{"title":"Rubicon","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe are now sourcing the Rubicon range from an Australian supplier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf there is something you would like ordering in, drop us a line.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"156-german-motorcycle-r75-with-sidecar-dak","title":"1\/56 German Motorcycle R75 with Sidecar - DAK","description":"\u003cp\u003e280051\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the 1930s, BMW were producing a number of popular and highly effective motorcycles.  In 1938 development of the R75 started in response to a request from the German Army.  Preproduction models of the R75 were powered by a 750cc side valve engine, which was based on the R71 engine.  However it was quickly found necessary to design an all-new OHV 750cc engine for the R75 unit.  This OHV engine later proved to be the basis for subsequent post-war twin BMW engines like the R51\/3, R67 and R68.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe third side-car wheel was 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These were the BA-10, the BA-10M (improved version with new radio), and the BA-10ZhD (equipped for dual railway\/road use). The basic BA-10 design was developed from the BA-3 and BA-6 heavy armored cars. It had an improved GAZ-AAA chassis and improved armor. Like its predecessors, the BA-10 could be converted to a half-track by fitting auxiliary tracks to the rear pair of dual tandem wheels. These tracks were often fitted when the vehicle needed to move across snow or soft ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe BA-10 first saw action against the Japanese in Manchuria at the Battle of Khalkhin Gol in 1939. Some were captured and later used by the Manchukuo. It was involved in all the Soviet Union’s subsequent military operations and campaigns of 1939–1940. During World War II the BA-10 was used against the Germans on the Eastern Front, but was rarely seen after the winter of 1941–42. Later in the war the heavy scouting role was taken over by light tanks such as the T-60 and T-70. A few BA-10s were seen as late as 1943 on the Leningrad front. Large numbers of captured BA-10s were used by Axis powers in Europe. In May 1945 a few BA-10s of ROA fought alongside the defenders of the Prague uprising. The BA-10 was in Red Army service until 1945.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Highlight:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComes with open or closed turret hatches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne piece chassis for easy assembly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptional auxiliary “overall” tracks\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Code: 280085\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNumber of Parts: 50 pieces \/ 1 sprue + 1 cab body + 1 turret\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMiniatures are require assembly and are supplied unpainted.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31549049077811,"sku":"11279","price":65.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/ba10.jpg?v=1579646690"},{"product_id":"156-ba-3-ba-6-heavy-armoured-car","title":"1\/56 BA-3 \/ BA-6 Heavy Armoured Car","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe BA-3 was a heavy armoured car developed in the Soviet Union in 1933, followed by a slightly changed model BA-6 in 1936. The armoured car had the same turret as the T-26 M33 and BT-5 tanks and was equipped with a 45mm main gun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAround 180 BA-3 cars were built until production ended in 1935. The BA-6 followed with 386 cars produced between 1936 and 1938. The innovation that slightly improved mobility was the auxiliary (“Overall”) tracks that could be fitted onto the rear tandem wheels which converted the car to a half-track.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe BA-3 was externally very similar to the BA-6; the BA-3 retained door in the rear of the hull that was not present in the BA-6. More important improvements of BA-6 were the new GK tires, filled with sponge (porous rubber) and thus much less vulnerable to small-caliber fire. On the downside, the tires reduced both the speed and range of the vehicle. It also had a somewhat thinned armor plating. BA-3\/6 cars were superseded by the BA-10 model. All cars of this series were very heavily armed for the era; they could knock out other vehicles with ease, including tanks. However, their thin armor made them vulnerable to heavy machine gun and small caliber cannon fire. A prototype railway BA-3ZD variant was created in 1936 but was not accepted for production. The BA-6ZD was produced in limited numbers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTheatres of War\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAround 60 BA-6 cars were delivered to Turkey in 1935. The BA-3\/6 was used in combat in the Spanish Civil War, against the Japanese in the Battle of Khalkhyn Gol, in the Finnish Winter War, and against the Germans in the early stages of the Eastern Front. The German Army used a few Spanish-built six-wheeled armored cars that were close copies of the BA-3\/6 series. Later in the war, the BA-3\/6\/10 was replaced in the Red Army’s heavy scout vehicle role by light tanks, such as the T-60 and T-70. A few captured BA-3 cars were used by Finnish army under designation BAF-A, and captured BA-6 cars under designation BAF-B.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Highlight:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptions to build either a BA-3 or BA-6\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComes with open or closed turret hatches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne piece chassis for easy assembly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptional auxiliary “overall” tracks\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Code: 280084\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNumber of Parts: 47 pieces \/ 1 sprue + 1 cab body\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMiniatures are require assembly and are supplied unpainted.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31549049339955,"sku":"16542","price":65.