Border Model BT056 – 1/35 Sherman M4A1 Late

Contexte historique et thème

Le Border Model BT056 Sherman M4A1 Late represents one of the most iconic American armored vehicles of World War II. The M4A1, distinguished by its fully cast rounded hull, was widely deployed across Europe from 1944 onward, accompanying U.S. armored divisions during the liberation of France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and later the push into Germany. As production evolved, late-war variants such as the one depicted in this kit incorporated improved armor casting, enhanced reliability features, and refinements derived from frontline combat experience.

In Normandy, the M4A1 Late served in armored spearheads pushing through hedgerow country, where tank crews had to adapt to short-range engagements, ambush tactics, and difficult terrain. The Sherman’s balanced combination of mobility, reliability, and ease of maintenance made it a vital asset, despite facing heavier German armor. Late variants benefited from better ammunition storage, revised suspension components, and field adaptations such as appliqué armor or spare track welded onto the hull.

During the Battle of the Bulge, M4A1 Late tanks fought in snow-covered forests, often relied upon to slow or halt German armored thrusts. In Italy, the Sherman M4A1 proved vital in mountain operations, where mechanical dependability mattered more than raw firepower. As Allied forces entered Germany in 1945, the Sherman became the backbone of rapid armored advances, supporting infantry, engaging fortified positions, and maintaining operational tempo.

Le Border Model BT056 captures the character of the M4A1 Late: rugged, reliable, and symbolic of Allied determination. With its recognizable rounded upper hull and refined late-war detailing, the M4A1 Late offers modelers a historically rich platform for diverse diorama settings—from bocage ambushes to urban fighting in 1945.

Détails et réalisme des figurines

(Adapté ici à un kit véhicule, sans figurines intégrées)

This kit delivers an exceptional level of detail, with precision molding and sharp surface textures. Border Model is known for crisp casting quality, and the BT056 continues that standard with:

– Fully cast hull textures replicating the M4A1’s distinctive rounded armor
– Sharp weld seams, casting marks, and structural details
– Highly accurate turret with late-war refinements
– Fine representation of hatches, vision blocks, and periscopes
– Detailed suspension and track system reflecting late-production improvements
– Optional parts enabling several build configurations
– Clean, accurate reproduction of the 75mm main armament and supporting components

The kit architecture ensures a faithful reproduction of the late-war M4A1 silhouette, making it ideal for historical purists and advanced builders.

Utilisation en diorama et en affichage

Le Sherman M4A1 Late fits seamlessly into a wide range of WWII diorama themes, including:

– Normandy 1944 hedgerow fighting
– Operation Cobra breakout scenes
– Liberation of French villages
– Ardennes winter battle settings
– Rhine crossing and central Germany 1945
– Italian theater mountainous terrain
– Maintenance or refueling scenes behind the line

Modelers can create dynamic scenes, such as a Sherman advancing through narrow lanes, crews preparing for battle, or an abandoned tank surrounded by infantry. The M4A1’s widespread deployment offers limitless storytelling potential.

Matériel et personnalisation

Border Model provides a high-quality plastic kit designed for advanced modeling, with part fit engineered for precise assembly.

Les options de personnalisation incluent :

– Multiple late-war paint schemes: olive drab variations, winter whitewash, dusted European tones
– Battlefield weathering using mud textures, dust layering, streaking, and chipping
– Storage additions: jerry cans, tarps, ration boxes, spare track links
– Optional unit markings for armored divisions operating in Western Europe
– Potential integration with aftermarket upgrades such as photo-etch, metal barrels, or resin stowage

Glue and paint are required but not included.

À qui s'adresse-t-il ?

Le Border Model BT056 Sherman M4A1 Late suits:

– Advanced and intermediate modelers
– WWII U.S. armored vehicle enthusiasts
– Diorama builders seeking a historically flexible Allied tank
– Collectors of late-war Sherman variants
– Hobbyists wanting a detailed 1/35 centerpiece with strong historical presence

Its design makes it accessible while offering depth for super-detailing.