Tamiya 35348 - 1:35 SU-76M Russian Self-Propelled Gun

Plastic model kit of the Soviet SU-76M light self-propelled gun in 1:35 scale

The SU-76M had neither armour nor speed worth boasting about — what it had was a 76.2 mm gun, and it was wherever the Soviet infantry was fighting. Tamiya 35348 depicts this vehicle using entirely new tooling from 2016.

A defining feature of the original is the open-topped fighting compartment in which the gun crew worked; the model reproduces this layout, leaving the casemate interior on view. Tamiya provides link-and-length tracks — individual links around the curves and longer runs along the straights — together with a jig that makes it easier to reproduce the natural sag of the track between the wheels.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with hull, casemate, gun and running gear
• Link-and-length tracks: individual links and longer runs
• Jig to help reproduce track sag
• Waterslide decal sheet
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Catalogue number: 35348
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: approx. 139 mm
• Skill level: beginner/intermediate (link-and-length tracks)

Please note: the kit does not include glue, paints or modelling tools. The model requires assembly.

Building the model:

The hull and casemate are made up of well-fitting parts and go together quickly. The tracks call for more patience — individual links around the drive and idler wheels, longer runs along the straights. The supplied jig makes a real difference in reproducing the natural sag of the upper track run, and the result noticeably improves the finished model.

Because the fighting compartment is open, the casemate interior and the gun breech remain visible — it is worth painting them and picking out the detail with a wash before the structure is closed up. For painting, the uniform green of Soviet vehicles is recommended (e.g. Tamiya XF-58 Olive Green), with lightened panels and a matt varnish as the final coat. Pigments on the tracks and lower hull suit a vehicle used hard in the field.

Tools you will need:

• Modelling nippers for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper for cleaning up gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Precision modelling tweezers
• Brushes in various sizes
• Modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Wash to bring out details and recesses
• Optional: pigments for dust and mud effects

About the vehicle – SU-76M:

The SU-76M came from a simple idea: take the proven 76.2 mm ZIS-3 divisional gun and mount it on the chassis of the T-70 light tank, giving the infantry the mobile fire support it desperately needed. The result was a light, cheap and easily produced vehicle weighing around 11 tonnes.

The fighting compartment was left open at the top, which eased gun handling and observation but exposed the four-man crew to plunging fire and splinters. Power came from two GAZ engines developing 140 hp between them — a simple arrangement, though one that demanded skill from the driver.

Despite its modest specification, the SU-76M proved one of the most important Soviet vehicles of the war. Only the T-34 was built in greater numbers, making it the second most numerous Soviet armoured vehicle of the Second World War. It accompanied the infantry in the attack, reducing strongpoints and engaging enemy light armour.

Original vehicle specifications (SU-76M):

• Combat weight: approx. 11 t
• Crew: 4
• Main armament: 76.2 mm ZIS-3 gun
• Chassis: T-70 light tank
• Layout: open-topped fighting compartment
• Powerplant: two GAZ engines, 140 hp combined
• Production: after the T-34, the most numerous Soviet armoured vehicle of the Second World War

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 in Shizuoka, regarded as the centre of the Japanese model industry. It began in the timber trade and wooden models, releasing its first plastic model kit in 1960. Two years later came a 1:35 tank kit that established the scale as the worldwide standard for military modelling. The brand is known for exceptionally precise tooling and excellent parts fit, which is why its kits are equally popular with beginners and experienced modellers. Newer Tamiya kits use link-and-length tracks together with assembly jigs that make a realistic sag easier to achieve — a solution particularly appreciated by diorama builders. Alongside plastic kits the company offers a full range of paints, cements, tools and brushes. It is present in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable names in the hobby.