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/ba3_6.jpg?v=1579646779"},{"product_id":"156-schwimmwagen-type-166","title":"1\/56 Schwimmwagen Type 166","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe VW Schwimmwagen Type 166 (Swimming Car) was used extensively by German ground forces during WW2. It was one of the most numerous mass-produced amphibious four-wheel drive off-roaders in history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Volkswagen Schwimmwagen was a mix of the VW Type 86 four-wheel drive model with elements of the VW Type 87 command-car. This used the air-cooled “flat-four” boxer and a manual transmission with four speeds. It had two transfer cases and a 4WD capability on the first and reverse gears. The initial prototype was called the Type 128. The 128 was quickly put into production despite showing some flaws that became obvious in operational theaters of war like the eastern front; less than a hundred cars were produced. When all the flaws were removed, and a new reinforced hull introduced the new Type 166 was born. The Type 166 proved far more reliable and was also simplified for mass production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first of these vehicles equipped SS units on the eastern front and they proved valuable in marshy grounds like in the Pripet, many served also in Wehrmacht units in North Africa and Tunisia, Sicilia, and Europe. They were seen, like the Kübelwagen, in nearly all theaters of war. It was light and reliable and served for scouting, transport, dispatching, command cars, and regular officer cars on the frontline. They were unarmed but proved versatile, sturdy and reliable. Soldiers sometimes nicknamed them “the Frosche” (“frog”).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom 1941 to 1944, 15,584 Type 166 Schwimmwagen cars were produced. The Schwimmwagen remains the most heavily produced amphibious car in history. Its VW mechanical basis made it popular after the war and 166 survived to this day in museums and private collections, often in running condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Highlights:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDetailed interior\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFoldable windshield\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRear propeller in stowed or in-use position\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptional side-mounted MG-34 or MG-42\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDriver included\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Code: 280080\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNumber of Parts: 50 pieces \/ 1 sprue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMiniatures are require assembly and are supplied unpainted.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31549185359923,"sku":"23864","price":58.5,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/schwimm.jpg?v=1579647941"},{"product_id":"156-krupp-protze-6970-6x4-truck","title":"1\/56 Krupp Protze 69\/70 6x4 Truck","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe L2 H43 and L2 H143 “Krupp-Protze” (unofficial designation) was a six-wheeled 6×4 German truck and artillery tractor produced between 1934 and 1941 and heavily used in World War II. It was powered by a 4-cylinder, 55hp or from 1936 a 60hp Krupp M304 petrol engine. Its main purpose was to tow artillery (designated Kfz 69) especially the PaK 36, and transport motorized infantry (Kfz 70).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis vehicle was extensively used on the Eastern Front, during the North African campaign and in France and Sicily. The “Krupp-Protze” was of relatively advanced design although its fuel consumption was relatively high (24 liters \/ 100km on road) in comparison to the Opel Blitz 1.5 t trucks (16.5 liters \/ 100km on road) which was produced between 1938 and 1942. Total production was about 7,000 units.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Highlight:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCan be built as Kfz 69 or Kfz 70\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpen or closed tailgate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptional tarpaulin top\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpen or closed rear canvas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDriver in Heer uniform included\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Code: 280082\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNumber of Parts: 87 pieces \/ 2 sprues\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMiniatures are require assembly and are supplied unpainted.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31549185392691,"sku":"36270","price":65.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/protze.jpg?v=1579647224"},{"product_id":"156-domestic-furniture-set","title":"1\/56 Domestic Furniture Set","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cb\u003eRubicon 1\/56 Domestic Furniture Set\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eideal for use with any town or city diorama or as modular gaming terrain. This set contains domestic furniture for the bedroom and the dining area, plus an outdoor French Bistro table set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith our modular scenery ranges you can mix and match to create your own great looking terrain pieces for gaming or diorama.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContains 2 identical sprues\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e– 2 bedroom sets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e– 2 dining table sets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 outdoor French cast-iron Bistro table sets\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Code: 283007\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNumber of Parts: 78 pieces \/ 2 identical sprues\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMiniatures are require assembly and are supplied unpainted.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31549185490995,"sku":"23855","price":47.5,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/dom_set.jpg?v=1579647027"},{"product_id":"156-m3m3a1-half-track","title":"1\/56 M3\/M3A1 Half Track","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cb\u003eRubicon 1\/56 M3 \/ M3A1 Half Track\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is multipart plastic kitset can be assembled to make either a M3 or M3A1 Half-track and includes a choice of winch or unditching roller as well as optional rear stowage racks, driver and passenger.