Tiger 1 Jack Block

[Red Devils]

Hey guys,

I have seen some conflicting pictures of the Tiger 1 Jack Block. On the sides of the block, is it solid metal plates or exposed wood with two straps nailed into the block? It is my intent to go with real wood, I'm just not 100% sure of the sides that are flanked by the hatches. Also, what is the actual size, the W x H, any you guys in Europe with one in a museum happen to get some measurements? Finally, was it one block of wood or layered pieces of wood? TIA.

Derek

[Red Devils]

Just for reference here, I thought I would post an answer to my question here.

From thecommander on RCU,

Pix of jack blocks to assist you.... they were wood with metal bands. Not a single piece or layers. It was a long beam cut into sections. The 3 pieces were joined then metal banded together. Stu is spot on abut the band but I beg to differ on the solid wood. All the originals I've seen were 3 sections. The larger blocks had handles added. I have a close-up of the real Tiger block, but it is too blurry. They are essentially all the same design (like the Hetzer). You can clearly see it is in 3 sections. I have never seen a solid one at the 7 or so tank musuems I've toured. The larger the tank the bigger the block to support the load. I've only seen metal traps for securing attachments & tools on armor. Leather would be vulerable to MG fire and shrapnel. I have seen leather tabs securing the metal clasps and for jerry cans only. Some leather was original and in very fine condtion for approx. 70 years of age.

For the reference pics, see this link:http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_11078876/tm.htm