Rubicon Panzer IIIM

Another Christmas gift is complete.  This time we have the Rubicon Models Panzer III.  This is another first generation kit from Rubicon and I 'think' it has been updated with more detailed and accurate kit.  This kit claims to build the J through N models but it will not build the J.  I went with the M version.  The kit has a more traditional design than the Panzer IV I just built.  Assembly was quick and easy and the instruction were accurate.  I went with a quick three color paint job for game set in '43 and later though this tank would be rare after 1943.

Rubicon Panzer IVH

For Christmas I received a couple Rubicon kits for my Bolt Action Germans.  The first one I built was the Panzer IV kit.  This is the first generation kit and it is a little odd in some of its design characteristics.  It was easy to build and can be built in three (four?) different versions.  It is not the most accurate model of the Panzer IV out there but for wargaming it is more than adequate. I went with the IVH version so I can use the model for '43-'45 themed games.  I wouldn't mind having a couple more kits to build the other versions but I think this one is no longer available.  Rubicon has completely redesigned this models and released a new version.  I have not seen that one in person but I expect it is excellent.

This was a very quick build and paint job and, as often happens, the photos for the blog post reveal lots of flaws that I was not aware of.  Oh well, nothing a little touch-up won't fix.

Rubicon Models A15 Crusader

I have been really excited about the new Rubicon Models line of 1/56th scale WW2 for a long time and now I have finally built my first kit.  I bought this a few weeks ago from my local game store.  This is the armor back-bone for my Perry British 8th army project.  I have had it on the table a couple of times and it makes a perfect addition to my collection.  I might even buy a couple more for Tank War. 

The model comes in a nice glossy box and looks like a proper model kit.

The back of the box give a nice over view of the tank and some example pictures.  You can see how much I paid for it.  You can get these online a few dollars cheaper with free shipping.

A real bonus for a gaming model is the inclusion of this excellent decal set.  This alone adds about $5 of value to the kit.

The instruction sheet is just like you would get in a proper model kit.  It is very nicely produced and accurate!

There are three sprues in the kit.  You cam make one of 5 different versions and not matter which you build you will have a bunch of leftover parts.

Here is the model fully assembled.  I built the Crusader III and it took about an hour an half to complete.

I sprayed the model in a base coat of flat tan. 

Next I painted some dark brown camo patches.

There is lots of different ideas about the camo colors on British tanks in North Africa.  This probably should have been black but I prefer the look of the dark brown.

After the camo I did a drybrush with a light tan color.  I not very good a drybrusing anymore - need more practice.

After the drybrush I added the decals and then did a wash of light tan.

I really love this kit and I can't wait to buy some of their others.  They are easy to put together and designed to be handled.  I don't thing there will be any issues with these as game pieces.