Model Magazine International 04 2007

Let me begin this article by stating I don't profess to be an expert on the M4 Sherman. While other modellers have made a veritable career of understanding the subtle nuances between each and every Sherman variant, I'll admit I have not. But when approached to build this model essentially straight from the box, I jumped at the opportunity - not being tasked with modifying and correcting flaws and oversights seemed reasonable and well within my limited knowledge of the subject. I'm sure that despite how accurate this kit initially appears, modellers will most certainly find areas to embellish and improve. For the sake of this article, the scope remains a simple one - to enjoy the experience building the kit for what it offers. The Sherman Mk.III was based upon the American M4A2 and Dragon has chosen to release this variant with great alacrity following their previous M4A2 Tarawa kit. Chock-full of detail, Dragon has provided no less than 463 grey styrene parts. 22 clear parts, a fret of brass photo-etch, metal tow cable and a beautiful pair of DS vinyl tracks in the ample box. Granted, many parts will not be required for this build but will do wonders for the spare parts bin. Many exceptional reviews of this kit are available in print and on the internet, so I won't reiterate their findings here. Using the outstanding Echelon Fine Detail sheet ATL352002 I chose to portray "Barford St. Martin", a vehicle from A Squadron, 2nd Troop which operated in Syria in 1943. This decision was based on several factors. With a three-piece transmission cover, cast bulges for the hull crewmen and wings on the rotor covers, that vehicle not only met the appropriate physical criteria, but with 15 yellow-scripted characters in the name it simply offered a bit more colour to the model!

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