ICM 1/72 Krupp Kfz.69 'Protze' w Pak 36

The Krupp "Protze" was a six-wheeled German truck and artillery tractor used by German forces in World War II. It was powered by a 60 hp Krupp M 304 4-cylinder engine. Its main purpose was to tow artillery, especially the PaK 36. It was also used to transport infantry and other utility uses.

This vehicle was extensively used on the Eastern Front, North African campaign and in France and Sicily. The Protze, commonly called the 'Boxer' was of simple design, and was mass-manufactured between 1933 and 1942. Total production was about 7000 units.

ICM has done a superb job on molding this kit. Two sprues and a front hood section are included in the kit, along with an acetate sheet for the windscreen. Detailing is quite nicely done and in most cases very much scale. So much so that some of the parts are very thin and fragile, a few of them having been broken during shipping. I also found some flash and a few sink areas, something I have come to expect from most ICM kits.

The kit includes an engine and full suspension system. I'm not sure how the hood might open, but those with the time and abilities could easily add a lot of extra detail to this part of the kit. With 131 parts, it won't be a quick build, but having the Pak 36 included is a nice additional feature. This gun can be built in either the tow or operational position. It seems that the trails can be built to move, but I wouldn't guarantee it.

The kit has two sets of instructions; one for the Protze and one for the Pak 36. Somewhat unusual as the Pak 36 parts are integrated into the Protze sprues. Both sets of instructions are very nicely drawn and while a tad small for older eyes, are quite easy to follow. Model Master paint references are supplied. You get two options for the Protze, both in Panzer Grey with one in Russia during 1941 and the other in France during 1940. The Pak 36 is also in Panzer Grey with a white wash option for the winter of 1941/42. The small decal sheet has markings for the Protze and they appear to be well printed

It is nice to see these new 1/72 military vehicle kits. This one is particularly detailed and so may not be appropriate for a new modeler, but for those who have some experience with fine parts, the results should be quite impressive.

http://en.wikipedia.org

June 2009

My thanks to www.dragonmodelsusa.com for the preview kit. Get yours today at your local shop or on-line retailer.

Thanks to If you would like your product reviewed fairly and fairly quickly, please contact the editor or see other details in the Note to Contributors.

Back to the Main Page

Back to the Previews Index Page