1:100 Soviet SU-76M

Soviet SU-76M self-propelled gun 1:100 (Zvezda)

A plastic kit of the Soviet SU-76M light self-propelled gun in 1:100 scale from the Russian maker Zvezda. The model belongs to the small wargaming line: it has a low parts count, it is designed for quick assembly without glue and when built it measures only a few centimeters. It therefore suits a table for a board game as well as an accessory to a larger scene.

The real subject

The SU-76M was a Soviet light self-propelled gun of the Second World War. A 76.2 mm divisional gun was mounted on the lengthened chassis of a light tank, and the fighting compartment stayed open at the top at the rear. The vehicle was cheap to produce, light and good at crossing soft ground. It served mainly for direct fire support of the infantry and for destroying fortified positions, less as a tank destroyer, because the armor was thin and the crew only lightly protected. Tens of thousands were built, which made the type one of the most numerous Soviet armored vehicles of its day.

Building and painting tips

Cut the parts off and clean them up; even with assembly without glue it pays to secure the joints with a drop of thin cement. Because of the open fighting compartment, paint the inside and the gun before you close the assembly up. In 1:100 scale work with contrast: a base green, a pass over the edges a shade lighter and a dark wash into the recesses do more than fine drawing, which would be lost at a distance. A light dust on the running gear is enough at the end.

Who the model is for

• players of tabletop war games in 1:100 scale
• collectors of Soviet vehicles of the Second World War
• beginners, thanks to the small parts count and the quick build
• builders of dioramas where vehicles form the background of a scene

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.