StuG III Ausf. G – MiniArt and 1/72 scale

MiniArt and 1/72 scale

MiniArt is a reputable manufacturer of kits. Founded in Ukraine (currently based in Poland), it’s a leading producer in Eastern Europe, specializing in detailed models ranging from military and civilian vehicles to buildings, dioramas, and historical figures.

Historically, MiniArt produced models exclusively on the scales of 1:35 (AFV), 1:48 (planes), and 1:24 (vehicles).

Recently, they have expanded their portfolio to include models in the 1:72 scale “Military Vehicles Series.”.

Model

MiniArt’s first step into the 1:72 scale is their Stug III model kit, a new tool that has quickly garnered positive reviews from the modeling community. This model stands out for its exceptional detail and accuracy, remarkable features considering its smaller scale. MiniArt’s commitment to quality is evident in the precise engineering of the kit’s parts, ensuring a satisfying build experience.

The scale is so new for MiniArt that it even confused box designer 😉

Workshop

I assembled the model without any modifications, following the instructions, straight from the box.

Wire is needed to fully finish the model – spare wheel holders are not included. Same for the tow rope and the handle.

Toolbox:

  • primer: Mr. Finishing Surfacer 1000 grey
  • base color: Tamiya XF-63
  • details: AK 3rd gen
  • camo: Ammo MIG-0024 Washable White Camo
  • weathering: Tamiya 87119 Diorama Texture Paint – Snow Effect, AK 4063 Brown Earth Deposit

Lessons learned

Every model is a learning opportunity, let’s see what I learned this time

Tamiya Diorama Texture Paint doesn’t work well as a snow effect on this scale. The structure is too thick and it doesn’t look good. It looks a bit like small stones stuck to the wheels and chassis.

Final words

The Stug III kit, despite its diminutive size, does not compromise on the intricacies that modelers have come to expect from MiniArt. It’s a testament to the manufacturer’s capability to innovate and adapt, offering both new and seasoned modelers an engaging project that is both challenging and rewarding. This model is a successful venture into the 1:72 scale for MiniArt. Let’s hope that the offer on this scale will be expanded.

And I hope for something else than Stugs in 1:72 (currently, in the 1:35 scale, Miniart has 11 different versions of Stug’s. In 1:72 there are already two on sale and the third one has been announced.)

Photos

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