Here is the prototype Armored Bin for the Panther IR Scope. The bin in 6 scale will be made of 3/32" brass which is as close as I can estimate the armor thickness. The real bin we think was made of about 15 mm armor. The prototype is made of plastic with brass fittings. As I was unable to confirm the true size of the bin I have based it's size on the Armortek standard bin. I used a period picture, which you can see below to figure out the size as close as I could get, I think it looks right. Any comments welcome.
The Armortek Bin and Prototype.
Period picture of Panther with armored bin.
Bin detail.
Bin closed and open.
I think the bin size must be very close to correct as I was able to fit the prototype IR Scope into it. Some scale models show the bin with a shelf inside. I am not sure this is correct as the parts would not fit with a shelf in the middle. Thoughts are that the parts of the IR Scope were held in place by some sort of straps or brackets.
IR Scope disassembled for stowage. Scope is removed from cradle, spotlight and handles removed, the handles were held in place by pins so they were meant to be removed.
With a bit of jigsaw puzzle work I was able to fit the parts as shown.
Regards
Mike