Airfix A50186 Tiger 1 & Sherman Firefly – 1:72 Scale Tank Model Kit

Model Overview

PZKPFW Tiger 1 and Sherman Firefly Vc are presented together in this Airfix 1/72 scale tank model kit, recreating two of the most talked-about armoured vehicles on the Normandy battlefields. The set includes the Tiger 1 (Ausf E) as commanded by Michael Wittmann, schwere Panzer-Abteilung 101, Normandy 1944, and a Sherman Firefly Vc of the Staffordshire Yeomanry, 27th Armoured Brigade, from Operation Goodwood in June 1944. Ideal for collectors and hobby builders, the kit arrives with paints, brushes and poly cement to help bring both models to life.

About the Manufacturer

Airfix has been a cornerstone of the scale modelling hobby in the UK since 1952. Renowned for producing a wide range of historically themed plastic kits, Airfix caters to beginners and experienced modellers alike with subjects spanning from World War I through to modern military vehicles. Their reputation rests on approachable kits and accurate subjects that suit display and diorama work.

Historical Background

In the aftermath of the Normandy landings, the Tiger 1 and the Sherman Firefly often found themselves in direct confrontation. The Firefly, fitted with the powerful 17-pounder gun, was one of the Allied responses capable of threatening the heavily armoured Tiger at typical combat ranges. These opposing designs highlight the evolving armoured warfare of 1944 and the tactical challenges faced by both sides in the Normandy campaign.

Model Kit Features

• Scale: 1/72
• Parts: 70
• Skill level: 1 (beginner)
• Recommended age: 8+
• Includes: decals, 6x Humbrol acrylic paints, 2 brushes, 1x poly cement
• Subjects included: 1:72 PZKPFW Tiger 1 (Ausf E, Michael Wittmann, schwere Panzer-Abteilung 101, Normandy, France, 1944); 1:72 Sherman Firefly Vc (Staffordshire Yeomanry, 27th Armoured Brigade, Operation Goodwood, Normandy, France, June 1944)
• Size: 15 inches x 8 inches
• Color: Unpainted
• Part Number: A50186

Who This Model Kit Is For

This set is well suited to beginners and younger modellers stepping up from basic kits, as well as collectors seeking a compact pair of WWII British and German tanks. It is also a good gift option for hobbyists who appreciate historically themed model sets that include paints and glue.

Modelling Notes

With a skill level of 1 the assembly is approachable, and poly cement is included for construction. The set comes unpainted but supplies six Humbrol acrylic paints and two brushes to complete the finish. Decals provide authentic markings for the two included tanks, making the finished models suitable for display or incorporation into a Normandy diorama.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this model kit suitable for beginners?

Yes. It is Skill Level 1, aimed at beginners and ages 8+. The plastic model kit includes paints, brushes and poly cement to help first time modellers get started.

How difficult is this model to build?

This is an easy build. Skill Level 1 (1 is beginner, 4 more experienced) and 70 parts total mean a straightforward assembly for a basic scale model.

What is included in the kit?

The hobby kit contains two 1:72 plastic tanks (Tiger 1 and Sherman Firefly), 70 parts total, six Humbrol acrylic paints, decals, two brushes and one poly cement tube.

What scale are the models and are they suitable for display?

These are 1:72 scale models, a compact scale model size suitable for display. Product size is listed as 15 inches by 8 inches.

Is this set a good gift for a modeller or collector?

Yes. Packaged as an Airfix tank gifts set, it includes paints, brushes and glue, making it a ready hobby gift for adults, beginners and model collectors aged 8+.