Sturmgeschutz IV sdkfz163

joker101_np
Kit went together really well, there was a couple of confusing bits in the instructions, particularly about the different options and substitutions of parts, but nothing too complicated. Pieces required minimal cleanup. Biggest issue I had is the decals in my set were terrible in my version of the kit. They fell apart and ripped in the water when moistening them, and when placing them on the model. Had to go through a couple different decals on the sheet just to get some good ones.

joker101_np
Lighter chipping was added using a lighter version of the basecoat (Dunkelgelb mixed with Deck Tan), darker chipping was added with Red Brown (XF-64) and steel chips where added with AK new steel. Dirt effects where two blends of pastel chalks ground up and pin wash was done with blank and burnt umber oil paints thinned down.

joker101_np
And she is finally done! Added dirt effects on the outside of the side skirts, added graphite details to the metal and chipped edges, and added the sprocket wheels, road wheels and idler wheels, the tracks and the side skirts on to the model. I then sprayed it with matte varnish. This was my second model in my return to the hobby after the Panzer II, and first with this extensive weathering. I think I was too heavy handed with the weathering on this one and the chipping was a little messy. I think I will go with brush chipping for the Churchill I have started to get more control compared to the sponge chipping. This was a lot of fun, learned a lot along the way, and I welcome any feedback or critiques anyone has, just go easy on me!