7.5cm Pak 97/38
Recreate one of the Wehrmacht’s most distinctive improvised anti-tank guns with this detailed 7.5 cm Pak 97/38 model. Developed by combining captured French artillery components with a German carriage, this unusual weapon is ideal for World War II collections, battlefield scenes and historically themed displays.
Historical Role
The 7.5 cm Pak 97/38 was introduced in 1942 as an urgent response to increasingly well-armoured Soviet tanks encountered on the Eastern Front. It combined the barrel and breech of the captured French Canon de 75 modèle 1897 with the split-trail carriage of the German 5 cm Pak 38. Its relatively low muzzle velocity limited conventional armour-piercing performance, but shaped-charge ammunition allowed it to engage tanks, while high-explosive rounds remained useful against infantry positions and field fortifications.
Distinctive Appearance
The Pak 97/38 is immediately recognisable by its long, slender French-pattern barrel, prominent multi-baffle muzzle brake and compact German split-trail carriage. Its angular protective shield, low firing profile, curved wheels and contrasting combination of older barrel technology with a more modern carriage give the gun a distinctive hybrid appearance.
Modelling Uses
This model is well suited to Eastern Front dioramas, Wehrmacht anti-tank positions, artillery batteries and towing scenes. Smaller scales are ideal for model railways and compact wargaming displays, while larger versions provide more visible detail for painters and collectors. Add crew figures, ammunition boxes, camouflage netting or a towing vehicle to create a convincing field emplacement or mobile anti-tank unit.
Fun Fact
The designation reflects the gun’s mixed origins: “97” referred to the French modèle 1897 weapon, while “38” identified the German Pak 38 carriage. This practical conversion allowed the Wehrmacht to make use of large stocks of captured French guns.
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.
