOHIVAcPIlDYwCLcB/s1600/m4a4-detail1.png)

I have added the rack to hold the spare track.

I love the detail on the jerry can.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 04, 2017, 09:09:29 pm
In another thread Pinky mentioned having difficulty joining Rubicon parts to Warlord parts, I had not experienced that, however the load bed and sides of this kit behaved more like the strange ABS type plastic Mongoose used on their Starship Troopers figures. I had a great deal of difficulty obtaining a bond between the parts (I had to roughen the narrow part of the join and apply liquid poly three or more times - there was also much picking the bits off the floor).

I still can't get Warlord and Rubicon plastics to bond properly, using liquid cement.  The pieces come apart under pressure.  I use superglue, which is a bit annoying as it has a tendency to flow into any recessed detail nearby.

The re-jigged stowage on the Sherman looks very good.  Again, it captures the look of British stowage.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 04, 2017, 11:54:54 pm
The initial photograph was to show the size of the track rack.

The engine deck will take some time to populate (which is where the tools on my wish list would be useful).

The soft plastic is easy to carve, I have removed the tools from the deck and replaced them with one of the German crates.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Rubicon Models on January 05, 2017, 12:12:35 am
I still can't get Warlord and Rubicon plastics to bond properly, using liquid cement.  The pieces come apart under pressure.  I use superglue, which is a bit annoying as it has a tendency to flow into any recessed detail nearby.

Try Plastic Magic from Deluxe Materials, great stuff!  Think FA stock them too!
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 05, 2017, 12:29:26 am
Try Plastic Magic from Deluxe Materials, great stuff!  Think FA stock them too!

"FA"? Something to do with kicking a pigs bladder about?

^___^
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 05, 2017, 05:40:23 am
I don't have the Sherman V , yet , but I did build the BA M4 . Your right , the on vehicle tools are way too flat looking , so I replaced some with Plastruct plastic round rod at least for the wooden handles . I used 1.3 or 1.5 mm rod for the handle and cut slices of 2mm rod as the tie downs / tool strapping . Also made that large track wrench , sledge hammer and the engine crank which the kit was missing . Also added a crank to the rear of my Stug III  , as well a long handled shovel to the nose of my early Tiger I .  We really do need a full set of scale US/ Brit ( shovels are different ) and German vehicle tool sets , most molded on stuff is terrible IMO . And don't even get me started on the jacks on BA's Panzer IVs . I've had to rebuild 6 so far  ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 06, 2017, 02:24:09 am
More pictures of the work in progress Studebaker kit.
BM-13 mode.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gNNHOxLPNxU/WG6HyEKDg5I/AAAAAAAABuc/CUxyh4iKcKIGGjX5jefe2u5wH_0l1MulQCLcB/s320/studebaker3.png)

The only part shared between the cargo and MRL version is the spare wheel. I used the kit version on the MRL build.

The cargo build used one of the spare wheels from the Allied stowage set. I used two pieces of 0.30" square rod to raise the wheel.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gNzW_2LHQA/WG6H_OnMfgI/AAAAAAAABuo/aAs842hB1Cg_5xZxit9pssjM8oYsn6iKACEw/s320/studebaker-detail3.png)

And assembled.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m-pN7--kgC0/WG6Hx1MM6TI/AAAAAAAABuo/BFrNKdTwTYMdmK2SHacvxlt6f4hVycCFACEw/s320/studebaker5.png)

I have some other stowage to add to the model (those front mudguards are just crying out for some tools and other stowage).

I have some suitable square section rod that should make some rocket boxes.

Once it warms up a bit I will undercoat it.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 07, 2017, 10:08:23 pm
Red Army Studebakers don't seem to have carried much stowage.  The only thing they seemed to have carried on the front mudguard is soldiers....

(https://s30.postimg.org/h1id6o7gt/IMG_0004.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/h1id6o7gt/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 07, 2017, 10:40:41 pm
Red Army Studebakers don't seem to have carried much stowage, apart from some jerrycans stashed on the bumper.  The only thing they seemed to have carried on the front mudguards is soldiers....

(https://s30.postimg.org/h1id6o7gt/IMG_0004.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/h1id6o7gt/)

And very uncomfortable they look too...

I think the Studebaker book has the crew desperately clinging on (it might be the Osprey MRL book).

Pioneer tools live on the rear chassis extension, but that would interfere with the cargo body.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 07, 2017, 11:25:28 pm
Of course there's no room in the truck box , its full of ammo for the 76mm gun their towing  ;D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 08, 2017, 12:33:24 pm
If that's the case, this gun has a very large crew!
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 08, 2017, 04:58:24 pm
If that's the case, this gun has a very large crew!

It is for Bolt Action, so the Soviets get one free squad.

^___^
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 08, 2017, 06:46:07 pm
Not WW2 but interesting use of greenstuff.

http://www.thecommguild.com/roller/thecommguild/entry/modeling-tutorial-epirian-contractor-gas

http://www.thecommguild.com/roller/thecommguild/entry/all-your-base-tutorial-part1

For those in the UK, The Works (suppliers of cheap books, hobby supplies and tat) often have the clay or colour shapers very cheap (they look like paintbrushes with solid silicon for the brush bit).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 09, 2017, 12:01:44 am
Very cool smurf , I need fern type leaves for some jungle bases for my Japanese , I'll give this method a try . It's almost fool proof so it should work for me  ;D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 09, 2017, 12:47:33 am
A visit to The Works this morning supplied me with these:
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b1H56REneUY/WHJibI6cIXI/AAAAAAAABvQ/6C8e60dFzGENXl6eLNw6oZGBTFd0gHweQCLcB/s1600/colourdetailers.png)

I have not used them yet, the Sherman work was last night.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 09, 2017, 12:53:37 am
More work on the Sherman V.

Rubicon's Allied Stowage set supplied the British Toolbox on the left side, two crates from the German set were added to the right side and the rear of the engine deck. The rear crate had mounting clips added using microstrip.
Then I added the pegs for soft stowage and a couple of pieces of square section plastruct tube.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QX08jRUtK8s/WHJm0wdzwHI/AAAAAAAABvc/TZjdwvZ1YZEZJVzGCcB5rAEOaI99slOtQCLcB/s1600/m4a4-1-6.png)

The soft stowage on the engine decks was completed in three bits (to allow the previous pieces to set).

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-quOGk5bLiv8/WHJm7Wtut0I/AAAAAAAABvw/bHDfd-Be-KwmmpiVzxMgAh3FhhrFHkf7gCLcB/s1600/m4a4-1-7.png)

Rear view.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fXUovPQZLZQ/WHJm7QTHFyI/AAAAAAAABvs/NMbZAICighEavDjW0Qjj4EttBcwVN0bWgCLcB/s1600/m4a4-1-8.png)

Of note when assembling this kit, the instructions are incorrect when it comes to the fire extinguishers, the tube part faces toward the rear, check the photographs, the example in the IWM has the brackets but no extinguisher.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 09, 2017, 02:06:43 am
Also seen pictures of them mounted vertically behind the side lift rings on the turret .  Probably moved there as it might be hard to grab from the rear deck when your gears on fire ! 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 09, 2017, 02:13:34 am
The Dennis Oliver book has a drawing with them on the radio box on the bustle.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 09, 2017, 09:52:40 am
It's too late now, but I would have put the metal stowage box on the rear deck, not on the side.  It's more likely they'd weld a box to that panel.  Now it's there, I'd suggest a horizontal retaining strip between the 2 brackets.

Good work on the soft stowage.  I'd suggest another layer piled up towards the rear.     

Did you have trouble cleaning up the appliqué armour panels on the sides?  As they are moulded on, the sides of the panels aren't vertical, and fixing that is a pain.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 16, 2017, 07:17:22 pm
Ho hum, I had not noticed the appliqué Armour issue.

It is now undercoated and base coated, there was a gap in the rubbish weather (unfortunately before I read your post) so the stowage is as was.

The next one will have more stowage (and horizontal spare track with teeth).

I do plan to get a separate Sherman VC to be called Hercules, I will need another German stowage set.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 16, 2017, 10:03:29 pm
I found photos in the Dennis Oliver book of British Sherman's with large wooden boxes fixed to the rear, so ignore my earlier comment!

I am still fixing the appliqué armour on mine.  With each adjustment, the plates get marginally smaller...the commander's hatch is pretty bad too - I might replace it with the hatch from the forthcoming Rubicon M4A3 kit (as I plan to build mine as M4A3E8s).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 16, 2017, 10:40:20 pm
The Dennis Oliver book did inspire the stowage.

I am ignoring the appliqué shape on this one, I might have a go on the other one.

On the Churchill I glued the two halves of the hatches to some plastic strip before glueing them to the turret.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 17, 2017, 06:11:58 pm
I have not yet used the sculpting tools on any stowage, but have found them useful to get greenstuff to stick to the model and not my fingers.

I have used it on some Frostgrave plastic barbarians, have a look at my blog:
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/frostgrave-barbarians-first-build.html
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 24, 2017, 06:52:49 am
Making haste slowly.

After adding a bunch of soft stowage to the Churchill, I decided to put some camouflage on the Rubicon Panther G.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JJFTX0iflL8/WIaGOBeJUdI/AAAAAAAABy0/3BZrfnj6VA0rqlJI3deApvQZfc28vAgkgCEw/s1600/panther-g-3.png)

Very broad outline. The stripes are Citadel Mournfang Brown (applied with a very broad brush).

Inspired by the Panther G at the Tank Museum.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y6e2HSgeh1A/WIaGfTFa9eI/AAAAAAAABzA/c8MjOQkMB_gLXQ71ndlO-w5xW9sFuEdQgCEw/s640/IMG_5187.JPG)

Will this be finished by the end of the year?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 24, 2017, 11:26:57 am
Are you going to add green bands as well? 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 24, 2017, 05:51:51 pm
Are you going to add green bands as well?

No, I am going for the red brown and pale sand over the dark yellow.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 05, 2017, 07:38:36 am
As previously mentioned I decided to use the sdkfz250/1 Alte as a sdkfz253 Totenkontrolfahrzeug for Weird War games.

So I have started the assembly (none of the problems I had with the Studebaker). I have used the cyclone filters off the Tiger for a crew compartment air filter.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8zJKMI_a_0k/WJZhcpwkfgI/AAAAAAAAB1w/wzg6FkMibZ03FKTUDIIk8R2UtSMkUrK7gCLcB/s400/sdkfz253tk-04.png)
The rest of the build follows the instructions.

I have not attached the wheel assembly, so the body can be given a coat of PSC dark yellow (in reality I assume that 253s were only turned out in grey with added camouflage later in their life.

The jerry can rack and the box on the door are inspired by the photograph on page 56 of the Terry Gander book on the 250.

The photograph shows I have some finishing to do.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on February 05, 2017, 11:13:17 am
The box on the door in that photo is a standard feature of the SdKfz 250/9.  I like the jerrycan bracket.  Maybe have some kind of hose connecting the filter to the crew compartment.  I think a Weird War version of this vehicle would also carry some kind of armament.

Here's my SdKfz 253.  Like you, I move at a fairly glacial pace...

(https://s29.postimg.org/qrwj3de6b/IMG_0048.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/qrwj3de6b/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 05, 2017, 05:24:16 pm
The original plan was to use the plumbing from the Feifel filters, but that plan fell apart after contact with the top plate (I wanted to keep the big aerial). I still need to fill the hole in the side of one of the filters where the plumbing fitted.

Where it is mounted is behind the fuel tank, but I might put pipes in next to the door.

I think on the instructions the box is on the inside of the door for the 250/1.

I was wondering about fitting an MG42 between the binocular sight as a remote weapon mount.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on February 05, 2017, 08:14:08 pm
The original plan was to use the plumbing from the Feifel filters, but that plan fell apart after contact with the top plate (I wanted to keep the big aerial). I still need to fill the hole in the side of one of the filters where the plumbing fitted.

Run some kind of tube from the right side of the Feiffel filter down into the side panel.

Quote
I think on the instructions the box is on the inside of the door for the 250/1.

That's meant to be a first aid kit - it's not quite accurate (see p.77 of the Gander book).  I think the box on the outside of the SdKfz 250/9 door is related to the 20mm KwK 38.  There's an open one on p.58 of the Gander book.

Quote
I was wondering about fitting an MG42 between the binocular sight as a remote weapon mount.

How about in a ball mount in place of the radio operator's visor?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 05, 2017, 11:33:51 pm
Good spot, it is like one of those pictures that is either a candlestick or two faces. Now I know, that is what I see ^___^.

Interesting thought. Definitely want something that can be used "under armour".

There are signs of possible pistol ports on the hull in the drawings and photographs (under the driver/radio operator side vision blocks - the 252 on page 65 - and at the rear side panels - page 88). Trying to work out a way of making regular sized discs.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 06, 2017, 01:21:57 am
How about the remote MG mount used on the Hetzer and late Stug III ,  that would work , and you could add the close in defence weapon found on late Panthers and Tigers . The drawing on page 74 shows the pistol port under the side view slots on the 253 .  Not sure the rear side disc is a port as the 250/9 has one on page 56 . Not much use if you have no vision slot to see what your shooting at   ::)
(https://s27.postimg.org/h2y37one7/panther_ausf_g1.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/h2y37one7/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 06, 2017, 02:38:14 am
Is the close in defence weapon a mortar/grenade launcher in a rotatable mount?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 06, 2017, 03:03:34 am
Rundumsfeur remote mg.

http://www.pzfahrer.net/hetzermgs.html (http://www.pzfahrer.net/hetzermgs.html)

URL is a bit flaky.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 06, 2017, 05:06:00 am
Yes , the close defence weapon ( Nahverteidgungswaffe   :o ) was sort of like the bomb thrower on Shermans , except that it could rotate 360' , all the better to try and kill of attacking Russians
(https://s23.postimg.org/5md8sasqv/Interior_Painted_Dry_Fit16.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/5md8sasqv/)
Internals - the handle bar with the site is for the remote mG , the black thingy in the rear is the " breech " of the cdw ( photo from a  fantastic Missing -Lynx  Stug III build by Mike Roof  ) 
(https://s27.postimg.org/4dwg1t0rj/IMG_20170205_141431509_HDR.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/4dwg1t0rj/)
Here's a couple of top views of the CDW on the BA Tiger and Panther ( which I added  )
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on February 06, 2017, 10:18:47 am
A close defence weapon would be cool.  I was thinking of something like this:

(https://s29.postimg.org/k62pvgper/IL_Armor_03_216.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/k62pvgper/)

It seems to me the IDF would be a good source of ideas for modifying WW2 armoured vehicles.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 06, 2017, 11:13:44 am
Could also add those grenade /smoke launcher things , seen on Tiger and Panzer III / IV turret sides . They were fired electrically from inside  but had to be loaded from outside . Plus they tended to catch fire and explode if hit in combat , hence being deleted and the CDW installed . If your doing a what if / Konflic  47 , they would have used the latest stuff , not taken a step back IMO . While a mg on the drivers plate of the 250 might work and look cool , you wouldn't have room there for the armored ball mg mount , just a sliding port , kind of defeats the purpose of the armor up front , having your window open . The IDF halftrack has a front window easily 2 times as high as the 250 , so room for ball mount . Much better to have a roof mounted remote mg ( Rumdumsfuer ) IMO
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 06, 2017, 05:17:16 pm
Thanks for the ideas.

The ball mount on that half-track is neat, definitely something for a companion to the easy eight when I build one.

The smoke dischargers are a strange thing, if you look at the current Leopard, it has a bunch of them down the side of the turret. I know the ATGW environment is different from the WW2 one, but I wonder if it was a reaction similar to the initial Zimmerit addition and then not adding it. A "Dangerous Dogs Act" reaction.

It is noticeable that none of the rules I have read mention smoke dischargers or candles or the CDW, they rarely get mentioned elsewhere. Were they that ineffective? The US sealed up the hole on their Shermans.

The CDW is an interesting idea, but adds another hole in the supposedly sealed fighting compartment.

According to the limited information I have found, the 253 had an MG for defense, but I have yet to find out where it was mounted.

Another question, I had always thought the covers over the vision ports had bullet proof glass protected slits, but photographs in the Terry Gander book show plain covers. Is that an artifact of the reproduction?

The simplest option is to just drill a hole in the roof and glue a thin slices from some Evergreen tube to represent the mounting point. I have not fitted the one to my JgPzr 38(T).

The alternative is to delicately drill between the binocular sight and add a slice of Evergreen tube and build the remote gun later.

Having the sight and the gun together does mean you can only call in fire or defend yourself but does mean that one function does not block the line of sight of the other.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on February 06, 2017, 06:19:36 pm
Ripley is right about the limited space for an MG mount, although it could be done by building a protruding box shape. 

The German close defence weapon wouldn't compromise your sealed fighting compartment, so maybe that's a good idea.  A bit boring visually, however.  There were persistent production shortages with the remote-controlled MG, so in real life it often wasn't fitted, but it could be quite a nice addition to your vehicle.  Maybe have an IR sight as well?

Some SdKfz 253s had MGs, but photos of them are rare.  This famous photo, often misidentified as an SdKfz 250/3, is an Afrika Korps SdKfz 253 fitted with a frame antenna and mounting an MG 34.  That said, it's not clear how the MG is mounted (although it's clear it's not in the same place as an SdKfz 250), and the position of the crew doesn't quite seem to match the configuration of the roof hatches.

(https://s24.postimg.org/iwkdm04xt/AK253.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/iwkdm04xt/)

There were armoured glass lenses fitted behind the visors, which had slits (restored neu SdKfz 250 at Beltring):
   
(https://s29.postimg.org/bumecmrk3/beltring2009c_92.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/bumecmrk3/)


Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 06, 2017, 07:03:16 pm
Thanks for that.

The 253 photograph shows there are slits in the front ones, which makes sense.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 07, 2017, 06:40:09 am
How about...
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W4xnqxEqKSo/WJi2Ot70SgI/AAAAAAAAB2M/SFlEYi9TTeEBDqhrM_nmew71r7hWZfU-gCLcB/s1600/spinnecompare3.png)

Only kidding, it was a size comparison for a Weird War vehicle.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 07, 2017, 09:23:19 am
Hmm , did you glue the roof on ? If not , trace the shape on plastic card and add a hole so you could mount the  turret  . I did the same kind of thing in 1/35 using the old ( very old) Tamiya 250 and a Zvezda B-10 AC turret
(https://s30.postimg.org/uyd3vlfvx/IMG_20170206_181521603.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/uyd3vlfvx/)

(https://s28.postimg.org/tfi2sq4k9/IMG_20170206_181611.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/tfi2sq4k9/)
One of those fun kit- mingles using extra  Dragon parts and Miniarts 45mm ammo set . Still working on a crew . I just love this hobby in so many scales  :D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 08, 2017, 12:21:07 pm
Just spotted this on Armorama  and thought this idea might be right up your alley  :)
(https://s29.postimg.org/lt05hvqf7/sdkfz_250_neu_with_12_panzerwerfer_42_panzerwaff.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/lt05hvqf7/)
Shouldn't be too hard to kit bash , just some tubing mostly
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 08, 2017, 04:37:07 pm
Excellent idea.

I had thought to use a Stuka zu Fuss (scary, predictive text supplied the second and third words) with a hard top or hope for a Maultier or sWS with Panzerwerfer 42.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on February 08, 2017, 07:17:43 pm
Yes, this looks very '1946'.  You could have the rockets from the Stuke zu Fuss, but in a rotating launcher.  I guess you'd put a roof plate over the existing hatches? 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on February 08, 2017, 09:35:41 pm
I agree that it's an excellent idea - given the absence of a sWS based Panzerwerfer in plastic (there is the WG resin/pewter Maultier version).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 12, 2017, 12:57:21 am
For those of you with long memories, the Warlord Sherman V has now received a base coat and some scuffing.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G1qGUukqcmo/WJ8-isFdZHI/AAAAAAAAB3E/JIBDkz0JJ1UO4GoZuaEQEpyLpwA6mbkuwCLcB/s1600/m4a4-1-13.png)
There are a few bits that need clean up (one of the crates has track colour on it) but it is currently in the process of receiving the decals for A Squadron Grenadier Guards (the M4s are C squadron, the M5A1 is HQ squadron). Once varnished, the paint work will be cleaned up.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 12, 2017, 01:57:46 am
Looks good , nice paint job . What color did you use ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 12, 2017, 02:57:52 am
Thanks.

The base is PSC British Tank Green Spray over Citadel Chaos Black spray.

I have highlighted some edges with a mix of Vallejo WW2 Russian Green (best match to the PSC British green) and Vallejo Old Wood (also used on the crates).

Tyres are Vallejo Black Grey, soft stowage is various Vallejo and Citadel greens. The tarp over the crate is Vallejo US Olive Drab.

I do wish I had left the WD Jerry can in the base green, not convinced that a wash will bring out the lettering.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on February 12, 2017, 03:25:19 pm
Great to see some paint on it.  I haven't tried the Vallejo Russian Green yet, but the PSC spray seems to give very good coverage.

After seeing Rubicon's prototype Firefly, I'm seriously considering ditching my WiP Warlord Sherman Vs.  There are too many irritations - the moulded-on appliqué armour, mis-shapen commander's hatch, and general heavy-handedness.  I might just wait for Rubicon's kit.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 12, 2017, 04:48:21 pm
Thanks.

The Vallejo Russian Uniform green is not a perfect match, but better than the dark yellow match.

On the Cromwell below, you can see the difference in colour on the cowl.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-94tXus3-cqU/WJ8_pgAKGSI/AAAAAAAAB3M/Hq79o3vVe34FuTS4cFKTP1k2LcyEsMMKACLcB/s1600/cromwell-2-5.png)

It is fairly easy to blend in.

The Vallejo dark yellow is rather too green, very obvious on the liberated jerry can.

Both have now gained their decals. The Cromwell's squadron identifier will appear here later (M5A1 small invasion star).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 12, 2017, 11:08:59 pm
Just give the Jerry can a black wash , before washing the whole tank in the brown wash . A little practice and it all works out  ::) . Some of the colors I use look horrid before adding washes , always great to show people works in progress  :o I've used AV Model Color Dark Grey for Panzer Grey cans . As well AV MC Green Ochre , AV Model Air Dark Yellow and Humbrol Matt 94 as variations of German Panzer Yellow . Of course a black or  brown wash , weather the Army Painter varieties or the GW stuff , makes a world of difference . Neat effect to paint half a dozen cans in one color , but use  a different wash for each  . Depends how crazy you want to be  ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 13, 2017, 12:50:10 am
@Pinky - yes the Sherman V is a lot lumpy, it looks like an older kit than the original M4 kit. But, it will probably be a couple of years before Rubicon get round to delivering them so I am going to persevere with them (good practice). I still have four of the M4 kits to do something with.

@Ripley - thanks. The four on the back of the Crusader are all different colours. A good idea to use the black wash on the darker green, I will give it a try.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 13, 2017, 12:59:17 am
A use for all those Invasion Stars that litter decal sheets.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mIP1r4DqVtk/WJ8_rv7se2I/AAAAAAAAB3U/DSXRNQPUkhAviXBiZfK5yzbVflbbuyHjQCPcB/s1600/unbrigadedcromwell.png)
The photographs of 2nd Welsh Guards Cromwells in the book British Tanks In Normandy show the squadron mark on the stowage boxes adjacent to the turret.

No decal set has a suitably sized mark for any of the squadrons (even the one that comes with the kit).

Luckily, the small invasion stars off the Rubicon M5A1 set are almost the right size.

This one had the star roughly cut out before application, it went on okay, but its counterpart on the other side disintegrated and was removed.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nj3IINphsLA/WKCMsrrT1pI/AAAAAAAAB4s/iB1RufGIvKIA56K5w8_GbNH0GxNFyurpwCLcB/s1600/cromwell-2-7.png)
After making a mess of the first attempt on this side, I just used the decal as is, and then painted the star out with Vallejo Russian Uniform green.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JKkM-q-OYxE/WKCMsvk7EbI/AAAAAAAAB40/dLXalbBMWLgkF9oSdFja0tacmwWrE-AzgCLcB/s1600/cromwell-2-6.png)

Lots of Decalfix was required, and it ate the black paint on the tow rope. It needs a further tidy up.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 13, 2017, 01:22:20 am
Looks great . Nice save with the decals . 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 19, 2017, 05:41:48 pm
Distractions...
A British Galahad Armoured Infantryman supported by a Rubicon M5A1.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6efAXKqdTuM/WKlUdhDdbnI/AAAAAAAAB7c/Ytt79LSGfA8jg29Cbez5bwYJkrFxdHRIgCLcB/s1600/galahad-1-9.png)

And a British Steel Armoured Infantryman.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fLwZcxe8P_o/WKlVzyiR-9I/AAAAAAAAB74/DD-t-KYK3WMb-8DsuoVhUJSdRFNrqG78ACLcB/s1600/britishsteel-1-8.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 20, 2017, 02:53:11 am
Tank looks great . Troopers look great as well , weird but great  ;D Konflik 46/7 ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 20, 2017, 05:59:51 am
The top one is a Warlord Konflikt 47 Galahad, the bottom a West Wind SOTR British Steel suit.

