M4A3 Sherman 75mm Tank

This model has the most options of any American tank model I've experienced. There are many accessories to include with the tank (such as ration boxes, jerry cans, oil cans, spare track, ammunition boxes, and supply packs), so an enhanced diorama is possible without buying separate accessory kits. The tank itself is detailed perfectly with options for the late version road wheels or for the mid-production version. There are two commander cupola options, mid- or late production. The three versions provided in this kit (Caballero, #50 and Classy Peg) makes it tempting to buy twice more so I can take advantage of the two I opted not to use. My favorite part of this kit is the included figures. Not only are there figures for the 4 pictured on the box (3 infantry and 1 tank commander), but there are several bonus figures. There are actually 2 replicas of the command figure in the box picture. I was able to use the second one for another tank model that came without crew figures. There is another command figure, different from the one pictured on the box. There is also a bust of a third command figure. As if that weren't enough, there are 2 busts of a driver figure. They are identical, but what a nice way to supply crew figures to other, unmanned tank model kits. This model kit has not only made a great diorama for my collection, but has also enhanced some of my other U.S. tank dioramas by supplying spare crew figures. I recommend this model kit with all enthusiasm. M. Stilwell

Now the rivet counters types might not think highly of these kits but its a great platform to build out of the box or to try your hand at scratch building and modifying. I decided to push it as far as I can so I shaved off all the molded handles and scratch built those, scratch building the exhaust deflector and rear skirts on either side of it. Used styrene to replicate the sand skirt mounting strips, built up the right side of the turret with putty for a better profile and blended the pistol port, add styrene rods w texture for better welds on the hull, built up the welds on lift hooks, drilled weep holes around filler caps etc. The list can go on, as I said a nice easy build or a great platform to develop your skills by researching and adding lots of easy DIY details.

I really enjoyed building this model. It is good quality, highly detailed, and good quality plastic that doesn't require primer before painting. The pieces fit together nicely with little manipulation, filing, or flash removal. The tracks are moveable as long as you are careful when gluing the wheel pieces together. I hand painted this model rather than air brushing but either technique would work well. Make sure to apply the decals to the tank prior to gluing on the attachments as there is some overlap. The only think I would change is that I painted this with Tamaiya Olive Drab which is darker green than the actual color of most of these tanks. Testors olive drab is closer to the authentic color.