1:35 M3 STUART LIGHT TANK, INITIAL PROD.

The real subject

The M3 Stuart was an American light tank of the Second World War with a 37 mm gun and a crew of four. It was built in large numbers and went to the Allied armies as well; among British crews the name Honey took hold for it. For a light tank it was fast and reliable, but against stronger opponents it relied on movement and on reconnaissance duties rather than on firepower.

The early production series

The early production series designation points to the first form, which differs from the later examples in details of the hull and the turret. The early machines were built riveted and the turret had faceted sides; welding and the rounded shape came only later. For a modeler that is an essential difference, because the riveted joints are visible on the surface and set the character of the whole model.

• 1:35 scale
• the real subject is the American M3 Stuart light tank
• the early production form with riveted construction
• a 37 mm gun, a crew of four

Building and painting tips

Wash and degrease the parts before painting, otherwise the finish holds badly. Apply the paint in thin coats so that the rivets and the fine engraving are not flooded. A riveted surface is rewarding for work with shadows: a dark wash settles around the heads and a lighter dry brush brings them forward instead. The running gear and the fenders take the most wear, and there it pays to grade the dust and the deposits of earth according to the terrain the machine is meant to operate in.

Who it is for

For modelers with an interest in Allied equipment and in the early period of the war. Paints, glue and thinners are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.