Pz.Kpfw. III Ausf. F

Dragon already sports an impressive line-up in its 1/35 scale series of Panzer III tank variants, although most happen to be late-production types. However, for the sake of completion, a new variant is about to join the ranks – a Panzer III Ausf.F! In actual fact there weren’t many differences between the earlier Ausf.E and its successor the Ausf.F. A different ignition system was installed plus cast air intakes were soon fitted on the upper hull plate to improve air circulation for the brakes and final drive.
Dragon’s kit represents an original Ausf.F vehicle mounting a 3.7cm Kw.K L/46.5 main gun. Many of the 435 production variants saw combat on the Western Front from May 1940 onwards i.e. in the early part of WWII. The last known combat service of an Ausf.F was in June 1944, meaning these tanks saw considerable action in German panzer divisions.
This new 1/35 miniature kit is produced to Dragon’s exacting Smart Kit levels. As a new release there are numerous brand new components such as the short-barreled 3.7cm Kw.K gun and completely new engine deck suitable for an Initial Production vehicle. The kit makes wise use of slide molds to impart the correct degree of detail. The lower hull tub, for instance, is a one-piece slide-molded component to ease construction. The turret is also a new creation made from a three-directional slide mold. To ensure realism, photo-etched items are available for elements like the air intake grills or chains on the smoke grenade rack. The 38cm tracks consist of Dragon’s patented Magic Tracks, which are a breeze to put together. The end result is an accurate recreation of an early-WWII German tank. The new Ausf.F – “F” for fantastic!