They will both probably end up  being used for Konflikt 47.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 24, 2017, 02:59:28 pm
Very quiet on the World War Two modelling front. I have added a couple of crates to my Katyusha but I forgot to get any Russian tank paint at Salute.

I include this here as it has a Rubicon bucket and flimsy can as part of the stowage.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qS5l0Mtd3T0/WP2Xk7KvXgI/AAAAAAAACIU/lsfT6kTKjoE6mlHEnoR00Tulz7BVtnoFQCLcB/s1600/ft1-15.png)

Still deciding on the markings (it is intended to be a tank brought out of storage and pressed into British service after the fall of France).

I do need to paint the inside of the bucket, as we!L as final tidying and weathering.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 26, 2017, 11:49:17 am
I like this colour.  I am planning to try it out soon.  Do you know what colour would be best to use for the earlier, khaki colour applied to British tanks?  I need to paint a Lend-Lease Churchill.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on April 26, 2017, 11:30:32 pm
Pinky - is it Khaki Green No.3 you're after? It's generally a bit of of bugger to find a single paint analogue for it, but if you're happy with Vallejo Mike Starmer produced the recipe for a mix that's regarded as being pretty good (see swatch below - the small patch of Brown Violet is there to show it's innaccuracy - Battlefront recommend BV & it's not even close). Hope it's helpful...


(https://s23.postimg.org/hu81d4qbb/starmer-vallejo-mix_khaki-green-3_key.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/hu81d4qbb/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 27, 2017, 01:30:56 am
How does that compare to Vallejo Russian Uniform Green? have a look at the Cromwell cowl to see how it compares to PSC British Tank spray.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on April 27, 2017, 01:58:29 am
The Starmer mix is browner than VMC Russian Uniform, but it is representing No.3 which was phased out (on tanks at any rate) by '41 (the MAFVA site is useful -
Code: [Select]
http://www.mafva.net/other%20pages/starmer%20camo.htm but tends to reference enamel paints like Humbrol/Revell). The PSC tank spray (which I also like) lies somewhere between Bronze Green (but closer to) British OD (excitingly called SCC15) - again, I dont think there's a pot of this out there, it's another mix it yourself - 50:50 VMC Olive Grey & Russian Uniform.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 27, 2017, 10:12:14 am
Pinky - is it Khaki Green No.3 you're after? It's generally a bit of of bugger to find a single paint analogue for it, but if you're happy with Vallejo Mike Starmer produced the recipe for a mix that's regarded as being pretty good (see swatch below - the small patch of Brown Violet is there to show it's innaccuracy - Battlefront recommend BV & it's not even close). Hope it's helpful...

Thanks very much - that's very helpful.  I was hoping to avoid mixing paint.  I did that to get the right shade of so-called Panzer grey, but I couldn't get it consistent so I painted over it with a Vallejo grey.  I might use the Brown Violet on the basis that it will have a whitewash camo over it.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on April 30, 2017, 12:02:13 am
Pinky - before you plumb for the Vallejo BV there is another one pot option - apologies for not remembering it before, in the Mig Ammo range there is a KG No.3 (MIG-113). I've not used it, so can't speak to how accurate it is, but it certainly looks more so than the Vallejo. They're optimised for airbrushes, but are reasonably well behaved when brushed on (though I'd use their own thinner, they didn't like either the Vallejo or Lifecolor ones that I've tried & regreted). Other than that I've found the paints excellent, with good smooth coverage.
 
(https://s30.postimg.org/7ujkt795p/Mig_Ammo_Khaki_Green_No.3_A.MIG-113.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/7ujkt795p/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 04, 2017, 03:42:01 am
A little bit of detailing for a Warlord Sherman VC.

There is room on the left back of the hull besides the storage box for four jerry cans.

I thought this would be a good use for part A11, though it needed to be cut in half.
A War Department jerry can was fitted at one end with the logo showing. At the other end a German jerry can was used.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-poYgqq4hKjs/WTL_BNGv72I/AAAAAAAACVc/0e33Id10CvoCdYD-xSram5F9i84Gs-LOQCLcB/s1600/m4a4C1-4.png)
A shelf was made out of 4mm strip and a strap holding them in place out of thin strip.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F3TS0z05aW8/WTL_BN7BXzI/AAAAAAAACVg/rfHAHsJY0bIVgkVoyAC4t09FVS804NNmACLcB/s1600/m4a4C1-5.png)

Two small strips of plastics were added to cans and then it was glued to the back of the tank.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzrRhOOz0wA/WTL_BfKhSeI/AAAAAAAACVk/O_vKRJdRLTwZZD6zruPYJ8w00h54zbm1ACLcB/s1600/m4a4C1-6.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 05, 2017, 06:12:32 pm
I like it.  The strap could perhaps be a bit thinner, assuming it's meant to be canvas or leather.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 05, 2017, 11:07:35 pm
It probably should be (it works out at 1.68 inches across - 0.030 x 0.010 Slater's microstrip). 0.020 inch is also available, that works out at 1.12 inches.

It also could do with being a bit higher up the cans (trying to avoid the W^D logo).

I might add a lip at the bottom.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 06, 2017, 12:49:37 am
You could always add a few vertical strips and it would look like it's made out of metal by the REME boys :D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 06, 2017, 02:13:37 am
A good thought.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 08, 2017, 05:15:18 am
Zvezda 15mm scale Panzer 38(t) together with the Warlord model.

Numbers by Rubicon (German AFV set times two).
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-95OwtFffdOE/WTgwwSiiiVI/AAAAAAAACWg/DYu8WZsOxLI_IWc-HXmpWVykQzJfp11OQCLcB/s1600/compare-pz38t-1.png)
For the 15mm model the numbers on the JPnzr 38(t) might have been nearer the correct size.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 08, 2017, 03:34:40 pm
And the Puma is at last finished.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xgZWMn3fT1U/WTg0qu50axI/AAAAAAAACXE/j8Sknywychsdd857tnIYQYnPXw4sVgQMwCLcB/s1600/puma1-6.png)
Rubicon numbers (lazy and obvious).
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YT65bkyYMNM/WTg0qiyCDDI/AAAAAAAACW8/iiCaT3JijpQxpntpLS18xYg04Nk-rqjdwCLcB/s1600/puma1-4.png)
Rubicon fuel drums and pump.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CyvMs2MaPaM/WTg0qL1159I/AAAAAAAACWw/imk9SZ52qgMRFCh5-t4aWsZyiRqZwKaNgCLcB/s1600/puma1-1.png)
Infrared spotlight made from a PSC 15mm scale Panther cupola.

The PSC Panzer yellow spray went bad, there is an interesting crackle effect, especially on the turret front.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 08, 2017, 04:40:21 pm
I like it.  The colour is good, and the shading is effective.  And as always the soft stowage is lovely.  Maybe a bit more scratching etc around the hatches, engine deck and storage lockers?  Especially if this is a vehicle that's been in service for a while.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on June 09, 2017, 12:09:54 am
 Nice work, as Pinky mentioned, gorgeous soft stowage as usual.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 09, 2017, 02:48:15 pm
Thanks.

I had a go at some chipping and scratching (I found Humbrol Decalfix applied quickly can remove poorly applied paint, thankfully).

My thoughts are the locker doors, the bumpers, the hatches and the routes to and from the turret.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 11, 2017, 03:07:35 pm
First the wheels.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vKEvbMtNyQk/WTzljZ0PiyI/AAAAAAAACXc/DnfJ37dv9Kkr1FCPZ5XTT-N9zIwjwOxWgCLcB/s1600/puma1-filledwheel1.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a24bIPHVz1U/WTzljfyDjhI/AAAAAAAACXU/RosBYuZorhYqldddwDK3AjkFflYAKHMawCLcB/s1600/puma1-filledwheel2.png)

Not sure if it is hiding the hollow wheels or poor camerawork.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vFbOXFFhMfI/WTzlj7tXyVI/AAAAAAAACXg/1LRD2tkAUoAk_iKzWvc7mtpan1rZFYeNQCLcB/s1600/puma1-filledwheel4.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 11, 2017, 03:08:50 pm
More wear and tear.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Td3a2yKpXu8/WTzmcHuuukI/AAAAAAAACXo/-H4EFcXMljsvZU-5sdcfV-_ia5nIYrMxwCLcB/s1600/puma1-7.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nFC_CuTxnNE/WTzmb3F9lkI/AAAAAAAACXk/Ya1gIpGSZTgxTnqR5mTbGpew1ALjLFU3QCLcB/s1600/puma1-8.png)

I think some more is required.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 11, 2017, 03:20:22 pm
I think the additional weathering is great the way it is.  I'd call this one done. 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 11, 2017, 04:04:47 pm
Thanks.

Now to finish off the Hetzer (and the Katyusha) and start assembly on the M4A3E8 (once I have a colour scheme).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 11, 2017, 09:47:54 pm
The wheels look good , Nice use of the hooks / tow cable from the BA 251 , I should have  thought of that  :-[
(https://s9.postimg.org/7djpmciuz/234-2_d.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/7djpmciuz/)
 This is the Puma the Brits captured and returned to the UK for testing , after testing they used it as a range target !  It looks pretty beat up for late 44 , so I would assume any that lasted to "46 would probably be in real rough shape , like this one
(https://s22.postimg.org/57cg8d325/234-2_i.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/57cg8d325/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 12, 2017, 01:37:39 am
Thanks for the positive comments.

I did wonder about following Ripley's lead and removing the door from one of the stowage boxes. Mangling the mudguards like the picture above is well beyond me.

One feature of the model are the two fuel drums.

When I looked at this photograph, do you know what crossed my mind?
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YT65bkyYMNM/WTg0qiyCDDI/AAAAAAAACW8/iiCaT3JijpQxpntpLS18xYg04Nk-rqjdwCLcB/s1600/puma1-4.png)

One hole in the front of the drum and the fuel will run down the top of the mudguard straight on to the hot exhaust box. Fun will not ensue.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 12, 2017, 09:38:50 am
IRC ,, the Puma had a Tatra  Diesel engine , so not as dangerous as gas
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 12, 2017, 11:10:41 am
One hole in the front of the drum and the fuel will run down the top of the mudguard straight on to the hot exhaust box. Fun will not ensue.

Nevertheless, fuel drums were sometimes carried on engine decks.  I assume you'd drop them when you got to the combat zone.

(https://s23.postimg.org/rxsy036h3/Tiger.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/rxsy036h3/)

One small point I noticed is the black on the exhausts.  It looks a bit solid.  Can you drybrush some more black over it to make it look more like soot and less like an oil stain?

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 12, 2017, 03:18:48 pm
@Ripley: yes you are right it is a diesel.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/SdKfz_234 (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/SdKfz_234)

@Pinky: I will have a go at feathering the edges a bit. The muzzle break could do with some soot as well, the black s a bit stark.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 13, 2017, 02:17:43 pm
@Ripley: yes you are right it is a diesel.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/SdKfz_234 (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/SdKfz_234)

@Pinky: I will have a go at feathering the edges a bit. The muzzle break could do with some soot as well, the black s a bit stark.

Blackened muzzles are just artistic licence.  There would be some discolouration over time, and loss of paint around the edges, but not the sooty black look that modellers like.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 13, 2017, 03:53:37 pm
True, since the deployment of smokeless powder at the end of the 19th century, except for Northover Projectors.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 23, 2017, 02:01:49 am
More uses for the Allied Stowage set, plus uses for the bits left over from building the SDKFZ253.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lFTe0u0HHRE/WUv-9CkYAJI/AAAAAAAACZ4/oHLsJjaz24UAFC-asi_838TQV8wvf1eGACLcBGAs/s1600/cardenloyd1-1.png)
An Empress Carden Loyd MMG carrier. For some reason the model is not supplied with the tripod for using the Vickers off of the vehicle. The tripod from the Rubicon SDKFZ250/253 kit was shortened and added to the glacis.

Also a use for the middle two boxes (left over from the two end ones being used on turret boxes).
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XTO3hUDe5dQ/WUv-9Evuq4I/AAAAAAAACZ8/cfIwfkxL8uUZkSIdVbnhmhuts_LxPU7TgCLcBGAs/s1600/cardenloyd1-3.png)

Painted in a dark green (Citadel Caliban Green) as a vehicle pressed into service.

Still awaiting transfers and final weathering.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on June 23, 2017, 10:20:16 pm
 Cool little vehicle 8)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 25, 2017, 09:46:20 pm
Epic Fail on my Spot Hidden roll...

As I mentioned, I have an unfinished T34/85. I have decided that is my next project to finish.

So I looked through my sprues boxes for the remaining bits and pulled the instructions out of the instructions folder.

No sprue C (lights, tool boxes and one fuel tank - the others being in the sub assemblies box for the T34).

Turns out that I had looked at the sprue and thought it was one of the Tiger sprues.

The illustration that will be is inspiration is the bottom photograph on page 33 of the Tankograd book on the East German T34. Lots of stowage.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 25, 2017, 11:41:45 pm
Nice little vehicle .Great use of the stowage bits . Really hope Rubicon make a more generic stowage set , maybe with suit cases , small barrels / kegs ,  a bicycle , even saw a picture of a piano on the rear deck of a T-34 :o . I've pretty much picked clean all my HO train and 1/35 scale stuff that would work for 1/56 .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 26, 2017, 03:13:46 am
Ainsty do some metal suitcases and pots and pans (I have not been able to find them on the site).

When I find mine I will put a photograph here (plus I will have the code).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 26, 2017, 03:19:10 am
The T34. The inspiration is from the Tankograd book on the East German T34s. Particularly the one on page 31 which is stacked with stowage.

I have added some more hand rails (aided by the Bill Bedford Hand Rail Jig).
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EtyVuE7buQM/WVAEgdfkgQI/AAAAAAAACbA/8gery9zmda4qvgJzStOWkknnCwChosUTwCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-85-2.png)

The fuel drums are just sitting there at the moment (I need to add some straps). I have also added one of the German tool boxes on the turret bustle (it is not quite the right shape).

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XSbPNeCa2sE/WVAEgS4uxFI/AAAAAAAACbE/xpCMVqFzytMH7tm3_AvhWN7A90GMBrPiACLcBGAs/s1600/t34-85-1.png)

One feature of the East German T34s was the addition of a Notek driving lamp.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LVB43m-St-c/WVAEgSOpbcI/AAAAAAAACa8/LRERIjorVywwxB0mTY4_VVqqOlmcDZotwCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-85-notek.png)
The lamp is made from plastic rod and strip, with a brush guard from 0.7mm brass rod.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 26, 2017, 06:33:24 am
Looking good . Don't forget to add an open vision port or two for the driver  :D
(https://s23.postimg.org/v495qlvnb/driver-s-hatch-mechanics-t-vision-devices-338295.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/v495qlvnb/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 27, 2017, 01:05:26 am
I still have five hand rails to add, and have already glued the hatch down. I will leave that to those who are more skilled than I am ^__^.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 27, 2017, 09:06:18 am
Easy peasy , no cutting of the kit involved . All you need is some thin plastic strip , xacto  and sanding stick .
(https://s8.postimg.org/bpjvq37ld/IMG_20170626_185654132.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/bpjvq37ld/)
1, plastic strip ( width eyeballed  ::) ) 2. sand corners roundish , 3, bend and cut to size - test fit , cut again and glue . I usually just glue right over the cast cover . You can paint it black and rub it with HB pencil lead to give it a bit of a glass block reflection look . The covers operated independently ,so one open full , other open half or even closed . An easy visual  up grade for little effort
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 27, 2017, 03:24:10 pm
Was there a preference for left or right cover being raised?

Can I see one of yours viewed from the front so I can see the effect?

Thanks.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 27, 2017, 03:34:04 pm
A little bit of work yesterday.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K0Jy1aFtmHs/WVGC5wQvBlI/AAAAAAAACbg/MdmWBq44djQw_UQNR2lp5_ujZVwVMjr5ACLcBGAs/s1600/t34-85-3.png)

Tanks added (based on the Czech/Egyptian one in the IWM), just noticed I have the filler the wrong end on the right side- rats.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HIFbnGEh9wA/WVGC52ewypI/AAAAAAAACbc/-wXGKYKu4jsvQ_vQaZXc4a4dV52MEj9UACLcBGAs/s1600/t34-85-4.png)

Walk round:http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/compare-t34-85-part-two.html (http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/compare-t34-85-part-two.html)

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 27, 2017, 08:29:34 pm
Firstly , the fuel filler caps could be on either end ( or the middle, depending on model ) as the fuel drum was removable . All the pre 1960s tanks had no connection between the spare drums and the internal tanks , they had to transfer by hand pump ( hence the pump box on JS 2s ) IRC . So yours look right . There also were two sizes of drums . 100 lt and a 160 lt ( at least  that's what could be mounted on the JS2 and seen here on a post war T-34 / 85 ) Most picture of preserved tanks show center fuel cap on drum , so I assume this version became the standard
(https://s23.postimg.org/pwp9losmf/t34-85-cobbaton-combat_zpsjy37mnt1.jpg_original.jpg) (https://postimgs.org/image/pwp9losmf/)
 Notice side fuel drums have a handle on each end , an item missing on both BAs and Rubicons fuel drums . Not the smaller drum for making smoke screens . Its also missing on many larger scale kits too  ::) .Heres a couple of pictures of my T-34s showing driver hatches
(https://s9.postimg.org/nbwzkesnf/IMG_20170627_060458.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/nbwzkesnf/)

(https://s21.postimg.org/bwkdaevgj/IMG_20170627_060507.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/bwkdaevgj/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 27, 2017, 11:10:17 pm
Thanks.
This is the IWM example.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z11_dAok460/VjoSNSdJ0KI/AAAAAAAABHQ/US7shgOB0aQ/s1600/IMG_8554.JPG)
You see what I mean about the filler caps.

I think there were handles on the kit drums, I shaved them off to smooth out the ends. The key problem is the lack of the lip on the end of the drums (I am sure it came up elsewhere). I think I added the handles on the Warlord example.

Thanks for the photographs of the hatches.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 28, 2017, 12:15:11 am
Maybe add the rim to the drum by using piece of thread and liquid cement . I've done it in 1/35  , a bit messy but it can be done  . I used a stiffer needle point type thread stolen from my wife's sewing box . Personally don't think the rim matters in this scale ( the JS2 ones are over size / too thick ) , the handles are IMO a much more visible feature . Then again you change the hand rails , and I don't , so each to his own  :D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 28, 2017, 04:05:12 am
Nothing to add to this entertaining thread except I've just re-visited the London IWM T-34, and the example in Duxford IWM.  Seeing the real thing emphasises what an impressive achievement this tank was.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 28, 2017, 05:59:24 am
I cannot remember where we were discussing loot and I mentioned the Ainsty set (the Salesman kit).
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4HNZYq5xtDw/WVLQkX2kdbI/AAAAAAAACcI/lPxVvpIEw0YXUTfOdBAmhQZQXvFZ25HWgCLcBGAs/s1600/salesmankit1.png)

And sitting on the T34.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HyhI2w0urys/WVLQksR455I/AAAAAAAACcM/2jfUGsk_KZI80OLNI2HEZpeUqYt-As-7QCLcBGAs/s1600/salesmankit2.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 28, 2017, 11:45:24 am
Nice . Might be a little big ( more 1/48 maybe ) then again suitcases did come in a  lot larger size in the past . My Mum still has one she got when we flew back from Germany ( 1962 ) , its over 4 t long and 3 and a half feet high . Hm , who makes them and where can I order them ? Might work in a 1/48 dio I have planned
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 28, 2017, 02:54:39 pm
Yes, the suitcases look huge (782mm by 560mm).

There is a photograph in the Normandy Theatre in Colour magazine/book of a Panther with one of those two handed pans with a jerry can in it.

The company is http://ainstycastings.co.uk/index.php (http://ainstycastings.co.uk/index.php), I bought it at a show a while back, but I have been unable to find it on the site (the code 9217 now identifies crowd control barriers).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 28, 2017, 05:32:19 pm
@Pinky, did you see all three T34s at Duxford?

Looking at the IWM T34 photograph I posted above, I have realised it appears to be a colour match for the new Citadel snot Womble green spray.

Guess what the base colour of my T34 is going to be?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 28, 2017, 11:02:20 pm
There was only one 1 T-34 at Duxford - another post-war version.  Also an SU-100 and an upgraded IS-2M.

(https://s7.postimg.org/jq12lvu1z/IMG_0336.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/jq12lvu1z/)

(https://s7.postimg.org/opyittzon/IMG_0338.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/opyittzon/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 29, 2017, 12:45:21 am
Oh, when I was there last there was that one, plus a Furry one (hiding in a building in the Land Warfare hall) plus another outside.

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WaveWTlFuec/VkM8aLukLwI/AAAAAAAABIs/dITEwMEthIQ/s1600/IMG_8846.JPG)
Apparently used in Saint Private Ryan.

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2kZPdxU2Tbo/VkM_Vm27-bI/AAAAAAAABK4/paNGf7f0JT0/s1600/t34-85-duxford.png)

Saying that, the Grizzly that I saw there was sold a short while later, things change.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 29, 2017, 12:50:02 am
Nice shot of the combined lamps and brush guard.

This one has lots of boxes on the track guards, and a snorkel (which I failed to identify at the time).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 29, 2017, 02:28:18 am
I didn't see either of them. 

Back on the model, I like the pots and pans.  The suitcases seem a bit oversized, but are in scale with 28mm figures.  Maybe just one suitcase, however. 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 29, 2017, 01:40:05 pm
I have to admit if I was a 28mm figure, I would pay extra for porterage.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8xFxQxNWG9A/WVSR4qgLWkI/AAAAAAAACco/UEJbSKhZ_zsXUCcD1tkHMhuepGTNG0L-QCLcBGAs/s1600/suitcase1.png)

And a Perry Miniatures Eighth Army figure.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3PhQBJ7bhJU/WVSR4izD8ZI/AAAAAAAACck/HQj7mEPtoskPT3PpYW2qrXzeLHfxf9NcACLcBGAs/s1600/suitcase2.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 29, 2017, 08:21:36 pm
That suitcase sure isn't going to fit in the overhead or under seat racks on the plane . Knowing my luck the airline would probably loose it anyway  ;D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 30, 2017, 01:19:05 am
You might fit the 'plane in the suitcase.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on June 30, 2017, 03:13:44 am
Okay, since we're on the subject of the suitcases, weren't they more squared-off in that period?  They weren't made of plastic, so curved edges seem wrong - at least for such a large one.  Reinforced square corners seem more appropriate. Just wondering.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 30, 2017, 04:53:18 am
My mum has some old , old suitcases ( her Grand mothers's ) , some are leather with square brass corner fittings and locks  , some more like a cover of a hardcover book , with wood trim around the edges , and another that looks like it would mush all up if you got it wet , some kind of paste board covered in patterned  paper . Might be a class thing , leather for the gentry , paste board for the lower classes?  She's got a dozen or so Steamer Trunks with the same kind of variations , again maybe a class thing .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 30, 2017, 03:42:42 pm
True, most film, television and preserved railways have the corner reinforced type suitcases.

Saying that I had a very old resin clam shell case (with split hinges which horrified my hosts who thought my case had broken), it might have been post war.

I should have photographed them when I was clearing out my parents house. One of many regrets.

Halliburton had aluminium cases for personal use in 1938.

There was a cost element in material, the cardboard ones being cheapest.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on July 01, 2017, 09:18:35 pm
The things we end up discussing...

I must try and make some suitcases for my T-34s.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on July 01, 2017, 11:28:33 pm
 Nice work on the extra detailing :)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 06, 2017, 05:28:42 am
Thanks.

