The Kit:

This 1/35th scale kit is from Fine Molds, and is cast in white metal. Some minor parting line removal was required, but other than that, this kit was a real jewel.

The Details:

The only items added to this kit were the tension chain and spring combination that is common to most mortars. Fine chain was used and to this a length of fine wire coiled to represent the spring was added.

Base and Groundwork:

The pine base is cut to 3-1/2 inches in diameter. It is stained and sealed with multiple coats of Polyurethane. Sculptamold mixed with white glue was added for the groundwork. Various ground up sticks and twigs were used for the jungle litter. I made the palm fronds from paper sandwiched to a length of wire, cut to shape and painted. There are dried-flowers added along with some miniature rose leaves added in there also.

Painting, Weathering and Finishing:

Acrylic metal primer, paints and flat coat were used throughout. Artist oils thinned with an odorless brush cleaner and thinner were used for the washes.

General Mortar Info:

This weapon is very similar in appearance to both the U.S. M1, 81mm Mortar and to the Italian 81/35 Mortar. The Type 97 mortar was introduced into service in 1937.

Evidently, the only type of Mortar Bomb recovered from this weapon was of the Model 100 HE (High Explosive) type. The fuse for this type of bomb was adjustable for either instantaneous or for a delayed detonation. Other characteristics of this type of bomb were similar to the M43A1 as used on the U.S. M1. The propelling charge differed from the U.S. version as each charge was contained in a small coated (?) cloth bag.

This was the most common mortar used by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II, and it was also produced for the Imperial Japanese Navy, under the designation of Type 3 Mortar.