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew decals have also been produced especially for this kit, including ambulance and free French markings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMiniatures are require assembly and are supplied unpainted.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31549185654835,"sku":"51335","price":76.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/m3a1_half.jpg?v=1579647768"},{"product_id":"156-m3a1-white-scout-car-early-late-production","title":"1\/56 M3A1 \"White\" Scout Car (Early \u0026 Late production)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe M3A1 Scout Car (also known as the White Scout Car in British Commonwealth service) was an American-produced armoured car that saw wide service during WW2 and beyond. The M3A1 Scout Car was a machine gun armed lightly armoured open topped four-wheel drive vehicle designed to be used in a reconnaissance role. The vehicle was crewed by a driver and commander, while there was seating for six additional occupants in the rear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe M3A1 Scout Car was typically armed with a .50 cal M2 Browning HMG and one or two .30 cal M1917 Browning HMG (early variant) or M1919 Browning MMG (late variant). All were mounted on a skate rail upon which the pintle mounts could be moved. Due to its open top, the occupants were also able to employ their personal weapons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe M3A1 Scout Car was used by cavalry units of the US Army during the North African Campaign and the invasion of Sicily, being employed for reconnaissance, screening and as an armored command vehicle. It was fast and reliable, making it popular with its crews. Throughout 1943 most US Army units replaced the M3A1 with the M8 armored car and the similar M20 Utility Car, although the M3A1 was retained for rear area security and convoy escort duties. A small number of M3A1s were employed in Normandy and used by the US Marine Corps in the Pacific theater.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA total of 11,401 M3A1 Scout Cars were allocated for supply to US allies under lend-lease, 6,987 were supplied to the British Commonwealth, 3,310 to the Soviet Union and 104 to the Chinese Nationalist Army. Some were also supplied to Free Belgian, Free French, Czechoslovak and Polish units. A grand total of 20,918 were produced between 1939 and 1944.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn British Commonwealth service, the White Scout Car was regarded more as an armored truck and was used by British Commonwealth forces in every theatre they fought in except Burma. In Red Army service, the M3A1 was used as an armored personnel carrier and remained in widespread service throughout the war. The Chinese Nationalist Army received M3A1 Scout Cars from 1942 and used them throughout the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Chinese Civil War.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter the war, many vehicles were sold, mostly to Asian and Latin American countries while they remained in Soviet service until 1947. A few vehicles were used by Israel in the 1948 Arab–Israeli War. France employed its M3A1s in the First Indochina War and the Algerian War. By late 1990 the only country with the M3A1s remaining in service was the Dominican Republic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Highlight:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEarly or late production model\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne M2 HMG, two M1919 MMG and two M11917 HMG\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 crew (driver, side passenger, and MG gunner)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptional tarpaulin top\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eM3A1 Radio Car conversion available separately\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Code: 280083\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNumber of Parts: 85 pieces \/ 2 sprues + 1 cab body\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMiniatures are require assembly and are supplied unpainted.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31549185687603,"sku":"11281","price":76.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/m3_scout_car.jpg?v=1579647847"},{"product_id":"156-lvt-4-water-buffalo","title":"1\/56 LVT-4 Water Buffalo","description":"\u003cp\u003eRubicon 1\/56 LVT-4 Water Buffalo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMiniatures are require assembly and are supplied unpainted.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31555709468723,"sku":"11283","price":76.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/buf2.jpg?v=1579730164"},{"product_id":"156-m3m3a1-expansion-m21-mmc-tarpaulin-set","title":"1\/56 M3\/M3A1 Expansion - M21 MMC \u0026 Tarpaulin Set","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe M21 Mortar Motor Carriage (MMC) was a self-propelled artillery mount on a half-track chassis used by the United States Army during WW2. It was equipped with an 81mm M1 mortar and an air-cooled M2 Browning machine gun. It was produced by the White Motor Company in 1944. Only 110 were produced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe M21 served on the Western Front, seeing action in Normandy and in southern France, before later being used during the Battle of the Bulge, the Battle of Belgium, Operation Market Garden, and the invasion of Germany from the west. The M21 served with the US 3rd, 1st, and 7th Armies during the campaign in France, and the 2nd Armored Division, which developed it. In addition, 57 units were leased to Free French forces. By 1945, it was declared obsolete, due to the insufficient power of the 81mm mortar as an artillery piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStandard US tank and armoured infantry battalions had a mortar platoon equipped with either M21s or the older M4 MMCs. The M21 was used mainly to illuminate targets at night or provide indirect fire support to the infantry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEXPANSION KIT ONLY – REQUIRES M3\/M3A1 HALFTRACK (280027) BASE KIT TO COMPLETE FULL MODEL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Highlights:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConversion set for M3\/M3A1 Halftrack (280027)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes tarpaulin for both M3 and M3A1 halftrack\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHighly detailed interior for the M21 MMC\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandalone mortar team included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTotal of 5 US infantrymen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Code: 280053\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Parts: 44 pieces \/ 1 sprue + 3 figure sprues\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMiniatures are require assembly and are supplied unpainted.