1:35 M3 Stuart

M3 Stuart 1:35 — Academy

An injection-molded plastic kit of the American M3 Stuart light tank in 1:35 scale from Academy. Academy is an experienced maker when it comes to American equipment and its kits are known for a kind fit, so this is a suitable choice even for builders with less practice.

The real subject

The M3 Stuart was an American light tank that got into action earlier than any other American tank — the British received it under military aid and put it into action in North Africa as early as 1941. It had a 37 mm gun, a very high top speed and a reputation as an exceptionally reliable machine; that is why British crews nicknamed it Honey. Its weakness was thin armor and armament inadequate against tanks, so it gradually moved into the reconnaissance role. It is recognizable by its tall hull with a radial engine at the rear and by the running gear with VVSS suspension.

Building and painting tips

Assemble the running gear with its vertical volute spring suspension according to the instructions and check that both sides sit at the same height. Finish and paint the inside of the hull and the running gear before you close the hull up. Early vehicles in North Africa wore sand paint, which shows off a dark wash in the panel lines and pronounced dust on the lower part. If you are building a British vehicle, bear in mind that British markings and stowage differ from the American, so it pays to pick the particular machine first and the paints afterwards.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of American and British equipment of the Second World War
• Modelers of the fighting in North Africa
• Builders with less practice, as the fit is kind
• Diorama builders working with light vehicles

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.