The Dragon Models 1/35 Tiger I Initial Type (3-in-1) — s.Pz.Abt.502 Leningrad 1943 (6252) is a landmark Smart Kit that marked Dragon's arrival as the premier Tiger I manufacturer in 1/35 scale. This release, incorporating the results of extensive Tiger I research, offers builders three distinct early production build options in a single box — making it one of the most versatile and rewarding Tiger I kits ever produced.
The schwere Panzer-Abteilung 502 was the first unit to receive and deploy the Tiger I, and its vehicles in the Leningrad sector during 1942 and 1943 represent the earliest operational Tigers in existence. The initial production type is distinguished by a constellation of features unique to the first production batch — the Feifel external air cleaner system, S-mine Abwurfvorrichtung launchers on the hull roof, the early single-piece commander's cupola, the Vorpanzer (additional armor) protection for the hull front, and early running gear with the full-diameter road wheels on the inner row. Many of these features were deleted or revised in subsequent production as combat experience accumulated and manufacturing pressures grew.
Key Features:
- 1/35 scale injection-molded Smart Kit — 3-in-1 build option
- Three distinct early production Tiger I configurations in a single box
- Upgraded metal parts for high-wear and detail components
- Early-production DS track links with open guide horns
- Photo-etched brass parts including Feifel air cleaner covers, engine deck screens, and fine exterior details
- Multiple s.Pz.Abt.502 Leningrad sector marking options
The 3-in-1 format was a significant innovation when this kit was released — allowing a single purchase to produce three meaningfully different early Tiger I variants, each with its own combination of production features. This makes the kit exceptional value for Tiger enthusiasts who want to explore the range of initial-production vehicle configurations.
Ideal For:
- Tiger I enthusiasts and early-production variant collectors
- Eastern Front 1942/43 and Leningrad sector diorama builders
- Modelers wanting multiple distinct build options from a single premium purchase
- Collectors seeking Dragon's foundational Tiger I release
The Dragon Tiger I Initial Type 3-in-1 remains one of the hobby's essential Tiger I kits — versatile, historically grounded, and built on the research that established Dragon's reputation as the definitive Tiger I manufacturer.
