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The Big German Cats
Here you can see the sheer size of some the German cats, this time with a banana for size. All tracks shown are from my personal collection.
This took me awhile to write please bear with me as there will be errors.
Starting from the top left: Sdkfz 123 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. L “Luchs” also known as the “Panzerspahwagen II” This one is one of the rarer track links shown in this Photo. It was designed to be a light reconnaissance tank only built in small numbers between September 1943 and January 1944. Even though 800 units were planned to be build, only 104 were ever build. Some may see a resemblance between the Tiger 1 and the “Luchs” both in its overall design but also with its tracks. It has a very close rebalance to the Tiger 1s transport tracks. This track in question, were found in Latvia in the infamous Kurland pocket. It was used by the 2nd Company, 4th Armoured Reconnaissance Battalion 4th Panzer Division, it is however unknown how it was taken out.
Measurements of the “Luchs” track link:
Weight: 5,4Kg Measure: 36 x 13 x 13cm
Bottom left just above the banana: Connector link from the famous “King Tiger” or as its official name was Panzerkampfwagen Tiger Ausf.B Sd.kfz.182 Tiger II. There were only built as many people on here already know 489, although not all got delivered. I will not be going in depths with the “King Tiger” design. This connector link has quite a story to tell, it is from the 501st Heavy Panzer Battalion. It was found not far from Szydlow in Polland, it was part of what is believed to be the first ever deployment of the Tiger II on the eastern front, which in all fairness didn’t go very well for the Germans. You can read about the disaster using the following link, at the section about s.Pz.Abt. 501. LINK TO READ ABOUT THE AFAIR It was found at a train station nearby, about 2 years ago with a couple of other King tiger tracks. It had been used as street slabs filled with concrete and connected together with other track links. As you might already have noticed, there are missing a Contact shoe/Contact track link , as the Tiger II utilized two different tracks, a connector link (This one) and the Contact shoe It can be seen here with the other variants Unfortunately I don’t have the contact shoe, as it is somewhat hard to come by at least for a reasonable price.
Measurements of the “King Tiger” connector link:
Weight: around 20Kg Measure: 80 x 21 x 20 cm
Top right corner: A track link from the Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found in Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg Measure: 73 x 19 x 19cm
Bottom right corner: Two Panzer V Panther track links. These two are both from the Ausf A one found in Latvia in the Kurland Pocket and the other one at the falaise pocket in France. I will again not go in much depths regarding the technical aspect of the tank. The top one of the two track links, are the one from the Falaise pocket where it supposedly got destroyed by bombing, it is the zwischenvariant it is in a remarkable good condition as it came with two track pins which are both in their almost completely original ral 7028 paint, some paint is still visible on the track link itself, unfortunately I don’t have any other information about it. The bottom Panther link is the one found in Kurland. This one was found not far from Liepāja in Latvia. It was blown up by its own crew due to breakdown. There are clear signs of damage on one of the guiding teeth. This track is of the late design. The three war time versions can be seen HERE, though there are one other version that can only be seen (As far as I know) on the British built Panther at Bovington tank museum which also can be seen in the link above.
Measurements of the “Panther” track link:
Weight: 18,4Kg Measure: 66 x 18 x 20cm
References:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
The Big German Cats
Here you can see the sheer size of some the German cats, this time with a banana for size. All tracks shown are from my personal collection.
This took me awhile to write please bear with me as there will be errors.
Starting from the top left: Sdkfz 123 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. L “Luchs” also known as the “Panzerspahwagen II” This one is one of the rarer track links shown in this Photo. It was designed to be a light reconnaissance tank only built in small numbers between September 1943 and January 1944. Even though 800 units were planned to be build, only 104 were ever build. Some may see a resemblance between the Tiger 1 and the “Luchs” both in its overall design but also with its tracks. It has a very close rebalance to the Tiger 1s transport tracks. This track in question, were found in Latvia in the infamous Kurland pocket. It was used by the 2nd Company, 4th Armoured Reconnaissance Battalion 4th Panzer Division, it is however unknown how it was taken out.
Measurements of the “Luchs” track link:
Weight: 5,4Kg Measure: 36 x 13 x 13cm
Bottom left just above the banana: Connector link from the famous “King Tiger” or as its official name was Panzerkampfwagen Tiger Ausf.B Sd.kfz.182 Tiger II. There were only built as many people on here already know 489, although not all got delivered. I will not be going in depths with the “King Tiger” design. This connector link has quite a story to tell, it is from the 501st Heavy Panzer Battalion. It was found not far from Szydlow in Polland, it was part of what is believed to be the first ever deployment of the Tiger II on the eastern front, which in all fairness didn’t go very well for the Germans. You can read about the disaster using the following link, at the section about s.Pz.Abt. 501. LINK TO READ ABOUT THE AFAIR It was found at a train station nearby, about 2 years ago with a couple of other King tiger tracks. It had been used as street slabs filled with concrete and connected together with other track links. As you might already have noticed, there are missing a Contact shoe/Contact track link , as the Tiger II utilized two different tracks, a connector link (This one) and the Contact shoe It can be seen here with the other variants Unfortunately I don’t have the contact shoe, as it is somewhat hard to come by at least for a reasonable price.
Measurements of the “King Tiger” connector link:
Weight: around 20Kg Measure: 80 x 21 x 20 cm
Top right corner: A track link from the Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found in Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg Measure: 73 x 19 x 19cm
Bottom right corner: Two Panzer V Panther track links. These two are both from the Ausf A one found in Latvia in the Kurland Pocket and the other one at the falaise pocket in France. I will again not go in much depths regarding the technical aspect of the tank. The top one of the two track links, are the one from the Falaise pocket where it supposedly got destroyed by bombing, it is the zwischenvariant it is in a remarkable good condition as it came with two track pins which are both in their almost completely original ral 7028 paint, some paint is still visible on the track link itself, unfortunately I don’t have any other information about it. The bottom Panther link is the one found in Kurland. This one was found not far from Liepāja in Latvia. It was blown up by its own crew due to breakdown. There are clear signs of damage on one of the guiding teeth. This track is of the late design. The three war time versions can be seen HERE, though there are one other version that can only be seen (As far as I know) on the British built Panther at Bovington tank museum which also can be seen in the link above.
Measurements of the “Panther” track link:
Weight: 18,4Kg Measure: 66 x 18 x 20cm
References:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Detailed description of the four tracks shown:
References used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Firstly, all tracks shown are from my personal collection. If anyone have further information or corrections please let me know.
First from the left 7.5 cm PaK 40 auf Sfl. Lorraine Schlepper ‘Marder I’ (Sd.KFz.135) built from captured french armoured vehicles the majority were built using captured Lorraine 37L. A few were built on the Hotchkiss H-39 and FCM-36 named 7,5cm PaK 40/1 (Sf) auf Geschützwagen 39H(f) and 7,5cm PaK 40/1 (Sf) auf Geschützwagen FCM 36(f). The track shown is from the more common Lorraine 37L found on the eastern front.
