Here you'll find all our Panzer II kits. This light tank was a staple of the Panzer divisions at the beginning of the war. In fact, it saw action in Poland, France, the Balkans... all the early campaigns. The Panzerkampfwagen II has a history worth exploring. We have 28 different models of the PzKw II. Most are in 1/35 scale, although there are also some in 1/48 scale.
Our Panzer 2 Model Kit Collection
We work with the usual manufacturers. You know, the ones you can't go wrong with. The Tamiya Panzer II is one of our most popular, and it's no coincidence. The Tamiya 1/35 scale Panzer II is the brand's typical kit: well-detailed but not overly complicated. It's a good choice if you're a beginner. It's also suitable if you've been into German tanks for a while and are looking for something straightforward. Besides Tamiya, we also carry the 1/35 scale Panzer II from Academy, Asuka Model, Border Model, Bronco, IBG Models, and Trumpeter. Each brand has its own style. Some come with photo-etched parts as standard, others are more basic. It depends on what you're looking for in your Panzerkampfwagen 2. Prefer 1/48 scale? We have those options too.
Variety and Accessories
Basic kits are fine, but there's always room for improvement. That's why we stock accessories from Friulmodel, Panzer Art, and Legend Productions. Link tracks for your Panzer tank model. Turned gun barrels. Stowage sets. Everything you need to make your PzKpfw II stand out from the crowd.
History of the Panzerkampfwagen 2
The Panzer II began in 1934 as a stopgap measure. Yes, a stopgap while the III and IV were being completed. The curious thing is that it was intended to be temporary. And in the end, more than 1,800 were manufactured between 1935 and 1943. During the first half of the war, the German Panzer relied heavily on this model.
Development and Design
To circumvent Versailles, they called it "The 100" (an agricultural tractor, no less). The Panzerkampfwagen II weighed about 8.9 tons. It was armed with a 20mm automatic cannon, the KwK 30, which was later improved to the KwK 38. Mind you, the PzKw II wasn't meant to fight other tanks. Its role was reconnaissance and infantry support. That's what it was good for.
Baptism of Fire and Initial Campaigns
The Panzer II debuted in Spain between 1936 and 1939. There, they realized it needed better armor and greater reliability. By the time it reached Poland, it had been improved. In September 1939, almost 40% of German armored vehicles were PzKpfw IIs. Not bad for a "storm," right? There were still many in France and the Balkans. But its limitations were already becoming apparent. The 20mm gun was effective against light armor and infantry. Against Allied medium tanks? It simply couldn't handle them. The German Panzer needed something more powerful.
Evolution and Variants
The chassis offered a lot of possibilities. Look at all the versions of the Panzerkampfwagen 2 that were produced: • Ausf. A/B/C: The first ones. Each one a little better than the previous one. • Ausf. F: This one already had 35mm of frontal armor. • Ausf. L "Luchs": The Lynx. Pure reconnaissance. • Flammpanzer II: With flamethrowers. • Marder II: They mounted a 75mm gun on top. An improvised but effective tank destroyer.
Legacy on the Eastern Front
By 1941, in Russia, the Panzer II as a tank had reached its limits. But the chassis remained useful. It was used for all kinds of vehicles: tank destroyers, self-propelled artillery... The fact is, it remained in service until 1945 in these versions.
The Panzer II in Model Making
There's a Panzer II for every taste. Each Panzer tank model tells a different story. You can build the Tamiya 1/35 Panzer II in Polish Panzer Grey. Or a camouflaged Luchs from 1944. The options are numerous. Why is it still so popular? Because it was everywhere. Every unit, every front has its own story with the Panzerkampfwagen 2. It's only natural that modelers have a soft spot for this German tank. It wasn't the best tank, but it was always there.
Frequently Asked Questions about Panzer 2
What scale is best for a model of the Panzer II?
Definitely 1/35 scale. Especially the Tamiya Panzer II 1/35. Good size, great detail, and plenty of aftermarket options available. The Panzer II in this scale looks perfect on the shelf.
Where can I buy Panzer II in Spain?
Here at Lost Bunker, you can buy Panzer and we'll ship it to your home. We usually have the main Panzerkampfwagen 2 models in stock. If something is out of stock, just ask; it sometimes arrives soon.
Which brand do you recommend for starting with the PzKw II?
The Tamiya 1/35 Panzer II is a no-brainer. Tamiya's instructions are clear. The parts fit together well. You won't have any trouble assembling this German panzer. It's a safe bet.
Do you have any models of the Panzer II "Luchs" tank?
Yes, several. Asuka Model has a very good one. Border Model too. Both are worthwhile if you like this version of PzKpfw II. The Luchs has its charm.
What is the difference between the various versions of the Panzer II?
The Panzerkampfwagen 2 evolved over time. From the Ausf. A to the L, there were changes in armor, engine, suspension, and more. Each Panzer model represents a specific period. That's why it's interesting to have several. You can see the evolution.
Do I need special tools?
The basics are fine. Pliers, a utility knife, glue... If you want to make a more detailed PzKw II, then yes: files, specific paints, an airbrush. But to start, there's no need to go overboard.
What paint should I use for the German Panzer?
It depends on the era. Panzer Gray (RAL 7021) was used until 1943. After that, it was dark sand yellow with green and brown camouflage. Each Panzer model kit has its own color references in the instructions. Vallejo and Tamiya have the exact colors.