Quote:
Originally Posted by cyberia
Panzer IV either Ausf, H or J (can anyone spot it) of the 2nd Panzer Div. |
From this angle many of the noticeable recce features are not visible. However, it is at the very lest an Ausf H of maybe a H/J model which seems to be common label for a lot of Panzer IV around this time frame.
IMHO this Panzer IV is by definition an H. The shot hails form Normandy and despite a lot of pictures of Normandy Panzer IV's saying they are J's many are clearly not. I believe most are mislabelled.
By definition Ausf J's started production in June of 44 and from what I've seen Sept 44 seems to be when any numbers started reaching units. As well Ausf J's have only three return wheels and two upright exhausts replacing the "muffler" type. The hull side plates were extended, and the towing hooks were formed from these plates instead of being welded to the tank, leaving a hull front with no U bolts on it.
It's easy to see were the confusion lies, these features are not always readily apparent. The Shutzen configurations muddy the waters even more.
Again IMHO this interesting shot is a Panzer IV Ausf H by virtue of having it’s U Bolts and no extended hull plates with holes for towing plus the likely timeframe of the Photo.
Bob Out
