Modeller Build Logs

Super-detailing the DML Panzer IV Ausf. E

Dragon Models this year have pushed the state of the art further than any other mainstream injection moulded kit producer. These new kits feature an acute attention to detail, expert research and consultation with some of the hobby's most respected modellers and an array accessories made from proven and innovative new materials. This new kit of the Panzer IV Ausf. E is an excellent kit to be sure and will satisfy most modellers built straight from the box. I find building a kit straight from the box pedestrian and don't get any enjoyment in doing what most other modellers do. So in order to maximise the amount of enjoyment I'll get out of this kit I have set myself three goals:

1. Scratch-build an interior.
2. Super-detail the model where ever possible.
3. Represent a realistic "early" DAK camouflage.

I didn't initially plan on using any after-market kits, other than CMK's transmission, but upon initial examination of this kit I decided straight away to replace the fenders with the photo-etched set from Aber. I am a big fan of thin fenders, usually I scratch-build or use a produced photo-etched replacement. The DML fenders are detailed on both sides, which is nice, but they are too thick for my liking. I also want to try and reproduce an interesting feature of Pz. IV fenders that only the Aber set will allow... I'll talk more about that when I get around to the fenders.

I want to scratch-build an interior for the fun of it. There are a few resin kits available but there are all for the later Pz. IV tanks. The DML kit comes with a fairly complete turret interior that will provide a good base. For the hull interior I am going to use CMK's transmission; I have reviewed it here: http://www.track-link.net/reviews/k1543 The rest of the interior is mostly flat panels, boxes and cylinders, plus some detailed items like seats, etc that can come from my spare parts box.

This build log (blog) will focus on addressing fault I find in the kit along the way. I will provide easy corrections for these. This blog is intended for modellers who wish to get more out of their kits so if you're going to get offended when I point out faults in this kit then you may as well stop reading here. In intend to produce a very accurate Panzer IV Ausf. E with the project that I hope will illustrate how easy it is to super-detail a kit with basic modelling skills. I also hope this project will inspire others to model "outside the box".

The first step in adding the interior will be to assemble the hull and add any bulkheads...