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31555718185011,"sku":"72730","price":14.24,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/m3_tarp.jpg?v=1579730375"},{"product_id":"156-panzer-iii-ausf-hjlmn","title":"1\/56 Panzer III Ausf H\/J\/L\/M\/N","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e Medium Tank\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Panzerkampfwagen III (SdKfz 141), commonly known as the Panzer III, was a medium tank developed in the 1930s by Germany, and was used extensively in WW2. It was intended to fight other armoured fighting vehicles and serve alongside and support the similar Panzer IV which was originally designed for infantry support. However, as the Germans faced the formidable Russian T-34 tanks, more powerful anti-tank guns were needed, and since the Panzer IV had more development potential with a larger turret ring, it was redesigned to mount the long-barrelled 7.5cm KwK 40 gun. The Panzer III effectively swapped roles with the Panzer IV, as from 1942 the last version of Panzer III mounted the 7.5 cm KwK 37 L\/24 that was better suited for infantry support. Production of the Panzer III ceased in 1943. Nevertheless, the Panzer III's capable chassis provided hulls for the Sturmgeschütz III assault gun until the end of the war. A total of 5,774 were produced between 1939 and 1943. Nevertheless, the Panzer III's capable chassis provided hulls for the Sturmgeschütz III assault gun until the end of the war. A total of 5,774 were produced between 1939 and 1943.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Ausf H was the first version to be designed and fitted with a 5cm KwK 38 L\/42 gun. These variants were also up-armoured. Delivery started in late 1940 and early 1941. Tanks going to North Africa were fitted with armored vents on the engine deck. Rear turret stowage bins were fitted later. Because of the increase in weight, wider wheels and tracks were introduced. New front drive wheels and rear idler wheels were fitted as well as a different shock absorber. Because of supply problems, some of the early Ausf H tanks were fitted with shock absorbers and wheels used on the Ausf G.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe chassis on the Ausf J was lengthened to create better engine compartment ventilation and tow eyes. It was still armed with a 5cm KwK 38 L\/42 gun. From December 1941, it was replaced by a 5cm KwK L\/60 gun and were renamed Ausf L. Again, tanks sent to North Africa had armoured vents fitted on the rear engine deck. In April 1941, stowage bins started to be fitted to the rear of the turret. Some late production Ausf J tanks had 20mm spaced armor fitted to the front of the turret and the hull. Some older tanks had it fitted later.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Ausf M started production in February 1942. They had the same features as the Ausf L but were fitted with deep-wading equipment. Starting in May 1943 5mm Schürzen (skirt armour plates) were mounted on the hull side and 10mm plates on the turret, to prevent the Soviet 14.5mm anti-tank rifle penetrating the side armour of the Panzer III.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Ausf N mounted with a short-barrel 7.5 cm KwK 37 L\/24 gun was used in the infantry support role once the 75mm long barrelled Panzer IV, Panther and 88mm armed Tiger tank entered service. Schürzen was added starting in May 1943.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Highlights:\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Option to build an Ausf H, J, L, M or N variant\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Schürzen with build jig for ease of assembly\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Open or closed command \u0026amp; crew hatches\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Optional stowage included\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Tank crew figures included\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Code: 280092\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNumber of Parts: 184 pieces \/ 5 sprues\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39248919265331,"sku":"52184","price":79.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/280092PanzerIIIAusfH-J-L-M-N200530-1_1024x1024_f8834e44-9db9-48f6-b658-e5c1b5664c8a.jpg?v=1614304358"},{"product_id":"156-king-tiger-without-zimmerit","title":"1\/56 King Tiger without Zimmerit","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Tiger II is a German heavy tank of the Second World War. The official German designation was Panzerkampfwagen Tiger Ausf B, often shortened to Tiger B. The ordnance inventory designation was SdKfz 182 (SdKfz 267 \u0026amp; 268 for command vehicles). It is also known under the informal name Königstiger (the German name for the Bengal tiger), often translated literally as Royal Tiger, or somewhat incorrectly as King Tiger by Allied soldiers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Tiger II was the successor to the Tiger I, combining the latter’s thick armour with the armour sloping used on the Panther medium tank. The tank weighed almost 70 tonnes, and was protected by 100mm to 185mm (3.9” to 7.3”) of armour to the front. It was armed with the long barreled 8.8cm KwK 43 L\/71 anti-tank cannon. The chassis was also the basis for the Jagdtiger anti-tank vehicle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Tiger II was issued to heavy tank battalions of the Army and the Waffen-SS. It was first used in combat by 503rd Heavy Panzer Battalion during the Allied invasion of Normandy on 11 July 1944; on the Eastern Front, the first unit to be outfitted with the Tiger II was the 501st Heavy Panzer Battalion, which by 1 September 1944 listed 25 Tiger IIs operational.