The Kit:

There are currently no model kits available of this weapon. This model was built using parts from two different Tamiya mortar kits, the M2, 60mm Mortar kit and the GrW 34, 81mm Mortar kit. I also used the bipod (modified) from the Italeri M1, 81mm kit, and there was some Evergreen styrene bits added as well as some "Gizmology" incorporated. I had only one B&W photo to base the construction of this kit from.

The Markings:

The white aligning stripe on the tube is from an aircraft decal sheet from my spare decal box. This involved one stripe, cut into seven lengths. All other markings were made by using an (white) art pencil.

The Extras:

The Kar 98 rifle as well as the bomb boxes are from the Tamiya GrW 34 kit. The rifle sling was made from a thin strip of drafting tape and was added to the rifle. I used Aber Photo-Etched Brass for the rifle sling's 'hardware'.

The Details...

Base and Groundwork:

The base is oak and is cut to 3-1/2 inches in diameter. It is stained and sealed with multiple coats of Polyurethane.
The groundwork consists of Sculptamold and to this static and tall grass were added along with some dried flowers for the bushes. I also used a few tree bits picked up off my driveway after a windy day. These were 'dyed' with a thin brown oil wash. The partial stone foundation was created from small stones found in my yard, white glued in place. Any gaps in the wall were filled with Sculptamold.

Painting, Weathering and Finishing:

Acrylic paints and flat coat were used throughout. Artist oils thinned with an odorless brush cleaner and thinner were utilized for the washes. Weathering was achieved in part with art pencils.

General Mortar Info:

Development of the kurzer (short) GrW 42 started in 1940 and was first deployed operationally in 1941. This weapon was originally intended to equip airborne units, but eventually was adopted by Army and Waffen SS units and gradually replaced the 5cm le GrW 36. This weapon could also be fitted with a lanyard operated firing device for remote firing.

Actual Mortar Data:

German designation: kz 8cm GrW 42.

Traverse: 14° to 34 °.

Caliber: 81.4mm.

Elevation: +40° to +90°.

Normal method of operation: Muzzle loaded, percussion fired.

Muzzle velocity: Not Known.

Length of barrel (L/9.2): 747mm.

Ammunition (Bomb Weight): 3.5kg

Length of bore: 630mm.

Maximum range: 1100m.

Weight traveling (3 loads): 30kg (approx).

Rate of fire: 15-25 rpm.

Weight in action: 26.5kg.

Production: 1,591 units.