I have finished the hand rails on the left side (and added two on the other side).
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JlS8wbbwhNY/WV1Y8C0KmRI/AAAAAAAACfY/_PlOAqxIASkBenhYaenUb6cNTd2gPgn4ACLcBGAs/s1600/t34-85-5.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 11, 2017, 04:40:33 pm
Having broken my 0.7mm drill bit, so no hand rail updates for a while, I present two flame fougasse markers for Operation Sea Lion.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-04p-njl1yf8/WWR3f9-F82I/AAAAAAAACgM/pq1N5KM_KskaD6v_VnuXYOxEdThuidsOwCLcBGAs/s1600/fougasse1.png)

They do not accurately represent what one would look like.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rUdQHIH1sog/WWR3fzPJehI/AAAAAAAACgQ/QUMW_NoVmrk-2SmgjVsr547kZpVSmGp9gCLcBGAs/s1600/fougasse2.png)

Rubicon fuel drum cut diagonally and glued to a Renedra base.

The large numbers are identifiers.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 20, 2017, 03:59:57 pm
Not much progress recently. This is something I was working on back in June but had not realised I had not added here (I think I was waiting for more progress).

This is the Hercules Firefly project (I had bought another Warlord Sherman VC cheap at Salute).
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LG3nGmkZGVU/WTL_Bq-eZRI/AAAAAAAACVs/wHtpibdwibQe3F9FWBtgZu4OPUl39qMAACLcB/s1600/m4a4C1-7.png)
They are the links from the Rubicon Tiger on the turret.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P6gBGe-fKCc/WTL_BrMQyHI/AAAAAAAACVo/5pPZQDHOR9ExQzcPyXKOqKQ0IGKG2G8vwCLcB/s1600/m4a4C1-8.png)
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X2Vp5ByTo6o/WTL_B_hVOOI/AAAAAAAACVw/hhic55KQMakQELwgx7fX3qKYTcZwAZQZACLcB/s1600/m4a4C1-9.png)

I need some more track links so will get another German stowage set at Warfare.

I have wondered about replacing the moulded gun cradle with the unused one from my Rubicon Sherman IV.

A lot more hard stowage needs to be added before I start on the soft stowage (I wondered about the socks from that famous photograph?).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on October 20, 2017, 08:01:59 pm
That's looking good . I got the same idea but I'm going to use the Panther track pieces from the stowage set , I've seen some Canadian Fireflys with it mounted tooth side in , curved around the turret . ( also seen on Churchills ) . The BA plastic Churchill dosen't need the upper track run as its covered for the most part by the fenders , so there's a supply of Churchill track if you have that kit , lots of Fireflys , at least Canadian ones used Churchill track as well
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 20, 2017, 09:00:05 pm
Thanks.

For the turret the Tiger turret track was easier to curve to fit.

As an aside, we do need some spare Sherman track links to add to turrets, and some spares for the HVSS versions.

I think the recent British Shermans book had a Sherman with Churchill track links, I will look when I get a chance.

I do have a second Churchill (same offer as the Sherman VC) that will have the hidden track used elsewhere.

I look forward to seeing your model (are you waiting for Rubicon Sherman IC?).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on October 20, 2017, 09:37:24 pm
Yea , I'm waiting for Rubicon' Shermans . The BA M4 was ok , but not feeling the love for the M4A4  ::) , just something about it " feels " wrong . And we do need lots of extra Sherman / Churchill track for Commonwealth tanks , I really mean lots   :D
(https://s1.postimg.org/4afuqnbyyj/Firefly_c2.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/4afuqnbyyj/)

(https://s1.postimg.org/5z1z1zu6pn/Firefly_d.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/5z1z1zu6pn/)

(https://s1.postimg.org/7jrq1gue6z/89786fc8c387f148405da485522a70d2.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/7jrq1gue6z/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 20, 2017, 09:53:03 pm
I know what you mean.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGs_bjGdH5w/WKaxxD5ulbI/AAAAAAAAB6s/U9X0RW0pTaw_nk86nH2Ok474WJRszdl5wCLcB/s1600/m4-m4a4-compare2.png)

But they are the only show in town at the moment.

Definitely need more track in the second Allied stowage set.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on October 21, 2017, 10:47:44 am
Company B make short lengths ( 1 3/4 inches  X 4pcs ) of pewter Sherman track . Might be worth looking into , I have their Sherman Bulldozer  Blade kit and it's pretty good
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 22, 2017, 11:28:39 pm
So, after a bit of an absence, and only just over a month after buying it, I have started work on a Commonwealth Jeep.

This is going to go with the Perry Miniatures 8th Army figures, so LRDG Keffiyehs and guns, lots of guns.

Having looked at the Bolt Action Armies of Great Britain list, the (SAS) gun jeep has a forward facing HMG, either a LMG or MMG also firing forward, and twin rear firing LMG or MMG. The kit has the HMG, one forward firing BREN LMG (or a Vickers K MMG) and twin rear firing Vickers K MMG. So the twin rear mount was added to the back of the body.

As mentioned on the Studebaker build, I had difficulty getting the Rubicon ABS to notice the Humbrol liquid poly (and it is a newly opened bottle). This was an issue in assembling the wings, grille, chassis and upper body as there were no location tabs/pins.

There was also a fill issue on the upper body (just visible on the rear shot). Not a problem with the stowage festooned LRDG vehicle I was building.

I needed another crew member to operate the rear guns, so there is a kneeling Perry figure just placed for testing.

So, here is the state of play of the build (one shot is a bit earlier in the build).

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DUvfJbOVI4k/WeyHXI_N4BI/AAAAAAAACoo/CRWJh-ot1u4-odI2ct4-MLebMaW54jDJACLcBGAs/s1600/rmjeep1-15.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LwJnjAtU1tQ/WeyHXTyma0I/AAAAAAAACos/DuvvsMCxszk6lhqa2JU3hq3S64tkXtOCgCLcBGAs/s1600/rmjeep1-16.png)
I have used the rucksacks from the Allied Stowage set, fixed and filled with Greenstuff.

Thread was wrapped around the bumper to simulate a tow rope.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Ckbt-s3WeE/WeyHXpNLiRI/AAAAAAAACow/JAk72BYQhkA-t_g8gcOLQLty79ZNCHC-gCLcBGAs/s1600/rmjeep1-17.png)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Tc-cUUKGys/WeyHWyqUsuI/AAAAAAAACog/IqXwcU1GueM-S_u7330DO-TvYYHXNjQLACLcBGAs/s1600/rmjeep1-13.png)

Besides needing some arms, the Perry figure will have his Keffiyeh extended further with Greenstuff.

Once that figure is completed I can pack the rest of the vehicle with stowage.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on October 23, 2017, 12:07:56 am
Good to see someone tackling the SAS version.  How are the crew?  They look very similar to Perry plastic 8th Army.

I like the soft stowage, as always.  The row of ammo boxes on the mudguard looks wrong though.  They're too wide and would probably get lost too easily.  And the extra fuel tanks were a post-North Africa feature.  There'd be a second spare on the rear rather than a single jerrycan.

I use Tamiya liquid cement for these kits.  And superglue to add any non-Rubicon stuff.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 23, 2017, 01:03:21 am
Thanks.

I saw a reference to double jerry cans after I had added that one. Other photographs show racks of jerry cans where the tanks have been added. Again after I started.

Ho hum, maybe next one.

I do need to add some straps to the ammo boxes. I did see one photograph with a box on the mudguard, the Rubicon ammo crate was too large. Now I can only find a reenactor one.

Still lots to add.

I will see if Hobby R Uz have the Tamiya liquid poly.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on October 23, 2017, 07:09:20 am
Cool looking jeep . I think the ammo for the ,50 would be in the vehicle , not on the fenders . They're just going to buzz through the German position and probably fire off 50 - 60 rounds before they bugger off , they wouldn't stick around for a fire fight , their tactics were hit and run . Here's a couple of pictures of the same jeep  ( notice Thompson strapped across hood / bonnet )
(https://s1.postimg.org/6yx1ag69zv/Jeep_LRDG_1.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/6yx1ag69zv/)

(https://s1.postimg.org/85gcj1wwbf/Jeep_LRDG_2.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/85gcj1wwbf/)
 Lots of Jerry cans of fuel / water , extra spare tire on rear and packs / bags of personal kit
(https://s1.postimg.org/6m9lj35n7v/66c82e478c1c56027b66b6a1bb694207.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/6m9lj35n7v/) ::)
Same jeep again in color ! As with all colorized WW2 photos ( some are real bad  :o ) , check your own trusted sources
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 23, 2017, 04:09:33 pm
Thanks Ripley.

Interesting the location of the twin Vickers K, centre of the load bed giving the possibility of all round fire.

The ammo boxes are .303 (or .30) so are "afterwards" reloads for the BREN or the K.

I will add two more jerry cans to the bonnet (marked with the white cross as water) and some more soft stowage. Perry tin hats will need to be added to the stowage. Not sure what to do about small arms. There are three options for Thompsons: Perry ones; Warlord ones and Hasslefree metal ones. There is a noticeable size difference, but I am not sure if there is a loose Perry one on the Eighth Army sprue.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on October 23, 2017, 07:36:28 pm
If you look real close at the pictures , the Thompson seems  to have the   front grip like in the Gangster movies , so you might need to make a drum magazine . IRC the UK got  police type Thompsons early in the war , not the Military pattern   And the .50 has the shorter air cooled barrel used in air craft not the longer heavy ground mount barrel , you could probably use the barrel off a BA mg 34 with a little surgery might not be perfect but would look the part
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 24, 2017, 12:30:22 am
I see what you mean about the M2 barrel and the full length shroud. Possibly for the next Allied Stowage set?

Just identified the Thompson on the bonnet.

I am also thinking of stowing the Vickers K guns, they are rather vulnerable.

Off to look at the CMP instructions to see about an LRDG version and the PAK36 for a portee.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on October 24, 2017, 12:35:30 am
If you look real close at the pictures , the Thompson seems  to have the   front grip like in the Gangster movies , so you might need to make a drum magazine . IRC the UK got  police type Thompsons early in the war , not the Military pattern   And the .50 has the shorter air cooled barrel used in air craft not the longer heavy ground mount barrel , you could probably use the barrel off a BA mg 34 with a little surgery might not be perfect but would look the part

Right.  The British were initially issued with the M1928 Thompson, which came in a wooden chest.

I told Rubicon the .50 cal in this kit should be the AN/M2 version with a perforated jacket on the barrel.  These were taken from aircraft, and had a shorter barrel and higher rate of fire.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 24, 2017, 02:25:04 am
Just had a look at the list for"Behind the lines" in the Bolt Action British army book.

Basically you need transport for all infantry, so basically you need one officer and two infantry squads and their transports.

So the officer and his assistant get a jeep, the troops get a 15cwt CMP each.

The LRDG gun truck can use the weapons from the Jeep. I know the PAK36 might not be accurate, but I might use one for the Light Anti-tank gun.

Of course we might have a 30cwt Chevy by the time I get round to that.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on October 25, 2017, 12:01:13 am
I think a little bit of work on the pak 36 from Rubicon's 251 , would give you a fair representation of a 2 pounder AT gun .  Probably change the guard for the gunner , add a few bibs & bobs , maybe a longer barrel ( really haven't measured it out  :-[ ) , put it on a pedestal mount  , and your good to go . Most of the pictures of these type of truck mounted guns by both the Brits and Germans  look very Mad Max anyway ;D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 25, 2017, 12:19:36 am
Thanks.

I was going to use the "spare" from the AT gun set.

Good point on the pedestal, a set of spare wheels from the stowage set might work as stowed wheels from the original towed version.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on October 25, 2017, 08:25:56 am
If the wheels were removed and the gun carriage not cut up but bolted down to the truck bed , I could see them keeping the wheels to put back on when the gun was removed from the truck . If it became a 1-1 scale kit bash to add a gun to the truck , I would think the wheels and most of the gun carriage would be cut up and scrapped . The Germans cut short the trail legs to add the gun to  Dinah , as well the 105 Howitzer on the Pzr I had the trail cut up  . IRC the 2  pounder AT gun was left on its carriage as was the 6 pounder Portee .                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Maybe something like these Italian guns on captured trucks . IRC some vehicles were captured 2 or 3 times eventually coming back to the original owner , sometimes with enemy added goodies
(https://s1.postimg.org/4qg34bff57/fordf152.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/4qg34bff57/)

(https://s1.postimg.org/4xjazr2n5n/d2ac0a823ff71235d5466a9f7ae815ce--north-africa-military-vehicles.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/4xjazr2n5n/)

(https://s1.postimg.org/8rs2ipw5qz/cyprusarmourph_2.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/8rs2ipw5qz/)
2 pounder portee
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 25, 2017, 03:57:00 pm
Thanks for the interesting photographs.

I found this while looking for other photographs.

http://www.militarymodelling.com/news/article/cmp-2-lber-portee-photo-feature/6312 (http://www.militarymodelling.com/news/article/cmp-2-lber-portee-photo-feature/6312)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on October 25, 2017, 09:05:24 pm
I've seen Chris's Churchill stuff before , but not this truck . The gun looks do able , but I'm not to sure about scratching up the ground mount for it . If only we had a few more companies making 1/56 kits , it might make kit mingling easier
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on November 03, 2017, 06:51:10 am
Slow motion on the jeep front.

I have added two jerry cans to the bonnet. One is from the Allied set (with the W^D logo), the other from the German set.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TjMVRPNV5QU/WfufujOj32I/AAAAAAAACpk/EeHyRuuWW_kf7xzblJqjjNol-oSPmFP_gCLcBGAs/s1600/rmjeep1-18.png)

Two magazine pouches have been added in front of the driver. Additional soft stowage and tin hats have still to be added.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XpA3sXZvCSk/WfufymnJWBI/AAAAAAAACps/lfiCwkwQeGgcmdTb-f-bZ8Z-Jec-odFqQCLcBGAs/s1600/rmjeep1-19.png)

One of the straps has sprung loose.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on November 03, 2017, 08:21:44 am
Looking good . I have the same  problem making straps out of thin plastic stock  ::) , I found if you pull it over a thin object ( very small screw driver for ex ) you will give it a bit of a curl making it easier to work with . Think making ribbon curls to decorate  Xmas prezzies
(https://s1.postimg.org/3uhpsj48bv/curling-ribbon-step-3.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/3uhpsj48bv/)
             :-[
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 11, 2017, 06:46:13 am
Just started work on my M4A3E8.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YAbtGomQHz4/Wi237z08gfI/AAAAAAAACwg/jO7qwxs3pAYGkQ3WrVIkbyHNwQ-GGGPPACLcBGAs/s1600/m4a3e8-1-2.png)
Going for a late model with HVSS.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 13, 2017, 03:07:22 am
Continuing work on the M4A3E8.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j8p4lMfDQrI/WjAlEsO6qCI/AAAAAAAACxA/zDb3q5nmVGMqm9tyXcfCPP12_rpoELumQCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a3e8-1-3.png)
Following Pinky's suggestion, I have been using Tamiya Extra Thin cement.

The gun mantlet has been the main problem, the contact points are rather small.

Other than that it has been fine (the upper and lower parts of the turret took some smoothing).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on December 13, 2017, 10:55:53 am
It's a nice kit to build, isn't it.  I ended up leaving off the stowage brackets on the turret rear, as they are a bit fragile.  I put stowage there instead.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 13, 2017, 05:27:35 pm
It is a very nice kit.

I took some more photographs last night, the kit is finished (except for the HMG stowage and the bow MG, the latter goes on at the last because it is so vulnerable, the former for simar reasons).

As an amusing aside, I managed to break the ruggedised M2 on the sprue, not sure how, but the early turret lost its aerial as well.

I had left the cupola off, but having dropped it on the floor twice I glued it on. Then remembered why I had left it off, because I needed to remove the M2 mount on the roof - it will have the mount forward of the commander's hatch.

The only things missing are the infantry telephone and the first aid box.

Good idea on the HMG stowage.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 14, 2017, 03:28:14 am
Some more work in progress
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2GuQz0TGw0/WjF3YMXk0gI/AAAAAAAACxk/JtDGITuPxpoGjzs8_knEXJC-I-G9-DudQCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a3e8-1-13.png)

Infantry telephone for better tank - infantry cooperation.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wMoVZMP07nk/WjF3Yt_pamI/AAAAAAAACxo/vzVl3S0qO04QaZyDmL7nZKCYsh4_7uvgQCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a3e8-1-14.png)

Three quarter rear view showing the rack of jerry cans.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bV-igCAUMMA/WjF3dRQWyaI/AAAAAAAACyE/Jw6zkVE9iBsiUurnSSVygajMZiWrJC26gCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a3e8-1-16.png)
The cans are built with the two cans and the four can moulding from the kit plus two cans cut from the four can moulding from the Allied Stowage set.

The white mark on the turret roof is where I have plugged the HMG position before removal.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on December 14, 2017, 08:56:06 am
Looking good . I see you added  lift rings to the turret sides , does any others have to be replaced ? And are you going to add a more cast texture to the turret and nose ? Do you have a tank picture in mind that your trying to replicate or are you doing your own thing stowage wise ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 14, 2017, 04:11:37 pm
Thanks.

I have drilled the lift ring above the mantlet, the two on the glacis and the two at the back. Not sure if I would have been better replacing them. The ones at the back are difficult because of the angle.

I will use the liquid poly type stippling, I still have the HMG mounting point to smooth off.

I am looking for a post war look, not sure whether to go for that Tokyo Ordnance Depot style or more of an IDF look. Not convinced about a spare wheel on the turret, and the spare sprockets would be entertaining to make.

Not completely convinced the blanket shelf would be good for 160kg.

Currently mislaid my Osprey Sherman 76mm modeling book, so stowage is still to be designed.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on December 14, 2017, 09:53:45 pm
Yea , sometimes drilling out the lift rings is a real pain , but then again so is trying to make 6 or 7 brass / wire lift rings that match   ::) . An IDF Sherman would look cool . Can't find any weight limits for the blanket shelf . BUT , on both Armorama and Missing Lynx , guys fill them up with Jerry cans and other heavy stuff on their models all the time  , and no one seems to have a problem with it comment wise , and guys there do comment on stuff like that , long and loudly . IRC the name blanket shelf  is what the Brits called it
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 03, 2018, 05:18:21 pm
Thanks.

One minor thing missing from the kit are spare bogie wheels for the HVSS. One of the features of the Korean War tanks refitted in Tokyo is the spare wheel. This is also the case on the IDF ones.

Thinking about it, there must be fitting on the turret or hull, so it would be possible to just add the mount.

If anyone knows how they are mounted, that would be useful.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: somtec on January 03, 2018, 09:21:14 pm
Dont know how the spare wheels were mounted on US shermans but the Israelis had what i'll call a short tube welded to hull, on the end was a flat circular plate with  bolts the size of plate and bolts matched the wheel. Heres a photo of one on a m4a1 hull m51 sherman same as on all other Israeli shermans.
(https://s13.postimg.org/pusuky16r/14064236_182456752166660_4715793197639998230_n.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/pusuky16r/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 03, 2018, 10:59:45 pm
Some pictures of spare wheel mounting
(https://s9.postimg.org/ebbt5kqqj/Oup_X6_Vog.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/ebbt5kqqj/)
US in WW2
(https://s9.postimg.org/shrk0wh23/Sherman-korea.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/shrk0wh23/)
US ( ? ) in Korea
(https://s9.postimg.org/7kvbwavwr/korea-m4a3e8-canadian-army.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/7kvbwavwr/)
Canada in Korea
(https://s9.postimg.org/3oi00bqcr/Royal-canadian-dragoons-sherman-tank-korea.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/3oi00bqcr/)
Royal Canadian Dragoons , Korea . Note Centurian track on turret ( begged , borrowed or stolen ? )
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 04, 2018, 12:19:28 am
Thanks Somtec, that is the set of thing I was after.

Thanks Ripley, interesting stowage. Is that a crate of cans on the glacis? Most of the tanks illustrated have the spare wheel strapped/wedged in place. The US in Korea tank has a lot of spare wheels, you can see one on the track guard, one on the turret bustle and possibly one on the front.

Maybe some HVSS spare wheels in the next stowage set?

I am thinking of using the inserts from the two part Sherman wheels for the mounts for the HVSS spare wheels. I will have a look later.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 04, 2018, 11:32:53 am
 Looks like a  case of C ration cans  , franks & beans , yummy   .  If you look at most tanks , everything has an assigned place as in the Stowage diagrams for British tanks . Turret bin holds  a , b , c . Track bin  A holds  d , e ,f  track bin B has g , h & i , so if you transfer to a new tank and have  to fix broken track under fire at midnight , you know spare track pins are  in bin A . IRC there was no real assigned place for spare wheels in WW2 , the crews mounted them willy nilly . You see them loaded loose on the glacis , wired / tied on the engine deck and sometimes if the unit got back to the repair depot , had bolts welded on to the hull so they could attach the wheels with nuts . I think it was post WW2 that the spare  wheels became standard issue  . So your probably good to add them ( when you get some  ::) ) where you like . Just got to decide if your tank's crew had access to a welder so you would have  fabricated mounts , or they just tied them on where they could . Might be good  to watch Fury again just to check out variations in stowage on those 5 Shermans .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 04, 2018, 12:36:29 pm
I am looking for a post war look, not sure whether to go for that Tokyo Ordnance Depot style or more of an IDF look. Not convinced about a spare wheel on the turret, and the spare sprockets would be entertaining to make.

If it's a Korean War M4A3E8 you're aiming for, there are a lot of good photos on the Shadock site (I hadn't realised that there's a page 2 for the M4A3(76mm)):  http://the.shadock.free.fr/sherman_minutia/manufacturer/m4a376w/m4a3_76w2.html

You'll see that the vehicles re-fitted in Tokyo had a bracket for a spare wheel fitted to the turret sides.  This only seems to have been a feature of the Shermans which were part of the initial re-fitting program.

I haven't yet worked out how to do the spare wheel for the HVSS Sherman.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 04, 2018, 12:49:58 pm
 I guess you could cut one wheel  away from the  inner set of wheels  and cast it in resin  or just use it and fake the inside wheel with some circles of plastic and some well placed mud  . Or maybe , would a 1/72 scale Crusader / Cromwell road wheel  be about the right size ? What diameter  in mm are the wheels ?  Might have something in the spares box
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: somtec on January 04, 2018, 03:48:07 pm
Ive been looking at the spare wheel casting and i think it shouldnt be to hard to mould up the back section as is, cast them and then modify the wheels , that way you can still use the original piece. There is an annoying flat spot on the rear wheels which isnt a problem on the back of the track but would i think stick on a spare so this would need sorting or a bracket made in such a way as to hide it. Also all bolts and centre hub would need to go unless mounted using bolts.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 04, 2018, 05:13:11 pm
Thanks Pinky, you are right there is a photograph showing the bracket (four angled clips that support the bogie wheel), it is the one with the 8072nd's M4A3(105) HVSS with sand shields. I had not looked closely enough. I had been looking for a bracket with no wheel in place - the colour contrast on that photograph is such you can see the bracket. Well spotted.

I only found the page after initial assembly of the M4A3E8, it is well hidden ^__^.

Somtec - the IDF ones are bolted, but only using three bolt holes, Pinky's find makes it look like the TOD ones are held in by gravity.

Somtec and Ripley, that is a possibility, but not convinced that it is within my capabilities. You could use two copies of the rear bogie wheel to remove the flat spot. The existing bolt holes and stub axle would need drilling out.

I will need to look at them for the sizes. I think the tyre is proportionally too thick for the Cromwell wheel in a smaller scale.

Thank you for the ideas.

Not quite off topic, but does anyone know why one of the spare VVSS bogie wheels is in two parts?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 04, 2018, 09:14:58 pm
Here's a better photo of the spare wheel stowage on early Korean War Sherman:

(https://s13.postimg.org/s6nzfvs0z/IMG_0125.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/s6nzfvs0z/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 04, 2018, 10:00:17 pm
That kind of trough shaped mount would hide a flat spot on the wheel . Or you could add a small piece of plastic and sand to shape . Weird the wheel has extra holes , the mount has 8 but the wheel has 10 ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 05, 2018, 12:29:29 am
Weird the wheel has extra holes , the mount has 8 but the wheel has 10 ?
If you look on the photograph of Dalmatian you will see that the spare wheel is bolted on using the middle hole of the top pair.

