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Rafi Ben-Shahar
183 articles

Trumpeter 1/16 T 34/76 Model 1942: The relationship between scale and weathering

June 4, 2023 · in Armor · · 10 · 574

At some point I got curious about how it is like to build one of the 1/16th scale AFV monsters. 's that comes with interior detailing satisfied my curiosity. It is a solid and easy AFB build thanks to the large size of parts. However, most of the interior components remain unseen. The only snag that I found was the excessive sag of tracks that cannot be modified due to the nature of two coupled links track pattern.

I stopped short of applying the temporary snow camouflage. Weathering emphasizes considerably the three-dimensional sensation of models. Yet, with the bigger scale it felt to me that there is no need to make it look real. It appears that the 1/16th scale AFVs fall in a kind of acceptance in my brain that the object is not too far. So, if you look for a convincingly realistic AFV model (without putting too much painting effort) then, the bigger scale may be a good choice.

In the aftermath, I let it rest in an outside display collecting dust for a natural weathering...

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10 responses

  1. This is (your usual) spectacular job, Rafi! I fully agree on your thoughts regarding weathering vs scale.
    The model must be huuuge!

  2. Thank you Spiros!
    Not that big, only 40cm long

  3. The saggy tracks look good, Rafi, and I think you’re right about the weathering

  4. Excellent work, Rafi @blackmopane
    A pity you don't see the interior, or are you able to still lift the turret and have a peek inside.
    Good idea to let it weather naturally.

  5. Thank you John
    The best way to have the interior exposed in this model is not to glue the upper chassis in place. Unfortunately, the parts do not click together and leave a big gap if you want to have it displayed in a normal position.

  6. Nice work, Rafi. The natural weathering is fine on something this big. They were all new one day and collected dust in depots and on rail cars!

  7. Excellent build. IMHO it needs some more dirt though. The 34/42 is some good lookin' tank.

  8. Thank you Bill.
    Will do.

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