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDevelopment of the heavy tank had been initiated in 1937 with the initial design contract awarded to Henschel; another contract was given to Porsche in 1939. Both prototype series used the same turret design from Krupp; the main differences were in the hull, transmission, suspension and automotive features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHenschel won the design contract, and all Tiger IIs were produced by the firm. Two turret designs were used in production vehicles. The initial design is often misleadingly called the Tiger II (P), after the “Porsche” turret due to misbelieve that it was designed by Porsche for their prototype; in fact it was the initial Krupp design for both prototypes. This turret had a rounded front and steeply sloped sides, with a difficult-to-manufacture curved bulge on the turret’s left side to accommodate the commander’s cupola. Fifty early turrets were mounted to Henschel’s hull and used in action. In December 1943 the more common “production” turret, sometimes erroneously called the “Henschel” turret, was simplified with a significantly thicker flat surface to ease manufacturing and to add room for additional ammunition storage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Tiger II was developed late in the war and built in relatively small numbers due to severe disruption by Allied bombing raids. Only 492 units were produced.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Highlights:\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Tiger II with “production” turret and without Zimmerit.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Choice to build with or without tank interior\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- All round, full detail track links\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Optional mud guards \u0026amp; accessories\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Optional photo-etched air-intake grille\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Open or closed command \u0026amp; crew hatches\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- 5 Panzer crew figures included\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Code: 280099\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNumber of Parts: 242 pieces \/ 5 sprues + photo-etch + 2 magnets\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39248919593011,"sku":"34347","price":98.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/280099TigerIIwithoutZimmerit201021-1s_1024x1024_0cdc7147-6536-4e9b-8804-b35e563da17d.jpg?v=1614303925"},{"product_id":"156-king-tiger-with-zimmerit","title":"1\/56 King Tiger with Zimmerit","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Tiger II is a German heavy tank of the Second World War. The official German designation was Panzerkampfwagen Tiger Ausf B, often shortened to Tiger B. The ordnance inventory designation was SdKfz 182 (SdKfz 267 \u0026amp; 268 for command vehicles). It is also known under the informal name Königstiger (the German name for the Bengal tiger), often translated literally as Royal Tiger, or somewhat incorrectly as King Tiger by Allied soldiers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Tiger II was the successor to the Tiger I, combining the latter’s thick armour with the armour sloping used on the Panther medium tank. The tank weighed almost 70 tonnes, and was protected by 100mm to 185mm (3.9” to 7.3”) of armour to the front. It was armed with the long barreled 8.8cm KwK 43 L\/71 anti-tank cannon. The chassis was also the basis for the Jagdtiger anti-tank vehicle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Tiger II was issued to heavy tank battalions of the Army and the Waffen-SS. It was first used in combat by 503rd Heavy Panzer Battalion during the Allied invasion of Normandy on 11 July 1944; on the Eastern Front, the first unit to be outfitted with the Tiger II was the 501st Heavy Panzer Battalion, which by 1 September 1944 listed 25 Tiger IIs operational.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDevelopment of the heavy tank had been initiated in 1937 with the initial design contract awarded to Henschel; another contract was given to Porsche in 1939. Both prototype series used the same turret design from Krupp; the main differences were in the hull, transmission, suspension and automotive features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHenschel won the design contract, and all Tiger IIs were produced by the firm. Two turret designs were used in production vehicles. The initial design is often misleadingly called the Tiger II (P), after the “Porsche” turret due to misbelieve that it was designed by Porsche for their prototype; in fact it was the initial Krupp design for both prototypes. This turret had a rounded front and steeply sloped sides, with a difficult-to-manufacture curved bulge on the turret’s left side to accommodate the commander’s cupola. Fifty early turrets were mounted to Henschel’s hull and used in action. In December 1943 the more common “production” turret, sometimes erroneously called the “Henschel” turret, was simplified with a significantly thicker flat surface to ease manufacturing and to add room for additional ammunition storage.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Tiger II was developed late in the war and built in relatively small numbers due to severe disruption by Allied bombing raids. Only 492 units were produced.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduct Highlights:\u003cbr\u003e- Tiger II with “initial” or “production” turret with Zimmerit.\u003cbr\u003e- Choice to build with or without tank interior\u003cbr\u003e- All round, full detail track links\u003cbr\u003e- Optional mud guards \u0026amp; accessories\u003cbr\u003e- Optional photo-etched air-intake grille\u003cbr\u003e- Open or closed command \u0026amp; crew hatches\u003cbr\u003e- 5 Panzer crew figures included\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduct Code: 280100\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Parts: 254 pieces \/ 6 sprues + photo-etch + 2 magnets\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39248919789619,"sku":"20358","price":98.