The mount has three holes and two posts, the others look like fade or paint.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 05, 2018, 12:52:55 am
Looking at the photographs of the HVSS page on the Sherman minutia page it looks like the hub has eight holes for bolts and two for positioning studs.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 05, 2018, 02:48:36 am
The wheel is 9mm diameter, I have just measured it.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 06, 2018, 10:53:21 pm
Only I thing I got that might work is a 1/35 Panzer III rubber tired return roller . Mines on a built kit I'm afraid , maybe someones got some extras from a Dragon late Pzr III or Stug III kit , they used to come with both rubber and steel style return rollers
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 07, 2018, 12:34:49 am
Thanks.

I am thinking along the lines of an empty IDF track rack, two empty brackets and two clean wheels on the bogies (mine replacement).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 07, 2018, 01:08:21 am
Your right , new shiny wheels and empty stowage brackets will tell the story . Just add a few wrinkles / creases to the fender over the wheel set and your done
(https://s9.postimg.org/r5uzqdz4b/d6abba7d5687d88262daa5d6af9f6540.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/r5uzqdz4b/)
Oops ! Too  much
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 07, 2018, 07:31:32 pm
I have done a bit more work on my Operation Sea Lion Panzer IB with 20mm cannon.

The base kit is the Empress SCW one.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_VepDjVXB_I/Wk6vJzlBxfI/AAAAAAAAC0g/zdoKhjEVpeUQHC89KhvsAaPer0QhFLO0ACLcBGAs/s1600/pz1b-23.png)
The resin  Empress use loves superglue, and I messed up the alignment a bit, hence the green stuff. Note my first use of the tow loops - I cheated and terminated the tow rope by drilling a hole in the glacis for the end of the rope, then glueing the moulding over the end.

I mislaid the not exhaust pipe that runs from the right side of the glacis to under the aerial mount, hence the brass and plastic replacement. No idea what it is.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x24qr3YiBF4/Wk6vJfXWkYI/AAAAAAAAC0Y/lCbtU_zxUlYiGeqpI8jbPrZRTOw9hU2GACLcBGAs/s1600/pz1b-21.png)
Assorted Allied and German stowage. The jerry cans are two German and the four can moulding from the Allied set. No idea what is in the bucket.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: somtec on January 07, 2018, 09:54:12 pm
nice work, iam trying something on the hvss wheel front, trying to make mould, hopefully should be ok
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 08, 2018, 12:12:05 am
Well done , The extra bits you added look great .  Good idea to hide the tow cable end in the hull, they can be a pain to attach to wire or thread sometimes , I did the same thing on the BA T-34 after replacing the molded on cable , great minds think alike  ::) . To stretch out my cable ends , I tended to bury one end under stowage , so I don't need to use 2 on one model , can't really tell from the pics you posted but I assume you did the same thing .  IRC that " not exhaust pipe"  is something to do with cooling the transmission which is under that part of the nose .  Hot air out or maybe cool air in , as its down the side of the tank where it shouldn't suck in dust and dirt
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 09, 2018, 03:14:29 am
Thanks.

I made the clamp or clip out of greenstuff. Theoretically it is looped over the rear left tow hook, that is covered by the bucket handle (which I made out of wire as I lost the plastic one).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 09, 2018, 03:17:50 am
Not quite what our gracious hosts had in mind for them...
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-lgmAHR9GM/WlO6IqueVFI/AAAAAAAAC1M/PlliRTIOHnozwR4Rwmb2qNn4T-JTsxmPQCLcBGAs/s1600/bmd2-1-3.png)
Three British flimsy cans used to put the track units in a consistent location on an HLBSCo 1/48 scale resin BMD2 (two on the side being glued, one on the other side).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 09, 2018, 08:45:17 am
What ever works .I've use all sorts of weird stuff  to level kits out  ( Lego is great ) Some kind of modern eastern block APC ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 09, 2018, 06:14:01 pm
Some kind of modern eastern block APC ?
The BMD2 is a Soviet air portable IFV.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 14, 2018, 03:12:25 am
So the Panzer IB is now "finished" (there is some dark paint required in the wheels).
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-meSnuWpSayo/WlpTzEFJOKI/AAAAAAAAC4I/mXxlqoDXzxA02SHP0I24NRlyoOpdCnm5gCLcBGAs/s1600/pz1b-29.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mxia4iqsv3g/WlpTyEIzpNI/AAAAAAAAC34/5xVJghmW6ZMZddKeImQ9_LesbKqWUvbDACLcBGAs/s1600/pz1b-26.png)
The crew have stocked up on fuel cans and ammunition. They have also lifted a fire bucket.

I have the T34/76 kit scattered over my work table, so that is probably next (once I decide what version to build).
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lolg4xC0t1g/WlpYEYON7cI/AAAAAAAAC4k/V3rSJMVAVF06eKNx0jhr0WLpfFG4jg_CQCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-1.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 14, 2018, 10:01:05 am
Hey, that turned out very well.  All ready to roll through the Kentish countryside!  Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 15, 2018, 04:49:22 pm
Work in progress on the T34/76.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ucDMONRpThM/WlxenFKeAhI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/E7qmq7XU8101A1-_oBbwp7X-1Sdk-lttgCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-5.png)

I was going to build it "out of the box", but I ended up putting some hand rails on (aided by the Bill Bedford hand rail jig).

Still have bits to add.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 15, 2018, 11:53:55 pm
That's looking good . Where did you pick up that jig ? ( Found some on a Model RR site , is it 4mm or 7mm ?) That looks like it would work for all sorts of scales .  Surprised Rubicon hasn't included a jig on the T-34 sprues like they did for the Crusader light guards , except for the fact the Crusader kit came out after the T-34s  ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 16, 2018, 02:42:02 am
It is the 4mm (20mm or 1/76 scale) one. I used 0.45mm brass rod for the hand rails (I cheated on the rear one and made it one piece).

I have the 7mm (40mm or 1/43 scale one) which I think I used on the T34/85. That used 0.7mm brass rod.

I got them at a local model railway show.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 16, 2018, 07:05:18 am
Thanks , I'll have to get one of those
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Tracks on January 18, 2018, 06:29:26 pm

I have the T34/76 kit scattered over my work table, so that is probably next (once I decide what version to build).
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lolg4xC0t1g/WlpYEYON7cI/AAAAAAAAC4k/V3rSJMVAVF06eKNx0jhr0WLpfFG4jg_CQCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-1.png)

Your stuff looks good!
As for the T-34 choice, I avoided this issue by ordering multiple kits.
I also have one of the T-34/85 kits, and this comes with the bonus turret for the T-34 kit, so there is that option as well.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 18, 2018, 10:14:43 pm
Thanks.

I am going to use the bonus turret with a Bad Squiddo Russian tank commander, the bonnet lid hatch on the T34/76 turret shows too much of the turret interior for the hip length figure.

http://forum.rubiconmodels.com/index.php?topic=281.msg7293#msg7293 (http://forum.rubiconmodels.com/index.php?topic=281.msg7293#msg7293)

I still have to finish the handrails on the T34/85.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 19, 2018, 09:15:34 am
Adding the interior is pretty simple , mostly just the shell guard and a couple of jump seats
(https://s9.postimg.org/9e0mkvo0b/449fcf11a5b2144f4c8c8f4274e794e5.gif) (https://postimg.org/image/9e0mkvo0b/)

(https://s9.postimg.org/t8mo70inf/IMG_20180118_174927257.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/t8mo70inf/)

(https://s9.postimg.org/feybhz5hn/355002_5.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/feybhz5hn/)
1/35 scale Dragon
(https://s9.postimg.org/54vwiqv1n/IMG_20180118_174613647.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/54vwiqv1n/)
Left is the  Warlord T-34  turret . Right is the  Rubicon turret . The 39/40/41 flat turrets each had a different way to store   machine gun ammo drums in the rear of the turret , but its not really noticable in this scale  , so I didn't add it
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 19, 2018, 04:33:19 pm
Thanks Ripley.

The design of the mantlet does help as there is ample prongs to attach a breech and guard. I would probably cannibalise another spare PSC gun.

The problem is the intended commander has no legs.  I will post a photograph later.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 19, 2018, 09:00:04 pm
 If you fit the gun guard in  , you can jam a no leg figure in there , the no leg part won't be seen  ;D. There is very little room in that turret in real life ,that gun divides it in half , I think the crew had to squirm out side ways as there is no room between hatch rim and gun guard for the width of  your waist/ shoulders . How the commander was able to hang half out of the turret and still look around the side of that hatch to view the ground ahead , I don't know
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 22, 2018, 03:28:23 am
Rats, I forgot to photograph the tank commander.

But I still have to build the second turret.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aG3LTLDrNU4/WmTj_srWYhI/AAAAAAAAC8A/4ydoM4qF3Es5OWLQvCgpmT6QQ2SsPNpgQCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-9.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FPryMER75jI/WmTj-xoXiaI/AAAAAAAAC78/6a6INcsmUcsTI-WmWY4iB7ZSQJ4rNf04QCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-10.png)

With the exception of the hand rails, it is built out of the box.

Painting is awaiting a change in the weather.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 22, 2018, 07:38:17 am
Looks good
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 24, 2018, 03:15:26 am
Base colours have now been applied.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NZOsb5v8OqU/WmeH5FtmZnI/AAAAAAAAC9k/Fe2Cig0m1d8iCamUVpmEcAgPgX8cKISigCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-11.png)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tLGTr-vU0w8/WmeH49fVrVI/AAAAAAAAC9g/TXtH3rYMwNwcK711ZrcKGv0QsSjwz6UbACLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-12.png)

I went over the turret to add some texture, but it appears to have disappeared under the paint.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 24, 2018, 08:52:01 am
I;'ve found  that acrylic paint seems to fill in and smooth out my liquid green stuff texturing ,I've had to go over it 2 or 3 times to finally get the effect I'm trying for . Maybe try another thicker layer ( on a test piece 1st ! ) , then add paint . I think the tow hooks on the front should be base coated steel , if your adding tow cables , they would probably wear away rust to bare metal with all the bouncing around these tanks did when moving  If no tow cables , then yea , rust um
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on January 24, 2018, 10:14:48 am
It's a nice smooth finish.  I agree with Ripley about the effects of acrylic paint - I find that all the nice texturing seems to largely disappear even under a thin coat.  I guess it has to be less subtle (I think I'm still coming to terms with this scale, which is a weird compromise between 1/72 and 1/35).  Maybe it will re-emerge when you add the wash and drybrush the surface.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 24, 2018, 05:04:22 pm
I think you are right, I got over enthusiastic with the rust paint on the tow hooks and on the shackle. I am going for a newish look to it.

I will probably go back and re-highlight with first Humbrol Dark Green then Vallejo Black Grey for steel, leaving a bit of rusty colour at the bottom.

Humbrol Dark Green is not very dark, similar to Army Painter Army Green (or Citadel snot Womble green). It gets darker with washes.

I have the spare turret (which using the T34/85 sprue's 76mm turret base is only short of the curved bit of the mantlet) to do some tests.  I plan to use it to make a burnt out turret with some interior detail.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 24, 2018, 10:53:29 pm
It's funny how some colors look blah until you add the shade / wash and then they look fantastic . And other colors look great out of the bottle and then a wash just turns way too dark , :o . Took me quite a while to get the acrylic paints figured out , I used Humbrol enamels for about 40 years . Finally did a whole bunch of test strips and added both GW  and Army Painter washes in various combos / layers to see how tings ended up . Burned out T-34 sounds cool
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 26, 2018, 02:36:41 am
So the T34/76 is "finished".
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T8CpVfV9gqA/WmohFucqdSI/AAAAAAAAC-Y/e-pG0FLmfSQD2yLKOVt4Wq-sv0ftKtPZQCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-20.png)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f6Ttyd7S_Gk/WmohFSUkAGI/AAAAAAAAC-U/f4z0oHDmuwsqz1Su8b2rdXmsuRNluipRQCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-21.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zOe9hGiw0PY/WmohB_THMgI/AAAAAAAAC-A/9FDxY3n9DhkuWr6fo8xywSlTeieMR1xlACLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-13.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KlHiJCGDA1M/WmohB2Uq-3I/AAAAAAAAC94/CY-wUa_zOS8L0Q7xpE3f2anhPHRMkHwJQCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-15.png)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wPNlz8i-C2g/WmohFeioJdI/AAAAAAAAC-Q/ygXhDiZP9CwYI_VS_FZHubAC7sfvYDYlwCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-76-19.png)

I have still to build the hexagonal turret and the burnt out turret with interior.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 26, 2018, 08:55:57 am
Looking good .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 26, 2018, 04:48:40 pm
Thanks.

@Ripley, did you replace the missing vision slits on your KV2? If so, how?

Sorry, just checked, it is the pistol port that is missing.

I replaced the ones on the T34/85 after some too aggressive filing of the revised turret shape.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 26, 2018, 09:11:11 pm
Yes , the pistol ports seem to get removed or hidden when roughing up the turret surface with green stuff and a file  . Pictures show some almost flush and others sticking out like large bumps , must be a factory thing . Did you add a vision port to the loaders side on the T-34/85 ? Very 1st version of turret , ( with forward commander hatch ) had vision port on both sides , all others only on loaders side .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 27, 2018, 12:47:56 am
I have not (yet).

The one in the IWM has it on one side only.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nQ6oDmc1H3c/VjoQLBzPQ_I/AAAAAAAABEY/1rmCzHEE-NQ/s1600/t34-front-iwm.png)

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SB-qFlomxC0/VjoSM2JWADI/AAAAAAAABHI/X78w3enTIt4/s1600/IMG_8553.JPG)

The one in the Tank Museum has a pistol port on the left side and a vision port on the right side.
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/compare-t34-85-part-one.html (http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/compare-t34-85-part-one.html)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 27, 2018, 10:26:31 am
If you notice the holes for the periscopes in the turret roof , the loaders is way forward , and wouldn't give him a good view of whats to the side , if he could even fit sideways up front with the gun breach and machine gun , hence the vision slit . The gunners periscope was pretty much in line with the pistol port , so vision slit not needed . IRC the early turret with the gunner's vision slit  ( and the forward commander's cupola ) had a 2 man crew - commander/gunner and loader , so it had side vision ports like the smaller 2 man turreted  T-34/76s
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 10, 2018, 04:27:17 pm
A clearer shot of the roof (and the bulge for the electric traverse mechanism).
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-srvgVdCf1VI/VjoSQEa9LpI/AAAAAAAABHs/BIE7R3U1KMo/s1600/IMG_8558.JPG)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 10, 2018, 04:31:32 pm
Comparison shot of the Marder III and the Rubicon Jagdpanzer 38(t).
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bWqC4D5YJLI/Wn6mE71AHxI/AAAAAAAADGI/tAtCkzc6SFUFI7lfeXPXZadNupl8a523wCEwYBhgL/s1600/marder-15.png)
I sprayed the breech assembly before adding the shields.

Note, add the nose to the hull tub before adding the tracks.

I have to decide what theatre and hence a colour scheme, and add some stowage.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 10, 2018, 11:32:16 pm
Looking good  . How are the crew figures  ?  Good enough or do they need some replacement heads , arms , etc ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 11, 2018, 04:31:19 pm
On initial inspection they look okay. I will photograph them (they are still on the sprue) and post them on the blog.

I have not compared the head sizes with other plastics (If I do decide on DAK, I would like to add some caps rather than helmets)

My plan is to paint the Marder then add crew, drilling holes for pinning legs etc.

Of course I am easily distracted...
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 12, 2018, 06:43:37 am
Not posting the sprue photographs here, but there are photographs Here:
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2018/02/warlord-games-marder-iii-crew.html (http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2018/02/warlord-games-marder-iii-crew.html)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 12, 2018, 09:24:57 am
Thanks . They don't look too bad . Nice to have the option of using various arms from the parts box if you want to . Some plastic 1 piece figures are a PIA to do surgery on  ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 21, 2018, 04:44:59 pm
Well yes. I have used two arms from the German infantry sprues for the commander.

This is a plea to Our Gracious Hosts to have optional holes in the deck of any open plan self propelled guns to take locating pins for crew.

This piece of Swiss cheese is the deck of the Marder, the three holes marked with arrows are those that will be used. Getting the loader in place was a nightmare. I finally got it in position and discovered there was no room for the commander...
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44tykynzZfY/Woynu0WTh0I/AAAAAAAADNQ/dSIlQbTiUlcGkGq_HucofIaR8Dkbk61uACLcBGAs/s1600/marder-28.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on February 21, 2018, 09:40:57 pm
It's funny - despite all our years of experience, so much of this hobby is still trial-and-error...

I spent some time on your site (always enjoyable).  The Marder crew look quite good.  They would be useful for other vehicles.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 21, 2018, 09:59:21 pm
I would think the Commander should stand behind the Gunner , he won't be moving much . Unlike the Loader having to toss rounds into the gun and then bend and pick up another from a rack or bin . Never was much a fan of pins for figures , unless I wanted them removable for diorama / play purposes .  Usually find I have to cut and re position legs and feet on most vehicle crews to make them fit . Checked out more of your site today , as Pinky says , it's great . I see you had the same problems with the JS -II I did  ;D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 21, 2018, 10:53:40 pm
Thanks guys.

The commander is behind the gunner, but is stepping up onto the raised part of the deck. His locating pin is the bottom left one. The loader is in front of the trestle bit.

I have used the arm with the map, not shown,  which as a DAK vehicle will be a gag one of a plain yellow sheet ^__^
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 01, 2018, 01:57:41 am
So this is now "painted".
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YGfjoFswFqU/WpbpDTQSmUI/AAAAAAAADO4/cIk2I1SxoDwBJgFq7p7t6FMW0WZiXJxcACLcBGAs/s1600/marder-40.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYO4GkJ-_3I/WpbpEX--mRI/AAAAAAAADPI/ZuAbBG-gzwEtfhpqk7NAFHmbdubJlSgBACLcBGAs/s1600/marder-43.png)

Showing off the Rubicon ammunition crate, bucket and jerry cans.

Still painting the crew.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 01, 2018, 08:31:07 am
I like this very much!  The stowage came up really well, and it really looks like an AK vehicle.  Maybe a little bit more wear and tear around the edges of the gun shield?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 01, 2018, 09:23:31 am
Looks great
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 14, 2018, 06:57:03 am
Well the Studebaker has been undercoated.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mYDbsz1QTCI/WqhUNnBPtWI/AAAAAAAADU4/tjfd5upo8t8KyI97tUpyGOyiCjREGQDTQCLcBGAs/s1600/studebaker-1.png)

I am going to continue with the probably unprototypical Humbrol Dark Green colour next. It will then match up with the T34/76.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 17, 2018, 05:00:08 pm
A bit unimpressed with the wheel rims on the Studebaker - you have to guess where the rim ends and the tyre begins.

Looking at the Tankograd book shows where it should be, my painting however is not up to free hand circles on a curved surface....

I have even contemplated using a mask, but that would not work due to the curved surface.

Large applications of Citadel Stirland Mud and Typhus Corrosion covered with Vallejo Burnt Umber will have to do.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Tracks on March 17, 2018, 09:59:18 pm
I do not have the Studebaker kit yet, so this is good to know.
On the subject of wheels, I was a bit disappointed in the Jeep wheels.

Cut and paste from other post:
Quote
Jeep Wheels:
The Rubicon Jeep kits are nice. I like the kits... but I'm a bit disappointed in the wheels (parts B09, B10, B18, B19, and B08). The wheels themselves look nice, but the tire sidewall is high giving the tire a balloon look. What seemed to have happened was that the wheel rim was not done correctly. A good example of what the wheel should have looked like is clearly shown on the box art for the Commonwealth Willys MB kit (Product Code: 280050). Because of the tan colored wheel rims, you can clearly see how the wheels should have looked. The actual wheels for the model suffers in that the rim is not done correctly thereby giving the tire itself a larger than normal sidewall. Except for the the excessive sidewalls of the tires, the Rubicon Jeep is a fantastic kit.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 17, 2018, 10:18:40 pm
I think I see what you mean.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Tc-cUUKGys/WeyHWyqUsuI/AAAAAAAACog/IqXwcU1GueM-S_u7330DO-TvYYHXNjQLACLcBGAs/s1600/rmjeep1-13.png)
I still have not finished this yet.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 17, 2018, 11:24:30 pm
I got myself a STAEDTLER circle template to help with painting wheels and cutting out circles in thin plastic sheet . It goes from 1/16 (1.587mm ) to 2 1/4 inches ( 57.150mm ) , it gives you 45 different sizes of circles . Picked it up at Office Depot
(https://s9.postimg.org/neemijpkb/IMG_20180317_091341750.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/neemijpkb/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 18, 2018, 04:36:40 pm
Thanks.

For cutting circles I have a compass cutter (I forgot to photograph it last night).

I did wonder about using it to cut a mask, but the wheel rim is too deep into the curve of the tyre for a clean border.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 18, 2018, 04:40:22 pm
So, here is the Studebaker in its base coat.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h4BcSEf7lE0/Wq4egdpPHuI/AAAAAAAADVw/KwSmFDQy5-Axw2q5zqDJYE3ZBNIRnhE0QCLcBGAs/s1600/studebaker11.png)
A Bad Squiddo female Soviet for scale. Saying that, they are on the small side. I will have to build a Bolt Action Soviet for a comparison (and list the colours).

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3p26E3SbD4E/Wq4ehvq2k0I/AAAAAAAADV8/Q1rNqp30nsMvKYthKiVKhBWjcHH8Oy8OACLcBGAs/s1600/studebaker9.png)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G-QQoyc2Xw8/Wq4ehIiOnHI/AAAAAAAADV4/SDDGsqrcjLIxgXjVigfOgpCxT-PQBL6pwCLcBGAs/s1600/studebaker8.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iEalyhDTfvY/Wq4egXjNzbI/AAAAAAAADV0/ttl4oaVaNaUzUycsusRdMgjwzTyH5YrFQCLcBGAs/s1600/studebaker7.png)
It still needs decals and final weathering (and possibly a quick brush with isopropyl alcohol to smooth out the green shade on the bonnet).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Tracks on March 18, 2018, 08:27:24 pm
I think I see what you mean.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Tc-cUUKGys/WeyHWyqUsuI/AAAAAAAACog/IqXwcU1GueM-S_u7330DO-TvYYHXNjQLACLcBGAs/s1600/rmjeep1-13.png)
I still have not finished this yet.

Nice Jeep ultravanillasmurf, and from that angle the wheels look a bit better.
It is more obvious from this angle:
(https://s19.postimg.org/8zyra0ylv/Custom_figure_rs.jpg)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 18, 2018, 10:16:14 pm
The trucks looking great , I think you've got the wheels done as best as possible with the limitations of the molded parts . How do you find the Bad Squiddo figures , and what sets do you have ? I picked up the tank crew set , and once I get another  T-34 or 2 ( maybe 4  ::) ) I'll get another
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 18, 2018, 11:18:57 pm
I have the squad set - 2xSMGs, LMG team, six rifles, the tank riders and the tank crew.

This is the first one painted (the rest of the squad are based and primed).
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2018/03/bad-squid-female-soviet-troops.html (http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.co.uk/2018/03/bad-squid-female-soviet-troops.html)

They do appear small - I have just assembled a Bolt Action Soviet for comparison. I will post a comparison later.

They are reasonable mouldings and sculpts. Plastic mouldings would be better.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 19, 2018, 12:21:50 am
They seem more "scale " than BA heroic , probably fit well with Rubicon's forthcoming Russians, I hope  . How are the tank riders ? Do they look good , fit well on the tank hull and in more than one position ? I really like the tank crew , wish BS would do a another set of full figures sitting / standing   on the outside of the tank ( for diorama purposes )
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 19, 2018, 02:07:52 am
My Compass Cutter.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c76_hwD9RLU/Wq6kuv9OxtI/AAAAAAAADWU/mdhGWM21qOEmILvRvs8xOA6Hw0NNln63QCLcBGAs/s1600/compasscutter.png)
You just need to change the blades regularly and try and keep it vertical.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 19, 2018, 02:16:54 am
The Bad Squiddo figures are not as small as I thought. I have not compared them to the Perry figures. I suspect they are slightly more "Heroic".
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OLeJfqBZv3A/Wq6lwOLei7I/AAAAAAAADXI/T8tuDvKTv_8yw6UC48Ez_Tk1bXngyMUlgCEwYBhgL/s1600/sovfem1-1.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgXPDHuw7T4/Wq6lwBJUV1I/AAAAAAAADXA/JMPhxV6f5-olT6CkjYYgkakYJxWnOJHsgCEwYBhgL/s1600/sovfem1-2.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-55bZ9RWu5Jc/Wq6lwSCVTlI/AAAAAAAADXI/jNowf99Jd9YabAG8ylVRwTJEXRVRnyFXQCEwYBhgL/s1600/sovfem1-3.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYrjN46bM4k/Wq6lwz3VPQI/AAAAAAAADXI/fhFP4VrZ3yMmqBWeH8zaodrZhYQFPTpRQCEwYBhgL/s1600/sovfem1-4.png)

This is the first one I have painted.

