Rye Field Models RM - 5086 1/35 StuH 42 & StuG. III Ausf G late production (Alkett or MIAG?)

As we have seen already, there are a few features that were unique to one or the other of two manufacturers that built the final batch of Ausf G, but unlike MINIART, RFM do not specify which one they are representing. Most features you are instructed to add, do point to an Alkett built vehicle; however, a few others have been confused. If you know what features are particular to each manufacturer then it makes it easier to differentiate, and the inclusion in the kit of almost all the features of both, is a big plus. If depicting an Alkett build, it is worth noting that RFM only include the original round type MIAG installed tow cable brackets. Alkett brackets were a unique square shape and as the kit part is moulded to the tow hooks, they ideally will need to be replaced along with aftermarket copper braided tow cables. Both Modelkasten and Panzerwerk design offer these brackets. Observing the details on the Alkett track guards; the tubular supports are not quite as faithfully represented as they could be. The shape is not quite on the money, but inclusion of photoetch strengthening ribs improve the overall appearance. The rear convoy light RFM provide is not one that either manufacturer fitted. It should be of the tube type design. These can be found as spares in many Panzer kits. I believe RFM’s own Panther kit have them. 

 

As in their earlier Panzer III and IV kits, RFM have moulded the main part of all the tool brackets to the tools, but the clasps come as photoetch parts. It’s a neat way of keeping the photoetch parts count down, whilst also enhancing the scale appearance of the most prominent feature of the bracket. The inclusion of separate tow clevis brackets in photoetch is also a welcome addition. It is just a single piece but does require careful bending before fixing in place. The clasp is yet to be added in the image below.

As already mentioned, test fitting both the gun breech assembly and the mantlet to the gun box is a tricky affair, but the fitment of part G65 pretty much insures they have to be fixed in place at this point. I wanted to paint the interior, and fixing part G65 as instructed will essentially trap the breech assembly inside, or if not paying attention, outside! A simple fix is to add part G65 to the roof plate (part G110) instead, leaving the roof plate the last part of the gun box to be fixed in place. I sourced a kit specific aftermarket metal barrel, and along with the spring, fixed it to the breech assembly leaving it moveable, so I could paint the whole sub-assembly separately.

The rotating cupola can be built with the small periscope flap open or closed, and if you wish to keep the cupola separate to paint, the clear part vision blocks can easily be fixed in place after paint. The kit also includes a finely detailed but delicate photoetch engine hatch retaining bracket which connects to the rear wall. The remote-controlled gun mount is easily built up but there are question marks as to whether the shields are of the right shape. Rado miniatures have just release a 3D set should you wish to go all in. As already mentioned, my roof will remain separate until the interior is painted and the breech and mantlet slotted into place. Radio aerials will be added as a very last step to avoid damage.

Progress before all but the smallest and most fragile parts are added. Tamiya rubber band tracks have been added just to keep all the wheels in line for the pic.