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/280100TigerIIwithZimmerit201021-1s_1024x1024_a07b34d5-ae76-4edd-9532-660b0e72da0c.jpg?v=1614303828"},{"product_id":"156-valentine-iiiiiiiicsivv","title":"1\/56 Valentine II\/III\/IIIcs\/IV\/V","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"tab-switch__content\" data-content=\"desc\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-description rte\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" itemprop=\"description\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Tank, Infantry, Mk III, Valentine was an infantry tank produced in the United Kingdom during the Second World War. More than 8,000 of the type were produced in eleven marks, plus various specialized variants which accounted for approximately a quarter of wartime British tank production. The many variants included riveted and welded construction, petrol and diesel engines and a progressive increase in armament. It was supplied in large numbers to the USSR and built under license in Canada. Developed by Vickers, it proved to be both strong and reliable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Valentine was extensively used in the North African Campaign, earning a reputation as a reliable and well-protected vehicle. The tank first served in Operation Crusader in the North African desert, when it began to replace the Matilda Tank. Due to a lack of cruisers, it was issued to armoured regiments in the UK from mid-1941. The Valentine was better armed and faster than the Cruiser Mk II. During the pursuit from El Alamein in late 1942, some tanks had driven more than 3,000 miles (4,800 km) by the time the Eighth Army reached Tunisia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Valentine shared the common weakness of the British tanks of the period; its 2-pdr gun lacked high-explosive ammunition and soon became outdated as an anti-tank weapon. Introduction of the 6-pdr was delayed until the loss of equipment in France had been made good, so the 2-pdr was retained longer. The small size of the turret and of the turret ring meant that producing mountings for larger guns proved a difficult task. Although versions with the 6-pdr and then with the Ordnance QF 75mm gun were developed, by the time they were available in significant numbers, better tanks had reached the battlefield.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBy 1944, the Valentine had been almost replaced in front-line units of the European theatre by the Churchill and the US-made M4 Sherman. A few were used for special purposes or as command vehicles for units equipped with the Archer self-propelled gun. The Royal artillery used the Valentine XI (with 75mm gun) as an OP command tank right until the end of the war.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn the war in the Pacific, 25 Valentine III and 9 Valentine IIICS tanks were employed by the 3rd New Zealand Division in the south-west Pacific campaign. The Valentine IIICS were by having their main armament replaced by the QF 3-inch howitzer taken from Matilda Mk IVCS, surplus to New Zealand requirements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn Soviet service, the Valentine was used from the Battle of Moscow until the end of the war, mainly in the second line. Although criticised for its low speed and weak gun, the Valentine was liked due to its small size, reliability and good armour protection. Soviet Supreme Command asked for its production until the end of the war. In August 1945, 267th tank regiment (40 Valentine III and IX) of the 59th cavalry division Red Army, together with the 65th T-34\/85 43rd tank brigade, passed from Eastern Gobi across the mountains Greater Khingan to Kalgan in China.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Highlights:\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Build choice of a Valentine II, III, IIICS, IV or V\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Choice of headlights and mud guards\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Open or closed command \u0026amp; crew hatches\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Optional special mount DT 7.62mm machine gun\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Both Commonwealth \u0026amp; Russian tank crew figures included\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Code: 280097\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNumber of Parts: 138 pieces \/ 4 sprues\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39248919920691,"sku":"12613","price":79.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/rubval11tov.jpg?v=1614303672"},{"product_id":"156-british-tank-cruiser-mkvi-a15-crusader","title":"1\/56 British Tank, Cruiser MkVI, A15 Crusader","description":"\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTank, Cruiser, Mk VI\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e or \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA15 Crusader\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e was one of the primary British cruiser tanks of the early part Second World War and perhaps the most important British tank of the North African Campaign. The Crusader’s mobility made it a favourite of British tank crews and once upgraded with the Ordnance QF 6 pounder main gun made it more than a match for the early Panzer III and Panzer IV tanks it faced in combat. Retained in service because of delays with its replacement, by late 1942 the lack of armament upgrade combined with the presence of Tiger I Tanks among the Afrika Korps and reliability problems due to the harsh desert conditions, led to the Crusader being replaced in the main line of battle by US-supplied M3 Grant and Sherman medium tanks.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAfter the completion of the North African Campaign, the availability of better tanks such as the Sherman and Cromwell relegated the Crusader to secondary duties such as anti-aircraft mounts or gun tractors. In these roles it served for the remainder of the war.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis 3 sprue kit enables you to build \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSIX\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e variants of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA15 Crusader\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e; including the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMk I \/ I CS \/ II \/ II CS \/ III \/ AA (Mk II\/III)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. The “\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e” stands for “Combat Support” which mounted a 3 inch howitzer in the turret instead of the 2-pounder.