Second from the left 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) auf Fgst. PzKpfw.II(F) (Sfl.) (Sd.Kfz. 132) ‘Marder II’ that changed name 5 times during its lifespan, I will be referring to the name Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2 which it was called from September 1942- September 1943(Due to D1 and D2). The marder ii pfkpfw(f) was based upon the not very successful Panzer II flamm(Which essentially were built from the Panzer II Ausf D and E) By 1942 150 Panzer II Flamm had been built and put into action. But as the Panzer II flamm were canceled in 1942, M.A.N who was manufacturing this tank, had already build a further 150 new Panzer II flamm chassis based on an updated version referred to as Ausf D2 they were however instead used to build the Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2, with the D1 and D2 having only small differences. Another 52 or so were built from returning Panzer II flamm which seems according to some sources to only consist of early D1 chassis. The track shown is from the early D1 chassis (The Two versions can be seen with descriptions on THIS LINK), Due to the location of where it was found.
The third from the left is the Pz.Kpfw.II als Sfl. mit 7.5 cm PaK 40 ‘Marder II’ (Sd.KFz.131) based on the panzer II Ausf F with only a small number build on older versions, about 570ish were build. I can neither confirm nor deny that this track in question is from a “Marder II” as I have very little information about it, but it is the same type used.
The last fourth from the left is Panzerjäger 38(t) für 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) (Sd.Kfz. 139) Marder III. This one was built on the Panzer 38t(LT vz.38) were almost nothing were changed from the orginal chassis. Only 344 units were built. I’m also uncertain with the story behind this track as I too have very little information about it, but it is the same type used.
Detailed description of the tracks shown:
The Banana is 22cm (8.6 inches)
References used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Firstly, all tracks shown are from my personal collection. If anyone have further information or corrections, please let me know.
The closest one in the front is the Type 2 track for the Panzer 3/4 build from 1940-41, its quite different from the Type 1 you can see right behind it. I decided to include it even though it wasn’t used during the invasion, I did this so you can see the big difference between Type 1 and 2. This exact track was found in Ukraine not far from Minsk properly lost during the encirclement of the Soviet forces between 22 June – 9 July 1941.
Measurements of the Panzer III/IV Type 2 track link:
Weight: 5.8Kg Measure: 38 x 14 x 15cm
The one just right behind the Type 2: This is the Type 1 I was referring to, the big difference between this and all the other types (2-7). Other than the overall look, is its width. While the all the other types are 38cm the Type 1 A and B are 36cm, this means they do not fit together with the newer versions. It’s hard to tell but the track shown here, is the Type 1 A due to its guide tooth being longer than the Type 1 B. Though they are not officially mentioned as Type 1 A and B but only as Type 1, I just figured it would be easier to call them that. They were produced from September 1936-1940. You can see the difference between the two HERE . This exact track was found Russia not far from Stalingrad.
Measurements of the Panzer III/IV Type 1 track link:
Weight: 4.9Kg Measure: 36 x 16 x 13cm
The one just behind the Type 1: The Panzer II Ausf D and E. This was fairly different to the Ausf A, B, C and F, the main thing being its suspension and wheels. You can see it HERE . As you can see even the track is quite different too. It looks more like the Panzer 3/4 Type 1, other than this being 30cm in width. They were produced from May 1938. This one is thought to had been built as the Panzer II Flamm and later converted to the Marder II D1. Here is a short story behind it: By 1942 150 Panzer II Flamm had been built and put into action. But as the Panzer II flamm were canceled in 1942, M.A.N who was manufacturing this tank, had already build a further 150 new Panzer II flamm chassis based on an updated version referred to as Ausf D2 they were however instead used to build the Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2, with the D1 and D2 having only small differences. Another 52 or so were built from returning Panzer II flamm which seems according to some sources to only consist of early D1 chassis. The track shown is from the early D1 chassis (The Two versions can be seen with descriptions on THIS LINK), Due to the location of where it was found.
Measurements of the Panzer II Ausf D track link:
Weight: around 4.4kg Measure: 30 x 13 x (around)11
The one behind the Panzer II D: This is a track for the Panzer II Ausf A, B, C and F. This is the most common type used in the Panzer II series, as it was used on most of the types. It was also used on the following vehicles: Marder II mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/2 auf PzKpfw. II Ausf. A/B/C/F, Sd.Kfz. 131 - Sturmpanzer II mit 15-cm-sIG 33 auf PzKpfw. II Ausf. B - Panzerhaubitze Wespe 10,5-cm-IeFH 18/2 auf Gw. II - Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 4. It’s an exact copy of the one used on the Panzer I A and B, other than it being 28cm wide while the Panzer I is 26cm. There is one other version of this, the only difference being the guide teeth. It can be seen HERE . They were produced from 1934.This exact track was found near Bryansk Russia.
Measurements of the Panzer II Ausf A track link:
Weight: 2.8Kg Measure: 28 x 10 x 12cm
The one behind the Panzer II A: This is a track for the Panzer I Ausf A and B, this is the most common type used in the Panzer I series, though the one shown here is the early version. The later having cleats underneath while this doesn’t. The version with cleats can be seen HERE . It was used on all of the following vehicles: Kleiner Panzerbefehlswagen, Sd.Kfz. 265 - Panzerjäger I mit 4,7-cm-PaK auf PzKpfw. I Ausf. B, Sd.Kfz. 101 - Sturmpanzer I mit 15-cm -sIG 33 auf PzKpfw. I Ausf. B - Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 3 - 15 cm Panzerwerfer 42 auf 2 t Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 4/1. They were produced from 1934. This one was found in near Gdansk Polland.
Measurements of the Panzer I Ausf A and B track link:
Weight: 2.5Kg Measure: 26 x 10 x 11cm
The one to the right of Panzer I: This is the non-German produced lt vz. 35 otherwise known as Panzer 35T.
These were produced in Czechoslovakia from 1936 right up to about 1937. They only used one type of track as the one shown. One interesting thing is all their tracks were marked with the Skoda logo. This one was found in Latvia don’t know how it ended up there.
Measurements of the Panzer 35t track link:
Weight: 3.6Kg Measure: around 31 x 12.5 x 13cm
The last one is the famous LT vz. 38 commonly known as the Panzer 38t. This was again not originally German. However, when the Germans took over Czechoslovakia, they did continue to produce the Panzer 38t while they stopped producing the 35T. And as many of you know, this eventually led to the introduction of the well-known Jagdpanzer 38 - Hetzer. The 38t were in use from 1939-1942. The Panzer 38t chassis was basis for many other vehicles: - Marder III, Panzerjäger 38 (t) mit 7,62-cm-PaK 36 (r), Sd.Kfz. 139 - Marder III, Panzerjäger 38 (t) mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/3 Ausf. H, Sd.Kfz. 138 - Marder III, Panzerjäger 38 (t) mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/3 Ausf. M, Sd.Kfz. 138 - Leichter Einheitswaffenträger mit 8,8-cm-PaK 43 L/71 (Ardelt I) - Panzerhaubitze Grille 15-cm-sIG 33/2 auf Gw. 38 (t) Ausf. H und M - Flakpanzer 38 (t) mit 2-cm-FlaK 38, Sd.Kfz. 140. This track was found in Russia its unknown to me exactly were and how.
Measurements of the Panzer 38t track link:
Weight: 3.7Kg Measure: 29 x 12 x 14cm
The Big German Cats
Here you can see the sheer size of some the German cats, this time with a banana for size. All tracks shown are from my personal collection.
This took me awhile to write please bear with me as there will be errors.
