Some people take a year to paint an army. It would appear that I'm taking a year to build a miniature.
I use 1/87 as my scale of choice. I ordered a model of a Bergepanzer, and after three months of confusion, consternation and communication, I wound up with a model of the VK4501, better known as the Tiger (P) or Tiger-Elefant.
No problem, its something a little different to throw onto the table when I bring out a battery of Elefant tank destroyers. So, I start researching this beast.
Big mistake.
The model uses parts from other models and they're not entirely accurate. I swap turrets, cut off the commander's cupola, get a turned brass barrel from Germany and now it looks pretty sweet.
Now I need to get an accurate paint job. Since its a unique vehicle that only served in a specific unit, its really easy to research. I even get some specific decals worked up. But I still need to get some color images of the cammo pattern. Fortunately, I'm able to borrow a book on the unit.
Big mistake.
It looks like the model maker – in his infinite wisdom – didn't consider that the someone might actually want an accurate representation of the Tiger in its combat configuration. While the Elefants of the unit didn't have Zimmeritt anti-mine coatings all the time, the Tiger (P) only saw service with that applied.
Oh boy.
My next trick on my model is to apply a Zimmeritt coating. I haven't figured out if I'll use Squadron green party or get some of the blue/yellow stuff. I've already figured out how to apply the texture, but I'll have to build a tool.
Now I'm eyeing a set of photo-etched brass that'll give the proper track pattern…
Wyatt
opens the box on the Armoured Panzergrenadier Company HQ (Late-War) for Flames of War.
