Sd.Kfz. 182 Kingtiger Porsche turret

Plastic model kit for building an Sd.Kfz. 182 Tiger II
   with Zimmerit  

• Scale 1:35
• Hull and turret feature molded-on Zimmerit
• Includes clear parts and photo-etched parts
• Wire cable
• Individual-link tracks
• 4 marking options
• Unassembled, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The Sd.Kfz. 182 Tiger II - officially designated Panzerkampfwagen Tiger Ausf. B and commonly known as the "King Tiger" (Königstiger) - was a German heavy tank from the Second World War. It combined a powerful 8.8 cm gun with heavy, sloped armor. However, its significant weight, technical issues, and high logistical requirements limited its overall military utility.

Development began in 1942. Henschel and Porsche worked on competing chassis designs; the Henschel design was ultimately selected for production. Krupp developed the turrets. Consequently, the Tiger II was a largely new design, differing significantly from the Tiger I.

On-road top speeds were reported to be around 35–40 km/h, while off-road speeds of approximately 15 km/h were more realistic. Data based on the contemporary driver’s manual indicates an operational range of about 140 km on roads and 90 km cross-country. Such figures were highly dependent on terrain, driving style, and the condition of the vehicle.

The KwK 43 L/71 was an exceptionally powerful tank gun for its time; the "L/71" designation indicates a barrel length of approximately 71 calibers. It allowed the tank to engage many enemy armored vehicles at long range. Simultaneously, its heavy frontal armor provided substantial protection. This did not, however, render the tank invulnerable; factors such as the point of impact, engagement distance, type of ammunition, and the specific combat situation remained critical. The common terms "Porsche turret" and "Henschel turret" are misleading, as both turret designs originated from Krupp:

• The early turret featured a rounded front and a distinct bulge around the commander’s cupola.
• The later production turret had a more heavily armored, largely flat front and a simplified design.

The association with Porsche stems from the development history of the early turret, which was intended for a vehicle design that was ultimately rejected.

Serial production took place primarily between January 1944 and March 1945 at the Henschel plant in Kassel. The first combat deployments occurred in Normandy in July 1944.