Starting from the top left: Sdkfz 123 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. L “Luchs” also known as the “Panzerspahwagen II” This one is one of the rarer track links shown in this Photo. It was designed to be a light reconnaissance tank only built in small numbers between September 1943 and January 1944. Even though 800 units were planned to be build, only 104 were ever build. Some may see a resemblance between the Tiger 1 and the “Luchs” both in its overall design but also with its tracks. It has a very close rebalance to the Tiger 1s transport tracks. This track in question, were found in Latvia in the infamous Kurland pocket. It was used by the 2nd Company, 4th Armoured Reconnaissance Battalion 4th Panzer Division, it is however unknown how it was taken out.
Measurements of the “Luchs” track link:
Weight: 5,4Kg Measure: 36 x 13 x 13cm
Bottom left just above the banana: Connector link from the famous “King Tiger” or as its official name was Panzerkampfwagen Tiger Ausf.B Sd.kfz.182 Tiger II. There were only built as many people on here already know 489, although not all got delivered. I will not be going in depths with the “King Tiger” design. This connector link has quite a story to tell, it is from the 501st Heavy Panzer Battalion. It was found not far from Szydlow in Polland, it was part of what is believed to be the first ever deployment of the Tiger II on the eastern front, which in all fairness didn’t go very well for the Germans. You can read about the disaster using the following link, at the section about s.Pz.Abt. 501. LINK TO READ ABOUT THE AFAIR It was found at a train station nearby, about 2 years ago with a couple of other King tiger tracks. It had been used as street slabs filled with concrete and connected together with other track links. As you might already have noticed, there are missing a Contact shoe/Contact track link , as the Tiger II utilized two different tracks, a connector link (This one) and the Contact shoe It can be seen here with the other variants Unfortunately I don’t have the contact shoe, as it is somewhat hard to come by at least for a reasonable price.
Measurements of the “King Tiger” connector link:
Weight: around 20Kg Measure: 80 x 21 x 20 cm
Top right corner: A track link from the Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found in Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg Measure: 73 x 19 x 19cm
Bottom right corner: Two Panzer V Panther track links. These two are both from the Ausf A one found in Latvia in the Kurland Pocket and the other one at the falaise pocket in France. I will again not go in much depths regarding the technical aspect of the tank. The top one of the two track links, are the one from the Falaise pocket where it supposedly got destroyed by bombing, it is the zwischenvariant it is in a remarkable good condition as it came with two track pins which are both in their almost completely original ral 7028 paint, some paint is still visible on the track link itself, unfortunately I don’t have any other information about it. The bottom Panther link is the one found in Kurland. This one was found not far from Liepāja in Latvia. It was blown up by its own crew due to breakdown. There are clear signs of damage on one of the guiding teeth. This track is of the late design. The three war time versions can be seen HERE, though there are one other version that can only be seen (As far as I know) on the British built Panther at Bovington tank museum which also can be seen in the link above.
Measurements of the “Panther” track link:
Weight: 18,4Kg Measure: 66 x 18 x 20cm
References:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Detailed description of the four tracks shown:
References used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Firstly, all tracks shown are from my personal collection. If anyone have further information or corrections please let me know.
First from the right 7.5 cm PaK 40 auf Sfl. Lorraine Schlepper ‘Marder I’ (Sd.KFz.135) built from captured french armoured vehicles the majority were built using captured Lorraine 37L. A few were built on the Hotchkiss H-39 and FCM-36 named 7,5cm PaK 40/1 (Sf) auf Geschützwagen 39H(f) and 7,5cm PaK 40/1 (Sf) auf Geschützwagen FCM 36(f). The track shown is from the more common Lorraine 37L found on the eastern front.
Second from the right 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) auf Fgst. PzKpfw.II(F) (Sfl.) (Sd.Kfz. 132) ‘Marder II’ that changed name 5 times during its lifespan, I will be referring to the name Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2 which it was called from September 1942- September 1943(Due to D1 and D2). The marder ii pfkpfw(f) was based upon the not very successful Panzer II flamm(Which essentially were built from the Panzer II Ausf D and E) By 1942 150 Panzer II Flamm had been built and put into action. But as the Panzer II flamm were canceled in 1942, M.A.N who was manufacturing this tank, had already build a further 150 new Panzer II flamm chassis based on an updated version referred to as Ausf D2 they were however instead used to build the Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2, with the D1 and D2 having only small differences. Another 52 or so were built from returning Panzer II flamm which seems according to some sources to only consist of early D1 chassis. The track shown is from the early D1 chassis (The Two versions can be seen with descriptions on THIS LINK), Due to the location of where it was found.
The third from the right is the Pz.Kpfw.II als Sfl. mit 7.5 cm PaK 40 ‘Marder II’ (Sd.KFz.131) based on the panzer II Ausf F with only a small number build on older versions, about 570ish were build. I can neither confirm nor deny that this track in question is from a “Marder II” as I have very little information about it, but it is the same type used.
The last fourth from the right is Panzerjäger 38(t) für 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) (Sd.Kfz. 139) Marder III. This one was built on the Panzer 38t(LT vz.38) were almost nothing were changed from the orginal chassis. Only 344 units were built. I’m also uncertain with the story behind this track as I too have very little information about it, but it is the same type used.
A small showdown of nine rather completely different tank tracks, both in terms of country and tank role. To get an idea of their actual size, I have included the classic banana, which is placed on top of one of the track links. I have written a somewhat short explanation of each track link shown which also includes their dimensions.
For the sake of simplicity, I have listed the tracks in a somewhat systematical order. Three rows, first row is the row closest to the camera, second is in the middle, third is the one closest to the wall.
There will certainly be inaccuracies, but I have tried to do my best. I have included some of the sources, that I have used, which is listed in the bottom of the write up.
Size of the banana (Yes, I know):
20cm in length and 2.5-3cm in diameter.
First row, first from the left: This track link belongs to the Panzer II Ausf A, B, C, F and the two prototypes a and c (different from B and C). This was the most common type used on the Panzer II series. It was also used on the following vehicles: Marder II mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/2 auf PzKpfw. II Ausf. A/B/C/F, Sd.Kfz. 131 - Sturmpanzer II mit 15-cm-sIG 33 auf PzKpfw. II Ausf. B - Panzerhaubitze Wespe 10,5-cm-IeFH 18/2 auf Gw. II - Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 4. It’s an exact copy of the one used on the Panzer I A and B, other than it being 28cm wide while the Panzer I is 26cm. There is two other version used on the Panzer II chassis, the first one has different guide teeth, the other one has the inclusion of ice spikes. You can see the difference between the one I have and the one with different guide teeth HERE .This exact track was found near Bryansk Russia.
Weight: 2.8Kg
Dimensions: 28 x 10 x 12 cm
Production designation: Kgs 67/300/90
Country of origin: Germany
First row, in the middle: Sdkfz 123 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. L “Luchs” also known as the “Panzerspahwagen II” This one is one of the rarer track links shown in this Photo. It was designed to be a light reconnaissance tank only build in small numbers between September 1943 and January 1944. Even though 800 units were planned to be build, only 104 were to be build. Some may see a resemblance between the Tiger 1 and the “Luchs” both in its overall design but also regarding the tracks. It bears a very close rebalance to the Tiger 1’s transport tracks. This track in question, was found in Latvia in the infamous Kurland pocket. It was used by the 2nd Company, 4th Armoured Reconnaissance Battalion 4th Panzer Division, it is however unknown how it was taken out.
