Autoblinda 43 - SdKfz 203(i) - 3D print

My first forays into 3D printing are starting to pay off. I found the file for the Italian AB 43 armoured car over on Wargaming 3D and thought it'd be perfect to see how 3D printed models would work in 28mm. I have a few minor niggles with the spare wheels not looking like the real thing and there not being a choice for open or closed hatches being the biggest of my issues. Also it's lacking a few minor details like the antennae and headlights but other than that it's a very nice model and considering the file is available for free makes it a real steal. I added a few details (antennae, stowage and headlights) from my bits box and must say I'm rather pleased with how it turned out.

The Autoblinda Fiat-Ansaldo 43, short AB 43, was a development of the AB 40 which had entered service into the Italian Army in 1941. The AB 40 was armed with twin 8mm machine guns in its turret while its direct descendant had a 20mm autocannon as main armament. The AB 43 was intended to carry the 47mm AT-gun but the Italian surrender to the Allies in September 1943 saw these plans come to nought.

Upon their swift occupation of their former Ally the Germans also captured a lot of Italian equipment and production facilities. As a result the AB 43 was put into production under German supervision but with the 20mm autocannon instead of the planned 47mm AT-gun. In German service it got the designation SdKfz 203(i) and saw service mainly in Italy and the Balkans. A few also seem to have found their way to the eastern front as well.

The AB43 as well as its predecessors was a relatively reliable vehicle but especially its transmission and four wheel drive proofed troublesome.

Stay safe and have a nice weekend!