I did have a play around with getting the tank crew to fit the T34/76. The "skirt" of the jacket does not fit in the Mickey Mouse 76mm turret without slight modification. I plan to fit one to it when I build the turret (the one from the T34/85 kit).

I wish there had been a full length figure or a set of legs that fitted the half figures for the full width bin lid turret (as discussed earlier).

I have "stored" the tank riders somewhere, they will turn up at some time
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 19, 2018, 02:20:50 am
The T34/76 and the Studebaker.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dQqgMD3rflo/Wq6nLYc_SAI/AAAAAAAADXc/DRj2rGbnYCAUh-8KUXBfQzhrMXQltXEQgCLcBGAs/s1600/studebaker13.png)
They were sprayed the same colour (Humbrol Dark Green).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 19, 2018, 06:37:29 am
Wow real difference in color between the two , has one got a wash or been dry brushed ?  Does your BS figure have a brown / leather painted side bag or is it a canvas bag with a heavy wash . The only leather gear ( or ersatz leather )  the Russians had were the belt , rifle pouches , pistol holster , map case  & binnoc  case . Everything else was of some form of canvas / fabric , like 2nd rate Brit webbing
(https://s9.postimg.org/up6gjy9e3/depositphotos_64765409-stock-photo-soviet-soldier-in-wwii-front.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/up6gjy9e3/)
Just to give you a heads up before you paint the lot
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 19, 2018, 11:13:06 pm
Rats, I misread the colours on the PSC box.

Now I need to remember what colour I used on the webbing. The dry brushing was terrible anyway.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 20, 2018, 06:56:56 am
Okay, version 2.0.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3AZyRKIlD94/WrA86S9DjWI/AAAAAAAADY4/-3uZZzZS0r4qe9dX6PKdEnu_M2fR1ysQwCLcBGAs/s1600/sovfem1-10.png)
Still a bit dark. I used Citadel Steel Legion Drab, might be better with Vallejo German camouflage beige.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 20, 2018, 07:41:27 am
Tha'ts looking better . I use Vallejo 70.988 Khaki , its great for the Brit's webbing as well . Two armie's kit - 1 color , cause I'm cheap  ;D  Really  it's whatever looks good to you , I base my color choices on WW2 webbing and kit that I had collected as a teen in the 70s , and some kit box art that looks " right " to me . If  you  have 2 or 3 of the same figure giving them   lighter or darker kit , plain or a camo helmet makes them look a little more  iduvidual ( and I can't spell  :-[ )
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 20, 2018, 05:21:07 pm
Thanks.

Over breakfast I used some Citadel Karak Stone on it, and then got a bit too enthusiastic and painted the ends of the blanket. Well at least I did not get porridge on it (or eat the paint).

I will reshade it tonight.

I am nearly out of khaki, base colour for multicam etc.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 01, 2018, 12:31:01 am
So I have started the T34/76 turret.

The Rubicon pieces (the turret ring from the T34/85 kit is bottom left.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiUNQ_5AEPQ/Wr-0jAlQSZI/AAAAAAAADbk/IbN13Ukpm3cVJm0qYs0xXA6ZVqqxxw7rwCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-blownturret1.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5S1HW3OWIw/Wr-0lpzDHSI/AAAAAAAADcA/w7CAGjNGxIUSdqKcm666r_F661PYxpU-gCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-blownturret8.png)

Some filling required around the breech.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QqeRLmwA59U/Wr-0lbeDHfI/AAAAAAAADb8/sxyYX7JyETo78t70s8oaRdd67rWgazWtwCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-blownturret7.png)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lg0syXgOdBE/Wr-0kXY5yiI/AAAAAAAADb0/dJdshCKPo0Ih2Vwi-c10oqTqMLXH_8B3wCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-blownturret5.png)

The breechblock etc (temporarily) in place.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l1nfjSCyvi0/Wr-0jNWtBfI/AAAAAAAADbo/4H6RM8AEgoUIVlOYJeeGQGYeURVnuUycwCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-blownturret3.png)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IX5qaO1glPU/Wr-0j7tNxtI/AAAAAAAADbw/ad5gfornaiEAO27CBVnmDo8Qks-lMPMawCLcBGAs/s1600/t34-blownturret4.png)


Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on April 01, 2018, 07:00:52 am
Wow , lots of detail on that and most of it gets hidden by the turret roof  ;D  Do you have the front plate for the mantle or do you have to make one ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 01, 2018, 03:14:05 pm
Going to have to make it.

Interesting getting the plastic into the required shape.

Two options, use microstrip for the edges and then use a thin Evergreen sheet as the outer surface of bend a thicker strip of Evergreen to the profile.

I have drilled a hole representing the shot that penetrated on the front of the turret, then any misalignment can be excused as the gun mounting being broken.

Does anyone know what would happen to the view ports in the event of a minor turret explosion ? I have drilled out the pistol port.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 01, 2018, 05:59:40 pm
I'd say the the view ports would not be greatly affected by a penetration, but might be blown off or damaged by the kind of catastrophic explosion T-34s were prone to when their ammo was hit.  Having them open tends to reinforce the fact that the tank is derelict.  But it's not worth the effort in this scale.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 01, 2018, 06:52:49 pm
Thanks.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on April 02, 2018, 12:40:10 am
 . Unlike panzer IV , which had a seperate port ,, the 34's was welded to the turret , the internal stuff moved , not the outside . And if the tank blew up , the  blast would blow open the roof/ Driver hatch and / or remove the turret . Never seen blow out turret vision ports on T-34
(https://s7.postimg.org/z1w9z6e13/T34_turret_SA-kuva_113433.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/z1w9z6e13/)

(https://s7.postimg.org/5o0jjhgfb/IMG_20180401_104657521.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/5o0jjhgfb/)
Notice glancing blow on vision port , pretty good welding  ;D picture from Squadron / Signal T-34 in Action
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 02, 2018, 01:22:02 am
Thanks, the story is of a catastrophic fire as a result of the hit rather than an explosion (it is for a turret swap of tank 21 so the damage has to be limited to the turret).

The plan is to have burn damage round the right firing port and the big hatch (hiding the lack of detail in the turret).

I still need to get the breech assembly undercoated before I  start the assembly.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on April 02, 2018, 03:42:45 am
Here's a few damaged turret pictures from the Mythical Weapon book
(https://s7.postimg.org/e7y66bmuv/damage.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/e7y66bmuv/)

(https://s7.postimg.org/v8h2f0n1j/Hex_2.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/v8h2f0n1j/)

(https://s7.postimg.org/y2k7shrsn/Hex.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/y2k7shrsn/)

(https://s7.postimg.org/exgyiqsk7/rear.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/exgyiqsk7/)
This is what happens when the turret with the bolted rear plat brews up
(https://s7.postimg.org/rddobwtfr/rear_variations.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/rddobwtfr/)
There are 7 distinct types of the flat pan turret according to Myth Weapon , what do we have in plastic  , 2 from Rubicon and 1 from Warlord . Lots of room for kit bashing
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 02, 2018, 04:38:06 am
Thanks.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 07, 2018, 03:50:09 pm
Completely off topic, but...
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-io6u1J57QCc/WshyUBthWiI/AAAAAAAADeU/-EuNKnKv7_UwhG-V3DbIaOndFY4qHveQwCLcBGAs/s1600/anastasia1.png)
Hasslefree Danica figure.

Kev White is probably my favourite figure sculptor.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rIl7CqxUpW8/WTL2Ty5BZ-I/AAAAAAAACUc/CaiXMk3l4z8Q7tL7woHrgFOVo0e2KX5gwCLcB/s1600/jax1.png)
Larren Jax
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on April 07, 2018, 09:52:27 pm
Paint job on Danica looks great , you really nailed the shades of black . At first glance I though the 2nd figure might be Finn from Star Wars ,  nice work on the dark skin tones ,  I've never managed to figure that  out
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on April 07, 2018, 10:17:01 pm

 That T34 turret is shaping up very nicely, I look forward to seeing the finished wreck. I also love Mr Whites sculpting, (nice job on the Danica & Jax minis) I just wish he'd do pulp 30's/40's styled models (the Major Stephanie sort of counts & has provided the base for many female Cap models).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 18, 2018, 03:20:55 pm
Not so much work in progress, but more future work.

In addition to the resin and figures, there was also this at Salute. Slowly catching up.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw_a3BZrpIU/Wtbt_RM1OOI/AAAAAAAADn0/HyE1rut_9uIPF1FCWjb4IBEkdIPcOGOjwCLcBGAs/s1600/rubiconsalute2018-2.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 18, 2018, 03:41:47 pm
First bit of detailing of the Waffentrager's breech assembly.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M_CCbquL-4I/Wtbt_V-qM6I/AAAAAAAADnw/hOQoHxUnBpM4q_1Tz9Kes2-7SGkypBLwgCLcBGAs/s1600/waffentrager8.png)
I loosely fitted the breech guard before gluing the spent round buffer (it probably has a proper name) to the breech. I then glued both ends of the guard and cut off the tag end flush(ish) with the bottom of the buffer.

I need to assemble the pivot into the turret before I try adding the sights etc.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on April 18, 2018, 06:20:42 pm
Sorry, but looking at this again confirms why I don't want to work with resin kits.  No offence to Rubicon, whose resin casting is clearly above average.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 24, 2018, 03:17:03 am
There are not many kits that you can dry fit, resin or otherwise.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qS15rRyUyHw/Wt4nfB3uoFI/AAAAAAAADpo/P-riJB0Ss0QJiCNqKZoEpdiu1wzQcFKTwCLcBGAs/s1600/waffentrager11.png)

I have not started gluing anything else together yet.

I have added rods for some soft stowage on the rear plate and a jerry can.

The hull needs disassembly before painting and I still need to detail the turret.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Jimmy_P on April 24, 2018, 06:15:51 am

The extra details look great  :D what else are you planning to add to the turret?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 24, 2018, 03:34:19 pm
I was inspired by Ballardian's rain cover (I had seen models with hand rails but thought that was too much "chrome" for a last ditch piece of kit).

Interior will be in two stages, one is the addition of a radio, two boxes of something, two gas mask cases and the tube for the sight.

The second will be the crew, as that will require possible scratch building and I would like to have the model painted soon. I will leave the turret unglued to allow access.

Oh, and formal apology to Ripley, my excuse was I had not seen the instructions and thought the gun mount parts were on the outside and that the  socket for the locating piece was the sight opening (I did wonder why the loader had a widget above the  turret top, at least I did not claim it was a machine gun mount ^__^).
Title: Re: UVS models: Hello to Jason Isaacs!
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 05, 2018, 12:32:29 am
So I have assembled and painted the Zhukov figure.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5N0EdSyEgrc/WuyEriTGOlI/AAAAAAAADug/SAPEsyD91KAbDd61D6CoTMUHNdutJxYtQCEwYBhgL/s1600/zhukov3.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXX3SvpQ4Sc/WuyErYfB-0I/AAAAAAAADuc/7lDYr8gr3pgsyW2-cTeGUIlHS2z6CkrSgCEwYBhgL/s1600/zhukov2.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5wk2ZcbftrM/WuyErhebRUI/AAAAAAAADuk/-FH9fWn3aXoXDrmoCvqrny8uJZeOVEBPgCEwYBhgL/s1600/zhukov4.png)

And a size comparison, [edit] Bad Squiddo female Soviet soldier, Zhukov and unpainted Bolt Action Soviet.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OgyyTPTVri0/WuyEr8wDqwI/AAAAAAAADuo/ivCokuPzsGwHxg5epc9JRMj_PdYgZ1R_wCEwYBhgL/s1600/zhukov5.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 05, 2018, 06:17:50 am
nICE WORK , IT LOOK JUST LIKE HJIM . i TAKE IT THE PAINTED iVAN IS psc & THE GREY DUDE IS wARLORD ? sorry , trying to sneak on line at work when I'm supposed to be working lol
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 05, 2018, 02:57:27 pm
Almost, the painted one is an Ivana (Bad Squiddo). The painted PSC are in a box somewhere I(and are incorrectly painted in Vallejo Russian Uniform Green not the more accurate Citadel XV88). Edited to make it clearer.

Well at least you have an excuse, the self quote was due to clicking post while having a quote copy open (instead of modify) so I could  post on Lead Adventure without having to copy and paste all the image links.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 05, 2018, 10:28:24 pm
 You might have double posted but at least  you know what you should be doing . I've never got the quote thing figured out so I don't even try anymore  :-[  Bad Squido make some very nice figures , I keep forgetting to order more .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 06, 2018, 03:12:38 pm
With the surprisingly good weather for a bank holiday weekend, I base coated the Waffentrager in an attempt at a subdued splinter camouflage using Citadel rattle cans. This was sprayed over an undercoat of Citadel Chaos Black.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HMEwTT3tXhk/Wu6k06aymnI/AAAAAAAADww/2jlH7LM-puc1fHVjUy1TUDIGMDPxyCfDQCLcBGAs/s1600/waffentrager12.png)
The first coat was Citadel Mechanicus Standard Grey. After it was dry, long triangles of masking tape were then laid over the hull. A second coat, this time of Citadel Zandri Dust was then applied. Once that was dry, the masking tape was removed and it was left in the sun for a bit longer. The hull was again masked, covering the grey and additionally parts of the dust colour. A final coat of Citadel Snot Womble Green was sprayed over it.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-muywBilqV_4/Wu6k01Lu-SI/AAAAAAAADw4/yHaanpJXj2Y78eHfzDLVRZaJgZZismyAACLcBGAs/s1600/waffentrager13.png)

The running gear is still separate, I hand painted the wheels in solid colour.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5UCGdQELAP8/Wu6k1vNCXoI/AAAAAAAADw8/IBXpFVJmHSQpdn8Hkg6dpox944RY2FjngCLcBGAs/s1600/waffentrager15.png)

The details still need to be painted and the wheels given a second coat after I have painted the tracks.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 14, 2018, 02:14:07 am
Having seen another 11CV in the Spanish television series 'El Ministerio del Tiempo', I was inspired to assemble the 11CV kit I bought at Salute.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-apFFtXV6lmo/Wvh6yr9ySII/AAAAAAAAD0Q/J9H0xf9D0j8uZg6_koW5xUcW4yfA8_HHQCLcBGAs/s1600/11cv2.png)

Perry Miniatures Kubelwagen for scale.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W0w8ezGniEg/Wvh6yzhVJ1I/AAAAAAAAD0Y/ChDefVuvFjoniHuUKH9vcep0Fu5WbxZSACLcBGAs/s1600/11cv3.png)

I will probably go for the "Any colour as long as it is black" option. As you can see I have used the civilian head lights.

It is a nice simple kit to assemble, interior detail would be nice, but would just slow down its completion.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 18, 2018, 02:54:01 am
Just picked up another German stowage set, so my Sherman VC "Hercules" project will be progressing.

The long running Stug has been undercoated.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 18, 2018, 05:42:53 am
WIP Stug III.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8z1HkBTIfQ/W05eeifeWUI/AAAAAAAAD-g/fiB3_MBPCskccRx-vheSLOrpzteAQvmygCLcBGAs/s1600/stugiii-10.png)

Lots of Rubicon stowage and spare track.

The last time I looked at this was November 2016!
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on July 18, 2018, 06:06:30 am
Wow , a blast from the past  :D Are you going to add the stowage rails to hold that stuff on ? A full45 gallon drum weights about 200 plus pounds , so ropes won't hold it . And check the size ( in scale ) of that crate , looks too big for an ammo box,. I cut mine in half . . And are you going to add the engine crank ( a little scratch building needed ) usually found on the rear hull plate ?  And last but not least , what color and brand of paint did you use ? I like it  :)
(https://s33.postimg.cc/k7hltrqnv/Stowage_2.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/k7hltrqnv/)
Taken from Track48 - Tamiya Stug build
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: H0ffmn on July 18, 2018, 09:18:41 am
I hope that the plastic or metal crew of that sturmgeschutz never have to remove that spare track off of the back of the upper rear superstructure. Or the track on the right side of the superstructure.   :-\
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on July 18, 2018, 09:57:59 am
While the  track on the casement rear are put on upside down ( didn't notice it , should of , I did it myself once  :-[ ) , I assumed the track on the sides are welded on as permanent extra armor
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 18, 2018, 03:48:24 pm
Oops! The photograph in NVG 37 page 38 - grrr. The drawing on page 6 of Bradford's Late War book has no track in place.

I have probably repeated that mistake all round. I had thought it was on brackets and  the bar just held it in place.

The track on the side is held in place by bar and bracket similar to the front.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lrYBTMwMjrg/WDTKBYryrRI/AAAAAAAABnQ/HVmh3YuJ-NYMEUu7jAaaE_dPEhVMQObDACLcB/s1600/stugiii-5.png)

It has nearly as much track as armour as Hercules.

It will eventually get skirts (when I find them), if only to hide the uninspiring Warlord running gear.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on July 18, 2018, 08:10:57 pm

 Lovely job on the stowage (& I'll be shamelessly stealing the ideas for the next StuG I paint) :)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 18, 2018, 08:47:02 pm
Thanks.

It does also hide that I managed to lose one of the spare wheels.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Captain Blood on July 22, 2018, 03:07:34 am
Yes indeed. Great stowage as usual UVS.  8)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 01, 2018, 12:50:01 am
While I wait for Rubicon to get round to a Sherman V (I can wait all day...), Here are some more uses of the German Stowage set.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FaqlZi5ymTo/W1-HgRfrACI/AAAAAAAAEAo/25MR-EdbX48QuBaluUeZfY0i2IPWtCIggCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a4C1-11.png)
The white pegs on the turret are for soft stowage.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0nSi7Zksjz8/W1-HgbPNc5I/AAAAAAAAEAs/uuQeKfW05VkzlinK4yMbzxVXx2SyBuntQCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a4C1-13.png)
Interestingly, the Warlord travel lock resembles the normal 75mm one (unlike the Rubicon 17 pounder gun lock which matches the George Bradford drawings). So I removed the moulded on one and replaced it with a 75mm one from the composite (not sure If I am building two Sherman ICs). A cross piece at the bottom made some improvement.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MlIZEnUw1Xc/W1-Hg9exc2I/AAAAAAAAEAw/1QoKo2EUH0g5S-tCJw2pae_ZbjVO-a55QCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a4C1-14.png)
Now a question, I have seen photographs of Churchill tanks with armour at the back of the hatch (NVG Churchill book and the Osprey Tank Crew book) to protect the commander while not buttoned up, but did Shermans ever have similar armour?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on August 01, 2018, 02:13:26 am
Wow . you must have picked up 3 or 4 stowage sets , thats a lot of Panther track .  I haven't seen the extra armor on Shermans , I think that with the 3 man turret crew having to get out of one hatch ( on most models ) might be something to do with it, sort of like they got rid of the 50cal as well . Churchills have those wonderful side escape hatches for the crew to use if under fire . BUt , I've also seen it on  Cromwells , and those are small hatches to get out of in a hurry . Maybe late in war when the Allies worried more about snipers than tank on tank battles ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on August 01, 2018, 09:09:18 pm

 Nice work, it looks great (I think I've found one of his troop mates).


(https://s33.postimg.cc/6xiqop86z/Got_enough_spare_track.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/6xiqop86z/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 01, 2018, 10:53:01 pm
Nice find. That does provide an answer to where to put the registration number.

Might use that as a prototype for one of my remaining Italeri M4s.

There are probably four sprues (two boxes) worth of German track plus the spare track from a Tiger.
http://forum.rubiconmodels.com/index.php?topic=281.msg2410#msg2410 (http://forum.rubiconmodels.com/index.php?topic=281.msg2410#msg2410)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on August 02, 2018, 02:05:28 am
Wow , thats neat . Looks like a bunch of the Canadian pattern track ( Ram / Sexton) on the rear half of that Sherman . Any idea if its a Canadian Regt ?. We really need someone to release a whole bunch of  single Churchill and Sherman track links for kit bashing . I wonder if Rubicon might take the plunge on day ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 02, 2018, 06:01:59 am
There was a T34 former monument that had been reactivated in Ukraine that had track added as armour over the front mud guards. I did contemplate something similar for the Sherman, but getting the track to bend to fit was too difficult.

Yes, we need individual links for Shermans and Churchills.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on August 03, 2018, 12:53:24 pm
I like the Firefly.  Imagine the weight all those track links added to the tank!  In film of them you can see that a lot of these tracks were only partly welded on, and moved about a lot when the tank was moving.  So it probably made them even noisier too.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 03, 2018, 03:36:07 pm
I have the Osprey modelling the M4/76 book and on page 47 there is a picture showing the suspension compression on an E2  (that had five tonnes of additional armour). I suspect the sandbags had similar effects.

I can understand why some generals banned the practice.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on August 03, 2018, 03:43:42 pm
Patton banned sandbags, but advocated adding slabs of armour, which presumably weighed much the same.  It's been said that, for a supposed tank expert, Patton was remarkably ignorant about the technical aspects. 
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Tracks on August 08, 2018, 02:55:07 am
He was out to get a job done and to waste to much time worrying about the little things.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 08, 2018, 04:11:23 am
He was out to get a job done and to waste to much time worrying about the little things.
I have to admit to not knowing a great deal about the personalities, and having just finished Beevor's book on the Ardennes, they all seem to have had their "idiosyncrasies".
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on August 08, 2018, 09:54:12 am
At heart Patton was a cavalry man , and he used his tanks like they were horses . Advance and kill the enemy , if you lose your mount ( horse or tank ) get a new one  and push on .  I always thought  his idea of getting the surrendering  Germans to join the US and push east into Russia and retake all the countries / land they " liberated "  was a crazy idea .Who knows might have worked and we wouldn't have had 50 years of a divided Europe .   
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 12, 2018, 01:11:51 am
Okay, it has been a while since I have posted any work here.

For those of a certain age, the GDW RPG "Twilight 2000" was an interesting starting point for World War III gaming.

Under Fire Miniatures have a range of Cold War white metal figures, including Soviet infantry. The NCO figure has been converted by changing the trousers and boots and replacing the head with an Empress Miniatures woolly hat. He has also got a Rubicon rucksack on his back (my excuse for posting it here).

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R_J8-T7upio/W795GZI8oQI/AAAAAAAAEMA/JFKCeheWCR0qzQ3t9foMdq-BrqRptq3swCLcBGAs/s1600/sov-nco-7.png)

One of the effects of throwing Instant Sunshine around is a requirement for new trousers.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8oNdaKPV3mY/W795FMioMhI/AAAAAAAAELs/O8lN8xVS8hs1jGUC7gOUSlfLvYc_MYFYwCLcBGAs/s1600/sov-nco-2.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rRh9jei3s4U/W795Gbdh0mI/AAAAAAAAEL8/OcznhOAoaAIUtmswH4Ux1ZTcm3BN8OgGgCLcBGAs/s1600/sov-nco-6.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 09, 2019, 06:52:13 am
More use of items off the Allied Stowage sprue.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FXlKVUvl9jE/XDUlDzNg-mI/AAAAAAAAEoA/wZ_CdEXsEl0ZXuIYDTM7eUwQ28euhbMQwCLcBGAs/s1600/paul6.png)
A Crooked Dice figure with a rucksack from the Allied Stowage sprue.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNFGiDhGw48/XDUlDv77QAI/AAAAAAAAEn8/oSknKy8xTIQzEid7Ao4iDJeW2f9uNRdfgCLcBGAs/s1600/paul5.png)
Slightly odd colour balance.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 24, 2019, 03:03:41 am
Finally finished painting "Hercules" (last seen http://forum.rubiconmodels.com/index.php?topic=281.msg7823#msg7823).
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I5GuU4YCLqo/XEivPl60cAI/AAAAAAAAEqU/5VkwGSfEjL89A2Isx8ehf30MhTZCFqVnwCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a4C1-31.png)

The crew of the Sherman VC "Hercules" gained fame after their epic battle against a Tiger Tank in the Normandy village of Nemea. Most of A Squadron were either beaten back or casualties, but Hercules made it into the village. There are two versions of what happened next.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rrcsVgd0eoc/XEivNAo6DyI/AAAAAAAAEp4/_uu3Edfu0SsCpBYWQOaNn1NAZ0nQTGO4gCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a4C1-24.png)

In one version, even the fabled 17 pounder could not penetrate the Tiger's impregnable hide. Eventually, the crew scored a direct hit down the muzzle of the 88mm gun, blowing out the breech and detonating the Tiger's ammunition.

