1/35 GERMAN TANK PANZERKAMPFWAGEN I Ausf.B

Length: 123 mm. Image shows painted and assembled kit.

The Pz.Kpfw.I was the first mass-manufactured tank produced by Germany since the post-WWI armor restrictions imposed by the Treaty of Versailles. The initial 1934 Ausf.A variant was followed in 1936 by the upgraded Ausf.B, which saw engine power increased from 57hp to 100hp, as well as a chassis that was some 40 centimeters longer. It was armed with a pair of MG13 machine guns, fired by the commander. Although originally intended only for training use, the Pz.Kpfw.I in fact saw action in the Spanish Civil War from 1936, and then in the German invasions of Poland (1939), France (1940) and the Balkans (1941), and even the ill-fated invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941.

About the Model
★This is a 1/48 scale plastic model assembly kit. Length: 123mm, width: 60mm. The compact form is captured in style based on extensive research of the actual tank. ★Slide molded upper hull and turret feature fine detailing. ★The track beam is recreated accurately. ★Assembly type tracks have one-piece straight sections. ★The model comes with a torso figure and a choice of head sections (beret or side cap). ★3 marking options are included (for units in Poland, France and on the Eastern Front).

The welded, sloped armor of the Pz.Kpfw. I was highly advanced for its time, and can be said to be the starting point for German tank design.
3 different marking options can be recreated, with differences such as Notek light, vehicle number plate and convoy light.
The tow cable is recreated with plastic parts –dry brush for an effective finish. Light lenses are clear parts.
Take a closer look at the suspension, with its unique horizontal beam. Road wheels are a three part design, and tracks have realistic sagging.

At the hull rear, take a look at the exhaust cover. Parts are also included for the number plate used in the invasion of Poland, and the convoy light from the invasion of the Soviet Union.
Choose between a beret and a side cap for the figure. Decals are included for various emblems and insignia.
7.92mm MG13K machine guns and sight are also recreated.
A closer look at the slide molded D parts.

A parts (x2)
B parts
C parts
G parts

A photo-etched part depicts the exhaust cover, and a jig is included to shape it.
Decals are included for three marking options (invasions of Poland, France and the Soviet Union).
Tamiya designers spent time with a full size tank for the research of this model.
⇒Click here to see a diorama featuring this model (contents are in Japanese).