Tondorf Tiger 222

Silver medal

Awarded: Silver

By: Harvey Low

Manufacturer(s): Dragon

Modifications: Re-textured all surfaces (note texture in in-build photos); added mud to undersides; added grab handles from brass wire; drilled-out MG barrel; added wire for front headlamp; cut and damaged the fenders; and added other details (e.g., spare jerry cans, antennae).

After-market parts: PART Photo-etch engine deck grills.

Description: Model represents famed Tiger "222" of Kampfgruppe Peiper s/SS-Pz-abt 501 during the Ardennes Offensive in December 1944. Model is depicted in sprayed ambush scheme with camouflage pattern matching as close as possible to period photos. Painting consists of my own custom mix using TAMIYA colors. Weathering is a combination of washes, and filters (all undersides weathered using MIG powders).

Judge 1
very well done building, with a beautiful texture work. Painting is good with a well done weathering. Drybrush iwas used in good manner and help to stand out all details. Also dust added is well painted.
Judge 2
Poor lighting in the pictures makes this model extremely hard to judge, but it looks to be competently built with wise use of aftermarket to sort out the kit's most notable deficiencies. The hull texturing is an interesting touch, but it's lost in the gloom in the finished model shots. The paintwork looks excellent, with a nice choice of colours and some variety in shade and tone. My only criticism here would be that a few of the dunkelgelb ambush dots look a little thick, but this is pretty trivial. The weathering is the icing on the cake and fortunately it's quality is evident in even the murkiest pictures. The caked mud on the lower hull is convincing and nicely restrained. The streaking and other weathering effects on the hull look good and give a suitably grimy look to the vehicle.
Judge 3
A good solid build. The photos are a bit dark but the finish still looks very good, with strong shadowing and shading giving it a vibrant, interesting finish. The drybrushing is good and adds nice highlights without being overdone.