Primer: Tamiya “Fine Surface Primer” (light grey) spray can

Base coat: Always on the lookout for new recipes for WWII Russian green I thought I would try out the one suggested by Tamiya in the instructions. Thus, a mixture of 90% Tamiya acrylics (Tamiya XF-4 “Yellow Green” and Tamiya XF-58 “Olive Green” in a 1:1 ratio) and 10% Tamiya X-22 Clear in Tamiya lacquer thinner (2:1 paint mixture to thinner) was sprayed on. The same mixture, lightened with Tamiya XF-2 “Flat White”, was sprayed on the top of selected parts of the hull and turret (hatches, external fuel tanks). Not a bad looking colour to my eyes – I have no idea about how accurate it is, but I don’t think it is worth obsessing over. It will be toned down slightly by subsequent weathering steps.

Details:

• Tools (handles): Vallejo Panzer Aces “Old Wood” 310, streaked with Vallejo Model Color “Calvary Brown” 70982
• Tools (metal): Vallejo Model Color “Black Grey” 70862
• Headlight: Citadel “Mithril Silver”
• Rear light: Vallejo Model Color “Red” 70947
• Machine gun: Vallejo Model Color “Black” 70950
• Spare track: Vallejo Panzer Aces “Track Primer” 304
• Wheels (with rubber): the above green mix and Tamiya XF-85 “Rubber Black”

The paint was protected with a layer of Humbrol Clear gloss varnish, the decals applied and glossed over. Finally, Citadel Purity Seal satin varnish was sprayed on.