Panzer III G

Subject:
Panzer III Ausf. G
Kit Used: DML 1/35

Review & model by:
John Kesner
Pictures: R. Forys

Dragon's Panzer III Ausf G kit is one of their earlier releases but it still holds up well with regards to accuracy and detail, plus it's the only kit of this version. This model depicts one of the early Afrika Korps arrivals to the desert in 1941. I decided on a "curb side" model, (no interior), so it wouldn't become a three year project!

I built the basic kit pretty much per instructions, but armed with my trusty reference book, Achtung Panzer No. 2 Pz. III, I was able to replicate the features and details of the "G" tropical version. First off, these early Panzer IIIs used a narrow track, 36 cm wide verses the latter version 40 cm track. I used Model Kasten 36 cm track, and they fit the kit's running gear just fine.

Just for the record, besides the increase in track width, the G was the first Panzer III version to employ the 5cm KwK L/42 main gun. Other differences from previous versions included an increase in hull armor thickness, and a new pivoting visor for the driver. The turret was modified with an exhaust fan mounted on the roof, and one signal port was eliminated. It appears only about 800 G models were produced. The initial 1250 unit order was decreased because of the availability, and successfulness of the Czech 38(t).

I used the Aber Panzer III "E" photo-etch detail set, (which includes many common items with earlier Panzer IIIs) for the intake grills, smoke candle holder, turret cupola hatches, and front / rear fender sections, which are workable. (Fold-up) A nice touch.

Aber provided the tool clamps, which again are workable and allow the installation of the tools after painting the vehicle. Here is a list of further additions: Lower hull MG 34, Moskit exhausts, somebody's aluminum barrel, a scratch- built wood jack block, and tissue tarp/ dust cover for the main gun.

I sprayed the entire vehicle Model Master panzer grey, then over-sprayed with Model Master desert sand 1941. I mixed a little flat white into the desert sand and lightly sprayed the topside surfaces again so they would be a lighter shade. The whole idea of the overspray was not to totally cover the panzer grey but allow some patches to show through; a weathered appearance!

All marking were done with stencils and really was the only way to go on the irregular surfaces such as the turret sides / hatches. A light wash was applied with burnt umber oils followed by a coating of Mig's African dust pastels, heavy on the running gear / lower hull, and less on the topsides. The additional items such as the jerry cans are from Tasca, (the best), and the figure is Alpine's DAK tank commander. I'm a figure painter in training!!