StuIG 33 easy conversion

Derek Huggett
Deciding what to use to start with. Trumpeters 1:72 Stug. III Ausf. F (grey sprue) is good - note it is NOT an Ausf. F/8 - as the 'F' is what some StuIGs were converted from (or so I read!). The Armourfast 1:72 StuIG (sand sprue) is a 'wargaming' snap-together model, so lacks some finesse (finesse?). Note the hull uppers side-by-side for comparison - not too hard a decision!

Derek Huggett
What shall I use from the Armourfast model? Obvious really!

Derek Huggett
Armourfast gun compartment main parts assembled. Most of the detail on top of the track fenders shaved/sanded off the Trumpeter upper hull, and supporting ledges for Stug gun compartment also removed/filed down. Now a test dry fit of Armourfast to Trumpeter...pretty darn good fit!!!

Derek Huggett
I had purchased a RBM metal gun barrel for this project, but the Armourfast item cleaned up well enough to be used. With a shim of plastic card, the whole gun mounting was added to the Trumpeter upper hull, and checked for alignment. The rear storage box from the Armourfast model was also assembled and readied, but it is just a tiny bit wider than the Trumpeter rear deck, so I fitted new support struts just inboard so that it sat securely.

Derek Huggett
"Now just build your model tank!" (Thank you the 'Interlude'). The Armourfast parts attached to the Trumpeter parts with virtually no use of any filler at all (careful sanding and fettling saw to that!). The only other detail additions were to the front glasis plate and tow hooks, lifting hooks for the upper compartment (that is a story in itself!), additional shielding detail around the main gun and a mg barrel (that's an mg?). Yes, I retained the circular siting unit cover, and the whole model was only given the lightest of weathering to bring out the detail. I have also left off much of the 'clutter' found on an AFV on operational duties - hang me for it! 🙂

Mark Norfolk
An impressive and neat piece of work Derek, especially in 1/72! Go more public!

Derek Huggett
That is very kind of you Mark, thank you. 🙂