1.72 SU-76M Self-propelled gun

UM 1:72 SU-76M - Soviet self-propelled gun (Unimodel)

Short-run injection-molded plastic kit in 1:72 scale from the Ukrainian maker UM (Unimodel). The real subject is the SU-76M, a light Soviet self-propelled gun with an open-topped superstructure, armed with the proven 76.2 mm ZIS-3 gun. The box contains molded plastic with link and length tracks and photo-etched extras. The open fighting compartment is an open invitation to detail the interior and to add a crew.

The real subject

The SU-76M was built on a lengthened and reworked light tank chassis. Above it sat an open-topped armored superstructure with the ZIS-3 gun, which served both for direct infantry support and for anti-tank fire. It became the most numerous Soviet self-propelled gun of the war; its simplicity and reliability were offset only by thin armor and the open roof, which left the crew exposed to the weather and to shell splinters.

Building and painting tips

Start by assembling the running gear and the link and length tracks and by fitting out the open interior of the superstructure, and only then close up the hull. Clean the flash off the short-run parts; glue the plastic with thin cement and the photo-etched parts with cyanoacrylate. Bring out the interior with a wash and apply pigments to the running gear for dust and mud. Pick out the gun and the edges gently with a lighter shade.

Who the model is for

• For collectors of Soviet self-propelled vehicles in 1:72 scale.
• For builders of Eastern Front dioramas.
• For anyone who enjoys detailing open fighting compartments.
• For more advanced modelers who are comfortable with short-run molding.

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