In the second version, Hercules out-manoeuvred the Tiger. first jamming the turret and then immobilising it. They then moved in to beat the Tiger to death at close range.

To commemorate their victory, the track from the Tiger and other tanks that met their end from their 17 pounder were draped upon the tank.

The track on the turret comes from the Rubicon Tiger kit, the rest of the track, including the Sherman track come from the respective Rubicon Stowage sets. The gun travel lock on the rear deck comes from the Rubicon Sherman 1 Hybrid kit.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QvRxpp0Du-4/XEivNHY_9iI/AAAAAAAAEp8/yPu3e5ZIMNEI3JGFE4xbXXU6I77PoBtEwCLcBGAs/s1600/m4a4C1-25.png)

There are four jerry cans on a shelf on the rear left of the hull, a British one, half the four can set and a German one.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 24, 2019, 08:27:45 am
Looks great . So you used the Tiger track from a kit ? Was it the top run of track hidden by the side skirts ? You really don't need to add that track ;D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 24, 2019, 05:13:32 pm
Thanks.
So you used the Tiger track from a kit ? Was it the top run of track hidden by the side skirts ?
No, it was the spare links that go on the turret.

One of the problems with adding track armour to the Sherman turret is being able to get it to conform to the shape. The pieces for the Tiger turret are designed so you can bend them to fit.

The side and front armour is from the Stowage sets.

I hope that in their next stowage set, Rubicon do individual Sherman links (I know there are some in the A3 kit for the HVSS) as well as Churchill ones.

I think it is the British Tanks In Normandy book that has a Canadian Sherman wearing a side skirt of Sherman track links hanging down the sides (it might also be in the Osprey Firefly book). I will have to check.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 24, 2019, 09:24:56 pm
Some Canadian units covered their Shermans with welded on track , I've got half a dozen pictures of different tanks saved ( somewhere ) . And yes some smaller lengths of track , both Allied and German would not go amiss . Really can't figure why Rubicon made the Panther track in the Stowage set so long , from pictures it was usually hung in 4 link sections on the turret side , and one or two links on the side stowage rack . I've managed to use / salvage track that was going to be hidden  behind the side skirts on both Panzer III / IV as well as a Warlord Panther . The problem is you don' get a full run with track teeth as they leave a flat spots  over the wheels .  Wonder why some of the other AM companies ( S&S , Company B ) haven't released track sets ( althougth Comp B has a few lengths  of Sherman track ) . From what I've read , ading track to the turret might have given you a little more protection , but the extra weight slowed the turret traverse down and if too heavy , damage it . That's why  Patton was said to be against adding track to the turret , plus it looked sloppy  ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 27, 2019, 12:00:05 am
I was reading about the Tiger II, and they found that adding track to certain areas of the turret reduced the overall protection while in other areas it increased it, hence the track links fore and aft on the turret.

Frankly I would fear for the hardness of the plate if some REME started applying a welding torch to it.

I forgot to mention adding three links (with or without a rack) for the front of Shermans.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-49KULaKYtOc/XER9xEscM8I/AAAAAAAAEpM/RryuO5fShEYZrNYvhGbQ9WnAYrVwPbi_wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5193.JPG)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DygYBKuyHMU/WGdy5_U06QI/AAAAAAAABtk/2U6IzJmtQ9YgUFHuM3Zapr7kKSmeOBnhACEw/s1600/m4a4-sparetrack1.png)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8rHGbXCOknI/WGytyIEJM3I/AAAAAAAABt0/j2MYCYCbvOgmV6cpr91dNFLjdNtEPCWQwCLcB/s1600/m4a4-detail2.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on January 27, 2019, 12:21:31 am
That looks good . IRC those 3 link racks on the Sherman were for damage replacement not extra protection although they " might " help . Notice the mid / late Tiger I got rid of the spare track on the nose . IRC the Tiger track was for damage replacement as well , the Tiger II carried both left and right handed track as spares . If it was just for protection it wouldn't matter what track they carried . The word is ( WOT Chieftain , and various authors ) that the track somehow made the incoming round more libel to damage the hull than without the extra track . But as the Chieftain says, extra track as additional armor  made the crew feel safer , weather they were or not . And if you fell safer  , you might be more bold in taking the fight to the enemy . Most modern tanks don't use spare track as extra armor , they use wire mesh or slats to disrupt  RPG rounds by causing them to explode against the slats as opposed to the hull
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 10, 2019, 03:08:55 am
I have finally started on one of the Shermans from Salute.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mM4vVbUReIA/XF8crrTh_rI/AAAAAAAAExE/hY22zEGjBwU7pJa6Hs_4-vNbRr69myYJACLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-8.png)

I have still got to smooth off the join on the turret bustle before I add the rest of the fittings (including some lifting rings).

As is normal for Rubicon kits, I have left the hull and chassis separate to make it easier to paint.

Oh, and once again I initially put the transmission cover on upside down...
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on February 11, 2019, 01:50:35 am
So the tank is assembled.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7YVTNpDmxjI/XGBdiPWfvtI/AAAAAAAAEyY/BU1gyeUp4h8kmTNbwvyDEflOgN_9qNDhwCLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-10.png)

I might have been a bit previous with the cheek armour.

You can see the added lift rings on the turret.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v0zWGE4ghMI/XGBdjHeZroI/AAAAAAAAEyc/aXLA7xaq2ZgWfS39P_BPfiCkbFUoTxGvACLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-13.png)

This tank is going to be painted as a member of 33rd Armoured Brigade, probably 144 Royal Armoured Corp - tactical sign 174.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on February 11, 2019, 06:59:34 am
Looking good .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 03, 2019, 11:43:07 pm
So the M4 is now painted, but sorely in need of weathering and some wear and tear on the decals (the white stripe at the top of the Diablo looks a bit thick).
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dKzrS-izfMc/XHvfKhdrwmI/AAAAAAAAE80/yAsaG4F6U1MjSPEh8u-lntWvB1G0TqqsQCLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-20.png)
The tank number is the wrong size and the wrong font (and probably the pistol port should be removed).

One of the photographs of a 144 RAC Shermans in the British Tanks In Normandy book is captioned saying there is a road wheel on the side of the turret.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aOCjJmbHNVE/XHvfKpP-6dI/AAAAAAAAE8w/4-IIoNnQnBUYVxURr6Zs5J_PFTkzcX9rwCLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-22.png)
It is pinned there, but I am not sure it does not need something more obvious holding it up.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WDRLXI76mRw/XHvfLo6_MaI/AAAAAAAAE9A/ZAJ5RIXAxzQlH6HPsBGR4TemP1O7Fyx-wCLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-24.png)
I have added a tow cable to the right hand side of the deck, running from the glacis.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 04, 2019, 02:38:27 am
That looks really good . Nice work on the tow cable .  It really is tough to find the right font for some vehicle decals in this scale  , I just end up using what I've got , even sometimes using larger 1/48 or 1/35 if I have them , rather err on  size if it's a specific vehicle I'm modelling .
So for your spare wheel problem . You could strap it on using the footman loops which a lot of Brit tanks had added to turret sides for cammo net stowage
(https://i.postimg.cc/B8DbR7Cz/fireflyturret4-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/B8DbR7Cz)
It might also be strapped / bolted to one of those spare track holder / mounts the Brit Shermans had on the turret , or you could add a welded on threaded rod and a cap or piece of bar and a large nut like these 2 command tanks have
(https://i.postimg.cc/t7dS9XTq/7e2818375ad4ae859cbf3f3115911483-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/t7dS9XTq)

(https://i.postimg.cc/xN9PXzC0/d3ac22637d5fdd9803495b94e416615c-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/xN9PXzC0)
Pictures are from an article on Missing Lynx discussing how individual British tank units can be identified by  spare wheel / track /and stowage box placement . Really helps if you can't see the tank's unit markings . Of course I saved a couple of pictures and forgot to make note of when the article was printed  ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 04, 2019, 03:22:15 am
Wow thanks for those, 33rd Armoured Brigade, 144RAC!

Just the ticket.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 04, 2019, 08:22:07 am
Here's a few more from the same set  I found in my hoard of Sherman pictures , one day I should probably sort and caption the pictures .
Here' #20 from another angle
(https://i.postimg.cc/w1Qkb4nT/90268a29e38a63fca27b05d9abf52961.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/w1Qkb4nT)
Notice the sand skirt mounted upside down on the left rear of this one
(https://i.postimg.cc/crQ7r5xM/381980c00e5bc4a072e53ef83f533dbf.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/crQ7r5xM)
Note the antenna mounts and telephone wire reels on this one , tank #20 is seen in background ( why no big # on this one ? )

(https://i.postimg.cc/njDjNCMY/f8bad3d8cfb4cc434394cb95daa436c2.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/njDjNCMY)
I think this might be part of the same photo set , if not it's still a command vehicle of some sort  , I count 3 antennas ( RAC ? )
(https://i.postimg.cc/Mn3nTyQm/PA-xxxxxx-39-Caen-OP-Tank-July-9th-M4.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Mn3nTyQm)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 04, 2019, 04:39:26 pm
Thanks for those.

The caption on the last one says it is an OP tank, hence the additional radios.

The track tensioning tool having fallen out of its bracket is a nice detail on the second photograph.

The tank with no number (in the photograph with 20 in the background) is interesting. It appears to have a "Firefly"  style multi angle box on the rear plate. Is 76 on a coloured square?
There is what looks like half a cable reel amongst the tools on the right angled part of the engine deck, or there is a cut out in the plating.

External smoke grenade launchers appear on a number of the photographs. Something for the next Allied stowage set in plastic?

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 04, 2019, 10:42:29 pm
You get a pair of those smoke launchers  in the BA plastic M3 Stuart kit . I might have to rethink the version I want to build now .These must be earlier built Shermans as they wouldn't have the internal smoke launcher ( ex 8th Army tanks maybe ? )  No  #  tank has a full cable reel on the engine deck , its just placed behind  that scoop thingy , making it look like a half reel . It's too bad the censors removed the lower markings , but above that you can see an X and 76 . And notice on all tanks  where you can see the rear upper plate  have the notch / hole for the engine crank    , making them radial engine M4s . Lots of ideas in the pictures for a British specific tank detail kit what with the boxes , tools , antenna mounts , cable reels , smoke dis chargers  etc , hopefully somebody gets round to releasing one :D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 05, 2019, 04:38:08 am
They also have the Radial engine (I/II) hull rear with the inverted "U".

I assume x76 is a Sherman V. So you think the 76 is not the tactical sign?

I just noticed that the frame holding the reel is balanced on the air scoop, that moves it back which explains how it fits on the deck.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 05, 2019, 05:25:06 am
I think the X is the diablo insignia used by the 33rd AB, outlined in white  ( picture from Brit Tanks - Normandy pg 70 ) In my previous post I think maybe the diablo might be obscured by dirt ? A lot of pictures show the shape better than the actual twin triangles, but just a guess on my part , what do you think ?  And with various tanks in the units using the large numbers in the book's photos ( 18 ,37 , 66 , 23 ) I wonder if it's not tank # 76 ?  And for some reason not all tanks in the Regt have the large turret numbers , maybe replacement units from the supply squadron
(https://i.postimg.cc/RWn2tF5k/IMG-20190304-140743235-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/RWn2tF5k)
Lots of books out there on the insignia and markings of almost all German Panzer and SS Armored units from 39 - 45 but the Brits sadly are lacking in a explain all book IMO , or do you know of one ?
Here's another picture showing the white outline diablo . ( Concord Brit Sherman Tanks pg 63 ) Caption says white outline paticular to 144 RAC ( Oct 24 1944 St Michielsgestal , Holland )

(https://i.postimg.cc/4md3Zc7b/IMG-20190304-143519631-HDR.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/4md3Zc7b)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 05, 2019, 10:16:48 pm
 I had forgotten I had not put a front or rear view.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vgp-tKlOQA/XHvfLYSgR6I/AAAAAAAAE88/zkVYyOndli0g__LwDdCKYXUPPJzJfB9LwCLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-23.png)
I have not got any numbers with the outline.

Not convinced the X is the diablo, the examples I have seen have the top and bottom outline in white. Saying that the one you found is the largest I have seen.

I only have BTIN and the Dennis Oliver book (the Osprey books I have do not have enough detail). I have noticed a typo in the Oliver book, one of the photographs is captioned 27th Armoured Brigade but 144 RAC.

Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 06, 2019, 01:23:13 am
I'm not certain if the X is the diablo either , but there are a few variations in the pictures , so ? Mind you it should be located  on the far left side not far right .  I wonder which factory ( of the 4 that made M4s ) made the Shermans I posted. Different tool layout than Rubicons , the pictures have almost all the same tie downs / locations for the tools , the exceptions seem to be ones with stowage covering tie downs or just tossing tools  on the tank in a hap hazard manner . Your Sherman looks great . Depending on the factory type ,( do we even know which one Rubicon modeled ? ), it might need a hole in the rear for the crank , but notice some cranks are mounted covering the hole  ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 06, 2019, 05:02:07 am
I think all of the Sherman I/II need the hole to crank the engine round.

Saying that I only drilled one of the Warlord ones.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-utH6h5iXiZE/VfkgkYNrizI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/5kLxkSDRwMY/s1600/m4-tank2-unpainted-rear.png)
Of course the first finished one had a box on the back.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 06, 2019, 05:52:44 am
 Yes I know it needs a hole , just wondering if the factory version Rubicon modeled had a visible hole or had the hole covered by the crank . The Rubicon tool stowage is mirror image of the tanks in the photos . IRC 4 ( 5? ) factories made the M4 & M4A1  and all factories  had subltle differences in shape of driver hoods , glacis plate antenna pot and tool storage . Is Rubicon's a specific factory version or just a CAD mishmash ? Still haven't got my greenstuff tarps looking anything like yours ...... ::)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 06, 2019, 02:39:38 pm
I've been following this, but didn't have time to comment.  Just want to say that it's always fun to watch UVS build and chat about a project.  My only nitpick is that it would have been good if you'd tidied up the model's rear end, above the tracks.  There should be a strip right across the rear plate above each track, and there shouldn't be such a pronounced join where the rear plate meets the sides (the rear plate on the model is too thick).  I think your spare wheel should have a bracket.

Like Ripley, I still envy your soft stowage skillz...
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 06, 2019, 03:26:43 pm
The Rubicon tool stowage is mirror image of the tanks in the photos .
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gzhgJhDxPTg/XHvfL48IDCI/AAAAAAAAE9E/zC7zlpVvVCI1UcQEQgYMfhgSil3Nck4HgCLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-25.png)
For reference, the Warlord one.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FlBp72-C93Q/VfkgvygDF6I/AAAAAAAAA-4/OuZ8dmDa4iQ/s1600/m4-tank3-top.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 06, 2019, 03:29:04 pm
Okay this is a Sherman VC.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jc970UhtPa8/XER9xw6pPzI/AAAAAAAAEpU/ik1zzZ0sCTs3DUr4E6S1HVU90Xnp_dW0wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5196.JPG)
Former IWM Duxford Grizzly.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jtXmHpiNVZ0/VrI8EpdXa7I/AAAAAAAABQw/MSG7_1ssbSs/s1600/IMG_8828.JPG)
IWM Sherman V.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e9NwA4Dm0yw/WFwnpb73d2I/AAAAAAAABr8/BhV6A2cRQksCd2-0gV-ZRF-BSrqaJQyQgCPcB/s1600/IMG_8577.JPG)

I really need to do something with the Southsea Grizzly photographs.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 06, 2019, 03:51:19 pm
My only nitpick is that it would have been good if you'd tidied up the model's rear end, above the tracks.  There should be a strip right across the rear plate above each track, and there shouldn't be such a pronounced join where the rear plate meets the sides (the rear plate on the model is too thick).  I think your spare wheel should have a bracket.
Oops, glad you spotted that enormous crevasse, no idea why I had not (though it does sort of explain the jaunty angle between the chassis and the upper hill. Next basing exercise and I will millilitres it.
I assume the strip is the abbreviated mud guard?

I know a bad modeller blames the kit, but I did have issues getting the rear plate to align. Of course that is nothing compared to the sandshields on the Hybrid (though putting the inner mudguards on the wrong way round added to the entertainment).

Like Ripley, I still envy your soft stowage skillz...
Thanks.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 06, 2019, 04:06:02 pm
The Rubicon tool stowage is mirror image of the tanks in the photos .
Doh!
You mean on the rear plate not the side, ignore the above.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vgp-tKlOQA/XHvfLYSgR6I/AAAAAAAAE88/zkVYyOndli0g__LwDdCKYXUPPJzJfB9LwCLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-23.png)
I have just run through the photographs of the M4 hybrids on the Minutia site and all the examples have crank handle to the left, tensioner on the right.

On the (other) PSC  M4  page on the site, the crank handle is still to the left, but the post for the tensioner is left of centre, handle to the right.

The Alco page shows tensioner to the right, but the hybrid POWAB shows the crank handle on the right, not left but no tensioner.

Baldwin's show left of centre tensioners.

As an aside, the nubbins between the hinges on the rear engine doors is the mounting point for the exhaust deflector grill. You can see them just below the filters on my model.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 06, 2019, 05:16:43 pm
I will have a look at the Osprey Sherman Firefly book later.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 06, 2019, 05:27:40 pm
Oops, glad you spotted that enormous crevasse, no idea why I had not (though it does sort of explain the jaunty angle between the chassis and the upper hill. Next basing exercise and I will millilitres it.
I assume the strip is the abbreviated mud guard?

I know a bad modeller blames the kit, but I did have issues getting the rear plate to align. Of course that is nothing compared to the sandshields on the Hybrid (though putting the inner mudguards on the wrong way round added to the entertainment).

There are some issues with the rear end of the Rubicon Shermans.  I was referring to the strip above the tracks to which the sandshields are supposed to be attached - on the kit this is rudimentary.  Now Ripley's pointed out the error with the tools, I need to check what I did with my partially-built M4s.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 06, 2019, 05:58:57 pm
My intended to be Hybrid Firefly has the same rear plate, as I could not find a photograph with the two boxes in those positions (POWAB does not show the right hand box, nor signs that it has been removed or blown off). Of course I will find a photograph in the Osprey Firefly book, because that is how it goes. I will remove the tensioner because that does not appear in any photographs I have, but the existing crank handle does seem to be correct for Fireflies.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 06, 2019, 08:58:02 pm
I'm not saying there's a error with the tools , it just that tool placement ( like driver hood shape , antenna pot ) help to identify the factory version . I'm wondering it all the bits ad up and we can "know" what factory version this kit represents . Sort of like which of 3 factories does my Panther represent ( different factory cammo schemes ) , or is that over thinking a plastic model kit ? :o
Those nubbins on engine door plate are door stoppers , the mounts for the deflector were on the door
(https://i.postimg.cc/p9C6KJbm/M4-A1-2-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/p9C6KJbm)

(https://i.postimg.cc/c6rb83DJ/M4-A1-E8-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/c6rb83DJ)
Easy enough to get a little mixed up on this stuff , I thought they were to mount the Brit style tow bar when first saw them  :-[
(https://i.postimg.cc/KKbnx6WT/IMG-2295.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/KKbnx6WT)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 06, 2019, 10:04:19 pm
That makes sense, though I have no idea where the tow bar is supposed to go (though over the door stops looks right).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 06, 2019, 10:34:10 pm
The crank handle was roughly in the centre on the IC Firefly.  The track tensioning tool wasn't placed on the rear plate. The hole seems to be standard.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 07, 2019, 02:34:54 am
The crank handle was roughly in the centre on the IC Firefly.  The track tensioning tool wasn't placed on the rear plate. The hole seems to be standard.
Strangely from all the photographs the crank handle seems to be handle to the right on Fireflies, left on the others, though I suspect the mounts are the same.

I have checked the Osprey Firefly book and it has a Coldstream Guards' IC without the small angled box on the right rear plate, same for a New Zealand example. There is a South African one in Italy with it.!

There are also examples with extended end connectors - an option I should have taken up utilising the bits from the A3 kit.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 07, 2019, 04:06:06 am
IRC the crank could be mounted either way , just one way though, where it would sit between the wrench and the sledge hammer . I don't think the crews worried to much about it looking neat , just fix what's broken and stick the tools on and lets get moving . The idea of having all tools mounted in the same place was so even a new crew member could find a needed tool in the dark . If I put my stuff where I like it and UVS puts his where he likes it , how is someone moving from his crew to mine going to find stuff in an emergency or under fire ( I guess that might count as an emergency  ::) ) The Germans , for the most part did the same , all tools had a specific spot ( by factory build ) .That tow bar on the Sherman was easy to remove to open the engine doors . IRC the Uni carrier , the Field Artillery Tractor , and a lot of other vehicles had the same mount . Although , I've never seen a picture of a Brit tank , bar the Croc , the Bishop ( 25 pdr ammo trlr ) and various tanks towing that abortion the roto trailer , tow anything . Have you ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 07, 2019, 06:30:46 am
In the Osprey Modelling the 76mm Sherman book, the author mentions some crews bundled up their tools to prevent pilferage (Cold War Soviets labelled everything that was not welded on - property may be theft, but that will not fly during an inspection).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 07, 2019, 07:00:11 am
yes , and I've seen pictures of the vehicle number on shovels , gas cans and even logs on Russian tanks  :o
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 09, 2019, 01:14:07 pm
Various IC rear ends - some are Hybrids:

(https://i.postimg.cc/ppVQxV0C/0-FB275-DE-6-ED6-4348-93-BF-7-CAC5-E760583.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ppVQxV0C)

(https://i.postimg.cc/zVdCfm6r/9-A32-B817-1209-48-EC-A096-A23974167-F11.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/zVdCfm6r)

(https://i.postimg.cc/5X6wY7WF/E2-D9-C8-DB-F9-FC-4-AF5-A3-D8-8-ACAA7-CE8-A1-B.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/5X6wY7WF)

(https://i.postimg.cc/QFwcpQjY/EE9484-E7-F521-402-F-A622-238-B9-C762793.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/QFwcpQjY)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 09, 2019, 05:17:15 pm
Thanks.

It looks like handle to the left (the first one looks like it has no handle, but there is one thing hanging off it that looks like the cranked bit extends below the bottom of the rear plate.

Nice stowage as well. Is there an entrenching tool hanging off one of the handles?

None of them appear to have the angled box.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 09, 2019, 09:29:25 pm
Great set of pictures . Some units mounted the angled box on the nose ( extra protection maybe ? ) like on this one the Germans captured
(https://i.postimg.cc/pht3JMGJ/m4-sherman-firefly-06.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/pht3JMGJ)
This one has a 1st aid box ? on the left , collapseable canvas bucket ( US issue ) , a displaced groucer cover ( scoopy thing ) and a ammo box of some sort for stowage
(https://i.postimg.cc/qgN2x6KQ/0-FB275-DE-6-ED6-4348-93-BF-7-CAC5-E760583-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/qgN2x6KQ)
This ones Canadian , again with 1st aid box and bucket ,duckbill end connectors on the track , and the mounts for the tow bar
(https://i.postimg.cc/9w2V07HV/9-A32-B817-1209-48-EC-A096-A23974167-F11-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/9w2V07HV)
This has the tow bar , 2 different sizes of track groucers  , ( I never knew there was a long version ) and the German entrenching tool .
(https://i.postimg.cc/zVmpLFQT/E2-D9-C8-DB-F9-FC-4-AF5-A3-D8-8-ACAA7-CE8-A1-B-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/zVmpLFQT)
This last one is a little hard to see detail on but looks to have some type of ammo box ( Vickers drum mag ? ) mounted on each side with a larger box ( or back pack ? ) centered . Also double stacked boxes on rear of turret .
(https://i.postimg.cc/njFCrr8y/EE9484-E7-F521-402-F-A622-238-B9-C762793-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/njFCrr8y)
And it also has the groucers mounted on the tracks . There iust just a ton of detail in these pictures that would look great added to our models , and most of it would be easy to find in the parts box or to scratch build . I'm thinking those groucers could be made from small Plastuct T channel . I'm going to add that to my next Sherman build. And I notice for the most part , and unit markings are pretty much missing or covered in kit / dirt so not to be visible , that will save us some decals  :D
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Pinky on March 10, 2019, 01:24:52 pm
These photos are all from Hayward’s book on the Firefly:

1 Unit not identified; Germany
2 B Squadron, Fort Garry Horse; Netherlands
3 Unit not identified; Italy
4 Same
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 10, 2019, 04:09:18 pm
@Ripley, I meant the small angled box (right hand rear plate on the FF sprue in the instructions).

