One Sixth Scale SdKFz 234/2 Puma

During the initial confrontations of World War II, the German Panzer divisions were highly mobile and effective at being able to direct a maximum amount of force at the enemy's weakest point. Identifying these areas of weakness required an equally effective reconnaissance effort aided by scouting groups of highly mobile soldiers. Reconnaissance became a highly specialised military art involving men with land navigation expertise, reliable machines and a strong measure of "guts". The Sturmtruppen or Storm Trooper arose from this need and hence so did the need for an armored vehicle that could provide some degree of protection, capable of harassing the enemy when encountered and provide a means for escape when needed. The SdKfz 231/234 were developed to help address this need.

The SdKfz 234/2 has always fascinated me by virtue of its angular lines, 8 wheel independent track and unusual design. Although only a handful were ever deployed, I am convinced that it would make an intriguing addition to my collection.

The SdKfz 234/2 is currently being offered as a one sixth scale radio controlled vehicle constructed by Alex of Russia and sold through Rolling Thunder (US) and Mark I Tanks (UK). At present, the vehicle has not been actively imported to the United States. Like many of Alex's models, this AFV features an aluminum suspension, steel and bronze enclosed gear boxes, aluminum milled road wheels and a GRP upper hull and turret. However, the quality of many of his other models using fiberglass or GRP hulls has been extremely suspect and given rise to many concerns about quality control and cost.

In light of these concerns, we contacted Rolling Thunder Technologies to assist us in importing the Puma and thoroughly bench testing the vehicle prior to delivery. This vital inspection convinced us to move forward.

These vehicles are hand crafted in Russia and are suitable for radio control operation. They are based on research performed on full size vehicles and available reference materials. Tracks and wheels are fabricated from cast metal alloy. The suspension system is usually a combination of aluminum and steel. Lower and upper hulls are reinforced fiberglass construction. The average weight of a Puma in 1/6 th scale is approximately 70 pounds without radio gear or battery.

The SdKfz 234 "PUMA" at first glance appears to be a cross between a tank and an armored car. The Germans felt the need for a fast reconnaissance vehicle that could also pack a punch in the event of an unexpected encounter with enemy forces. The Puma has definitely joined the ranks of one of my favorite afv's and will remain a permanent member of my Panzertruppen.

flimsy and structurally weak if not applied or poured correctly. An initial inspection of our vehicle, for example, revealed poorly matched panel seams, soft upper hull panels and frayed borders. It was quickly apparent that our SdKfz 234 would need structural reinforcement in the form of angle stock and aluminum bracing. More on this later in the rebuild.

At present, our goals have changed with regard to the Puma whereby it is now evident that more work is needed to bring this vehicle to a higher level of historical accuracy and realism.

We believe that we have a good platform on which to build but that there is much work to be done. As a result, we are