10.5cm F.H.18-40 Drachenfels
Bring a distinctive piece of German Second World War field artillery to your collection with this detailed 10.5cm F.H.18-40 Drachenfels model. Its compact carriage, angular shield and prominent howitzer barrel make it an excellent representation of Wehrmacht artillery equipment.
Historical Role
The 10.5 cm le.F.H. 18/40 was a light field howitzer intended to provide German infantry formations with mobile indirect-fire support. Its duties included engaging defensive positions, troop concentrations and other battlefield targets from behind the front line. Gun crews could reposition the weapon as operational conditions changed.
Distinctive Appearance
The model is distinguished by its 105 mm howitzer barrel, muzzle brake, broad protective shield and low split-trail carriage. Large pressed-steel wheels and the relatively compact mounting give the piece a recognisable profile, combining the substantial barrel of a field howitzer with the purposeful stance of an anti-tank gun carriage.
Variant Differences
The le.F.H. 18/40 developed from the established le.F.H. 18 family, combining the improved le.F.H. 18M ordnance with a modified carriage derived from the 7.5 cm PaK 40. The armament remained a 105 mm howitzer, but the lower carriage, wheel arrangement and split trails were visibly different. This hybrid was created to improve mobility and reduce the burden of the heavier earlier mounting.
Modelling Uses
This artillery piece is well suited to Wehrmacht gun positions, ammunition scenes and Eastern or Western Front dioramas. Smaller scales complement period model railways, while larger versions provide extra presence in wargaming displays. It also makes an interesting standalone subject for collectors of German artillery and specialised military models.
Fun Fact
The le.F.H. 18/40 combined components associated with two different battlefield roles: a field-howitzer barrel system and a carriage closely related to that of the PaK 40 anti-tank gun.
Available Scales
Available in 1:87, 1:76, 1:72, 1:48 and 1:35 scales.
Finish Options
Choose from Cleaned Resin Grey, Grey Primed - Ready for Painting, or Historical Base Colour.
Very small details may vary slightly depending on the scale selected.
