Tamiya 35211 - 1:35 Russian Heavy Tank JS3 Stalin

Plastic model kit of the Soviet JS-3 Stalin heavy tank in 1:35 scale

Tamiya 35211 depicts the JS-3 (IS-3) Stalin – a Soviet heavy tank developed at the end of the Second World War. The vehicle was distinguished by its characteristic wedge-shaped 'pike nose' hull front and a flattened, hemispherical turret – features increasing resistance to hits. The powerful 122 mm gun provided heavy firepower. The shape of the JS-3 influenced the development of postwar tanks.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with hull, turret and running-gear parts
• 122 mm gun and a hemispherical turret
• Reproduced road wheels and tracks
• Decal sheet and illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Item number: 35211
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: approx. 195 mm (hull)
• Skill level: beginner/intermediate

Note: glue, paints and modelling tools are not included. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

As a Tamiya-tooled kit it features good parts fit. The rounded surfaces of the turret and hull are well shown with soft shading and a wash emphasising the seams and detail. It is worth enriching the final result with subtle weathering.

Tools you'll need:

• Modelling nippers for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for cleaning up sprue-gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Brushes of various sizes and modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Panel-line wash to emphasise detail, plus dry-brushing
• Pigments and paints for weathering effects (mud, dust, rust)

About the vehicle – JS-3 (IS-3) Stalin:

The JS-3 was developed as an evolution of the Soviet heavy tanks, aiming for maximum resistance to fire. The wedge-shaped hull front and hemispherical turret deflected projectiles, while the 122 mm gun provided firepower. The vehicle appeared at the close of the war and remained a model for tank designers for years.

Original vehicle specifications:

• Length (hull): approx. 6.8 m
• Width: approx. 3.2 m
• Height: approx. 2.5 m
• Combat weight: approx. 46 t
• Powerplant: V-2 diesel engine (V12), approx. 520 hp
• Max speed: approx. 40 km/h
• Armament: 122 mm gun; 12.7 mm anti-aircraft machine gun
• Crew: 4
• Feature: 'pike nose' hull front, hemispherical turret

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 in Shizuoka, regarded as the heart of Japan's model-making industry. It launched its first injection-moulded plastic kit in 1960 and soon set a global benchmark for quality thanks to precise tooling and excellent parts fit. The 1:35 Military Miniature series is one of the most highly regarded military model lines in the world. Beyond plastic kits in many scales, the company offers a full range of accessories: paints, glues, tools and brushes. Tamiya operates in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable brands in the hobby.