1/72 Academy German Tiger-I Early 13422

1/72 Scale Academy German Tiger-I Early Production Model Kit

Build one of World War II's most legendary and feared armored fighting vehicles with this highly detailed 1/72 scale model of the German Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger-I early production variant from Academy Models. This kit represents the iconic heavy tank as it appeared during its initial deployment on the Eastern Front and North African campaigns in 1942-1943, featuring the distinctive early production characteristics that made the Tiger a formidable opponent.

Kit Features

• Highly detailed 1/72 scale plastic model kit
• Accurate early production Tiger-I variant with distinctive features
• Detailed hull and turret with authentic panel lines and surface textures
• Individual track links for realistic appearance
• Detailed suspension system with road wheels and return rollers
• Accurate 8.8cm KwK 36 L/56 main gun with detailed barrel
• Optional position hatches and turret
• Detailed engine deck grilles and exhaust system
• Authentic German Wehrmacht markings and tactical numbers
• Clear assembly instructions with painting guide and historical notes

Historical Significance

The Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger-I was Germany's answer to the heavily armored Soviet tanks encountered on the Eastern Front. First deployed in late 1942, the Tiger-I combined unprecedented firepower, thick armor protection, and advanced engineering. Early production Tigers featured distinctive characteristics including drum-style cupola, S-mine dischargers, and Feifel air filters. Despite mechanical complexity and high production costs, the Tiger-I achieved legendary status through its combat effectiveness, with a single Tiger often capable of engaging multiple enemy tanks successfully.

About the Tiger-I Early Production

The early production Tiger-I (produced from August 1942 to July 1943) featured several unique characteristics that distinguished it from later variants. These included the drum-style commander's cupola, rubber-rimmed road wheels, S-mine launchers on the turret sides, and optional Feifel air filtration system. Powered by the Maybach HL 230 P45 V-12 engine producing 700 horsepower, the Tiger-I could achieve speeds up to 38 km/h despite weighing 57 tons. Its 8.8cm KwK 36 gun could penetrate virtually any Allied tank at combat ranges, while its 100mm frontal armor made it nearly impervious to most Allied anti-tank weapons of the period.

Specifications

• Scale: 1/72
• Skill Level: Intermediate
• Item Number: 13422
• Manufacturer: Academy Models
• Origin: South Korea
• Vehicle Type: German Heavy Tank
• Designation: Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger-I (Early Production)
• Historical Period: World War II (1942-1943)
• Service Branch: German Wehrmacht, Waffen-SS

What You'll Need

This unassembled plastic model kit requires plastic cement, paint, and modeling tools. We recommend using authentic German armor colors including Dark Yellow (RAL 7028), Panzer Gray (RAL 7021), Red Brown (RAL 8017), and Olive Green (RAL 6003) for period-accurate camouflage schemes.

Complementary Products

Enhance your Tiger-I build with these related items from our store:

• 1/72 Trumpeter Tiger 1 Tank (Early Production) - Alternative Tiger-I kit
• 1/72 Pegasus German Tiger II Heavy Tank - Later Tiger variant
• 1/35 Eduard Tiger I for Academy Detail Set - Photo-etch upgrade for larger scale
• 1/36 to 1/80 Scale Collection - Browse our complete small-scale armor selection

About Academy Models

Academy Models is a renowned South Korean manufacturer of high-quality plastic model kits. With decades of experience, Academy produces accurate, well-engineered kits across multiple scales and subjects including armor, aircraft, ships, and vehicles. Visit Academy's official website to learn more about their complete product line and company history.

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