Tamiya 35322 - 1:35 M1 Super Sherman

1:35 scale plastic model kit of the Israeli M1 Super Sherman tank

Tamiya 35322 reproduces the Israeli M1 Super Sherman tank. After the establishment of the state of Israel, its armed forces acquired a variety of Sherman tanks, and in the mid-1950s purchased a sizable number of M4A1s armed with the 76 mm gun. These were designated M1 Super Sherman to distinguish them from earlier 75 mm versions. The vehicles were intended to counter Arab T-34-85 tanks.

The model was made from detailed studies of a preserved museum example. It captures the characteristic cast M4A1 hull, VVSS suspension and 76 mm gun. It depicts the late-type version, with a muzzle brake and a one-piece loader's hatch.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with the cast M4A1 hull
• 76 mm gun with muzzle brake
• Late-type turret with a one-piece loader's hatch
• VVSS suspension
• Vinyl belt tracks of the T54E1 type
• Two figures: commander and loader
• Decal sheet for three marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Item number: 35322
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: 210 mm, width: 75 mm
• Skill level: beginner/intermediate

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

Building the model:

Thanks to the excellent part fit typical of Tamiya, the model is approachable even for less experienced builders. The vinyl belt tracks simplify and speed up assembly of the running gear. The figures are best painted separately before being placed on the vehicle.

For painting, the typical Israeli Sinai Grey is recommended, matching the chosen marking option. Military vehicles are usually finished with a matt varnish, and the detail and recesses benefit from a wash and dry-brushing.

Tools you'll need:

• Modelling side cutters for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for cleaning up sprue-gate marks
• Polystyrene cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Brushes of various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• A wash to emphasise detail and recesses
• Optionally: pigments for dust and mud effects

About the vehicle – M1 Super Sherman:

After declaring independence in 1948, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) chose the M4 Sherman as their main armoured vehicle. In the mid-1950s they purchased a sizable number of M4A1s armed with the 76.2 mm M1 gun, designated M1 Super Sherman. Many had a cast hull, an air-cooled radial petrol engine and VVSS suspension.

These vehicles first saw combat during the Suez Crisis in 1956, and some served into the 1970s. Israel was renowned for upgrading and long-term use of its Shermans, whose successive versions were gradually improved to meet new opponents.

Original specifications (M1 Super Sherman):

• Length: approx. 5.9 m
• Width: approx. 2.6 m
• Height: approx. 2.7 m
• Combat weight: approx. 32 t
• Crew: 5
• Main armament: 76.2 mm M1 gun
• Secondary armament: 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm machine guns
• Powerplant: radial petrol engine, approx. 400 hp
• Maximum speed: approx. 40 km/h
• Suspension: VVSS type

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 by Yoshio Tamiya in Shizuoka, regarded as the heart of the Japanese model industry. The company initially traded in timber, but from the late 1940s it produced wooden models, and in 1960 it launched its first plastic assembly kit. Two years later it introduced its iconic 1:35 scale tank, which set the worldwide standard scale for military modelling. The brand is renowned for exceptionally precise injection moulds and excellent part fit, which is why its kits are favoured by beginners and experienced modellers alike. The Military Miniature Series, to which this model belongs, comprises hundreds of items and is considered one of the most comprehensive 1:35 catalogues of military vehicles in the world. Alongside plastic kits, Tamiya offers a full range of modelling supplies: paints, glues, tools and brushes.