Tamiya 35251 - 1:35 Sherman M4A3 105mm

Plastic model kit of the M4A3 Sherman with a 105 mm howitzer in 1:35 scale

Tamiya 35251 depicts the M4A3 Sherman in the version armed with a 105 mm howitzer. Instead of the standard anti-tank gun, the machine was fitted with a howitzer, intended to destroy fortifications and support infantry with high-explosive and smoke rounds. The M4A3 variant, powered by a V8 petrol engine, was one of the most widely used by the U.S. Army. The model faithfully captures the tank's shape.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with hull, turret and running-gear parts
• 105 mm howitzer
• Reproduced road wheels and tracks
• Decal sheet and illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Item number: 35251
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: approx. 169 mm
• 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 are well shown with soft shading and a wash; it is worth enriching the final result with dry-brushing and operational 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 – M4A3 Sherman 105 mm:

The Sherman was the main Allied medium tank of the Second World War, produced in many variants. The version with a 105 mm howitzer served in a support role – engaging fortifications and supporting infantry with indirect fire. The M4A3 variant, with a V8 petrol engine, was widely used by the U.S. Army.

Original vehicle specifications:

• Length: approx. 5.92 m
• Width: approx. 2.62 m
• Height: approx. 2.74 m
• Combat weight: approx. 31 t
• Powerplant: Ford GAA petrol engine (V8), approx. 450 hp
• Max speed: approx. 42 km/h
• Armament: 105 mm howitzer; two machine guns
• Crew: 5
• Feature: support version with a 105 mm howitzer

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.