Russian Hetzer

By: Krzysztof Klimaszewski

Manufacturer(s): Dragon 1/144

Modifications: Scratchbuilt side skirts from metal foil. Drilled out exhaust and barrel. Slight change of front fenders. Antenna from relay coil wire.

After-market parts: The PE set from the box was not used. Decals (red stars) from Italeri T34/76 in 1/72 scale - out of register.

Description: This model shows Hetzer that was used by Red Army (3rd Ukrainian Front) in Hungary in winter 1945 (according to Militaria 181 "Pojazdy zdobyczne w armii sowieckiej 1941-1945", if I remember correctly). I am glad I was able to finish it before september's deadline. I have to admit that the pre-paint photo dates back to 2006! Paints used: Pactra "Russian armor green" (A112) - overall "Russ. AMT-1" A111, "Black Matt" A46 - dirt, ground "Steel" A75 + Black - tracks, machinegun. Weathering done with A111 and A46 and some pastels. I would be grateful for constructive comments. I hope this time I uploaded good (in terms of my skill) photos.

Judge 1: Nice build. The biuld is really clean. Painting needs more contrast by using washes and more drybrushing. The decal seems to have a white outline only on one side. But generally nice build (I like the way you damaged the fenders). Photos are good.
Judge 2: The construction and basic finish is good (especially in this very small scale!) but I think it would benefit from more shading and weathering - perhaps stronger washes around the small details and / or more highlighting.
Judge 3: Construction is good and very clean. Coloration is too much flat and dark. I prefer to light the base color also because during the weathering phases the base tone become darker. More wash would be better. On the vertical surfaces you could have made some drips and filters. Paolo Capitanio