1:72 Semovente M40 da 75/18 - Italian 75mm Selfpropelled Gun

The real subject

The Semovente M40 da 75/18 is an Italian self-propelled gun of the Second World War. It came about by rebuilding the chassis of a medium tank, which was given a low fixed superstructure with a howitzer in place of a rotating turret. The designation 75/18 means a caliber of 75 mm and a barrel length of eighteen calibers, that is, a short weapon meant for the direct support of infantry and tanks. It was used in North Africa and in Italy itself and was among the most successful Italian armored vehicles, because its shells could threaten even better-protected opponents.

What the kit contains

This is a plastic kit in 1:72 scale, to be glued and painted. The model is supplied unassembled; the parts have to be cut from the sprues, cleaned up and joined with cement for polystyrene.

Building and painting tips

In the small scale it pays to assemble and paint the running gear before the tracks go on, as it is harder to get between the wheels afterwards. The low superstructure has large flat surfaces on which both uneven grime and gentle lightening of the edges show well. Italian vehicles usually wore sand shades with irregular patches, so spray the transitions softly and in thin coats.

Who it is for

The kit will appeal to anyone interested in Italian vehicles and in the fighting in the Mediterranean, as well as to collectors of armor in the small scale. The build is manageable in extent; it is mainly the small parts of the running gear and the fittings of the superstructure that call for attention. Paints, glue and other equipment are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.