Overview
The Tamiya 1/35 US M8 Howitzer Motor Carriage recreates America's first fully-tracked self-propelled howitzer of WWII. Built on the M5 Stuart chassis, the M8 featured an open-topped turret armed with a 75mm howitzer and 12.7mm M2 machine gun. Approximately 1,800 units were produced between September 1942 and January 1944, seeing action across Italian, Northwest European, and Pacific theaters.
The M8 continued its service even after WWII, notably with French forces during the Indochina Wars. This detailed kit faithfully reproduces the open-top turret interior, including the main gun loading section, gun sight, and crew seats.
Key Features
- 1/35 scale plastic model assembly kit
- Length: 125mm when complete
- 75mm howitzer with detailed breech
- Open-top turret with interior detail
- Gun sight accurately reproduced
- Crew seats depicted
- Three figures in realistic poses
Performance Benefits
- Open turret shows detailed interior
- Unique artillery subject
- Included figures enhance display
- Versatile for multiple theaters
- Compatible with US figure sets
Usage Notes
- Cement and paint required (not included)
- Olive Drab typical for US service
- Reference photos enhance authenticity
- Intermediate skill level recommended
Technical Specs
- Scale: 1/35
- Length: 125mm
- Subject: M8 Howitzer Motor Carriage
- Era: WWII (1942-1945)
- Material: Plastic
- Tamiya Item Number: 35312
What's Included
- (1) M8 Howitzer Motor Carriage Kit
- (3) Crew Figures
- Decal sheet
- Full-color instruction manual
Needed to Complete
- Plastic cement
- Hobby knife and sprue cutters
- Olive Drab paint
- Figure paints
Summary
The Tamiya 1/35 US M8 Howitzer Motor Carriage is an excellent representation of America's first fully-tracked self-propelled howitzer. With detailed interior and three figures, this kit offers great display potential for WWII artillery enthusiasts.
