A MODELMAKER’S LIFE: FINISHING ASSEMBLY OF DAS WERK’S PANTHER…

All I have to do now is decide on a colour scheme that will work with my planned vignette, something I will do over the next few days once this cold has subsided and the headache I’ve had all day, goes away!

21st April 2025

Despite developing a most unwelcome head cold, I managed to finish the construction phase of my Das Werk Panther. Hugely enjoyable so far, it was great to see the model on my desk and be able to admire this pleasing project before I apply some paint.

I’ve already waxed somewhat lyrical over this cut-price kit. Today, I was able to use some of its welcome inclusions, first being that metal gun barrel that’s included not as a option for a plastic barrel, but as the part that completes the turret. In the image below you can see that barrel and how impressive it looks, complete with its plastic muzzle brake. Tidy, isn’t it?

Alongside the barrel, I also had fun adding the delicate etched brass vent screens to the engine deck. Superbly etched with what looked to these tired old eyes to be interwoven mesh. Once held in place with nothing more sophisticated than a heavy layer of Mr. Cement S, they looked most realistic. Again, you can see the parts in place, the right hand screens cover over with the optional shutters also included in the kit.

And finally!

Yesterday I mentioned a plan to cut down the side skirts to create a more candid appearance. Creating something that looks a little manicured than supplied is easy, needing little more than a scalpel glad to separate the parts and a sanding stick to remove any trace of the overlapping panel. Quick and easy.

So there we have it: a few days of construction and a model ready to paint. All I have to do now is decide on a colour scheme that will work with my planned vignette, something I will do over the next few days once this cold has subsided and the headache I’ve had all day, goes away!

See you tomorrow.