Thunder Model Plastic Military Vehicle Kit
Thunder Model Bergehetzer Early Special Edition (1/35) Item TM35103
This Special Edition release of the Bergehetzer Early from Thunder Model offers expanded detail and presentation options, with upgraded parts and refined mouldings. Based on the early-war recovery conversion of the Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer, this kit brings a rarely seen vehicle to life in exceptional 1/35 scale. It includes upgraded photo-etched elements and high-quality accessories to elevate the final build.
- 1/35 scale plastic model kit (Thunder Model item TM35103)
- Special Edition with additional detail parts and bonus content
- Open-top layout with early production configuration
- Two-ton folding crane system with pulley and winch rigging
- Engine, gearbox, and crew interior detail
- Rear stowage options and scale chain included
- Clear parts and photo-etched fret for fine detailing
- Markings for German recovery units, 194445
Note: This model kit requires assembly and painting. Glue, paints and tools are not included and must be purchased separately.
Historical Background:
The Bergehetzer was a German armoured recovery vehicle adapted from the Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer, originally produced at the BMM factory in Prague. Designed for vehicle maintenance and towing under fire, the early production variants retained key Hetzer features like thin glacis armour, basic access panels, and a simplified exhaust system. Outfitted with a crane and winch powered by the drivetrain, these vehicles were produced in small numbers to support Panzer divisions in the war’s final phases. The Early Special Edition reflects the earliest configurations, making it ideal for late-1944 Eastern and Western Front dioramas.
Suggested Paint References:
These suggestions are based on commonly observed camouflage and detailing practices for early Hetzer-based recovery vehicles. They may not match the kits specific instructions.
Component | Finish | Tamiya | Vallejo | Mr Hobby | Mr Color |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dark Yellow (Dunkelgelb) | Semi-Matte | XF-60 Dark Yellow | 70.978 Dark Yellow | H403 Dark Yellow | C113 Dark Yellow |
Red Brown (Rotbraun) | Semi-Matte | XF-64 Red Brown | 70.826 German Cam. Medium Brown | H406 Chocolate Brown | C041 Red Brown |
Olive Green (Olivgrn) | Semi-Matte | XF-58 Olive Green | 70.894 Cam. Olive Green | H405 Olive Green | C038 Olive Drab |
Winch / Crane / Cables | Metallic | XF-56 Metallic Grey | 70.863 Gunmetal Grey | H028 Steel | C028 Steel |
Tyres / Rubber Tools | Matt | XF-85 Rubber Black | 70.967 Dark Rubber | H077 Tyre Black | C137 Tyre Black |