Classy Hobby 16022 - 1:16 US M8 Armored Trailer

1:16 scale plastic model kit of the U.S. M8 Armored Trailer

Classy Hobby 16022 is an assembly kit reproducing the U.S. M8 Armored Trailer, developed as a companion to the American M8 Howitzer Motor Carriage. Towed behind the vehicle, the trailer carried a reserve of 75 mm howitzer ammunition, extending the time the gun could remain in action before resupply.

The large 1:16 scale reproduces the body, running gear and internal ammunition partitions clearly and effectively. The model works well as a pairing for the M8 HMC kit in the same scale, and equally as a standalone element of a resupply-point diorama.

What's in the box:

• Plastic parts for the trailer structure
• Photo-etched parts for fine, precise details
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Kit specifications:

• Scale: 1:16
• Catalogue number: 16022
• Manufacturer: Classy Hobby
• Skill level: beginner/intermediate (photo-etched parts)

Note: The kit does not include glue, paints or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

Assembly is approachable, and the large scale makes the work easier even for less experienced modellers. It is worth taking care to fit the photo-etched parts precisely and to clean up the sprue-gate marks thoroughly. For painting we recommend matt olive tones typical of WWII U.S. Army vehicles (e.g. Olive Drab); details and recesses can be emphasised with a wash.

Tools you will need:

• Modelling side cutters for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for smoothing sprue-gate marks
• Plastic cement and cyanoacrylate glue for the photo-etched parts
• Precision modelling tweezers
• Modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• A wash to bring out the details

About the trailer – M8 Armored Trailer:

The M8 Armored Trailer was developed as part of the equipment for the M8 Howitzer Motor Carriage, which was built on the chassis of the M5 Stuart light tank. The limited capacity of the vehicle's internal ammunition stowage made a towed trailer carrying extra rounds a practical solution that increased its combat value, particularly during fire-support tasks.

Trailers of this type were used by U.S. armored cavalry and reconnaissance units, where the M8 HMC served as mobile artillery support. Today they make an interesting, less commonly modelled subject, especially appealing to collectors of U.S. Army support vehicles.

About the manufacturer – Classy Hobby:

Classy Hobby is a model brand specialising in plastic military vehicle kits, including large 1:16 and 1:35 scales. The company is known for elaborate kits covering the M5 Stuart family and the M8 HMC, with attention to structural detail and interiors. Classy Hobby models are aimed at modellers who appreciate large, eye-catching projects with a wealth of parts to assemble.