Czech 38t Based Models


Fig 1

   This is the old Italiari kit of the Czech 38t.  After Germany overran Czechoslovakia, they "appropriated" all of the Czech tanks.  As the war moved on, and better tanks were developed, the turrets were removed and used as bunkers to defend air bases and such (fig 2 & 3).  The chassis were refitted with new tops and used as support units (fig 4-7).  This model and diorama are based on a phono.  The only modification is the box I added to the side (with the cross) to match the photo, and modifying the tank commander to lean foreward.

 

38t Bunker


Fig 2
Fig 3
Here is an example of the 38t turret at a fixed location.  The machinegun barrel has been bored out, and sights added.  The periscope has been altered to be accurate, and the door on top has been rotated 45 degrees as was on the real turrets.

 

Sdkfz 138


Fig 4


Fig 5
This is a scratch built model of an anti-aircraft tank.  The chassis came from the Italieri 38t kit and the 20mm gun came from the Tamiya 20mm AA kit.  The sides, hinges, muffler, etc were all created from sheet plastic.  The rivets were each individually cut and glued on.

 


Fig 6
Fig 7
Notice the spare gear that is kept inside (fig 6).  The log that is laying on the fender is used when the vehicle gets stuck in mud.

 

Early Model Hetzer


Fig 8


Fig 9
This is the early model Hetzer, modified from the Italieri kit.  The obvious differences are the old style muffler (fig 8 vs. 10) and the gun mantle (fig 9 & 11).  In addition, I have scratch built the interior.

 

Late Model Hetzer


Fig 10


Fig 11
This is the late model Hetzer.  The only changes I made to this kit were to build the side guards and mounts from thin metal.