Model Trumpeter Ferdinand Sd.Kfz.184 1/16 00964

What are the characteristics of the Ferdinand Trumpeter 00964?

Reference 00964 is a plastic armored model to assemble and paint, representing the German Sd.Kfz.184 Ferdinand.

The dimensions provided by Trumpeter are 505.9 mm in length and 221.5 mm in width.

The finished model therefore requires a sufficiently large display space.

What does the box contain?

The kit combines different molding techniques and several materials to reproduce the characteristics of the Ferdinand at this large scale.

• Over 1,600 parts;
• 38 sprues;
• lower hull and upper hull;
• casemate;
• fully detailed interior;
• individual link tracks;
• 4 photo-etched sheets;
• metallic barrel;
• metal track axes;
• metal springs;
• brass wire;
• copper cable;
• metal chain;
• 2 resin figurines.

Trumpeter also indicates that the lower hull, upper hull, and casemate benefit from multi-slide molding to achieve finer details.

What level of detail does the interior offer?

The fully detailed interior allows for a significant part of the assembly to focus on the vehicle's internal fittings.

This feature is particularly interesting at 1/16 scale. The different elements can be worked on separately, then painted and weathered before closing the hull.

Trumpeter also includes a transparent top part of the casemate. It allows for visibility of the internal fittings of the finished model.

I recommend planning the painting of the interior early in the assembly process. Once certain parts are assembled, access naturally becomes more limited.

How are the tracks assembled?

The tracks are made up of individual links to more accurately replicate the Ferdinand's running gear.

This type of tracks requires more preparation than a single-piece molded track.

Careful deburring of the elements, checking their alignment, and achieving consistent tension during assembly are necessary.

Metal track axes and springs are among the metal elements provided with the kit. The barrel, brass wire, copper cable, and chain also complete the contents.

Who is the Trumpeter 00964 intended for?

This model is primarily aimed at experienced modelers looking for a long and detailed project.

The large number of parts, complete interior, photo-etched parts, and individual tracks require methodical work. The 1/16 scale also adds a practical constraint: a suitable workspace and display space must be planned.

I recommend building the model in sub-assemblies, especially separating the interior, hull, running gear, and casemate. This organization facilitates painting and weathering operations.

What is the difference between the Ferdinand and the Elefant?

The Ferdinand and the Elefant correspond to two successive configurations of the Sd.Kfz.184 tank destroyer.

The Ferdinand is developed from chassis derived from Ferdinand Porsche's heavy tank project. These chassis are converted into tank destroyers and notably receive the powerful 8.8 cm Pak 43/2 gun.

The first units are deployed in 1943. After the battles of Kursk, the vehicles still in service are modified with several improvements, including the installation of a hull machine gun and a commander's cupola.

These modernized vehicles are then designated Elefant. The Trumpeter 00964 reference accurately reproduces the Ferdinand, not this modernized configuration.

What is the history of the Sd.Kfz.184 Ferdinand?

The Ferdinand originates from the German program to develop a new heavy tank.

Since Ferdinand Porsche's project was not ultimately chosen for the Tiger, the already produced chassis were reused to create a heavy tank destroyer. The new vehicle was named Ferdinand.

Its main armament is an 8.8 cm anti-tank gun. It has significant frontal protection and a particularly innovative mechanical design for the time, with petrol-electric propulsion.

The first Ferdinands were deployed in July 1943 during the Battle of Kursk. Their firepower allowed them to engage armored vehicles at long range, but their significant weight and some mechanical weaknesses complicated their use in the field.

The surviving units were later revised and improved. This transformation led to the configuration known as the Elefant.

For modelers, the Ferdinand has a special historical interest. Its imposing silhouette, long 88 mm gun, and rear casemate make it immediately recognizable.

Why choose this 1/16 scale Ferdinand model?

The Trumpeter 00964 is suitable for enthusiasts who want to dedicate a complete project to a German tank from World War II.

The large scale allows for precise work on exterior details, as well as internal fittings.

The photo-etched parts, metal elements, individual tracks, and two figures offer several possibilities for customizing the finish.

I find this reference particularly interesting if you enjoy taking your time on assembly and then working on painting, weathering, and staging.

FAQ about the Trumpeter Ferdinand 00964

What scale is the Trumpeter Ferdinand 00964 model?

The reference 00964 reproduces the Sd.Kfz.184 Ferdinand in 1/16 scale.

How many parts are included in the Trumpeter Ferdinand 00964 kit?

The kit includes over 1,600 parts, spread across 38 sprues.

Does the kit have a detailed interior?

Yes. Trumpeter states that the kit has a fully detailed interior.

Are the tracks made of individual links?

Yes. The tracks are made of individual links.

Is the gun provided in metal?

Yes. A metal gun barrel is included in the kit.

How many figures are included?

Two resin figures are provided with the model.

What is the difference between the Ferdinand and the Elefant?

The Ferdinand corresponds to the initial configuration of the Sd.Kfz.184.

The surviving units were later modernized and designated as Elefant.

Are glue and paints included?

This is a plastic model kit to assemble and paint.

Glue and paints needed for finishing are to be purchased separately.