Weight: 5.4Kg
Dimensions: 36 x 13 x 13 cm
Production designation: Kgs 65/326/100
Country of origin: Germany
First row, third from the left: The Panzer II Ausf D and E. This is fairly different to the Ausf A, B, C and F, the main thing being its suspension and wheels. You can see the tank itself HERE . As you can see, the track is quite different too. It looks more like the Panzer 3/4 Type 1, other than this being 30cm in width among other small details. This one is thought to had been built as a Panzer II Flamm and later converted to a Marder II D1. Here is a short story behind it: By 1942 150 Panzer II Flamm had been built and put into action. But as the Panzer II flamm were canceled in 1942, M.A.N who was manufacturing this tank, had already build a further 150 new Panzer II flamm chassis based on an updated version referred to as Ausf D2 they were however instead used to build the Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2, with the D1 and D2 having only small differences. Another 52 or so were built from returning Panzer II flamm which seems according to some sources to only consist of early D1 chassis. The track shown is from the early D1 chassis due to the location of where it was found (The Two versions can be seen with descriptions on THIS LINK).
Weight: 4.4Kg
Dimensions: 30 x 13 x approx. 11 cm
Production designation: Unknown
Country of origin: Germany
Second row, first from the left: Is a track link for the fairly uncommon LT vz. 35 otherwise known as “Pz.35(t)” it was the predecessor to the LT vz. 38 even though it was designed and produced by Skoda and not their competitor ČKD in Czechoslovakia from 1936 up until 1937, it still bears a great resemblance to the LT vz.38, in other words, the 38’s design was greatly influenced by that of the LT vz. 35 - especially in terms of its overall design. With that said, there isn’t really any design resemblance between the two track links at a ll. One interesting thing is that all of links were stamped with the Skoda logo. This one was found in Latvia don’t know how it ended up there.
Weight: 3.3Kg
Dimensions: 32 x 11.5 x 13cm
Production designation: Unknown
Country of origin: Czechoslovakia
Second row, in the middle: This track is from the Panzer I C (VK 601) Which was supposed to be the modernized version of the light panzer series. It looks very different to all of the other types of its time, especially compared to the Panzer I a and b. The most characteristically being its guide tooth, which is somewhat unique to this design. The first prototypes of the tank used the same tracks as the ones used on the Sdkfz 10 and 250. Only later in its design phase, they choose a whole new design, where they only managed to produce 40 tanks that utilized this design.
Out of the 40 produced, two of them got shipped off to the eastern front to be combat tested. Their serial numbers ranged from 150101-1501040, out of which the fate of one is known, this being 150101 which was one of the two that were shipped to the eastern front. After their very unsuccessful deployment, the rest were shipped to Normandy, to be used as training vehicles.
This exact track was found in Ukraine; thus, we know it took part in the first combat evaluations – and who knows, it might even be from the 150101.
Weight: 3.3Kg
Dimensions: 29 x 11.5 x 9.5 cm
Production designation: Kgs 62/290/90
Country of origin: Germany
Second row, third from the left: This is a bit of a special one. As many of you know, the Czech machinery company ČKD were looking for a new replacement for the LT vz. 35, build by their rival Skoda. This replacement project ended up with the name LT vz.38. They intended the project to be sold for export and for the army. The export versions went under designations such as the TNH-P, TNH-S and LTP though they all belonged to the TNH series. As you can already tell, I won’t be going into depth with the production and design details of this tank, since books and sites like Warspot.net and Panzerketten provides far better details than I can ever achieve. I will however mention why this track link is a bit special. This type of track link design was only used on the early export models (except for the TNH-S) and the first production model of LT vz. 38. In terms of German designations, it was only seen used on the Ausf.A of which only 150 were build.
Weight: 3.7Kg
Dimensions: 29 x 12 x 14cm
Production designation: Unknown
Country of origin: Czechoslovakia
Third row, first from the left: Is from an Italian semovente tank track, which was also used on the Carro Armato M11/39 and M13/40. This one is from the rarer Semovente 75/34. It was found in Cassino, Italy. The reason I know exactly what tank it belonged to, is the picture I have of presumably the same tank, as it was taken around the same spot where the track itself was found. If you hadn’t already spotted it, it’s the one in the back-left corner with a small Semovente model on top. You can see the picture of the tank HERE.
Weight: 5.5Kg
Dimensions: 25 x 15.5 x 13cm
Production designation: Unknown
Country of origin: Italy
Third row, in the middle: The first of three different track link variants for the famous Jagdpanzer 38t “Hetzer”, where the difference between the three only varies a bit. This was the first production variant which also is the type closest to the 38t in terms of design. Again, I won’t be going into much detail in the design aspect, but the only major difference is the later models have a more rugged reinforced underside and slightly different guide teeth. - which this of course doesn’t have. You can see the two other versions and a repro here
Weight: 5.9Kg
Dimensions: 35 x 13 x 14cm
Production designation: Kgs 64/350/104
Country of origin: Czechoslovakia/Germany
Third row, third from the left: The later version, of the track links for the LT vz. 38. As you can see, their differences aren’t really the that obvious, but they are there. For instance, the guide teeth are not hollow as that of the early model and the track has been reinforced underneath. This one is paired with the fitting ice cleat.
The ice cleat shown here is the later German variant. There exists, from what I know, only one other more complex version. It can be seen here
Weight: 3.7Kg
Dimensions: 29 x 12 x 14cm
Production designation: Unknown
Country of origin: Czechoslovakia/Germany
Sources used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Friends and contacts.
Firstly, I will have to apologize for my poorly photoshopped banana - my local store didn’t have any left. The banana in the picture should still be to size. (Around 20cm or roughly 7.8 inches)
All tracks shown are from my personal collection. If anyone have further information or corrections, please let me know.
Starting from the bottom:
Though this list was meant to be vehicles directly based of the Carden Loyd Tankette, I decided to keep this one on the list. It’s two-track links from the British Universal Carrier. Though the universal carrier was somewhat a whole new design, its design can still be traced back to the Carden Loyed Tankette. This one was found just outside of Volgograd (Stalingrad) I’m unsure if these exact tracks are from a German or Soviet Carrier, since the Germans captured a fair amount of these from the other fronts.
Measurements: 25 x 6.5 x 8.5 cm
The second from the bottom:
This track link is from the Soviet T-27 tankette. Its design is directly associated to the Carden Loyd. In the 1930s the Soviet bought around 20 Carden Loyd as well as production license. The Soviet later designed their own variant of the design and the license was no longer necessary. A total of 3228 T-27 were produced, though their usability was limited. Unfortunately, I don't know much about this exact track, other than it was found outside of Moscow. This track shown is the one that comes closest to that of the original Carden Loyed shown here.
Measurements: 15 x 7 x 6 cm
Third from the bottom:
This is from the French unarmed Renault UE carrier which was too based on the Carden Loyd design. Quite a few of these was produced during the thirties - 5168 to be exact. Its purpose was originally to be an infantry support armored carrier, but the French quickly opted for it to be used as an munition and supply carrier. This one was found in Latvia where it had been used by the Germans as many did.
Measurements: 18.5 x 7 x 7 cm
The last one in the top:
The track shown is from the less common Lorraine 37L found on the eastern front. This was tank was meant as a replacement for the Renault UE Chenillette. It was first produced in 1937 with a total of 480 build by June 1940 and another 200 or so were later build by the Vichy France. Though it was roughly a larger version of the Renault UE, its design is somewhat similar to that of the Carden Loyd tankette. Therefore, its included on the list. This one is confirmed to be from a German Marder 1 as around 170 of these vehicles were converted by the Germans.
