1:35 M4A3 Sherman Korean War detail set

Accessory set for the M4A3 Sherman, Korean War, 1:35

The set from Rye Field Model is not a model of the tank but an accessory for one. It aims at the American M4A3 Sherman in the form in which it served in the Korean War, that is at the late form of the type with equipment added after the Second World War. The name does not give the package contents or the particular target kit, so check the match with your model beforehand against the packaging.

The real subject and what the set is for

The Shermans in Korea were already different machines from those of 1944. They stayed in service in the very latest versions, they received supplementary protection improvised in the field, modified stowage for equipment and in many cases striking recognition markings as well. It is precisely these differences that you usually cannot read from an ordinary kit, because the box form aims at the Western front. An accessory set is the tool for moving a model into the right period: it replaces simplified elements with more accurate ones and adds details that decide believability when seen up close.

Building and painting tips

First go through the instructions in full and compare them with the sequence of the base kit, because some of the parts have to be fitted before the hull is closed up. Bend small metal or photo-etched parts over a sharp edge, not between your fingers, and glue them with cyanoacrylate glue; on plastic use a thin cement for plastic. Degrease the metal before painting and spray it with a primer. When adding patina, remember that newly added elements have to age in the same way as the rest of the model, otherwise they look like a foreign piece stuck on. For a Korean setting a more marked dusty tint on the running gear and the lower hull works well.

Who the set is for

• Builders of an M4A3 Sherman model who want to capture the Korean War form
• Modelers with experience of small and photo-etched parts
• Those building for an exhibition or a diorama from the 1950s
• Those interested in more faithful detail beyond the contents of the box

The set is supplied unassembled and unpainted and is not a model of the vehicle. The base kit, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise. Check the match with your kit before buying.