155MM SPG M40

This is a Length: 305mm, width: 91mm. The U.S. Self-Propelled 155mm M40 has never before been a subject in the Tamiya line-up of 1/35 scale models. With the exception of the suspension parts, this kit uses all new tooling! The suspension parts are found on the M4A3E8 Sherman Easy Eight model kit. The M40 was a significant step in U.S. Army artillery mechanization, pairing the M1 155mm gun with the proven M4 Sherman chassis. Armor was light given its intended use as a long range weapon (effective up to 23.5km) away from the front line. The layout was changed from the M4 to allow a big fighting compartment at the rear to accommodate the big gun and was fitted with smooth horizontal volute spring suspension (HVSS). Over 400 were produced before the end of WWII but only one example of their T83 ever fought in the conflict. The M40 served in the Korean War and was eventually replaced by the M53. Tamiya’s design crew for this 1/35 scale plastic model assembly kit actually studied the M40 located at the U.S. Army Field Artillery Museum in Fort Sill, Oklahoma enabling the highly accurate recreation of this kit. In addition, realistic surface textures are included for the modeller to cast differential cover and hull side steel plates. The 155mm gun incredibly recreated and where possible the construction method of the actual weapon is copied. Depictions of hydraulic dampers include metal outer tubes for a super-realistic finish. The rear gate can be assembled up or down (when the gun was fired it was usually down, and the crew on it or outside). Individual pulley parts are included. Even the HVSS is succinctly and accurately reproduced, and combined with effective, hassle free belt type tracks. A range of accessories include separate shell and propelling charge depictions. Includes photo-etched parts to recreate engine grilles, 8 figures and 2 marking options recreating the Korean War 937th Field Artillery Battalion M40s. A detail-up parts set (Item 12670) is also to be released with a realistic single-piece metal gun barrel part.