We enjoyed ourselves very much at the battle. It was really nice seeing some new tanks on the battlefield. Of note was the SU-152 which is quite the beastie. It looked and ran very nice. We took 7 tanks and most of them ran well.

One that didn't was my Panther which firstly had some problems with no traverse. An investigation revealed wires getting into the traverse gears. After we had that resolved, the elevation failed as the Panther took out yet another elevation unit (that would be number 4...) It seems the Impact muzzle break and mantlet are just too heavy to handle for the Tamiya elevation units.

We'll be taking the Panther into the shop for a minor overhaul. We'll be replacing the mantlet and muzzle break with the original Tamiya parts or perhaps we'll leave the parts intact and outfit it for a servo operated elevation. I'm unsure which I'd prefer. While it's down, we will be installing some metal upgrade driver and radio operator opening hatches, and moving the charging system and on/off switches from the rear transom forward for easy access in the hatches (now that they will open). We're also going to be installing some 8 tooth pinions to slow her down a bit and give her some more low end torque. We'll also be adding a DT spring loaded idler assembly that I've been meaning to install for some time. After all that, we'll retouch all the paint. Should be back up for the March Battleday.

IFA (Invulnerable Front Armor) tanks were in abundance at this battle (three). For those who haven't driven one, they present a unique opportunity to learn new battle tactics as their operator (just like a medium tank does vs. a heavy tank). I've noticed that with an IFA, the challenge is to keep your team alive and intact, and wisely choose your moment to attack. Too early, and you'll be swarmed. Too late, and you'll also be swarmed. You can't be a lone wolf, or you'll simply be the last to die on your team. As to opposing a IFA, DAK tankers are getting more sophisticated and disciplined. They've developed IFA counter tactics that seem to be working pretty well.

I've noticed that the heavy class tanks were for me the most forgiving and easy to learn. They are nearly as fast as any medium tank, but they can take punishment and keep going. Medium tanks are more difficult to operate as they lose mobility (i.e. mostly) after 3 hits. Still, they have significant advantages such as the high rate of fire and generally smaller size. My biggest problem is to resist the the temptation of target fixation. Meaning one cannot trade shots with other tanks when you know you can finish them off. With a medium, one must give hits when one can and without taking counter fire.

As to the battles, there appeared to be no clear advantage for either the Axis or the Allies (despite the numerous IFA assault guns making their presence felt). Most of the battle were balanced. My favorite battle was were where the Allies battled it out and killed (seemingly) all of the Axis tanks. There were just a few Shermans left, and with multiple hits each. We were battered, but not defeated. Unknown to us, there were a few Axis "stragglers" left. Imagine how we felt when we saw two Tigers (Tiger 1 and a King Tiger) and a Panther (all three had no hits on them (member Dom's tanks driven by his kids)) emerge from the forest ready to engage. Well, suffice to say, our Shermans didn't last long.

All in all, we had a great time. There were about 20 tankers present. Some nice battling, some parts deals and swapping, an excellent barbecue and good friends make this a relaxing and fun day to party down in the desert. Thanks to all who contributed!