There is an illustration of a Sherman I with a "Firefly" box on the front (it would obscure the engine turn over hole on the back plate) in either BTIN or the Oliver book.

Is that a Sherman I or a Sherman V in that photograph? The Osprey Firefly plate B1 has it as a VC (and says only VCs were captured and "used").
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 10, 2019, 10:08:42 pm
Captions in 2 different books say the captured FF is a VC . Oh , you mean this box ....the stowage diagram says its for greatcoats . I'm thinking it's probably a unit specific item as not many photos I've seen show it
(https://i.postimg.cc/d71ySQBj/Sherman-I-C-Firefly.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/d71ySQBj)
I haven't found the other side view of the IC diagrams , but I did find both views of the VC
(https://i.postimg.cc/s190rwzH/Firefly-VC-Stowage-front.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/s190rwzH)

(https://i.postimg.cc/k2DjWCbL/Firefly-VC-Stowage-rear.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/k2DjWCbL)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 11, 2019, 01:47:41 am
Nice find, yes that box.

I am going to have to sort out a timeline for British Shermans. The Osprey Firefly book (by David Fletcher) only mentions the hybrid almost as a throwaway line on page 46 after mentioning M4 shortage in August 1944. I know there is a difference between production and delivery dates, and the Firefly conversion is going to set them back further. The Oliver book lists only two Polish ICs in 21st Army Group in June 1944.

I have found a IC hybrid with a Firefly box on the front from 7th AD, probably B squadron, Vth Inniskilling Dragoon Guards (NVG 141 page 33).

I have just identified the X76 tank, 153rd (Leicester Yeomanry) RA, Guards Tank Division AOP. Page 17 in the Dennis Oliver book. I missed that in the BTIN  book (page 37).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 11, 2019, 04:31:27 pm
I am part way through tagging Firefly (and hybrids) photographs in my limited books, hopefully I will have something useful soon.

In the meantime, here is the result of one of my making things harder for my self (see also Panzer III).
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oCaPc9CNADs/XIWRfLSDHII/AAAAAAAAFBI/rKOY4nywuKA5YzH8q53PP-L4lVkd1DjGACLcBGAs/s1600/m4h-1-8.png)
So I have removed the crank from the hybrid's rear plate, with the sandshields in place.

Now I am not sure if I need to go full ALCO on the hull, I will need to look at the filters in the photographs.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 11, 2019, 11:00:30 pm
The round type was used first ( in the M2 & M3 Lee ) , the square one was seen on the production line  Lees in 42. It looks like  both types of oil bath filters where in the supply chain for the M4 / M4A1 ( only visible on Radial engine tanks ? ) through out the war . For what it's worth , Dragon gives you the option of either on most of their M4 kits . I would think the factories would use what ever type filter they had in stock at the time of build ( just like wheels ) , so you'll get small variations in each factory run
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 12, 2019, 03:13:59 am
I had seen the difference in the instructions, but it says for the Firefly use the round type, so I did.

Minutia says all Chrysler composites had square section filters, and thinks any with round section ones indicates the previously unknown ALCO hybrid hulls.

I am looking through the photographs.

As you say, they are likely to fit what they have.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 12, 2019, 08:28:53 am
Aw yes , if I only had a dollar for every time I decided to remove a molded on piece of detail or cut open a hatch after I had built the kit ::) I feel your frustration and probably pain as well, because if your like me you stabbed , jabbed or some how snagged your finger or thumb with a shiny sharp x acto blade or pin vise drill bit .
And why is it that parts I want to remove and reuse somewhere else ( like molded on  tools ) never seem to come off in one piece , and other bits I'm just going to trash come off perfect ? I love this hobby .....
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 13, 2019, 12:11:09 am
(https://i.postimg.cc/8PcY0yBX/E2-D9-C8-DB-F9-FC-4-AF5-A3-D8-8-ACAA7-CE8-A1-B-LI.jpg)

This looks like the NVG141 plate G1 of a 4th New Zealand Armoured Brigade VC with the 'Platypus' grousers made from lengths of angle iron.
Very Boudicca.

These photos are all from Hayward’s book on the Firefly:

1 Unit not identified; Germany
2 B Squadron, Fort Garry Horse; Netherlands
3 Unit not identified; Italy
4 Same
So photo 3 might be 4th New Zealand Armoured Brigade.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 13, 2019, 01:04:06 am
New Zealand troops made their own groucers , I ddin't know that . There seems to be some faded / scratched marking on the right rear below the tail light , plus the turret number style 2 and a small "a" might also help identify it . IRC Capricorn (Polish or Czech Pub house ?) had a series of books on M4 markings , New Zealand , South African , Canadian and Brit troops . Check the Armorama site under books to find out about it . I'm blocked from some of my fav sites here at work
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 13, 2019, 01:32:09 am
Southsea Grizzly (it has cast in upgraded armour).

Round air filters.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E1lShG4xt4k/XIfqSs7ek4I/AAAAAAAAFCo/1rq8c4Xt5xkuALTl_XrFfwY3nHqhmdNngCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9399.JPG)

They could be paint cans for all we know...

Grizzly formerly at Duxford.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OowtlG54SMA/VrI8EwAuYuI/AAAAAAAABQ0/knbUqXjss64/s1600/IMG_8835.JPG)

More shots of the Southsea example here: https://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2019/03/grizzling-m4a1-grizzly-southsea.html (https://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2019/03/grizzling-m4a1-grizzly-southsea.html)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 13, 2019, 07:03:09 am
Notice each vehicle has the Tac sign on different sides  ::) . The book I was thinking of was from Model Centrum Publishing , their website seems to be 404 , but IRC they are available from Casement Publishing in the UK . Last book review of theirs was Jan 2019 so they're still around . They  have a couple of newish books on the BEF , might have to check that out if I get a 3 pack of Matildas
(https://i.postimg.cc/vcHLkpqL/Model-Centrum-PROGRESS.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/vcHLkpqL)

(https://i.postimg.cc/ftt1cVXy/9788360672297-2.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ftt1cVXy)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 13, 2019, 04:30:06 pm
I would say to disregard the one previously at Duxford as it is painted as Akilla which in reality had a welded hull, but I have seen a caption noting transposed marks. Of course it would help if I could remember where I saw the caption...

I have had a look at the BEF book (they have it in the Ian Allan bookshop in Birmingham.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 13, 2019, 08:35:10 pm
The Tac sign is supposed to go on the left front ( when facing tank ) and right rear , but some units have it left when facing tank ( front & rear ) , some have in the middle of the hull nose and some ( Poles for example ) have it right side facing beside the Division sign .... any wonder Museums  get it wrong / right  :o
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 15, 2019, 09:47:02 pm
I think I might of figured this X insignia out
(https://i.postimg.cc/PCr62HC0/f8bad3d8cfb4cc434394cb95daa436c2-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/PCr62HC0)
BTiN pg 12 ( soft cover 2012) says the X identifies the Battery Commander on this 3rd RHA Artillery OP tank ( missing dummy gun )
(https://i.postimg.cc/phwWJkk1/IMG-20190314-114113474-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/phwWJkk1)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 15, 2019, 09:58:47 pm
I think I might of figured this X insignia out
(https://i.postimg.cc/PCr62HC0/f8bad3d8cfb4cc434394cb95daa436c2-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/PCr62HC0)
BTiN pg 12 ( soft cover 2012) says the X identifies the Battery Commander on this 3rd RHA Artillery OP tank ( missing dummy gun )
(https://i.postimg.cc/phwWJkk1/IMG-20190314-114113474-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/phwWJkk1)
Well spotted.
So it is the battery commander of 153rd (Leicester Yeomanry) RA, Guards Tank Division.
Page 17 in the Dennis Oliver book,  BTIN  book page 37.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 16, 2019, 04:13:43 am
While we were looking at the various Sherman I photographs, I got  distracted assembling last year's Tiger II purchase.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSlgPFYdOjE/XIvxfh4WX2I/AAAAAAAAFEQ/ubL1_x0VHgozO2JE37ekrqwbyakUhO02QCLcBGAs/s1600/ktiger8.png)
As you might have noticed from my posting on OGH's Tiger II WIP, it did not go well.

Now waiting for the weather to improve to get it undercoated.

Regular Sherman I Hybrid service will resume shortly.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 16, 2019, 05:44:35 am
I  don't remember OGH's Tiger II thread , what went wrong with it ? The 3 I built went together OK . So problems with the kit or did you glue something where you shouldn't have ?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Tracks on March 16, 2019, 09:57:29 am
I have not seen OGH's Tiger II thread, but like repley, I'm a bit curious why it didn't go well. I have only assembled one of the Tiger II kits, but other than the normal adjustments and making sure parts fit better, I had no minor or major issues with this plastic model kit.

Just assembling plastic model kits is part of the art of the craft, so how one goes about doing it is important. Even a bad kit can be made to look good, but the reverse of this is that even a good kit can be made to look bad.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 16, 2019, 09:39:20 pm
I  don't remember OGH's Tiger II thread , what went wrong with it ?
Sorry, OGH is Our Gracious Hosts. I posted a list of things I hoped were not to feature on their new Tiger II.

My post/rant is here: http://forum.rubiconmodels.com/index.php?topic=824.msg11609#msg11609 (http://forum.rubiconmodels.com/index.php?topic=824.msg11609#msg11609)

Just assembling plastic model kits is part of the art of the craft, so how one goes about doing it is important. Even a bad kit can be made to look good, but the reverse of this is that even a good kit can be made to look bad.
I heartily agree, and I also accept that I need all the help I can get (except in spoiling a perfectly good kit) ^___^.

The three main problems I experienced were:
Turret (original design) lacking alignment components, pins or other methods of building it up without having to glue all six components together at the same time and hold them in place. Mine pancaked twice, and collapsed once when I spotted gaps between the top plate and the sides and applied pressure. Some kind of internal buttress to align the side walls and the turret base would have allowed them to be glued in place and at the right slope for the front and rear to be added and the top to be assembled. Alternatively the top could have the buttress parts and it could have been built upside down. The angled faces of the parts have no stop point to indicate that they are correctly aligned.

The D shaped pins (periscopes and barrels being examples) that allowed between 10 degrees of rotation (barrel components) and 360 degrees of rotation (periscopes).

The wedge shaped holes that form the alignment system of the running gear assemblies (A and B) and the lower hull tub part 19 are not well thought out. The front ones are too small and need to be opened out to allow the assemblies to mate flush with the lower hull tub. The angle of the hole/insert means that you need to keep constant pressure on them to stop them moving until the plastic sets again. I understand due to the mechanics of the moulds that they have to be wedge shaped but larger wedges align better.

Part 37 was an annoyance (especially after I reached stage H, spotted that I had glued part 37 onto the wrong side of the hull, stage H categorically states that part 37 goes on the right not the left side of the hull so I removed it - intact - and then dropped it and lost it). I then went back to stage G to see that part 37 really does go on the left side of the hull because there are two part 37s on different sprues.

After that, anything that was not quite right became A BIG THING! Even small things such as the hole for the lifting ring being drilled in the wrong side of the mould (rear of turret lifting ring site had a pip rather than a hole), or the labelling of the painting guide had me reaching for the torch and pitchfork ^___^.

The turrets issue is similar to the Rubicon M10/M36 turret issue but without the option of using the other (M36) turret on another model. I hope the Rubicon kit has two drop in turret rings

So a quick relaxing build while I decided how to progress the Hybrid became a battle of wits with an inanimate object. Whether I won or lost you can decide ^__^.

Also, please when there is a hole to be drilled, can there be an indication of the size of the hole, too wide the fit becomes sloppy, too narrow a diameter it can appear to fit and then move during the setting process, rising above the surface.


Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 16, 2019, 10:18:26 pm
True the "Porsche " turret was a PIA to get squared up , an extra hand would have helped . But you need 4 to build the JS II turret , so its all part of a learning curve I guess . I had no problem building the kit , the D shaped peg pieces fit better if you use thicker tube type glues that you let dry a  bit before sticking it together . Not sure why they molded the lift ring holes the way they did but at least we had a idea of where they went , some kits don't even give you points of reference for bits like that . I always use photo references when I build my tanks , learned long ago that some model companies have no idea what things are and where they are supposed to go on tanks . I've  been building tank kits for close to 50 years starting with Airfix , so figuring out a kits problems comes second nature to me ,as well as how to fix it or at least hide it so it's not so noticeable if I can't fix it . The turret design of the "Porsche" turret  dictated the need for the armored collar ,remember it was designed for a different tank and used as a stop gap measure ( 50 built , but tank was cancelled ) so the production turret won't fit as in real life . Although they are getting better in detail , the BA / Italeri kits don't , for the most part ,have all the pieces to build both versions of turrets in their kits , always a few key small parts missing ( Tiger II , Japanese Type 97 , the Matilda ) . The KV kit actually gives both complete turrets but they screwed up the turrets with wrong shaped and missing details
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 17, 2019, 04:16:22 pm
True.

I mentioned there was an issue with the turret assembly when I was assembling the IS2.
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2018/02/warlord-games-is-2-heavy-tank-basic.html (http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2018/02/warlord-games-is-2-heavy-tank-basic.html)
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GUoY5Esezf8/WoHXiDppQ7I/AAAAAAAADKI/46m6j8YJYjguknD2ztesyjkFIGM08ItowCLcBGAs/s1600/is2-1-8.png)
It is still sitting on the shelf while I wrestle with creating suitable sized fuel tanks (I have a set of Rubicon ones from the T34/76 kit, but they look small).

The KV-1/2 was okay (after you pointed out the pistol port issue I added pistol ports and new handrails).
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2018/02/warlord-games-kv1kv-2-tank-part-two.html (http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2018/02/warlord-games-kv1kv-2-tank-part-two.html)
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pdBiJAe6sec/Wnc86r0hYiI/AAAAAAAADB4/O8phc7R9nxwDn_FB7KoVu9lC5ttW5F4xwCLcBGAs/s1600/kv1-1-12.png)
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eEfpDhzJMHk/Wnc88I5QiyI/AAAAAAAADCE/bGrwKQP_EPEB3_757rcPnLlvW2tIRvNJQCLcBGAs/s1600/kv1-1-17.png)
That is awaiting inspiration on the tow cables, it is how to make the tensioner at the back. Current theory for the body is insulation off of some fine electrical wire, though a visit to a model railway exhibition might offer something suitable, plus some hand rail knobs - split pins - for the fixture. I have some 7mm scale ones 'somewhere', but I suspect I will need to buy them again (possibly 4mm scale).

I remember my first Airfix kit, a Spitfire of course. It came in a plastic bag and was moulded in light blue plastic. I have no idea when that was.

The cheapest kits were two weeks pocket money.

This is one of my oldest surviving models, from an anime from the early 'eighties. There was a great model shop on my way home where I had to wait an hour or so.
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RqQgRMZEtuU/WbVTwOo08AI/AAAAAAAACmY/E1ZWoZ1_YZQMB-sxmB-eiuO_mv3EvdIIQCLcBGAs/s1600/tomahawk-1.png)
I dug it out a while back, a PSC 15mm Panzer 38(t) for scale.
They also stocked Cromwell Models, which was great during my Twilight 2000 phase.
I mentioned the iconic M1E2 Giraffe in an earlier posting (also referred to as the M1A2 Giraffe in TW2K version two).
http://forum.rubiconmodels.com/index.php?topic=281.msg4193#msg4193 (http://forum.rubiconmodels.com/index.php?topic=281.msg4193#msg4193)
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S0OSsB-AAJs/WRnWboMiCqI/AAAAAAAACPE/9Tn1lBoRppA6V0iuVtbK46B02lFupblwwCLcB/s1600/m1a2-01.png)
I think that was converted from a Japanese kit of an Abrams (bought from a late and lamented model shop). Not sure if the gun is the L7 or the Rheinmetal (indicating an M1 or M1A1 donor kit).
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2017/05/m1a2-abrams-giraffe-twilight-2000-tank.html (http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2017/05/m1a2-abrams-giraffe-twilight-2000-tank.html)
Yes I am prevaricating (though the wind has dropped and the sun is shining so there may be some undercoating today).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 17, 2019, 10:06:25 pm
There is hail.

The Giraffe follows on from the real COMRES 75 testbed vehicle based on a Comet chassis (NVG 104 page 44).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on March 17, 2019, 10:53:46 pm
 Never got in to them my self , but the Robot  kits always looked neat . And that tank kit bash looks a little like some of those proto type crew in the hull , remote gun type turret the US tried in the late 70s ,, and the Russians have now with their T-14 I believe it's called . I showed the cable mounts for my KV back in Jan 18 , but at least on my computer , all my pictures are gone . So I dug around in my picture library , and found very little , I wonder where all my pictures went ?
(https://i.postimg.cc/HcwXN6QS/wip-2-2-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/HcwXN6QS)
The blue is piece of plastic rod with a hole drilled in each end  , I just used what I had . The green is where a plastic square goes for the side ring mount point . The red is the ring parts , IRC they are brass hand rail posts from my parts box left over from my model railroading days . The hook end of the mount is just the  ring opened up . Really I should have used a larger diameter brass post but that's what I had at the time . Then again , pictures show various differences in the mount assembly with some showing the hull mount point and the rest of the parts  missing so I guess it will do
(https://i.postimg.cc/2qw2bjtj/IMG-20180907-185853259-2-LI.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/2qw2bjtj)
Sorry about picture quality , I don't know whats going on with my pictures folder , they all look fuzzy for some reason , I'm blaming Russian hackers
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 18, 2019, 01:54:43 am
A lot of the "Ultramodern" stuff in TW2K was bleeding edge in the early 'eighties. Apparently there was an issue of the magazine Armor (sic) which covered a lot of it in 1984, and included the COMRES-75, the Contentious and the M1 remote turret test bed. The Osprey Challenger modelling book has a Jordanian remote turret Challenger.

I have a 1/50 scale Empress Models T14 awaiting its moment on the assembly line.

I do remember you mentioning it, and it could well be my inspiration (the alternative is a 4mm scale screw coupler or an actual tensioner in 4 or 7mm, though both will be easier with one of the handrail post split pins).

Google has mislaid some of the images from my posts from 2011. I have the original images somewhere on a hard disc, but there are rather a lot of images....
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on March 21, 2019, 06:35:48 am
So I make haste slowly.

I have added the obligatory lift rings on the turret, and replaced the engine door handles (the Minutia page says the engine door handles run lengthways).

I have also blanked the pistol port (a number of M4 hybrids had no pistol port turrets).
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eVXAMXES4i4/XJKi7XpHtMI/AAAAAAAAFHs/wJKGQX24hrcanTH-3Dxso3OhTIR5qjIKwCLcBGAs/s1600/m4h-1-10.png)
I still need to finish filling the pistol port.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 19, 2019, 09:29:52 pm
This is the work in progress Carro Armato P43 bis.

The turret is assembled, but the tracks are just dry assembled.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QwK1yVUV1k4/XLmvoHziIUI/AAAAAAAAFSM/KKNswIseHGEw55hqOy3WUzWNNkV_3TC9ACLcBGAs/s1600/p43bis-14.png)
I still have to decide on what to do with the running gear.
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_a9UvvnC4UA/XLmvoXSESyI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/Y1mQm2NSMi8-G3aN9q1Y8BPKfRu6TnL7gCLcBGAs/s1600/p43bis-15.png)
Camouflage is Humbrol Dark Green and Army Painter Leather Brown over Citadel Zandri Dust.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on April 19, 2019, 10:19:48 pm
The Kettenkrad is so cute.
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nqcsTr8EjDU/XLmzzDuV3HI/AAAAAAAAFTY/Lpym1v1oH_c2Yt_ne07if7BghN6msR74QCLcBGAs/s1600/sdkfz2-6.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on April 19, 2019, 10:54:39 pm
That P43 look s great . Lose the rivets and change the wheels to a torsion bar suspension and it looks almost modern ( 1960s ish ) And yes the K krad is a very cute vehicle
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 30, 2019, 05:26:29 am
So, I have finally decided on the T-26 to build, a 1939 model.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GBu8-Xo6E90/XO7NwKo1FBI/AAAAAAAAFh0/J-poQJVc6JkvokVnJECT8OwQlHzk8vwOwCLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-6.png)

Now, my limited knowledge indicates that the turret rear machine gun should be deleted, so that is my next task.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-szkjgABmUmQ/XO7NuPODl7I/AAAAAAAAFhQ/nGM6L4CcAL0nsv4mhi7fXG62Vn_ZxZ53gCLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-11.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 30, 2019, 05:34:45 am
So I have finally obtained some 7mm to the foot shackles and some split pins.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-42Td0aGNuAc/XO757k00EwI/AAAAAAAAFik/6AvIPxAoPSsAm6aK0Mc3PZlmJrTy_vuWACLcBGAs/s1600/kv1-detail-1.png)
 So now I just need to have another look at the KV-1/2.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on May 30, 2019, 07:45:23 pm

Quote
So I have finally obtained some 7mm to the foot shackles and some split pins.
Cool, who makes them?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 30, 2019, 08:07:06 pm
Pictures in the WWP T-26 Variants book show some T-26s of the year model ( 1937 -39 ) with a rear turret mg . Of the about 2 dozen tanks pictured  who's turret rear is visible , 4 have either the mg sticking out the turret rear or at least the mount . The rest have the pistol port hole . So it was a feature , but doesn't seem to be a issued across all vehicles .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 30, 2019, 08:12:28 pm

Quote
So I have finally obtained some 7mm to the foot shackles and some split pins.
Cool, who makes them?
Ambis Engineering:
http://ambisengineering.co.uk/ (http://ambisengineering.co.uk/)
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r9ZO0npqWyQ/XO757sfMkwI/AAAAAAAAFig/3Y9LrksBZ0M9XrSW3KYIXhqKNx65N5u9wCLcBGAs/s1600/kv1-detail-2.png)
They also do a bottle type, which might have been better.
The split pins are from Eileen's Emporium. https://eileensemporium.com/ (https://eileensemporium.com/)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 30, 2019, 08:35:05 pm
Pictures in the WWP T-26 Variants book show some T-26s of the year model ( 1937 -39 ) with a rear turret mg . Of the about 2 dozen tanks pictured  who's turret rear is visible , 4 have either the mg sticking out the turret rear or at least the mount . The rest have the pistol port hole . So it was a feature , but doesn't seem to be a issued across all vehicles .
Thanks.
That turret design appears to have had it deleted in January 1939. The Bradford book has the pistol port drawing.
Did any of your examples with the rear mg have the part B06 style armour? That would be useful to know for the next one?
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 30, 2019, 09:02:58 pm
The B06 upper hull seems to go with the later , no rear mg turret . Both Engines of the Red Army  and the  Armchair General sites  state that there were 2 styles of conical turret , an early welded one ( optional rear turret mg mount ) and a cast one ( no mg mount fitted ) . Both look very similar in 70 year old black and white photos so identification is iffy at best . For some reason I'm having problems posting images , so check out Armchair General site , as they have blue print type drawings of various T-26 types ( among other tanks ) and all sorts of interesting info
(https://i.postimg.cc/bZ02Q6zY/T-26-M38-1a.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/bZ02Q6zY)

(https://i.postimg.cc/4mVKg8Hv/T-26-M40-1a.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/4mVKg8Hv)
Managed to figure it out and post pictures ( I have no idea what I did though … ) Notice lower picture has B06 part type hull
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 31, 2019, 12:04:38 am
Thanks for those.

I only have the NVG 218 book by Zaloga and the aforementioned Bradford (Allied AFVs in 1/72).

There are only front shots of 1939s in the NVG, which is not much help. The cut-away plate is a 1939 without the turret rear mg and the B06 armour. Plate G2 is of a 1938 (with rear mg) but it has the B06 armour, same as plate F.

Page 36 has a view of a 1938, C21 upper hull and possibly no rear mg. One feature that is  notable is the commander's hatch appears to be on a ring (with the P40UM AAMG), as the opened hatch appears both fore and aft in different photographs. The AA mount is mentioned on page 13.

My next one will probably be a 1933 one with the classic SCW Ginsberg Integrated bustle.

