Eduard German Infantry Weapons WWII (TP501)

by Frank De Sisto

Photo-etched brass in 1/35th-scale for Tamiya kit. Price: $22.95 USD.

This second new set for weapons is tailored for the older Tamiya German Infantry Weaponbs set. Much like the US set reviewed on this site, it contains two identical pre-colored frets and one nickel-plated fret to detail the following German weapons: Kar98k rifle, GW43 semi-automatic rifle; Erma, Bergmann and MP40 machine-pistols; MG34 and MG42 machine-guns; PzB39 anti-tank rifle and variations of the Panzerfaust. All of these receive sights, triggers and slings, where appropriate. A nice touch are the printed data plates seen on the war-head of the Panzerfausts.

The various grenade and 7.92mm ammo boxes get new details such as handles, latches and hooks, while the carry rack for a pair of snail-drum magazines is completely rereplaced with etched parts. Various ammo pouches and holsters get new details, while two variaties of belts are provided for side-arms. The land-mines and magnetic anti-tank hand-held mines included in the Tamiya kit, as well as the MG AAA tripod also get small details.

Like the set for the US weapons, there are some omissions, such as no slings for the MP44 assault rifle. But, I presume that any other sling included can be adapted to that weapon.

Recommended.

Eduard products are available at retail and mail order shops and directly from the manufacturer at: www.eduard.cz. Visit their web site for additional images of reviewed items.