Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production: A Detailed Review

by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production kit. This is a classic kit that's been around for a while, and for good reason! It's a fantastic starting point for modelers of all skill levels, especially those looking to build the iconic German Tiger I tank. We'll be taking a comprehensive look at what makes this kit special, covering everything from the box contents and build process to the final results and potential upgrades. So, grab your sprue cutters and let's get started!

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

First impressions are crucial, right? When you open the box of the Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production kit, you're greeted with a collection of sprues packed with plastic parts. The plastic itself is Tamiya's signature quality – a smooth, gray plastic that's a dream to work with. You won't find any excessive flash or sink marks, which is a testament to Tamiya's manufacturing prowess. The kit includes several sprues dedicated to the main components of the tank, like the hull, turret, and running gear. You'll also find a separate sprue for the tracks, which are the link-and-length type, offering a good balance between detail and ease of assembly. The instructions are clear, concise, and easy to follow. Tamiya is known for its excellent instructions, and this kit is no exception. They guide you step-by-step through the build process with clear illustrations and helpful hints. The inclusion of a decal sheet is another plus, allowing you to choose from various marking options. The box art is also pretty awesome, showing a fully painted and weathered Tiger I in action. This can be a great source of inspiration when you're deciding on your paint scheme and weathering techniques. Overall, the initial impression is very positive. The quality of the plastic, the clear instructions, and the well-thought-out design make this kit an excellent choice for modelers of all levels.

The Details Within the Box

Inside the box, you'll discover a wealth of detail. The parts are crisply molded, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that Tamiya is known for. The kit accurately represents the mid-production version of the Tiger I, with features like the steel wheels and the early-style cupola. The detail on the turret is particularly impressive, with well-defined welds and surface textures. The gun barrel is a single piece, which simplifies the assembly process. However, some modelers might choose to replace it with an aftermarket metal barrel for even greater realism. The hatches are designed to be poseable, allowing you to add crew figures and create a more dynamic scene. The tools and equipment are also well-represented, although some modelers might choose to upgrade them with aftermarket parts for added realism. The kit also includes a set of commander figures, which add a nice touch to the model. The decal sheet provides a variety of marking options, allowing you to build the tank from different units and time periods. The decals are of good quality, but some modelers might prefer to use aftermarket decals for even greater detail. The inclusion of these details further enhances the overall appeal of the kit, making it a compelling choice for modelers who appreciate accuracy and detail.

Building the Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production Kit

Building the Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production kit is a relatively straightforward process, even for beginners. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, guiding you through each step of the build. The fit of the parts is generally excellent, minimizing the need for filler and sanding. Let's break down the build process step by step, focusing on some key areas.

Hull and Running Gear Assembly

The construction begins with the hull, which is assembled from several plastic parts. The fit of these parts is generally excellent, requiring minimal filler. The running gear is next, and this is where you'll spend a bit of time. The kit features link-and-length tracks, which can be a bit tedious to assemble, but they offer a much more realistic look than vinyl tracks. The wheels are well-detailed, and the suspension arms are designed to allow for some movement. Take your time with this step, ensuring that the wheels are properly aligned to achieve a realistic sag in the tracks. Careful alignment here will pay off handsomely later when you're painting and weathering.

Turret Assembly

The turret assembly is another highlight of the kit. The details are crisp and well-defined, and the fit of the parts is excellent. The gun barrel is a single piece, simplifying the assembly process. The hatches are designed to be poseable, allowing you to add crew figures. Consider leaving the hatches off until after painting to make it easier to paint the interior. The commander's cupola is also nicely detailed, and you have the option of adding clear parts for the vision blocks.

Finishing Touches and Painting

Once the main assembly is complete, it's time for the finishing touches. This is where you can add extra details to give your model that extra bit of realism. Adding things like the tow cables, spare track links, and tools and equipment. The kit provides these, but you might want to consider using aftermarket parts for a more detailed look. Now it’s time to prime your model, and then move onto painting. Tamiya recommends using their own paints, but you can use any acrylic or enamel paints that you prefer. Researching the specific camouflage scheme you want to use will pay off here. Once the paint is dry, you can apply decals and then move on to weathering. Weathering is where you bring your model to life! Techniques like washes, dry brushing, and pigments can be used to simulate dirt, dust, and rust. Weathering will enhance the detail and add a sense of realism to your model. Take your time with this step, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you can create a stunning representation of this iconic tank.

Pros and Cons of the Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production Kit

Alright, let's break down the good and the not-so-good of the Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production kit. No kit is perfect, but this one comes pretty darn close.

The Good Stuff

  • Ease of Assembly: Tamiya kits are known for their user-friendly design, and this one is no exception. The parts fit together beautifully, making it a joy to build, even for beginners.
  • Great Detail: The kit accurately represents the mid-production version of the Tiger I, with plenty of detail straight out of the box. You'll be impressed by the level of detail on the turret, hull, and running gear.
  • Clear Instructions: Tamiya's instructions are legendary, and this kit is no exception. They're clear, concise, and easy to follow, guiding you through each step of the build.
  • Excellent Plastic Quality: The plastic is smooth and easy to work with. No excessive flash or sink marks to worry about!
  • Decent Price: Compared to some of the more complex kits on the market, the price of the Tamiya Tiger I is quite reasonable, making it accessible to a wide range of modelers.
  • Good Starting Point: This kit is an excellent starting point for those who are new to model building. The ease of assembly and high level of detail make it an enjoyable experience for beginners.

Things to Consider

  • Link-and-Length Tracks: While the link-and-length tracks look great, they can be a bit time-consuming to assemble. Some modelers might prefer to use aftermarket tracks for even greater detail.
  • Basic Detail: While the kit has good detail, some modelers might want to add aftermarket parts to take it to the next level. This could include things like a metal gun barrel or photo-etched details.
  • Age of the Kit: It's an older kit, so some of the details might not be as sharp as on some of the more modern kits. But overall, it still holds up very well.

Upgrades and Aftermarket Options

Even though the Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production kit is excellent out of the box, there are always ways to enhance it with aftermarket options. This is where you can really bring your model to the next level. Here are a few suggestions:

Tracks

  • Metal Tracks: If you want the ultimate in realism, consider replacing the link-and-length tracks with metal tracks. These are much more detailed and will give your model a fantastic look.
  • Individual Link Tracks: There are also various individual link tracks available, which offer a more detailed and easier-to-assemble alternative to the kit tracks.

Barrels

  • Metal Gun Barrel: Replace the plastic gun barrel with a metal one. This will add extra detail and realism to your model. Metal barrels are often more accurate in shape and have finer details.

Detail Sets

  • Photo-Etch Sets: Photo-etch sets offer a variety of upgrades, including things like tool clasps, fenders, and engine grilles. These sets can add a significant amount of detail to your model.
  • Resin Accessories: Resin accessories are another great way to enhance your model. These can include things like replacement tools, stowage, and crew figures. They offer a high level of detail and can really bring your model to life.

Conclusion: Is the Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production Kit Worth It?

So, after all is said and done, is the Tamiya 1/35 Tiger I Mid Production kit worth buying? Absolutely! It's a fantastic kit that offers a great building experience and a stunning finished model. The ease of assembly, high level of detail, and reasonable price make it a top choice for modelers of all skill levels. While some modelers might choose to add aftermarket parts, the kit is excellent straight out of the box. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced modeler, you'll enjoy building this kit. If you're looking for a great kit to build the iconic Tiger I tank, then look no further. This kit is a must-have for any modeler's collection. Happy modeling, guys!