Measurements: 22 x 11 x 10 cm
Unfortunately, I don’t have an original track link from a “real” Carden Loyd or any of the other clones apart for the ones shown.
References used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carden\_Loyd\_tankette
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Yet another size comparison between three Russian t34 tracks, one Tiger 1 track and a Panzer III/IV track. More information in the comments. (Banana for scale)
EDIT: Banana is around 16-17cm
First from the top: A track form the Famous Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found south east from Liepāja Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg 73 x 19 x 19cm
To the right of the Tiger 1: A mid to late war Panzer III/IV Type 6(A) track with it's late war ice cleat. Throughout the war, it seemed that the Germans and their different factories couldn't really agree or be happy with a final design, when it comes to many production items. This really comes to show with the designs for the Panzer III/IV and their tracks. For the most part the different designs would fit together with other later or earlier designs, but not always. (like the Type 7, Type 1 and ostketten). In the end they ended up with 14 different designs for the same tanks, some very overengineered. You can see all the different designs in the book Panzerketten. This specific track with its ice cleat, was found just southwest of Liepāja around the same area as the Tiger. It most likely belonged to the 14th panzer division that operated in that area.
Measurements for the Type 6(A)
Weight: 6,2Kg 38 x 14 x 15 cm
Bottom with the banana on the top: Three late war T34 M-1944 tracks. The M-1944 "Waffle Track" was fitted on some late war t35-85. This track was identical to the M-1942, except where the waffle pattern was extended and reinforced on the guide-tooth link to improve the stability of the link. Refer to THIS source to see the difference. These tracks in question, was found just outside of Berlin around Potsdam they are heavily damaged from fire and time.
Measurements for the M-1944:
Weight: 13,6Kg for the one with guide tooth (didnt get to measure them sorry)
Sources used: T34 design: http://www.clubhyper.com/reference/t3485bg_2.html
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Yet another size comparison between three Russian t34 tracks, one Tiger 1 track and a Panzer III/IV track. More information in the comments. (Banana for scale)
EDIT: Banana is around 16-17cm
First from the top: A track form the Famous Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found south east from Liepāja Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg 73 x 19 x 19cm
To the right of the Tiger 1: A mid to late war Panzer III/IV Type 6(A) track with it's late war ice cleat. Throughout the war, it seemed that the Germans and their different factories couldn't really agree or be happy with a final design, when it comes to many production items. This really comes to show with the designs for the Panzer III/IV and their tracks. For the most part the different designs would fit together with other later or earlier designs, but not always. (like the Type 7, Type 1 and ostketten). In the end they ended up with 14 different designs for the same tanks, some very overengineered. You can see all the different designs in the book Panzerketten. This specific track with its ice cleat, was found just southwest of Liepāja around the same area as the Tiger. It most likely belonged to the 14th panzer division that operated in that area.
Measurements for the Type 6(A)
Weight: 6,2Kg 38 x 14 x 15 cm
Bottom with the banana on the top: Three late war T34 M-1944 tracks. The M-1944 "Waffle Track" was fitted on some late war t35-85. This track was identical to the M-1942, except where the waffle pattern was extended and reinforced on the guide-tooth link to improve the stability of the link. Refer to THIS source to see the difference. These tracks in question, was found just outside of Berlin around Potsdam they are heavily damaged from fire and time.
Measurements for the M-1944:
Weight: 13,6Kg for the one with guide tooth (didnt get to measure them sorry)
Sources used: T34 design: http://www.clubhyper.com/reference/t3485bg_2.html
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
I didn’t have any bananas at hand unfortunately, so I hope an orange will make do. Its 24cm around.
Firstly, thee M4 Sherman T51 track links that was bought at a local market in Avranches that presumably was used during Operation Cobra, unfortunately I don’t have anymore backstory on them. The different M4 tank variants utilized a variety of different track link designs. The T51 shown here, is almost identically to the T41 the biggest difference being its bigger track pins and thicker asymmetric rubber, meaning the rubber was made thicker on the one side to prolong its life span. The T51 was the replacement to the T41. All the different versions can be seen HERE
Measurements of the T51 track link:
Weight: 12,2Kg Measure: 40x15x9cm
A track link from the Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found south east from Liepāja Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg Measure: 73 x 19 x 19cm
Sources used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
http://the.shadock.free.fr/sherman\_minutia/tracks/vvss\_tracks.html
I didn’t have any bananas at hand unfortunately, so I hope an orange will make do. Its 24cm around.
Firstly, thee M4 Sherman T51 track links that was bought at a local market in Avranches that presumably was used during Operation Cobra, unfortunately I don’t have anymore backstory on them. The different M4 tank variants utilized a variety of different track link designs. The T51 shown here, is almost identically to the T41 the biggest difference being its bigger track pins and thicker asymmetric rubber, meaning the rubber was made thicker on the one side to prolong its life span. The T51 was the replacement to the T41. All the different versions can be seen HERE
Measurements of the T51 track link:
Weight: 12,2Kg Measure: 40x15x9cm
A track link from the Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found south east from Liepāja Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg Measure: 73 x 19 x 19cm
Sources used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
http://the.shadock.free.fr/sherman\_minutia/tracks/vvss\_tracks.html
I didn’t have any bananas at hand unfortunately, so I hope an orange will make do. Its 24cm around.
Firstly, thee M4 Sherman T51 track links that was bought at a local market in Avranches that presumably was used during Operation Cobra, unfortunately I don’t have anymore backstory on them. The different M4 tank variants utilized a variety of different track link designs. The T51 shown here, is almost identically to the T41 the biggest difference being its bigger track pins and thicker asymmetric rubber, meaning the rubber was made thicker on the one side to prolong its life span. The T51 was the replacement to the T41. All the different versions can be seen HERE
Measurements of the T51 track link:
Weight: 12,2Kg Measure: 40x15x9cm
A track link from the Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found south east from Liepāja Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg Measure: 73 x 19 x 19cm
Sources used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
http://the.shadock.free.fr/sherman\_minutia/tracks/vvss\_tracks.html
Detailed description of the tracks shown:
The Banana is 22cm (8.6 inches)
References used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Firstly, all tracks shown are from my personal collection. If anyone have further information or corrections, please let me know.
The closest one in the front is the Type 2 track for the Panzer 3/4 build from 1940-41, its quite different from the Type 1 you can see right behind it. I decided to include it even though it wasn’t used during the invasion, I did this so you can see the big difference between Type 1 and 2. This exact track was found in Ukraine not far from Minsk properly lost during the encirclement of the Soviet forces between 22 June – 9 July 1941.
Measurements of the Panzer III/IV Type 2 track link:
Weight: 5.8Kg Measure: 38 x 14 x 15cm
The one just right behind the Type 2: This is the Type 1 I was referring to, the big difference between this and all the other types (2-7). Other than the overall look, is its width. While the all the other types are 38cm the Type 1 A and B are 36cm, this means they do not fit together with the newer versions. It’s hard to tell but the track shown here, is the Type 1 A due to its guide tooth being longer than the Type 1 B. Though they are not officially mentioned as Type 1 A and B but only as Type 1, I just figured it would be easier to call them that. They were produced from September 1936-1940. You can see the difference between the two HERE . This exact track was found Russia not far from Stalingrad.
