UM (Unimodel) 1/72nd SU-76M

History

While there are numerous tanks that were called the "SU-76", the SU-76M was derived from the SU-12, which after trials was called the "SU-76 Self-Propelled Assault Gun". It was based on a lengthened and strengthened T-70 armed with the 76.2mm ZIS-3Sh gun. When the engines and transmissions failed in service, a program to modernize those started, which resulted in the SU-76M ("Modernized"). From there the gun compartment was cut away in the rear and top, resulting in what the UM model portrays.

The Kit

The UM 1/72nd SU-76M consists of 143 injected plastic pieces and a 20 piece fret of photoetch. Some of the injected parts aren't used and are to be relegated to the parts bin. There are four machines catered for on the decal sheet, with the decals being sharp and in register.

Construction starts with the lower hull, built up of a "bottom" and two sides. From there one adds the running gear (including separate suspension) followed by the tracks. However, I'm not sure if it's a good idea adding the tracks now, since I can't tell if there will be any gaps when the upper hull is mated with the lower hull.

Moving on in construction, the front of the hull is assembled, followed by smaller details and the rest of the upper hull. At this point items are also added to where the gun breach is - shells, etc. - which are extremely nicely molded.

Construction ends with adding the front part of the hull followed by the final, smaller details. I must point out that the breech of my gun has a nasty sink mark. However, luckily, this part is completely flat and relatively void of any detail, so adding putty/CA to this sink mark should be easy.