This is my second Tamiya Panther, both of which were type G. This is the steel wheel version. I was undecided between this one of the Late Version, so I looked on the web to see which one would be easier to replace if I botched it up (which should give you an idea as to how good a modeler I am). This kit seemed to be available on several sites, so I chose it. After opening the box, I realized that this kit also includes the standard wheels, so I think you can build a late G if you wish. This was another bonus in choosing this kit - I didn't have to paint the tires, which is a pain on any tank.

For the most part, the kit went together well. As with my last couple of armor builds, I attached all the tools and accessories before painting. The first trouble I had was with the treads. I thought they were going to break, and there was a gap where the two ends attach. I actually bought Tamiya's separate track link set for this kit (Tamiya part number 35171), then I figured out that I could hide the tread connection behind the skirts, so I did that. The track link set will also fit the Late Version, as well as the Jagdpanther, so I don't think it will go to waste. The second problem area was the skirts. I ended up using epoxy to secure the mounts to the sides of the hull.

Drawing on the last Panther I built, I decided to go with all Tamiya paints on this one. The base color is XF-60 Dark Yellow, and the camouflage is XF-58 Olive Green and XF-64 Red Brown. The instructions actually recommended XF-61 Dark Green, but I thought the Olive Green would look better. After painting, I realized it wasn't that different. All colors were airbrushed. For the green and brown, I used my new Tamiya airbrush, with its 02.mm needle/nozzle. I put the green and brown on quite heavily, but was pleased with how it turned out. I applied an acrylic wash made of water, a little hand soap, and a little Vallejo dark brown (I forget which exact color I used). It did not have that much of an impact, but based on past experience, better too litle than too much.

Page last updated June 15, 2023.