1/48 Sherman IC Firefly.
This is the Tamiya kit that's been available for some time. This is the first 1/48 tank that I've built since the 1970s. In those days, Bandai made an excellent line of 1/48 armor. Unfortunately, they were also pricey. That put them pretty much out of this kid's pocket money budget. I did manage to buy and build their Hetzer and T-34 kits which I still remember as being great models.
My memories of those models has made me want to try one of these Tamiya 1/48 tanks for almost 20 years now. The Firefly is a favorite of mine and was an easy choice for a first go at one of these. The kit assembled well with the metal bottom hull screwed to the plastic superstructure. This was also my first time using link and length tracks which thankfully assembled with little drama. They came up a little short on both sides but it's hard to tell on the finished model.
I painted the kit with Humbrol enamels and used the kit markings for a tank of the East Riding Yeomanry in the Ardennes in January, 1945.
I think this is an excellent scale for tank kits and I have acquired a Tamiya T-34/76 to tackle for my next armor project.
Happy modeling!
Wonderful Sherman, John! Excellent painting!
Thanks, Spiros!
Absolutely stunning result, John @j-healy
The painting and weathering are indeed very nicely done.
Thanks, John!
Nice finish on this Sherman, John, it would easily pass for a 1/35 scale model from your photos.
Thanks, George. I’m really impressed with the detail on these little kits.
The Tamiya 1/48 armor is an excellent series. You have an oustanding result with this, @j-healy.
Thanks, Tom! Yes, they’re great kits that don’t take up acres of shelf space.
Real nice kit! Having read James Holland's excellent "Brother's In Arms" I might have a go at this.
It’s a great kit, Ross! Have at one.
Nice build John. I have one, built and in black primer. I do not have many paints for armour kits as I mainly build aircraft. What colours and brand did you use John ?
Thanks, Guy! I used Humbrol enamels exclusively on this one. #159 green is the base color. Armor guys tell me it’s a good match for British Olive SCC15. I gave the kit some light pin washes and then drybrushed the high lights with lightened Humbrol #159. Sealed it all up with Testors dullcote, and then hit it with some pastels. I’m looking forward to seeing yours.
Cheers John 👍
Nice job on the build, John.
I've enjoyed these 1/48 Tamiya kits and find them nice kits to build. I'm coming to the end of one at this time.
Thanks, Gary!
Very nice work John.
Thanks, Rafi!
Very very nice work! Firefly is coolest Shermann for all family!
Thanks, Lis! I agree about the Firefly.