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Highlights:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Choice to build either an A15 Crusader Mk I \/ II \/ III\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- A15 Crusader Mk I \/ II can be built with CS option\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Also be able to build an A15 Crusader AA Mk II \/ III\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Removable auxiliary hull turret \u0026amp; 3 different side-skirts\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Can be built with or without rear fuel container\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Open hatches, spare road wheels \u0026amp; tracks\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Code: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e280025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNumber of Parts: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e70 pieces \/ 3 sprues\u003c\/strong\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39348219805747,"sku":"12907","price":79.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/280025Crusader_s_20150819115044.jpg?v=1620348833"},{"product_id":"156-us6-u3u4-studebaker-25-ton-truck","title":"1\/56 US6 U3\/U4 (Studebaker) 2.5 Ton Truck","description":"The Studebaker US6 2½ ton 6x6 truck was part of a family of trucks produced in the US during World War II. It is best known for the vital role it played in the Red Army’s victory over the German Wehrmacht.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe US6 was intended primarily for export to America’s Allies under the Lend-Lease Act.  The 6x6 version was intended to operate off-road, and was produced in both short (148 inch) wheelbase and long (162 inch) wheelbase versions.  The 6x6 version was rated to carry up to 2½ tons, while the 6x4 version could carry up to 5 tons but was limited to roads.  Most were built with an enclosed metal cabin.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA total of 219,882 2½ ton 6x6 and 5 ton 6x4 trucks in thirteen variations were built.  Studebaker Corporation was the primary manufacturer, building 197,678, while REO Motor Car Limited was sub-contracted to build 22,204 more.  REO trucks are identical to Studebaker’s, but REO only built the long wheelbase model without a winch. Of the total produced, 152,000 (including all of the 6x6 production) were sent to the USSR, where the Studebaker’s reliability and durability made it very popular.  It was known as “Studer” to the Soviet troops, and was used for transporting troops and supplies and (due to its off-road capability) as a gun tractor.  The Studebaker was instrumental in providing the mobility that the Red Army needed for its successful offensives against the Wehrmacht.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis highly detailed plastic kit depicts the long wheelbase version of the Studebaker US6 2½ ton 6x6 truck, either without a winch (model U3) or with a winch (model U4).  The kit includes the metal cab (moulded as a single piece) and an optional canvas canopy, as well as a choice of an open or closed rear tarpaulin cover and tailgate.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Highlights:\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Single piece cabin \u0026amp; canvas canopy\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Optional canvas canopy \u0026amp; winch\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Choice of rear tarpaulin and tailgate in open or closed position\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Driver figure included\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct Code: 280035\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39353113411635,"sku":"86930","price":76.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/ru035-allied-truck-us6-u3-u4-studebaker-800x800.jpg?v=1620348271"},{"product_id":"156-market-produce-set-1","title":"1\/56 Market Produce Set 1","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRubicon Market Produce Set 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e1\/56 Scale plastic kit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis product is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue and paints not included\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39398556860467,"sku":"56476","price":47.5,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/products\/240128775.jpg?v=1636757709"},{"product_id":"156-raupenschlepper-rso01-rso03-tracked-light-weight-vehicle","title":"1\/56 Raupenschlepper RSO\/01 RSO\/03 Tracked Light Weight Vehicle","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRaupenschlepper Ost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(Caterpillar Tractor East) was a fully tracked, lightweight vehicle used by the Wehrmacht in World War II.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAfter the Wehrmacht’s first fall and winter (1941–1942) on the Eastern Front, they found that the extremely primitive roadways in the USSR and seasonal mud required a fully tracked supply vehicle to maintain mobility. Steyr responded by proposing a small, fully tracked vehicle based upon its 1.5-tonne truck (Steyr 1500A light truck) already in use in the army. The vehicle was introduced in 1942 as the\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRaupenschlepper Ost\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(more commonly abbreviated to\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRSO\u003c\/strong\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eInitially designed as a prime mover and artillery supply vehicle, it eventually served in a wide variety of roles. Immediately after the vehicle reached the Eastern front, the combat units started using it for general transport duties. It gave outstanding service due to its reliability, its ease of maintenance, and its capability to take over a variety of roles - in every kind of terrain - which other vehicles lacked. The four road wheels per side, all in a single line as part of a “slack-track” system with no return rollers, comprised a much simpler suspension system, much more able to handle the rasputitsa mud season and Russian winter conditions, without mud or snow freezing between the wheels of the complex