COBI Panzer III Ausf. J Set 2712

COBI's Panzer III Ausf. J is a 1:48 model built from 292 blocks, with a rotating turret, a movable gun barrel and working tracks and wheels. All markings are printed onto the blocks.

The gun that was ordered and not fitted

In 1940 an order from the very top directed that the Panzer III be rearmed with the long 50 mm KwK 39 L/60. The Army Weapons Office fitted the shorter L/42 instead — it was available, it was cheaper, and the office judged it adequate.

The substitution came to light in 1941, reportedly at a display of new equipment, and caused a furious reaction. By then the decision had already cost something: the short gun struggled badly against the T-34 and KV tanks encountered that summer, while the long one would at least have had a chance at close range.

The Ausf. J in this set is the version that finally got it, along with thicker frontal armour. It was the most-produced Panzer III variant, and it was still not enough — the turret ring could take nothing larger, and the type was retired from tank production in 1943.

In the COBI range

Part of the compact 1:48 armour series. The large 1:28 Panzer III Ausf. J, buildable with either barrel, is set 2289.

Specifications

Pieces: 292 · Scale: 1:48