What the Tamiya 1/35 Leopard 2 A7V Kit Includes
Before you open the box, know that this is a 1/35 scale plastic model assembly kit from Tamiya's Military Miniature Series. It captures the Leopard 2 A7V with the additional hull front armor plate, based on extensive research of the actual tank. The kit includes snap-together tracks, photo-etched parts for the engine grille mesh and turret-side basket sections, and commander and loader torso figures with optional headwear. You get three marking options for different Bundeswehr vehicles.
Product Specifications at a Glance
- 1/35 German Main Battle Tank Leopard 2 A7V (Tamiya 1/35 Military Miniature Series 387): Length: 320mm, width: 110mm. The kit represents the upgraded Leopard 2 A7V with additional hull front armor, new running gear, and a turret rear basket. The dimensions give you a sense of the finished model's footprint on your shelf. The extra front armor and new running gear are key visual differences from earlier Leopard 2 variants.
1/35 German Main Battle Tank Leopard 2 A7V (Tamiya 1/35 Military Miniature Series 387) - 1/35 German Main Battle Tank Leopard 2 A7V (Tamiya 1/35 Military Miniature Series 387): Tracks are snap together assembly type. Photo-etched parts are used to recreate engine grille mesh and turret-side basket sections. Snap-together tracks save time and avoid glue mess, but the photo-etched parts need careful handling and a sharp blade. Plan your tool kit accordingly.
Step-by-Step Assembly Approach
Start by organizing the sprues and checking all parts against the instruction sheet. The kit does not include paint or glue, so have your preferred plastic cement, tweezers, and side cutters ready.
Build the lower hull and running gear first. The new running gear compensates for the extra weight of the A7V's added armor, so fit the road wheels and suspension carefully. Let the glue cure fully before attaching the snap-together tracks.
Assemble the upper hull and turret. The additional front armor plate is a separate piece—align it carefully before gluing. The turret rear basket uses photo-etched parts; bend them gently with tweezers and attach with cyanoacrylate glue.
Add the L/55 120mm gun, which is a carryover from the A6 variant. The barrel fits snugly, but you may want to mask the muzzle for painting.
Paint the model in Bundeswehr three-tone camouflage (NATO green, brown, and black). The three marking options let you choose a specific vehicle. Use acrylics thinned for airbrush or brush painting. The photo-etched grille and basket should be painted separately before final assembly.
Attach the commander and loader torso figures. The kit includes optional headwear—choose between beret and helmet. Paint the figures with flesh tones and uniform colors, then glue them into the turret hatches.
- Snap-together tracks: The tracks are snap-fit, so you can assemble them without glue. Test-fit them around the running gear before final placement to ensure proper tension.
- Photo-etched parts: The engine grille mesh and turret basket sections are photo-etched. Use a sharp hobby knife and fine tweezers. Apply a small drop of superglue to avoid warping.
- Figure painting: The commander and loader figures are torso-only. Paint the faces with a base flesh tone, add eyes with a fine brush, and finish with a matte varnish.
Painting and Marking Tips for a Realistic Finish
The Leopard 2 A7V uses a standard NATO three-tone camouflage. Start with a base coat of German Dark Yellow (RAL 7028). Add patches of Olive Green (RAL 6013) and Chocolate Brown (RAL 8017) using freehand airbrush or masking fluid for hard edges. The kit includes three marking options—choose one that matches your reference photos. Decals should be applied over a gloss coat, then sealed with a matte varnish. Weathering with washes and pigments can enhance the hull front armor and running gear details.
What the Catalog Does Not Confirm
The supplied information does not include specific paint color codes, decal application steps, or a recommended painting sequence. It also does not confirm whether the kit includes a display base or clear parts for periscopes. These are common additions in aftermarket sets, but they are not part of this kit. If you want a more detailed build, consider aftermarket photo-etched upgrade sets or metal barrels.
