Tamiya 32505 M4 Sherman Early Production 1/48 Scale Plastic Model Kit

Tamiya ventured into the modeling business in 1948, with a scale wooden ship model kit. Since then, Tamiya has been striving to offer merchandise that can truly be called 'First in Quality Around the World.' Now Tamiya is offering more than 300 different products, both in the fields of precision static models and high performance radio control vehicles. These products are not only sold in Japan but also exported in vast quantities to the United States, Europe, South East Asia, and to many other parts of the world. The standard of excellence achieved by Tamiya is regarded as among the very finest in the world of model hobbies. This finely detailed plastic model kit requires assembly and painting. Item is brand new and in its original factory packaging. Listing images are stock pictures provided by the manufacturer or the distributor. Following the popular release of the Tiger I comes our second amazing tank to the MMV Series, the U.S. M4 Sherman. Like the Tiger I, the Sherman features easy assembly with as much detail as our fantastic 1/35 MM Series plus more. With approximately 50,000 units produced during WWII, the U.S. Army’s series of M4 Sherman tanks were one of the driving forces behind Allied victory. Designed for efficient mass production and including room for future modifications, the M4 series boasted superior ground performance with excellent reliability. Amongst the many variants produced, the early production M4 featured a 60 angular shaped welded hull and a cast turret loaded with a 75mm M3 cannon. With a 350hp air-cooled gasoline engine, Vertical Volute Spring (VVS) suspension and a 5-speed forward and reverse transmission, the M4 was capable of top speeds of up to 38.6km/h. Production began in July 1942, with 6,748 units produced by January 1944. The initial production run featured a distinctive 3-piece bolted transmission housing. Some M4 were also fitted with applique armor bolted later on for extra defense. The M4 Sherman saw action throughout Europe including both the Normandy and Italian campaigns and was the most produced U.S. tank during WWII. Model features exceptional detailing of all unique aspects of the early production M4 Sherman. Note the 3-piece bolted together front transmission housing, the sharply angled upper hull, and the smooth curve of the cast turret. Like the Tiger I tank, model also features a diecast hull for extra weight.