Measurements of the Panzer III/IV Type 1 track link:
Weight: 4.9Kg Measure: 36 x 16 x 13cm
The one just behind the Type 1: The Panzer II Ausf D and E. This was fairly different to the Ausf A, B, C and F, the main thing being its suspension and wheels. You can see it HERE . As you can see even the track is quite different too. It looks more like the Panzer 3/4 Type 1, other than this being 30cm in width. They were produced from May 1938. This one is thought to had been built as the Panzer II Flamm and later converted to the Marder II D1. Here is a short story behind it: By 1942 150 Panzer II Flamm had been built and put into action. But as the Panzer II flamm were canceled in 1942, M.A.N who was manufacturing this tank, had already build a further 150 new Panzer II flamm chassis based on an updated version referred to as Ausf D2 they were however instead used to build the Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2, with the D1 and D2 having only small differences. Another 52 or so were built from returning Panzer II flamm which seems according to some sources to only consist of early D1 chassis. The track shown is from the early D1 chassis (The Two versions can be seen with descriptions on THIS LINK), Due to the location of where it was found.
Measurements of the Panzer II Ausf D track link:
Weight: around 4.4kg Measure: 30 x 13 x (around)11
The one behind the Panzer II D: This is a track for the Panzer II Ausf A, B, C and F. This is the most common type used in the Panzer II series, as it was used on most of the types. It was also used on the following vehicles: Marder II mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/2 auf PzKpfw. II Ausf. A/B/C/F, Sd.Kfz. 131 - Sturmpanzer II mit 15-cm-sIG 33 auf PzKpfw. II Ausf. B - Panzerhaubitze Wespe 10,5-cm-IeFH 18/2 auf Gw. II - Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 4. It’s an exact copy of the one used on the Panzer I A and B, other than it being 28cm wide while the Panzer I is 26cm. There is one other version of this, the only difference being the guide teeth. It can be seen HERE . They were produced from 1934.This exact track was found near Bryansk Russia.
Measurements of the Panzer II Ausf A track link:
Weight: 2.8Kg Measure: 28 x 10 x 12cm
The one behind the Panzer II A: This is a track for the Panzer I Ausf A and B, this is the most common type used in the Panzer I series, though the one shown here is the early version. The later having cleats underneath while this doesn’t. The version with cleats can be seen HERE . It was used on all of the following vehicles: Kleiner Panzerbefehlswagen, Sd.Kfz. 265 - Panzerjäger I mit 4,7-cm-PaK auf PzKpfw. I Ausf. B, Sd.Kfz. 101 - Sturmpanzer I mit 15-cm -sIG 33 auf PzKpfw. I Ausf. B - Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 3 - 15 cm Panzerwerfer 42 auf 2 t Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 4/1. They were produced from 1934. This one was found in near Gdansk Polland.
Measurements of the Panzer I Ausf A and B track link:
Weight: 2.5Kg Measure: 26 x 10 x 11cm
The one to the right of Panzer I: This is the non-German produced lt vz. 35 otherwise known as Panzer 35T.
These were produced in Czechoslovakia from 1936 right up to about 1937. They only used one type of track as the one shown. One interesting thing is all their tracks were marked with the Skoda logo. This one was found in Latvia don’t know how it ended up there.
Measurements of the Panzer 35t track link:
Weight: 3.6Kg Measure: around 31 x 12.5 x 13cm
The last one is the famous LT vz. 38 commonly known as the Panzer 38t. This was again not originally German. However, when the Germans took over Czechoslovakia, they did continue to produce the Panzer 38t while they stopped producing the 35T. And as many of you know, this eventually led to the introduction of the well-known Jagdpanzer 38 - Hetzer. The 38t were in use from 1939-1942. The Panzer 38t chassis was basis for many other vehicles: - Marder III, Panzerjäger 38 (t) mit 7,62-cm-PaK 36 (r), Sd.Kfz. 139 - Marder III, Panzerjäger 38 (t) mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/3 Ausf. H, Sd.Kfz. 138 - Marder III, Panzerjäger 38 (t) mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/3 Ausf. M, Sd.Kfz. 138 - Leichter Einheitswaffenträger mit 8,8-cm-PaK 43 L/71 (Ardelt I) - Panzerhaubitze Grille 15-cm-sIG 33/2 auf Gw. 38 (t) Ausf. H und M - Flakpanzer 38 (t) mit 2-cm-FlaK 38, Sd.Kfz. 140. This track was found in Russia its unknown to me exactly were and how.
Measurements of the Panzer 38t track link:
Weight: 3.7Kg Measure: 29 x 12 x 14cm
Detailed description of the tracks shown:
The Banana is 22cm (8.6 inches)
References used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Firstly, all tracks shown are from my personal collection. If anyone have further information or corrections, please let me know.
The closest one in the front is the Type 2 track for the Panzer 3/4 build from 1940-41, its quite different from the Type 1 you can see right behind it. I decided to include it even though it wasn’t used during the invasion, I did this so you can see the big difference between Type 1 and 2. This exact track was found in Ukraine not far from Minsk properly lost during the encirclement of the Soviet forces between 22 June – 9 July 1941.
Measurements of the Panzer III/IV Type 2 track link:
Weight: 5.8Kg Measure: 38 x 14 x 15cm
The one just right behind the Type 2: This is the Type 1 I was referring to, the big difference between this and all the other types (2-7). Other than the overall look, is its width. While the all the other types are 38cm the Type 1 A and B are 36cm, this means they do not fit together with the newer versions. It’s hard to tell but the track shown here, is the Type 1 A due to its guide tooth being longer than the Type 1 B. Though they are not officially mentioned as Type 1 A and B but only as Type 1, I just figured it would be easier to call them that. They were produced from September 1936-1940. You can see the difference between the two HERE . This exact track was found Russia not far from Stalingrad.
Measurements of the Panzer III/IV Type 1 track link:
Weight: 4.9Kg Measure: 36 x 16 x 13cm
The one just behind the Type 1: The Panzer II Ausf D and E. This was fairly different to the Ausf A, B, C and F, the main thing being its suspension and wheels. You can see it HERE . As you can see even the track is quite different too. It looks more like the Panzer 3/4 Type 1, other than this being 30cm in width. They were produced from May 1938. This one is thought to had been built as the Panzer II Flamm and later converted to the Marder II D1. Here is a short story behind it: By 1942 150 Panzer II Flamm had been built and put into action. But as the Panzer II flamm were canceled in 1942, M.A.N who was manufacturing this tank, had already build a further 150 new Panzer II flamm chassis based on an updated version referred to as Ausf D2 they were however instead used to build the Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2, with the D1 and D2 having only small differences. Another 52 or so were built from returning Panzer II flamm which seems according to some sources to only consist of early D1 chassis. The track shown is from the early D1 chassis (The Two versions can be seen with descriptions on THIS LINK), Due to the location of where it was found.
Measurements of the Panzer II Ausf D track link:
Weight: around 4.4kg Measure: 30 x 13 x (around)11
The one behind the Panzer II D: This is a track for the Panzer II Ausf A, B, C and F. This is the most common type used in the Panzer II series, as it was used on most of the types. It was also used on the following vehicles: Marder II mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/2 auf PzKpfw. II Ausf. A/B/C/F, Sd.Kfz. 131 - Sturmpanzer II mit 15-cm-sIG 33 auf PzKpfw. II Ausf. B - Panzerhaubitze Wespe 10,5-cm-IeFH 18/2 auf Gw. II - Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 4. It’s an exact copy of the one used on the Panzer I A and B, other than it being 28cm wide while the Panzer I is 26cm. There is one other version of this, the only difference being the guide teeth. It can be seen HERE . They were produced from 1934.This exact track was found near Bryansk Russia.
