1/35 Hetzer Mid + Late ‘Saukopf’ Mantlet Correction (Short Type) for Tacom kits

The Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer was one of the most successful light tank fighters of the Wehrmacht in the final phase of World War II. It was based on the chassis of the Czechoslovak-designed Pz.Kpfw. 38(t) light tank and was equipped with the 75mm Pak 39 L/48 anti-tank gun, which could effectively engage most Allied tanks. With its low silhouette, relatively thick armour and good mobility, the Hetzer proved itself in defensive operations and counterattacks. Production was carried out from 1944 until the end of the war, mainly at the ČKD (Böhmisch-Mährische Maschinenfabrik) plant in Prague, and a total of over 2,800 units were produced.

One of the characteristic features of the Hetzer was the shaped gun shield, popularly called "Saukopf" (pig's head) after its rounded profile. This part protected the barrel and at the same time improved the ballistic protection of the front of the vehicle. During the production process, the shape of the shield was modified - there were variants differing in length, angle of inclination and details of the reinforcements. These changes reflected the desire to simplify production, save material and improve crew protection. The exact shape of the shield is therefore an important identifying feature of a particular production run and is a key detail for modellers when building a historically accurate replica.

The Hetzer kit by Academy is one of the most popular kits available, but the shape of the cannon shield does not match reality - Academy has used a simplified or inaccurate profile that does not respect the differences between production variants. CMK has therefore produced a set of 3D printed replacement shields of the correct shape. This particular set includes the long "Saukopf" shield variant that appeared on the mid and late production runs of Hetzer. The piece is printed using modern 3D technology, which allows the fine details and exact contours of the master to be faithfully captured.

Installation consists of removing the original part from the Academy kit and replacing it with a new shield from this set. Regular modeling glue suitable for 3D printing (such as instant glue or two-part epoxy) is recommended. The surface of the part should be lightly sanded with fine sandpaper and primed before painting to ensure the paint adheres well. The package does not contain the paint or adhesives needed for installation.