The T34, in all its guises, was probably the most innovative tank of WW II. With its sloped armour, wide tracks, practicality and simplicity in operation and production techniques. Along with the ease with which the chassis was able to be utilised for a variety of other tasks and its not inconsiderable speed, it is little wonder that the Germans were taken very much by surprise by its appearance on the battlefield in the early stages of the war in the East. The initial versions, with the 76 mm gun, went through a variety of different turret types and external fittings differences, due to production taking place at several locations and the obvious improvements that battle-experience or raw material availability dictated. This continuous development and improvement, coupled with the introduction of heavier tanks by the Germans, led to the larger, three man turret -freeing up the commander from gun loading duties as had previously been the case in the 76 mm two man turret - being introduced when the decision was taken to increase the armament to an 85 mm weapon. The result was the streamlined, classy and businesslike T-34/85. Much has been written on all variants of this tank, my small collection of references, mentioned at the end. contain pages of facts, figures, detail differences, dates and factory names and numbers, enough to satisfy the most fanatical detail-hungry researcher. So. without further ado. what's in the box...
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