1:72 M4A2 SHERMAN

Heller M4A2 Sherman 1:72, a plastic tank kit

This is an injection-molded plastic kit of the M4A2 Sherman medium tank in 1:72 scale from Heller. The subject is the diesel version of the famous Allied tank of the Second World War. The package holds plastic sprues with the parts, a decal sheet for several marking options and assembly instructions. The exact set of markings and any accessories are determined by the particular edition of the package.

The real subject

The M4 Sherman was the most widespread American medium tank of the Second World War, deployed in all the main theaters. The M4A2 version differed from the others in its power plant: instead of a gasoline engine, a pair of coupled diesel engines drove the tank. It was precisely the diesel Shermans that went in large numbers to other Allies including the Soviet Union under the Lend-Lease program. The tank had a welded hull, a rotating turret with a 75 mm gun and characteristic running gear with vertical spring suspension.

Building and painting tips

With tanks it pays to assemble and paint the running gear, that is the road wheels, the idlers and the tracks, before you close the hull up, because it is hard to reach afterwards. For a realistic look, lay a darker wash into the recesses and the rivets over the base color, bring the edges out with a dry brush and dust the lower areas and the running surfaces with pigments for mud and dust effects. We recommend liquid cement for plastic, a base coat (primer) from a spray can or an airbrush and a matte varnish at the end.

Who the model is for

• modelers interested in the armor of the Second World War
• collectors of Shermans and Allied equipment in the small 1:72 scale
• anyone who wants to practice weathering, washes and pigment effects on a tank
• builders of dioramas on Second World War themes

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