U.S. M4A3 (76) W Tank 1:48 Model Kit by Hobby Boss

Model Features

• 1:48 scale plastic model kit
• Accurately represents the U.S. M4A3 (76)W Sherman Tank, one of the most important late-war variants of the famous American Sherman family
• Detailed representation of the welded-hull M4A3 Sherman fitted with the improved 76mm M1 gun
• Accurately reproduced T23 turret with detailed gun mantlet, commander’s cupola, and turret fittings
• Detailed hull featuring realistic armour plates, weld lines, engine deck details, and surface textures
• Includes accurately reproduced wet ammunition storage configuration
• Detailed suspension system with realistic bogies, road wheels, drive sprockets, and idler wheels
• Includes detailed track assemblies with realistic track link detail
• Features two styles of road wheels for accurate late-war Sherman configurations
• Detailed external equipment including tools, tow cables, fuel caps, and storage fittings
• Includes fine photo-etched parts for enhanced scale realism
• Precision-moulded parts designed for an accurate and enjoyable 1:48 scale build
• Waterslide decal sheet featuring authentic U.S. Army WWII markings
• Ideal for Normandy campaign displays, late WWII Allied armour collections, or compact-scale Sherman diorama projects. ([turn0search0]turn0search3)

Specifications

• Brand: Hobby Boss
• Scale: 1:48
• Subject: U.S. M4A3 (76)W Sherman Tank
• Material: Injection-moulded plastic
• Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate modellers
• Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
• Recommended Age: 14+
• Kit Number: 84805
• Vehicle Type: Medium Tank
• Crew: 5
• Main Armament: 76mm M1 series gun
• Secondary Armament: .50 calibre M2 Browning machine gun and .30 calibre machine guns
• Parts: Approximately 138 parts
• Photo-Etched Parts: Included
• Track Type: Plastic track components included
• Model Length: Approximately 124.7mm
• Model Width: Approximately 55.3mm
• Model Height: Approximately 66.9mm ([turn0search0]turn0search3)

What's in the Box

• Plastic sprues
• Detailed upper and lower hull components
• T23 turret assembly
• 76mm M1 main gun components
• Suspension and running gear parts
• Track assemblies
• External tools and vehicle equipment
• Photo-etched detail parts
• Machine gun components
• Waterslide decal sheet with U.S. WWII markings
• Illustrated assembly instructions ([turn0search3])

History of the Original Vehicle

The M4A3 (76)W Sherman Tank was one of the most advanced wartime versions of the famous M4 Sherman medium tank. Developed to counter the increasing threat posed by German armoured vehicles such as the Panther and Tiger, it combined improved firepower with the reliability and mobility that made the Sherman one of the most successful Allied tanks of the Second World War.

The Sherman entered service with U.S. forces in 1942 and quickly became the backbone of American armoured formations. Its design focused on reliability, ease of production, and mechanical simplicity, allowing thousands of vehicles to be produced and supplied to Allied forces around the world.

As German tanks became more heavily armed and better protected, the original Sherman’s 75mm gun became less effective against newer enemy armour. This led to the development of the 76mm M1 gun, which offered significantly improved armour penetration and gave Sherman crews a better chance when facing German tanks at longer ranges.

The M4A3 (76)W combined the new 76mm gun with the reliable M4A3 chassis powered by the Ford GAA V8 petrol engine. The "W" designation referred to the introduction of wet ammunition storage, where ammunition racks were surrounded by a water-glycol mixture to reduce the risk of fires after armour penetration.

The vehicle used the larger T23 turret, which was specially designed to accommodate the 76mm gun. This turret featured improved internal space, better gun handling, and a revised external appearance compared with earlier Sherman variants.

Entering service in 1944, the M4A3 (76)W saw extensive combat during the later stages of the Second World War. It was widely used during the campaigns following the Allied landings in Normandy, taking part in the advance across France, Belgium, and into Germany.

Although the 76mm gun improved the Sherman’s anti-tank capability, it still faced challenges against heavily armoured German vehicles, particularly when engaging Panthers and Tigers from the front. However, Allied commanders relied on superior numbers, tactical flexibility, combined arms support, and logistical advantages rather than attempting to match German tanks individually.

The Sherman’s greatest strength was its reliability and adaptability. The M4A3 variant was particularly valued for its dependable mechanical performance, allowing crews to maintain operational readiness even under difficult battlefield conditions.

The M4A3 (76)W remained in service after World War II and contributed to the continuing legacy of the Sherman family. Its combination of improved armament, better crew protection, and proven reliability made it one of the most capable American medium tanks of the conflict.

Today, the M4A3 (76)W remains one of the most popular subjects among military modellers. Its distinctive late-war appearance, historical importance, and connection to major Allied campaigns make it an excellent addition to WWII armour collections.

Historical Snapshot

• Country: United States
• Development Period: 1943–1944
• Entered Service: 1944
• Role: Medium Tank
• Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company and other U.S. manufacturers
• Crew: 5
• Engine: Ford GAA V8 petrol engine
• Primary Armament: 76mm M1 series gun
• Secondary Armament: .50 calibre M2 Browning machine gun and .30 calibre machine guns
• Maximum Speed: Approximately 48 km/h (30 mph)
• Range: Approximately 160 km

Please Note

This is an unassembled plastic model kit. Paint, glue, and modelling tools are not included. Recommended for ages 14 and over.