Measurements of the Panzer II Ausf A track link:
Weight: 2.8Kg Measure: 28 x 10 x 12cm
The one behind the Panzer II A: This is a track for the Panzer I Ausf A and B, this is the most common type used in the Panzer I series, though the one shown here is the early version. The later having cleats underneath while this doesn’t. The version with cleats can be seen HERE . It was used on all of the following vehicles: Kleiner Panzerbefehlswagen, Sd.Kfz. 265 - Panzerjäger I mit 4,7-cm-PaK auf PzKpfw. I Ausf. B, Sd.Kfz. 101 - Sturmpanzer I mit 15-cm -sIG 33 auf PzKpfw. I Ausf. B - Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 3 - 15 cm Panzerwerfer 42 auf 2 t Maultier, Sd.Kfz. 4/1. They were produced from 1934. This one was found in near Gdansk Polland.
Measurements of the Panzer I Ausf A and B track link:
Weight: 2.5Kg Measure: 26 x 10 x 11cm
The one to the right of Panzer I: This is the non-German produced lt vz. 35 otherwise known as Panzer 35T.
These were produced in Czechoslovakia from 1936 right up to about 1937. They only used one type of track as the one shown. One interesting thing is all their tracks were marked with the Skoda logo. This one was found in Latvia don’t know how it ended up there.
Measurements of the Panzer 35t track link:
Weight: 3.6Kg Measure: around 31 x 12.5 x 13cm
The last one is the famous LT vz. 38 commonly known as the Panzer 38t. This was again not originally German. However, when the Germans took over Czechoslovakia, they did continue to produce the Panzer 38t while they stopped producing the 35T. And as many of you know, this eventually led to the introduction of the well-known Jagdpanzer 38 - Hetzer. The 38t were in use from 1939-1942. The Panzer 38t chassis was basis for many other vehicles: - Marder III, Panzerjäger 38 (t) mit 7,62-cm-PaK 36 (r), Sd.Kfz. 139 - Marder III, Panzerjäger 38 (t) mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/3 Ausf. H, Sd.Kfz. 138 - Marder III, Panzerjäger 38 (t) mit 7,5-cm-PaK 40/3 Ausf. M, Sd.Kfz. 138 - Leichter Einheitswaffenträger mit 8,8-cm-PaK 43 L/71 (Ardelt I) - Panzerhaubitze Grille 15-cm-sIG 33/2 auf Gw. 38 (t) Ausf. H und M - Flakpanzer 38 (t) mit 2-cm-FlaK 38, Sd.Kfz. 140. This track was found in Russia its unknown to me exactly were and how.
Measurements of the Panzer 38t track link:
Weight: 3.7Kg Measure: 29 x 12 x 14cm
The Big German Cats
Here you can see the sheer size of some the German cats, this time with a banana for size. All tracks shown are from my personal collection.
This took me awhile to write please bear with me as there will be errors.
Starting from the top left: Sdkfz 123 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. L “Luchs” also known as the “Panzerspahwagen II” This one is one of the rarer track links shown in this Photo. It was designed to be a light reconnaissance tank only built in small numbers between September 1943 and January 1944. Even though 800 units were planned to be build, only 104 were ever build. Some may see a resemblance between the Tiger 1 and the “Luchs” both in its overall design but also with its tracks. It has a very close rebalance to the Tiger 1s transport tracks. This track in question, were found in Latvia in the infamous Kurland pocket. It was used by the 2nd Company, 4th Armoured Reconnaissance Battalion 4th Panzer Division, it is however unknown how it was taken out.
Measurements of the “Luchs” track link:
Weight: 5,4Kg Measure: 36 x 13 x 13cm
Bottom left just above the banana: Connector link from the famous “King Tiger” or as its official name was Panzerkampfwagen Tiger Ausf.B Sd.kfz.182 Tiger II. There were only built as many people on here already know 489, although not all got delivered. I will not be going in depths with the “King Tiger” design. This connector link has quite a story to tell, it is from the 501st Heavy Panzer Battalion. It was found not far from Szydlow in Polland, it was part of what is believed to be the first ever deployment of the Tiger II on the eastern front, which in all fairness didn’t go very well for the Germans. You can read about the disaster using the following link, at the section about s.Pz.Abt. 501. LINK TO READ ABOUT THE AFAIR It was found at a train station nearby, about 2 years ago with a couple of other King tiger tracks. It had been used as street slabs filled with concrete and connected together with other track links. As you might already have noticed, there are missing a Contact shoe/Contact track link , as the Tiger II utilized two different tracks, a connector link (This one) and the Contact shoe It can be seen here with the other variants Unfortunately I don’t have the contact shoe, as it is somewhat hard to come by at least for a reasonable price.
Measurements of the “King Tiger” connector link:
Weight: around 20Kg Measure: 80 x 21 x 20 cm
Top right corner: A track link from the Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found in Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg Measure: 73 x 19 x 19cm
Bottom right corner: Two Panzer V Panther track links. These two are both from the Ausf A one found in Latvia in the Kurland Pocket and the other one at the falaise pocket in France. I will again not go in much depths regarding the technical aspect of the tank. The top one of the two track links, are the one from the Falaise pocket where it supposedly got destroyed by bombing, it is the zwischenvariant it is in a remarkable good condition as it came with two track pins which are both in their almost completely original ral 7028 paint, some paint is still visible on the track link itself, unfortunately I don’t have any other information about it. The bottom Panther link is the one found in Kurland. This one was found not far from Liepāja in Latvia. It was blown up by its own crew due to breakdown. There are clear signs of damage on one of the guiding teeth. This track is of the late design. The three war time versions can be seen HERE, though there are one other version that can only be seen (As far as I know) on the British built Panther at Bovington tank museum which also can be seen in the link above.
Measurements of the “Panther” track link:
Weight: 18,4Kg Measure: 66 x 18 x 20cm
References:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
The Big German Cats
Here you can see the sheer size of some the German cats, this time with a banana for size. All tracks shown are from my personal collection.
This took me awhile to write please bear with me as there will be errors.
Starting from the top left: Sdkfz 123 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. L “Luchs” also known as the “Panzerspahwagen II” This one is one of the rarer track links shown in this Photo. It was designed to be a light reconnaissance tank only built in small numbers between September 1943 and January 1944. Even though 800 units were planned to be build, only 104 were ever build. Some may see a resemblance between the Tiger 1 and the “Luchs” both in its overall design but also with its tracks. It has a very close rebalance to the Tiger 1s transport tracks. This track in question, were found in Latvia in the infamous Kurland pocket. It was used by the 2nd Company, 4th Armoured Reconnaissance Battalion 4th Panzer Division, it is however unknown how it was taken out.
