German VW K2s Type 166 Schimmwagen

Hasegawa 1:72 Scale Vehicle Review

Captured German Schwimmwagen used by a British reconnaissance unit somewhere in France. Porsche produced 150 Schwimmwagen in 1940, they were used for field trials which proved successful. Volkswagen then took on the mass production of the vehicle, of which 14,265 were produced between 1942 and 1944. Schwimmwagen were used primarily by reconnaissance units, enabling them to cross water obstacles when bridges, ferrys or fords could not be used, either because they were in enemy hands or had been destroyed.

Kradschützen Ersatzwagen

Kradschützen (motorcycle infantry) units of the reconnaissance battalions were to be mounted entirely on motorcycles and motorcycle combinations, but they did use Kübelwagen on occasion, to transport some of their heavier equipment. When the Schwimmwagen became available it was also designated as Kradschützen Ersatzwagen, replacing the Kübel, no doubt because of the Schwimmwagen’s superior cross-country performance which allowed it to keep up with motorcycle troops. For the same reason, the Schwimmwagen was a popular light recon and command vehicle in armoured units.

Schimmwagen with Driver and MG 42
NSU Kettenkrad (tracked motorcycle) with 2 Crew
Officer holding Map

Technical Specifications

Type: Light Amphibian 4x4
Wheelbase: 2.00 m
Length: 3.825 m
Width: 1.48 m
Height: 1.615 m
Weight: 910 kg
Speed: 80 km/h, 10 km/h in water

Bibliography

Volkswagen Militärfahrzeuge 1938 - 1948. Hans-Georg Mayer-Stein
VW im Kriege. Kübelwagen, Sonderkonstruktionen, Schwimmwagen. M. Sawodny

Evaluation

Scale model with much raised detail.
Excellent choice of subject, the Schwimmwagen is an important vehicle which served on most fronts. The NSU Kettenkrad is an equally interesting and unique vehicle and it is not available elsewhere.
Few parts, easy to assemble. Wheels need to be watched during the drying process, to ensure proper alignment.
Two drivers, a passengers and a standing figure holding a map make this kit very valuable for diorama builders and wargamers.
High quality kit, practically no flash.

Historical Employment

Schwimmwagen light 4x4 reconnaissance vehicle 1942-1945
Kradschützen Ersatzwagen in motorcycle infantry units 1942-1945

Schwimmwagen and Kettenkrad are an important part of any vehicle collection covering this period. Both vehicles were used in numerous units, even if they did not serve alongside eachother on a routine basis. Hasegawa deserves praise for this excellent kit. The choice of subjects is perfect for wargamers and collectors, and the infantry figures in the set add a nice touch. One thing that would further improve the kit and add value to it would be the inclusion of a 2.8 cm s.PzB. 41 or 10.5 cm LG 42 anti-tank gun to be towed behind the Kettenkrad.

Frequently Asked Questions

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