Fine Molds MR06 - 1:35 IJA Medium Tank Type 3 Chi-Nu Long-Barreled Version

Plastic model kit of the Japanese Type 3 Chi-Nu medium tank (long-barrelled version) in 1:35 scale

Fine Molds MR06 is a build-it-yourself model of the Japanese Type 3 Chi-Nu medium tank in its long-barrelled version. The Chi-Nu was the most heavily armed Japanese tank produced in series during the Second World War, developed in response to the growing superiority of Allied armour. The variant reproduced in this kit received a lengthened 75 mm gun with a higher muzzle velocity, which improved its anti-tank capability.

The model stands out for its precisely engineered tooling and finely reproduced armour texture, typical of Fine Molds kits. The glued plastic tracks allow the characteristic sag of the upper run to be reproduced.

What's in the box:

• Plastic parts on sprues with hull, turret and fittings
• Glued plastic tracks that can reproduce sag
• Waterslide decal sheet for several marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Catalogue number: MR06
• Manufacturer: Fine Molds
• Assembled length: approx. 164 mm (hull, without the barrel)
• Skill level: intermediate

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

Building the model:

With its many fine details and precisely engineered tooling, the model is recommended for modellers with some experience. The glued plastic tracks require patience but allow the sag of the upper run to be faithfully reproduced along the sides of the vehicle. For a typical Japanese scheme, the protective colours of the Imperial Army are recommended (combinations of green, brown and ochre, often in a mottled pattern), and the detail is worth emphasising with a wash. The instructions provide painting suggestions for each variant.

Tools required:

• Modelling side cutters for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper for smoothing sprue-gate marks
• Plastic cement
• Brushes of various sizes
• Modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• A wash to bring out detail
• Optional: pigments for dust and mud effects

About the vehicle – Type 3 Chi-Nu:

The Type 3 Chi-Nu was a Japanese medium tank developed late in the Second World War in response to the growing superiority of Allied armour. It was based on the chassis of earlier Japanese medium tanks, fitted with a new, larger turret housing a 75 mm gun.

The Chi-Nu was the most heavily armed Japanese tank to enter series production. Its 75 mm gun gave it combat capabilities far exceeding earlier Japanese designs. The long-barrelled variant reproduced in this model received a lengthened gun with a higher muzzle velocity, further improving its anti-tank effectiveness.

Most of the Chi-Nu tanks built were kept in the home islands, ready for the expected Allied invasion, which ultimately never came. The vehicle remains a symbol of the final stage in the development of Japanese armour.

Original specifications (Type 3 Chi-Nu):

• Length: approx. 5.73 m (without the barrel)
• Width: approx. 2.33 m
• Height: approx. 2.61 m
• Combat weight: approx. 18.8 t
• Crew: 5
• Main armament: 75 mm tank gun (long-barrelled version)
• Secondary armament: 7.7 mm machine gun
• Powerplant: diesel engine of approx. 240 hp
• Maximum speed: approx. 39 km/h
• Armour: up to 50 mm

About the manufacturer – Fine Molds:

Fine Molds is a Japanese model company active since the 1980s, valued for its precise models of Japanese military hardware — above all tanks, aircraft and ships of the Imperial Army and Navy. The brand is renowned for its fidelity and fine tooling detail. Many of its models are based on detailed historical research, evident both in the shape of the vehicles and in the included instructions. Fine Molds kits are popular with modellers specialising in Japanese subjects.