1/35 Sd.Kfz. 171 Panther ausf. D by (Zvezda) Photo-etched detailing kit

1/35 Sd.Kfz. 171 Panther Ausf. D (Zvezda) Photo-Etched Detailing Kit (Microdesign MD035280)

What Is It?

Elevate the look and realism of your Sd.Kfz. 171 Panther Ausf. D scale model with this premium photo-etched detailing set, expertly designed to fit the Zvezda 1/35 scale kit. The Ausf. D variant, introduced in the early 1943 phase of WWII, represents the initial production run of the Panther series, revered for its powerful long-barreled 7.5 cm KwK 42 L/70 gun and innovative sloped armor. While early Panthers saw mechanical teething troubles on the Eastern Front, these tanks would evolve into one of Germany’s most formidable medium armor platforms, blending firepower, armor protection, and mobility in a design that influenced post-war tank developments. Transform your build from a straightforward replication into a near-authentic portrayal of this iconic tank, which defended Kursk’s lines and beyond, underscoring the evolving science of armored warfare. Crafted from 0.15 mm brass, this set includes five photo-etch boards, delivering 148 unique parts. Enhancements comprise protective mesh shields, hatches, latches, straps, mudguards, exterior item holders, and many other intricate pieces essential for replicating the Panther’s rugged and refined chassis. This kit ensures authenticity and precision. The components are lightweight yet sturdy, allowing for easy handling during assembly. By using this kit, you can transform your Sd.Kfz. 171 Panther ausf. D model into a MASTERPIECE with museum-quality detail. The brass material provides durability while maintaining a fine, realistic appearance, making it an essential addition for any model enthusiast. By adding these precision-etched brass parts, you replicate with accuracy the distinctive silhouette and functional details of the early Panther Ausf. D—bringing your model to life for all to appreciate.

Who Is It Intended For?

This photo-etch detailing set is perfect for:

• Beginner to intermediate modelers seeking a substantial yet accessible upgrade for their Panther Ausf. D
• Diorama builders showcasing Eastern Front engagements or pivotal tank battles of mid-WWII
• Collectors wanting a show-stopping example capturing the Panther’s early-production nuances
• Armor enthusiasts emphasizing the Panther’s influence on post-war tank design

Benefits

1. Exterior & Structural Detail: Upgrades protective mesh, hatches, latches, mudguards, exterior holders, etc., ensuring near-realistic Panther authenticity
2. High-Quality Brass: 0.15 mm brass guaranteeing crisp, finely etched parts that handle painting and assembly with ease
3. 148 Unique Pieces: Five photo-etch boards refining the Panther’s early-production elements in detail
4. Medium Difficulty: A rewarding challenge for modelers demonstrating the Ausf. D’s transition from prototypes to a battlefield game-changer

Product Details

Kit Composition

• Five photo-etch brass boards presenting protective mesh shields, hatches, latches, straps, mudguards, exterior item holders, and more
• Color instruction manual guiding clear, step-by-step part placement

Applications

Perfect for:

• WWII Eastern Front dioramas capturing early Panther deployments during Operation Citadel
• Collector’s models seeking a show-stopping finish spotlighting Panther Ausf. D innovations
• Exhibition builds emphasizing the transitional nuances that led to Ausf. A and G improvements

Historical Background

The Panther Ausf. D, introduced in early 1943, signaled Germany’s response to robust Soviet T-34s on the Eastern Front. Despite mechanical setbacks initially (including gearbox and engine fires), the Ausf. D established the blueprint for subsequent Ausf. A and G models, blending sloped armor with a potent KwK 42 L/70 gun capable of outperforming many Allied tanks. Its involvement at Kursk demonstrated the Panther’s advanced ballistic advantages, though reliability issues took a toll on overall effectiveness. Refined with each iteration, the Panther Ausf. D remains a testament to Germany’s ambitious engineering approach during WWII, impacting tank designs long after hostilities ended. By incorporating these photo-etched brass details into your Sd.Kfz. 171 Panther Ausf. D model, you honor the design’s innovative features—sloped armor, powerful armament, and the forging of future tank doctrines—while capturing the iconic shape that marked mid-war German armored evolution.

How to Use

Follow these steps for a striking Panther Ausf. D build:

1. Remove or sand away any molded plastic detail where photo-etch replacements (mesh screens, latches, etc.) will be applied.
2. Gently separate parts from the five etched boards using fine nippers or a blade.
3. Bend or shape components as indicated by the color instructions, confirming alignment with the tank’s hull or turret structures.
4. Attach them using cyanoacrylate (CA) glue or another recommended adhesive, verifying correct orientation of external items.
5. Prime and paint consistent with initial production Panthers, referencing historical schemes (like Dunkelgelb or camo patterns) from 1943–1944 deployments.
6. Study period photos for accurate weathering, unit markings, and potential track/hull modifications common in field conditions.

Why Choose Imodeller's MD035280? ?

• In-Depth Structural Upgrade: Targets the Panther’s external framework—mesh screens, hatches, straps—for heightened authenticity
• Precision Brass Quality: 0.15 mm thickness delivering crisply etched parts suitable for painting and assembly
• 148 Detailed Pieces: Five photo-etch boards refining major and subtle Ausf. D design components
• Medium Complexity: A rewarding venture for modelers highlighting the Panther’s mid-war debut in WWII

Upgrade Your Panther Ausf. D Model with Unrivaled Detail & Relive the Apex of German Mid-War Armor Design!

Elevate your Sd.Kfz. 171 Panther ausf. D tank build using these precisely etched brass components. Order now and showcase the Panther’s iconic silhouette and engineering breakthroughs that influenced post-war armor!

Shipping Information

Item Location: USA

Fast Shipping: Item will be shipped immediately after payment.