Formations
F028
Although Formations
suggests this resin direct vision Sherman conversion is can be used
with Tamiya or Italeri hulls with some added effort, it's optimally
designed for DML's M4A1
75mm Early Version, which got good grades when initially released
in the 1996. While the DML early version uses the one-piece final
drive cover, the kit includes a sprue with the three-piece cover,
which is just what you need for this DV conversion. Add Formation's
M3 Lee Style Suspension
set and you should be in good shape with some additional modifications
to the DML turret. (However, if you add the costs of this set ($25)
and the new suspension ($30), you're at the same price as Formation's
complete conversion set which includes a final drive and
turret and MV lenses for the headlightsall for
for the same $55 price.)
But this package
does give you what you need to get the superstructure shaped up.
The prize piece is the well formed hull. The creamy resin has a
nice, satisfying rough finish to it. The openings for the turret,
engine bay and front hatches are skinned over and the bottom edges
of the hull may need some attention. The direct vision slots can
be cleaned out if you are going to have the armored visors open.
The rest of
the parts dress up the hull: forward hatches with periscopes and
covers, open and closed styles of grouser vent covers, lift rings,
ventilator covers, front and rear fenders, tail lights, cable clamps
and cleats, and fuel cap covers. The new engine deck has a thinner
air vent cover. The pair of .30 machine gun barrels are ramrod straight;
just cut off the little casting pips at the tips of the barrels.
A small curl of wire is provided, though the simply illustrated
one-page instruction sheet doesn't indicate what it's for (engine
cover handles, lighting wiring?).
Once you get
your hull built, you'll be faced with adding the anemic DML pioneer
toolsor make a wise investment in Formations' superior replacement
tools. Formations can also provide the towing
cable missing from the DML kit.
Orrrrrrr, buy
the complete conversion set, which has these items
as well!
Clearly, if
you want to build yourself a prize-winning direct vision Sherman,
Formations is your supply depot. Just do a thorough spares box inventory
before placing your order so you get the most bang for your buck.
Thanks to Formations
for the review sample.
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