M4A1(w) 76mm Sherman

Manufacturer: ESCI Conversion

By Mark Shannon

This is the Esci hull that I built originally in 1978 or so. Since I found the discussion about the hull type, I was looking for a way to salvage the kit. I decided to try correcting the Revell AG 76mm T23 turret and mating them up. I cleaned up the old hull, added wire hoist rings, handles, and brush guards, and cleaned up seams. On the turret, I built out a sheath of 5 thou card and putty, sanding it to shape. I also cleaned up the 'railroad ties' on the back of the turret, built hinges for the hatches (non-functioning), moved the ventilator, added antenna details, lift rings, hatch handles, etc from Evergreen rod and wire. I used the Esci shell/communication hatch, after sanding it down to fit, and the Esci 50 cal. AA. I reshaped the mantlet, adding better defined coax mg and sighting telescope holes, and cleaned up the gun. I used Mike Starmer's suggested mixes for the OD, new and old decals from the spares box, water color wash, and chalk weathering to finish the tank. I added bedrolls and tarps from tissue, lashed down with invisible nylon thread painted linen. Humbrol paints were used throughout.