overlapping\/interleaved\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSchachtellaufwerk\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003esuspension systems that German half-track vehicles like the SdKfz 7 possessed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe original version (\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRSO\/01\u003c\/strong\u003e) had a pressed-steel cab with a truck-like configuration similar to the wheeled trucks. The next two versions –\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRSO\/02\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRSO\/03\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e– had a simpler, soft-top, slab-sided metal cab. All models had wooden, drop-side cargo beds typical of light trucks of the era. It was originally powered by a Steyr 3.5L V8 petrol engine, which in the RSO\/03 was replaced by the Deutz air-cooled diesel engine. Approximately\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e23,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRSO of all versions were produced.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45404024176918,"sku":"33848","price":76.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/files\/280128RSO-01_RSO-03230302-1_470x_079e730d-25f7-464c-9d27-39d62fac6f05.webp?v=1690590341"},{"product_id":"156-sdkfz-234-and-variants","title":"1\/56 Sd.Kfz 234 and Variants","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSdKfz 234\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e(\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSonderkraftfahrzeug 234\u003c\/em\u003e, Special Purpose Vehicle 234), was a family of armoured cars designed and built in Germany during World War II. The vehicles were lightly armoured, armed with a 20, 50 or 75 mm main gun, and powered by a Tatra V12 diesel engine. The SdKfz 234 broadly resembles the appearance of\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSdKfz\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e231 (8\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003erad\u003c\/em\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe combat experience of fast-moving, hard-hitting wheeled reconnaissance vehicles during the Wehrmacht’s early invasions of Poland and France impressed German military officials, but indicated some deficiencies in existing designs. A new armoured car project was thus undertaken in August 1940, incorporating several lessons from the Wehrmacht’s own external operations. The latest Büssing-NAG SdKfz 232 variant, the SdKfz 234 was designed later that year. It was to have a monocoque chassis with eight wheels, and an air-cooled engine for use in North Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe first trials with the prototype started around July 1942. Due to problems with the excessive noise of the first engine, a second model was developed, the Tatra 103. The vehicle had eight-wheel steering and was able to quickly change direction thanks to a second, rear-facing, driver’s seat; the transmission had six forward and reverse gears, with traction over the eight wheels. Power was provided by an air-cooled Tatra 103 diesel engine. The SdKfz 234 was the first and only German armoured vehicle to use an air cooled diesel engine. This was originally intended as a temporary solution until the engine could be redesigned to function better in harsher tropical climates, however, this never eventuated and thus the Tatra 103 was used until the end of production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe first and possibly best known version was the\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSdKfz 234\/2\u003c\/strong\u003e; it had a turret armed with a 5cm L\/60 gun, which was originally intended for the VK 1602\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLeopard\u003c\/em\u003elight tank. It was produced from late 1943 to mid 1944. This variant was replaced in production by the second version, the\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSdKfz 234\/1\u003c\/strong\u003e, which had a simpler open turret (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHängelafette 38\u003c\/em\u003e) armed with a 2cm KwK 38 gun; it was manufactured from mid 1944 to early 1945.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSdKfz 234\/3\u003c\/strong\u003e, produced simultaneously with the 234\/1, served as a support vehicle for the reconnaissance vehicles. It had an open-topped superstructure, in which a short-barreled 7.5cm K51 L\/24 gun was installed. This gun was intended for use against “soft” targets; however, when using a hollow charge shell, the penetration power exceeded that of the 5cm L\/60 gun. This variant was produced from mid 1944 to the end of 1944, before switching production to the 234\/4.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe final variant produced was the\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSdKfz 234\/4\u003c\/strong\u003e, which replaced the L\/24 gun with the 7.5cm L\/46 PaK 40. This was yet another attempt to increase the mobility of this anti-tank gun; however, the 234 chassis was stretched to its limits. This variant was manufactured from the end of 1944 to the end of hostilities in 1945.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Option to build a SdKfz 234\/2, SdKfz 234\/3, or SdKfz 234\/4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- SdKfz 234\/2 with a 5cm KwK 39 L\/60 gun\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- SdKfz 234\/3 with a 7.5cm K51 L\/24 gun\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- SdKfz 234\/4 with a 7.5cm PaK 40 L\/46 gun\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Comes with simplified chassis interior\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- SdKfz 234\/1 require the 2cm KwK 38 L\/55 autocannon (280048) expansion kit, sold separately\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"War and Peace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45404184183062,"sku":"17588","price":84.5,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/files\/280138SdKfz234_Variants230222-1_470x_7b03b60e-2af9-4d1f-bf25-e08e6d2a60ea.webp?v=1690590400"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0251\/4649\/0931\/collections\/rubicon.png?v=1778719989","url":"https:\/\/www.kapitihobbies.com\/collections\/rubicon\/1-56.oembed?page=3","provider":"Kapiti Hobbies","version":"1.0","type":"link"}