Tamiya 35149 - 1:35 T-34/76 ChTZ

1:35 scale plastic model kit of the Soviet T-34/76 ChTZ medium tank

Tamiya 35149 is a model kit for self-assembly depicting the T-34 model 1943 built at the Chelyabinsk works — a version of the most famous Soviet tank, recognisable by its heavy cast turret with its characteristic outline. Machines like this formed the backbone of Soviet tank brigades in the decisive year of the war.

The kit was released in 1990 and is based on the 1975 T-34 tooling, supplemented with new parts matching Chelyabinsk production. The decal sheet covers four options: a vehicle marked A 24 from March 1943, tanks number 102 and number 289 from Kursk (1943) and a captured vehicle used by the Germans.

What's in the box:

• Plastic parts for the hull, cast turret and equipment
• Vinyl band tracks
• Two figures
• Decal sheet with four marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Item number: 35149
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: 192 mm
• Skill level: beginner

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

Building the model:

This is a classic, approachable armour kit — the parts fit well and the vinyl band tracks let you finish the running gear quickly. It is worth aligning the road wheels carefully and taking time over the turret, since the cast texture is the most characteristic feature of this T-34 version.

For painting we suggest the dark green typical of Red Army vehicles (e.g. Tamiya XF-58 Olive Green); the instructions give paint codes for all the options, including the captured vehicle in German markings. Applying tactical numbers over a gloss coat helps to reduce decal silvering. Military vehicle models are usually finished with a matt varnish, and mud on the running gear can be reproduced with pigments.

Tools you will need:

• Model sprue cutters
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper for cleaning up sprue gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Brushes in a range of sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Wash to bring out details and recesses
• Optional: pigments for dust and mud effects

About the vehicle – T-34 model 1943 (ChTZ):

The T-34 was a design that took the German command by surprise in 1941: sloped armour, wide tracks and a diesel engine gave it an edge no other medium tank of the day could match. Over the following years the vehicle was steadily simplified and refined so that it could be produced in enormous numbers under wartime conditions.

The Chelyabinsk works, popularly known as Tankograd, was one of the largest armour production centres in the USSR. The T-34 model 1943 tanks built there stood out for their cast turret with its characteristic shape, armed with the 76.2 mm F-34 gun. Power came from a 500 hp V-2-34 diesel engine and the crew numbered four.

Tanks of this version fought at Kursk, the largest armoured battle in history. Captured examples were also pressed into German service, which is reflected in one of the marking options in the kit.

Original vehicle specifications (T-34 model 1943, ChTZ):

• Length: approx. 6.68 m (gun forward)
• Crew: 4
• Main armament: 76.2 mm F-34 gun
• Turret: cast, Chelyabinsk (ChTZ) production
• Powerplant: V-2-34 diesel engine, 500 hp

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 by Yoshio Tamiya in Shizuoka, regarded as the centre of the Japanese model industry. The company initially traded in timber and produced wooden models, and in 1960 it launched its first plastic model kit. Two years later came the 1:35 scale tank that set the worldwide standard for military modelling. The brand is known for precise injection moulds and excellent parts fit, which is why its kits are chosen by beginners and experienced modellers alike. Tamiya instructions are clear and easy to follow, and the painting diagrams provide specific paint codes. The Military Miniature Series, to which this kit belongs, comprises hundreds of items covering vehicles, artillery and figures from across the twentieth century. Alongside plastic kits, Tamiya offers a full range of modelling accessories: paints, cements, tools and brushes. The company is present in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable brands in the industry.