One of the big sellers for this kit (beyond its versatility) is you need so many of them to match anything except Japanese tanks (Bolt Action is three Pzr 38(t)s to four "T26Bs" and What a Tanker has two Pzr 38(t)s to three T26 1933+).
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 31, 2019, 03:40:58 am
Check out the Armchair General site , they must have a dozen diagrams like that of T-26 variants IRC .  Still haven't decided on which version I'm going to build  , so many choices  ::) .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 31, 2019, 04:48:33 am
Still haven't decided on which version I'm going to build  , so many choices  ::) .
Paralysis by analysis ^___^.

My first one is base coated.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 31, 2019, 05:26:50 am
I also added some soft stowage (it hides the tools which I have difficulty painting accurately).
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fMtpjN4E414/XPBHc7_YaRI/AAAAAAAAFi8/rwpr9ayMQ006_qudS1UUDwP1qnwU9rGbgCLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-15.png)

Showing the deleted rear MG.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pNLBMDf_IUc/XPBHc-UgUtI/AAAAAAAAFjA/3akyFXAfxjQEkpm61m4IVmUBNdJyZaBeQCLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-14.png)

Sprayed with Humbrol Dark Green (not quite 4OD).
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GNJz1cTkLGw/XPBHdvCvlOI/AAAAAAAAFjI/NXsDcklTeGE7dnbrf0T_X42QrFKU2YGJACLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-17.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on May 31, 2019, 06:31:04 am
Looks great . Are you going to add a spare wheel pair , usually found mounted on the rear deck ? Some 1/72 Airfix tank wheels might work , at least I think I have some in the parts box somewhere that will look the part
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on May 31, 2019, 03:19:35 pm
Thanks.

I will probably not add the spare wheels (one at the bottom right of the engine deck, the other against part B06, on this one) however I will have a go at making some from Evergreen tube (hopefully I have a suitable diameter in stock). I might try and make a jack for the engine deck as well.

I do have the PSC ammo boxes, which might well be suitable as stowage.

I will have a look at the drawer of sprue, which apart from digging out a 1/35 scale modern weapons sprue has not been disturbed for over 20 years. No idea what I will find in there.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: Ballardian on June 01, 2019, 12:09:10 am

 Many thanks UVS for the source of the shackles & split pins :)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 01, 2019, 01:49:32 am
For Pinky. I have filled the gap in the sponson.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XI0y2cuVmPM/XPFibM-5SyI/AAAAAAAAFjk/UX70A5iKlb8Icr7LqISudgZRbMe5f43PQCLcBGAs/s1600/rb-m4-26.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 01, 2019, 01:51:59 am
The T34/76 provides some scale to a Sarissa Russian outbuilding.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8FplTLMgGsk/XPFlVF4467I/AAAAAAAAFko/2w6HASZKOkAWvTP3SSAjh6jIzYMTaIKTQCLcBGAs/s1600/n069-12.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ml3l5LBTdx0/XPFlV4XlXdI/AAAAAAAAFkw/OdtOA6PyVrghVdIqQs6lb-oMjr7T-K-ggCLcBGAs/s1600/n069-13.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 03, 2019, 12:53:13 am
So the T26 is now "painted". It will get some weathering, but that will wait until the rest of the tank platoon are completed.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3fpSJj5mosM/XPP9NI6UKfI/AAAAAAAAFlc/UrJIyAK4VI47xYM9tArPWejSDwIirXSDQCLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-19.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4PaUQPWkL6s/XPP9NfY2ULI/AAAAAAAAFlg/d2ksL7zCqgAwaD0ncyGbNm3bh63XaS6CgCLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-21.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jpaz-6UL0CE/XPP9OpfEF-I/AAAAAAAAFlw/iVQWEsBhH9Yupf2BqsdZtMJCRIObLo7mACLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-24.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R68s1teUvKE/XPP9OjaJCAI/AAAAAAAAFl0/ic4iX55bbggOFpFk-VoOBo364HPS-ElTQCLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-25.png)

The rear of the turret is still not quite right.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQUrDp79Ik0/XPP9OBeNNrI/AAAAAAAAFlo/UWjJNg_0n-wrDGz9S3O84gG66GIq0M2hQCLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-22.png)

With the T34/76.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7zoifGCbxYc/XPP9PO5_VkI/AAAAAAAAFl4/DGuF5ofmgn47BnHh4TMg-4GR4d5Fj2fmACLcBGAs/s1600/t26-1-26.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 26, 2019, 01:59:53 am
As mentioned elsewhere, I was thinking of getting a Warlord Chi-Ha as an opponent for the T-26. I picked one up from Dark Sphere in London.

The non duplication of the the commander's cupola and the turret machine gun are the only components that would prevent the assembly of both the original Ch-Ha and the larger ShinHoTo turret with the 47mm AT gun. At some point I might try and build a second cupola.

As this is to be an opponent for the T-26 1939 for games of What A Tanker!, it was built with the large turret (when I get round to building a T-26 1932 I will need an original Chi-Ha).

Most examples appear to have been painted into the three colour camouflage, however I went for a plain green paint job.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKerCvcuYqk/XRJXeaP6ZXI/AAAAAAAAFog/MVqN9ebXBCQfzO3bYZsiUnT-h9z8CouCgCLcBGAs/s1600/chi-ha-12.png)
I added the flower logo as otherwise the only markings are the Japanese numeral one on the hull side.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yqhSN1CEKmE/XRJXe2paszI/AAAAAAAAFos/XnFUbKPEu0w8ncBFfgvLRRlxrQ79RU9owCLcBGAs/s1600/chi-ha-13.png)

Facing off against the T-26.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tQFPyP3Y2AU/XRJXfBH7pVI/AAAAAAAAFow/88SqH8RwaoAgsoV-6QfT5bVrS24Ka-KNQCLcBGAs/s1600/chi-ha-14.png)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 26, 2019, 05:13:23 am
If you have the Warlord plastic Pzr IV , use  either one ( open or closed ) of the commanders hatch insert part . You'll have to cut / sand it to fit and remove the molded in hatch ( if you use the closed version ), adjust Type 96 hatch covers to fit . The armored MG barrel could be made by sanding plastic stock to suit .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 26, 2019, 05:58:55 am
Thanks, I might have one somewhere.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 26, 2019, 07:05:28 am
Here's the one I did using the IV hatch insert . Still haven't decided how to fix the hull into some scenery as a pillbox
(https://i.postimg.cc/Czp0hWnY/IMG-20190625-165720849.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/Czp0hWnY)
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 28, 2019, 05:28:16 am
Here is part 27 from the Panzer IV kit.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8mRBdDrC8Mo/XRUzuitxt4I/AAAAAAAAFpg/MN7b2T8FdE4Bb01FWNTwD2MLEzykELxsQCLcBGAs/s1600/panzerIV-part-27.png)
I am assembling the rest of the turret.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 28, 2019, 06:03:49 am
That should work if you carve the hatch covers off and add the Japanese hatch cover . I built the other version of the Type 97 and used the closed Pzr IV hatch insert on the turret of the version  you built .
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 29, 2019, 03:49:49 am
I have had a go, it is now setting.

While I was waiting, I started work on JPzr 38(t)  number two. This is to be a very late model (in primer).
All went well until it came to the exhaust, I managed to dislodge part B38, the end of the exhaust. Theoretically I should have a spare from the first one I built. Can I find that sprue? No. I found sprue C, but no sprue B.

So I have used some tube and rod, and will make it a field repair with a wrap of asbestos tape.
Title: Re: UVS models
Post by: ripley on June 29, 2019, 04:43:05 am
Sounds like you managed to complete the kit dis spite  misplacing a piece . Rule of thumb says after you kit bash said missing piece , it should appear as if by magic on your work bench . That happens to me all the time  ::)
Title: Re: UVS models 07/07/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 07, 2019, 04:51:50 pm
While waiting for the decals to dry/waiting for the varnish to dry on the JPnzr 38(t), I have put a wash over the Tiger II.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ogQQgqX8gs/XSGxFZx2ISI/AAAAAAAAFrA/sOoE2Ia0fmIxfmhB8tomGR3eGWp4aQ9kgCLcBGAs/s1600/ktiger29.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tNwlv3_3aQo/XSGxGLwYBlI/AAAAAAAAFrE/10_Q4hD-TdQccu-aDUSjlq6D9G_cUJrYgCLcBGAs/s1600/ktiger30.png)

That is now marked as "done", except for a wash under the nose and on the tow ring hull extensions.
Title: Re: UVS models 07/07/2019
Post by: ripley on July 08, 2019, 01:28:15 am
Looking good . How did you find putting decals on all that zimm ? Easy or a real PIA  ,and what decal solution did you use ?
Title: Re: UVS models 07/07/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 08, 2019, 01:59:59 am
Thanks.

I used Humbrol Decalfix.

The decals are from the Rubicon German Tanks set.

I do not remember it being too bad, I used Humbrol gloss varnish first, and the numbers were a block so they went on okay. It was then a case of applying plenty of Decalfix.

I did fail miserably to apply a number on the rear of the turret. That was a step too far.
Title: Re: UVS models 07/07/2019
Post by: ripley on July 08, 2019, 05:20:23 am
Yea , you really have to soak the decal to get it to fit around all those angles on the turret rear . I used Tamiya strong decal softener on mine .It worked but you tended to remove paint while setting the decal . Not too mention the decals getting so soggy they tore or broke apart . Mind you , I was using a combo of Rubicon , Warlord &  Tamiya decals so  numbers faired better than others . I managed to get one of my 3 Tiger IIs turret rear numbered , but it was such a hassle I decided to model units that didn't have rear numbers . Guess the Germans had the same trouble in 1 to 1 scale , that's my story anyway
Title: Re: UVS models 07/07/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 08, 2019, 05:46:29 am
Yes.

My JPnzr 38(t) is in red undercoat with a two digit number, one of the factories did send them out in undercoat for the end user to paint. This one has had numbers added and has gone straight into the field.

Later they were issued in dunkelgelb.
Title: Re: UVS models 08/07/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on July 09, 2019, 02:43:41 am
So here is the Jagdpanzer 38(t).
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKiyC9jP8aM/XSONA7HNi9I/AAAAAAAAFs4/tRHKtPEu4B8X-FHAXvIFSsb-Yu6Rpp9ZgCLcBGAs/s1600/hetzer-2-17.png)
The story behind this particular paint job is that the vehicle has been undercoated and issued to the troops. Balkenkreuz and vehicle numbers were added before issue. This example had a damaged exhaust silencer repaired with asbestos tape.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CJUIs01CguI/XSONAww1lsI/AAAAAAAAFtA/JXKeSlrkEgUsDN1HXSK27DIhkBT2t6Y5wCLcBGAs/s1600/hetzer-2-18.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hvf03eH7Qdk/XSONCQVCTnI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/MDOtGwbzy9Ukm1QFV7ol_iYdCqJ14D9PwCLcBGAs/s1600/hetzer-2-22.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vMdJguYLnw/XSONE_QQ9JI/AAAAAAAAFto/eNApmlKVnL8e_fwgjAH9dOCLTC_t3E0RQCLcBGAs/s1600/hetzer-2-28.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7anTBq0_KSQ/XSONE5eDsdI/AAAAAAAAFts/LoQj8MAD3ysRMpLZvcglC_nNIvgxAoJngCLcBGAs/s1600/hetzer-2-29.png)
Title: Re: UVS models 25/08/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 25, 2019, 08:54:27 pm
Slightly smaller scale than usual.

Plastic Soldier Company Cromwell in 15mm.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VvwNF7SDISc/Wk6C7n1V76I/AAAAAAAACzo/FsIkwrzQXiYZX-yqNkByg5dhkf0eR9OtACLcBGAs/s1600/psccromwell1-3.png)
Crates and jerry can from the PSC German accessory set, hessian netting and tarpaulins from greenstuff.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-krXW0gGb0ug/XWJ_f-m9FQI/AAAAAAAAFwA/IQ_ADtSqzuU3nW5n2g2jS2WWTwZoxoB4ACLcBGAs/s1600/psccromwell3.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cp4G_-K0Qog/XWJ_f2t0EGI/AAAAAAAAFv8/C5XFqhM_H6sqonzMvbOCCen77XjsT1QSgCLcBGAs/s1600/psccromwell1.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Gn1gQHtlmA/XWJ_fwI8a2I/AAAAAAAAFwE/rhu8msqiNTM83jI7UujLk7JQcoioAjsTACLcBGAs/s1600/psccromwell2.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZLyAFZnoWs/XWJ_g2kD12I/AAAAAAAAFwM/MLHiLVwOcUALzbjINjh7snSvd6Ye8cDTgCLcBGAs/s1600/psccromwell5.png)
Title: Re: UVS models 25/08/2019
Post by: ripley on August 25, 2019, 09:19:33 pm
Nice
Title: Re: UVS models 08/09/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on September 08, 2019, 09:03:54 pm
I fear the stack of Rubicon kits awaiting assembly will not go down...
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OmXeqFPFmYM/XXSkAI6vHgI/AAAAAAAAFxE/4HG-44xy0U0JiDh_0BSFOzD93IMDwaZ5gCLcBGAs/s1600/rubiconcolours2019-1.png)
From Colours yesterday.
Plus a Goliath and a Nebelwerfer (and some other stuff - though the "Other Place" did not have the plastic Matilda II kits).
Title: Re: UVS models 15/09/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on September 15, 2019, 11:06:37 pm
A 1928 US T1E2 light tank prototype.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fPC-0mIAMhk/XX37iH-v7uI/AAAAAAAAFzc/pvbp98lTvyk1eQovOM-5PgyftwsZwslsACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/t1e2-4.png)
An Empress Resin kit, but it does feature a two halves of a Rubicon HMG ammo box set on the rear mudguards.

The US flag looks wrong.
Title: Re: UVS models 15/09/2019
Post by: ripley on September 15, 2019, 11:20:55 pm
Very cool . Looks like a real crisp resin cast , how was it to assemble ?Those early pre war tanks really look like tin toys .   What year is this thing ? I wonder if the flag is a 48 star version , the US flag went through changes over the early part of the 1900s . Just checked , WIKI says US flag had 48 stars from 1912 to 1959 !
Title: Re: UVS models 15/09/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on September 16, 2019, 02:19:02 am
Thanks.

The T1E2 was 1928, and the flag should be the 48 star one, but if I remember how they are laid out it is six rows of eight in columns. It just looks like it is in alternate rows like the current one. I suspect it is a scaling artefact. I cannot magnify it sufficiently to see.

It is not as crisp a casting as the Rubicon ones, but needed no real work. 
I did manage to break the gun barrel, hence the brass rod replacement.

More details here;
http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2019/09/us-t1e2-light-tank.html (http://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2019/09/us-t1e2-light-tank.html)
Title: Re: UVS models 15/09/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on September 16, 2019, 02:47:05 am
Ooh, some one failed their research roll....
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gpsJ6QdLlEM/XX6F1OEX-jI/AAAAAAAAF0U/NIE2xiO5QBYbkGuyt8J2Rk2dHFxaYv3tgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/t1e2-13.png)

I count fifty stars.

All the decals are from Italy, from the 28mm M3 kit.
Title: Re: UVS models 15/09/2019
Post by: Morris on October 03, 2019, 01:00:18 am
My Panther G with nightvision

(https://i.postimg.cc/R3ZmNRXG/IMG-20180718-205325-519.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/R3ZmNRXG)

(https://i.postimg.cc/xqz2Jq3r/IMG-20180718-205325-523.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/xqz2Jq3r)

(https://i.postimg.cc/SnDFF9k9/IMG-20180718-205325-526.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/SnDFF9k9)
Title: Re: UVS models 15/09/2019
Post by: ripley on October 03, 2019, 07:33:56 am
That is an awesome paint job .
Title: Re: UVS models 15/09/2019
Post by: Morris on October 03, 2019, 06:48:36 pm
Thanks 8)
Title: Re: UVS models 15/09/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on October 04, 2019, 01:31:53 am
My Panther G with nightvision

(https://i.postimg.cc/R3ZmNRXG/IMG-20180718-205325-519.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/R3ZmNRXG)

(https://i.postimg.cc/xqz2Jq3r/IMG-20180718-205325-523.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/xqz2Jq3r)

(https://i.postimg.cc/SnDFF9k9/IMG-20180718-205325-526.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/SnDFF9k9)
Nice, worth a thread of its own ^__^
Title: Re: UVS models 11/11/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on November 12, 2019, 06:37:55 am
Empress recently released a resin and white metal kit of the Cadillac Gage Commando V100/XM706 armoured car/wheeled armoured personnel carrier.

They were originally issued to ARVN forces, they were also issued to US Army Military Police and US Airforce.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qHLKrg9LSnA/XcnaLkygRPI/AAAAAAAAF4s/pE2MncJVYPE4SSjALd5JC_6OQGzdnVBnACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/v100-1.png)
The model was painted with Humbrol 155 Olive Drab spray. The windows were painted with  Vallejo Night Blue, highlighted with Citadel Caledor Blue.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9tQIPfXrbXQ/XcnaMQEBtqI/AAAAAAAAF44/tSSMLlUpEEAksxoCav1a4cNf99xD0IDFwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/v100-4.png)
I used two sets of Rubicon DCUA007 Willys MB decals (for the Military Police labels) and theoretically one Rubicon DCUS002 M4 Tank decal sheet.The US recognition stars in front of the side doors use the Rubicon 8mm decals, the ones on the rear half of the upper hull are the 5mm ones - all from the DCUS002 sheet.

A US Marine takes cover while the XM706 engages targets.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7HbxBirhp80/XcnaOSSUCpI/AAAAAAAAF5I/wCT6wYCdZLccJBNEOHbwxhimUclDGX3-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/v100-8.png)
Title: Re: UVS models 18/11/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on November 19, 2019, 05:40:18 am
The Goliath I bought at Colours.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s3Ut7ciVgns/XdMJE1vhG7I/AAAAAAAAF7Y/ZYDRR0y0uPkyw8exCkIKIsf46FN2TThRQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/goliath-6.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U9i3kW2FB3g/XdMJEmMeACI/AAAAAAAAF7U/NLCLrCytDyY-lLMGkoo-EQUQupnPoYsOwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/goliath-5.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-44STEPZq6Qg/XdMJE2JZlgI/AAAAAAAAF7c/QnMA-LhaeY4OBnocAs_XmUbjG6jC2Kd4ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/goliath-4.png)
Title: Re: UVS models 18/11/2019
Post by: ripley on November 19, 2019, 12:13:25 pm
That looks good . How was it and the trailer to build ? I might have to get a couple
Title: Re: UVS models 18/11/2019
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on November 19, 2019, 03:54:39 pm
This is from the Goliath and crew set.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D2K8HQQUN_0/XdMI5Gsu7yI/AAAAAAAAF7I/TKJwUhKjgNkcc13Iad676jL1E-yO6eyiQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/goliath-1.png)
The Goliath was easy to build, as you can see from the bits. The track units needed cleaning up, and their small size requires careful work.

I still have to return to the Kettenkrad sprues to build the trailer and associated Goliath.
Title: Re: UVS models 18/11/2019
Post by: ripley on November 19, 2019, 08:48:37 pm
Right , I forgot there were 2 versions out . I guess I'll have to get one of each ,
Title: Re: UVS models BA-3 Heavy Armoured Car 25/01/2020
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on January 26, 2020, 12:53:17 am
First post of the New Year (two flavours, other New Years are available).
Our Gracious Host's BA-3 Heavy Armoured Car plastic kit.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2w3hPt8AKeU/Xixqy7ghEBI/AAAAAAAAGK8/aFUtEz_bUwE8kiAs5B_NB1TY7FpEiWDTwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ba3-1-12.png)

Using a Sarissa Russian Outbuilding as cover, the armoured car provides support to Bad Squid Soviet infantry.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zwbzg2lwBDE/Xixqy_31MhI/AAAAAAAAGK0/BH9PJrOMNE42dtwMqp9JZyRjscHdronJACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ba3-1-10.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ddHdbgHkzsU/Xixq0JMFkxI/AAAAAAAAGLE/IcEh_dw0DSMnrDcbdGHhSedLtmr2C8lYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ba3-1-14.png)

Top view
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0S_2B8VEzXI/Xixq1OKAFyI/AAAAAAAAGLQ/UvURX2rTVBwihyhUBt7kUSZjibntD27gwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ba3-1-17.png)

My only addition was a green stuff tarpaulin on one mud guard.

No decals yet, but then probably only a number in a square. It also needs weathering.

More photographs here:
https://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2020/01/ba-3-heavy-armoured-car-by-rubicon.html (https://ultravanillasmurf.blogspot.com/2020/01/ba-3-heavy-armoured-car-by-rubicon.html)

Title: Re: UVS models M76 Otter 21/06/2020
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on June 21, 2020, 07:58:22 pm
What with one thing and the other, I have not had not much enthusiasm for modelling (I do have the Sherman IC Hybrid and LRDG Chevy awaiting detailing, plus the saga of the T34/85) but I have sort of finished an M76 Otter in 1/50 for Vietnam.

Why is it here, well Rubicon supply the decals.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FEfrnUHjZQ0/Xu8_5wkL_YI/AAAAAAAAGpM/lItBDfJBxS4od2Z-VyBgYfApCxXEuh8vgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/m76-1-3.png)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L8aglCaT7gU/Xu8_6SNs3dI/AAAAAAAAGpU/uoefCXITcMYccfghDIYNYO3YsNQUjk2jQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/m76-1-4.png)
Good use was made of the USMC jeep numbers from two of their kits (see also the V100 USMP armoured Car).

I hope the Centurion reaches these shores soon, I am going to need those decals...
Title: Re: UVS models M76 Otter 21/06/2020
Post by: neffer38 on June 24, 2020, 06:58:12 pm
Haha, I have boxes full of Rubicon Decals. Need to start sorting them for trades as I need 1st and 11th Panzer divisions.

Lovely look Otter.

I'll be keeping my ww2 stuff at 28mm for gaming but im looking at maybe a Centurion in 1/35 for display at some point, just need to get the T60 1/35 kit started 1st!
Title: Re: UVS models Into The Zone 01/08/2020
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on August 01, 2020, 08:07:39 pm
My first purchase/order from my local bookshop once they reopened  was the Osprey War-games Zona Alfa Blue Book.

The rules are for small scale skirmish inspired by games such as Stalker and Metro, the novels by Dmitry Glukhovsky and films and photographs of the Chernobyl Exclusion zone.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hjQEAFpFGMI/XyUK4yRhoYI/AAAAAAAAGw4/UqjOCUaYR0YRHq-xkhSg6TQbvnx0rcdPACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/intothezone-1.png)

The only excuse to show this photograph is the container has the number and a unit marker from the Rubicon T34 decal set.
Title: Re: UVS models: GAZ Tigr 13/09/2020
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on September 13, 2020, 04:10:08 pm
And another (ultra)modern model.
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y5OT7qtZVZY/X13MlcHmvgI/AAAAAAAAHB0/66ozU2K-5IcGSES_P5ypOvZQStWCy_yyACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/tigra-4.png)
Empress 1/50 GAZ Tigr.

The Osprey New Vanguard book on Russian Special Forces vehicles has a plate showing one with a Guards badge on the door.

The Guards badge and the number plates are from the Rubicon decal set for the Studebaker.
Title: Re: UVS models: Salute 2021 11/12/2020
Post by: ultravanillasmurf on December 12, 2021, 01:34:44 am
Long time no posts.

It was great to get to Salute this year, and there were a number of interesting models on the Rubicon stand.

Most of my Rubicon purchases (the other Valentine kit was in a separate bag and got missed during the phot session).
(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikkXiAmYh3xsKckuhfcdCtt7Y2N2YKYI2jN5rACuXYOF3pPTkxlIj5iF7nnugFvK_mYTz0ZeLqzkOlBsWcpxadIbx4bSwlgQm3ClaFqUn1TSAIsDV4G0iRenkQK1m2ZxNDplf_-Em4P0yJukxdYL-CnLPNBU5FYho8mFfsD13-rUL6UHnJvwTO_DgmvA=s500)

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhtyF2je_YcDsErzoTALeq4-tNdvrzY57TZi7rgeVRQZmqhqA0Tyy2cUQ_oFo-Tii4x1tcGX4pNveb2Nt2NUmds9D1t6MaQAf6vnfa5Qa53hdaiCHVxJlRVFyYtipxuXGGoVdS-W8f2I7Qh4nr5z71yMQyeq-jvoija-XcgmWHlswuMu8PVU-rEARC9Vg=s500)

I forgot the Sherman V.