Measurements of the “Luchs” track link:
Weight: 5,4Kg Measure: 36 x 13 x 13cm
Bottom left just above the banana: Connector link from the famous “King Tiger” or as its official name was Panzerkampfwagen Tiger Ausf.B Sd.kfz.182 Tiger II. There were only built as many people on here already know 489, although not all got delivered. I will not be going in depths with the “King Tiger” design. This connector link has quite a story to tell, it is from the 501st Heavy Panzer Battalion. It was found not far from Szydlow in Polland, it was part of what is believed to be the first ever deployment of the Tiger II on the eastern front, which in all fairness didn’t go very well for the Germans. You can read about the disaster using the following link, at the section about s.Pz.Abt. 501. LINK TO READ ABOUT THE AFAIR It was found at a train station nearby, about 2 years ago with a couple of other King tiger tracks. It had been used as street slabs filled with concrete and connected together with other track links. As you might already have noticed, there are missing a Contact shoe/Contact track link , as the Tiger II utilized two different tracks, a connector link (This one) and the Contact shoe It can be seen here with the other variants Unfortunately I don’t have the contact shoe, as it is somewhat hard to come by at least for a reasonable price.
Measurements of the “King Tiger” connector link:
Weight: around 20Kg Measure: 80 x 21 x 20 cm
Top right corner: A track link from the Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf.E Sd.Kfz.181 Tiger I This one is the late war variant from the Heavy Panzer Battalion 510 found in Latvia in the Kuland Pocket. This track shows clear signs wear, with its chevrons almost completely gone on one side of the track. This is due to a somewhat weird design flaw in the Tiger 1, were it would only wear down one side of track. This is very clear to see on this example. This tank in question were taken out by an antitank gun in an ambush, I’m not sure at what date exactly. The late war track design was put into production not late after the first Tiger 1s saw action. The early production type plus its transport tracks, can be seen HERE
Measurements of the “Tiger I” track link:
Weight: 23,8Kg Measure: 73 x 19 x 19cm
Bottom right corner: Two Panzer V Panther track links. These two are both from the Ausf A one found in Latvia in the Kurland Pocket and the other one at the falaise pocket in France. I will again not go in much depths regarding the technical aspect of the tank. The top one of the two track links, are the one from the Falaise pocket where it supposedly got destroyed by bombing, it is the zwischenvariant it is in a remarkable good condition as it came with two track pins which are both in their almost completely original ral 7028 paint, some paint is still visible on the track link itself, unfortunately I don’t have any other information about it. The bottom Panther link is the one found in Kurland. This one was found not far from Liepāja in Latvia. It was blown up by its own crew due to breakdown. There are clear signs of damage on one of the guiding teeth. This track is of the late design. The three war time versions can be seen HERE, though there are one other version that can only be seen (As far as I know) on the British built Panther at Bovington tank museum which also can be seen in the link above.
Measurements of the “Panther” track link:
Weight: 18,4Kg Measure: 66 x 18 x 20cm
References:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Detailed description of the four tracks shown:
References used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Firstly, all tracks shown are from my personal collection. If anyone have further information or corrections please let me know.
First from the right 7.5 cm PaK 40 auf Sfl. Lorraine Schlepper ‘Marder I’ (Sd.KFz.135) built from captured french armoured vehicles the majority were built using captured Lorraine 37L. A few were built on the Hotchkiss H-39 and FCM-36 named 7,5cm PaK 40/1 (Sf) auf Geschützwagen 39H(f) and 7,5cm PaK 40/1 (Sf) auf Geschützwagen FCM 36(f). The track shown is from the more common Lorraine 37L found on the eastern front.
Second from the right 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) auf Fgst. PzKpfw.II(F) (Sfl.) (Sd.Kfz. 132) ‘Marder II’ that changed name 5 times during its lifespan, I will be referring to the name Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2 which it was called from September 1942- September 1943(Due to D1 and D2). The marder ii pfkpfw(f) was based upon the not very successful Panzer II flamm(Which essentially were built from the Panzer II Ausf D and E) By 1942 150 Panzer II Flamm had been built and put into action. But as the Panzer II flamm were canceled in 1942, M.A.N who was manufacturing this tank, had already build a further 150 new Panzer II flamm chassis based on an updated version referred to as Ausf D2 they were however instead used to build the Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2, with the D1 and D2 having only small differences. Another 52 or so were built from returning Panzer II flamm which seems according to some sources to only consist of early D1 chassis. The track shown is from the early D1 chassis (The Two versions can be seen with descriptions on THIS LINK), Due to the location of where it was found.
The third from the right is the Pz.Kpfw.II als Sfl. mit 7.5 cm PaK 40 ‘Marder II’ (Sd.KFz.131) based on the panzer II Ausf F with only a small number build on older versions, about 570ish were build. I can neither confirm nor deny that this track in question is from a “Marder II” as I have very little information about it, but it is the same type used.
The last fourth from the right is Panzerjäger 38(t) für 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) (Sd.Kfz. 139) Marder III. This one was built on the Panzer 38t(LT vz.38) were almost nothing were changed from the orginal chassis. Only 344 units were built. I’m also uncertain with the story behind this track as I too have very little information about it, but it is the same type used.
Detailed description of the four tracks shown:
References used:
PANZERKETTEN: https://www.amazon.com/Panzerketten/dp/3943883000
Tanks-encyclopedia: https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/
Firearms central: https://firearmcentral.fandom.com/wiki/Marder-Series
German deployment records and personal contacts.
Firstly, all tracks shown are from my personal collection. If anyone have further information or corrections please let me know.
First from the right 7.5 cm PaK 40 auf Sfl. Lorraine Schlepper ‘Marder I’ (Sd.KFz.135) built from captured french armoured vehicles the majority were built using captured Lorraine 37L. A few were built on the Hotchkiss H-39 and FCM-36 named 7,5cm PaK 40/1 (Sf) auf Geschützwagen 39H(f) and 7,5cm PaK 40/1 (Sf) auf Geschützwagen FCM 36(f). The track shown is from the more common Lorraine 37L found on the eastern front.
Second from the right 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) auf Fgst. PzKpfw.II(F) (Sfl.) (Sd.Kfz. 132) ‘Marder II’ that changed name 5 times during its lifespan, I will be referring to the name Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2 which it was called from September 1942- September 1943(Due to D1 and D2). The marder ii pfkpfw(f) was based upon the not very successful Panzer II flamm(Which essentially were built from the Panzer II Ausf D and E) By 1942 150 Panzer II Flamm had been built and put into action. But as the Panzer II flamm were canceled in 1942, M.A.N who was manufacturing this tank, had already build a further 150 new Panzer II flamm chassis based on an updated version referred to as Ausf D2 they were however instead used to build the Pz.Sfl.1 (7.62 cm PaK 36) auf Fahrg.Pz.Kpfw.II Ausf. D1 und D2, with the D1 and D2 having only small differences. Another 52 or so were built from returning Panzer II flamm which seems according to some sources to only consist of early D1 chassis. The track shown is from the early D1 chassis (The Two versions can be seen with descriptions on THIS LINK), Due to the location of where it was found.
The third from the right is the Pz.Kpfw.II als Sfl. mit 7.5 cm PaK 40 ‘Marder II’ (Sd.KFz.131) based on the panzer II Ausf F with only a small number build on older versions, about 570ish were build. I can neither confirm nor deny that this track in question is from a “Marder II” as I have very little information about it, but it is the same type used.
The last fourth from the right is Panzerjäger 38(t) für 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) (Sd.Kfz. 139) Marder III. This one was built on the Panzer 38t(LT vz.38) were almost nothing were changed from the orginal chassis. Only 344 units were built. I’m also uncertain with the story behind this track as I too have very little information about it, but it is the same type used.
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