Landships II

The Newton 6-inch Medium Trench Mortar

ORDNANCE M.L. 6-INCH TRENCH HOWITZER MARK I.

THE " NEWTON " OR " STOKES-NEWTON " MEDIUM TRENCH HOWITZER.

On 21st October, 1916, orders were given for trials of a 6-inch mortar, the design of which had been developed in France by Lt.-Col. H. Newton. Towards the end of January, 1917, it was arranged to produce 1,700 of these to replace the same number of 2-inch trench howitzers. Deliveries began in May, 1917.  The Newton was deployed by the UK, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, the USA, and others.

 

In a conversation with Luis (Vargas Scale Models) a few weeks ago we discussed the possibility of doing the Newton.  I provided photos and drawings of the Newton for him.  What I did not anticipate that in less than 48 hours he had designed the entire model.  I often wonder if he gets any sleep at all.

Luis previously released the 150mm Fabry.  I have seen the CAD drawings and purchased a unit to evaluate (a review of the Fabry is forth coming).  I can immediately see in the Newton his signature style of micro-detailing.  Smallest bolts and rivets are reproduced, and the intricacy of the parts is exceptional.

 

The Newton kit is just over 24 parts. Three pieces are in resin-cast (the heavy wood base, the square steel ring, and the lower mortar base), the remainder are 3D printed.  Beautiful turnbuckles, eye-bolt hooks, and restrainers.  The bomb even includes the fin retainer bars.  In scale they are so small but striking.

The Newton kit (R3D-012) has a suggested price of $37.50. An accessory kit (R3D-013 $14.40) has (10) 3D printed bombs with micro thin fins. Shipping is late December 2018.  

Great News!!

I am authorized to offer my forum friends a special pre-release offer.  Purchase the Newton mortar and get the 10 bombs accessory pack for FREE. Save $14.50.   Visit vargasscalemodels.com.  When you check out in PayPal put in the vendor instructions “FREE BOMBS”.  This offer is only valid through January 1, 2019.  International orders are NOW accepted.