M4 Sherman Stowage
Modeling the U.S. Army in WWII

Blast Models
BL35024K

I like this simple set, nicely sculpted by Fréderick Astier's and well cast in a creamy resin. I will quibble with the divergence in size between the two separate M1936 musette bags, but they can be swapped around with other aftermarket bags that might be more in synch dimensionally. I especially like Astier's inclusion of crumpled shoulder straps for the bags, a detail I fashion out of strips of lead foil. A third piece of gear represents a rolled sleeping bag.

The fourth piece, suited for the engine deck like the other three, is anchored by a large tarp enfolding what could be additional bags and bedrolls. A large duffel bag is at one end, and another tarp (carrying tools?) is opposite. Drapped over the tarp is an air recognition panel you can paint in a vivid flourescent blue, orange, red, or yellow..

Finally, the back overhanging wall of the M4 hosts a large full tarp, another duffel bag, and three poles. This piece is most apt for the M4, as the overhang stowage on other variants typically consisted of tools or the storage tray.

The parts need to be removed from rather thick carriers, but otherwise require little additional cleanup. I did give some attention to the musette bag straps, sanding the bottoms of the pieces and using my blade to thin them and better define them.

Again, with a range of colors to work with, this set could look quite attractive on your next Sherman.

-tss

 

Modeling the U.S. Army in WWII © 2002—2007 Timothy S. Streeter