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Armor/AFV: Axis - WWII
Armor and ground forces of the Axis forces during World War II.
Hosted by Darren Baker
Help with type 97
russamotto
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Posted: Tuesday, December 14, 2010 - 10:08 AM UTC
Does anyone have more info on markings for this tank? I can see the symbol on the side, and what looks like a circle painted where the side meets the angled front piece, but can't tell if the paint is worn or if it is a design. Unit info or anything else would be great. I know this is a long shot but just hoping someone knows more.

GaryKato
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Posted: Tuesday, December 14, 2010 - 04:35 PM UTC
There is a color profile of this tank on page 111 of "Tank Power #10: Japanese Armor vol 2" published by AJ Press (has both Polish and English text/captions).

There are not only the two markings on the side plate but also markings on the gun recoil housing. The tank is of the 2nd Armored Division, 7th Tank Regiment, 3rd Company in Luzon 1944/45. The flower on the side plate was for the 3rd company. The circular design is a symbol (mon) of the leader of the 47 Ronin. The markings on the recoil housing are two large white dots, "No.125", "Dai Nippon" in Kanji.
russamotto
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Posted: Wednesday, December 22, 2010 - 10:41 AM UTC
Gary, thanks for the help. I'll have to see if I can find a copy of the reference. The kit included the decals for the markings on the recoil housing. I'm trying to free hand the other markings, which isn't turning out very neatly.
GaryKato
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Posted: Wednesday, December 22, 2010 - 03:52 PM UTC
There is also a color plate of this in Osprey New Vanguard #137:"Japanese Tanks 1939-45". it also has a larger rendition of the hull symbols.
vonHengest
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Posted: Friday, December 24, 2010 - 12:20 PM UTC

Quoted Text

Gary, thanks for the help. I'll have to see if I can find a copy of the reference. The kit included the decals for the markings on the recoil housing. I'm trying to free hand the other markings, which isn't turning out very neatly.



Keep trying, just make sure you've sealed your base/camo layer. I'm having my own problems with painting by hand but hope I am at least gradually improving
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