Tamiya 35390 – 1/35 M36 U.S. Tank Destroyer

The Tamiya 35390 1/35 M36 Jackson is a newly tooled scale plastic model kit that recreates the U.S. Army’s famous M36 Tank Destroyer, introduced in late 1944 to engage heavily armored German threats like Tigers and Panthers. As part of Tamiya’s esteemed Military Miniature Series, this kit brings historical accuracy and refinement in model engineering.

Kit Highlights

• Scale & Dimensions
• 1/35 M36 scale; approximately 216 mm long and 88 mm wide, faithfully capturing the M36’s distinctive proportions and open-topped turret design.
• Engineered Excellence
• The kit features all-new tooling (except M2 MG and some clear parts), delivering crisp details and tight fit—Tamiya continues its tradition of balance between quality and ease of build.
• Turret & Breech Interior
• Features a detailed interior including the 90 mm M3 gun breech, shell racks, swing-up seat supports, rotation mechanism, and counterweight with authentic cast-cast texture rendered via slide molding.
• Accessories & Chassis Detail
• Includes exhaust deflector, tow hooks, tow cable, ammunition cases, and a tanker figure. Assembly type one-piece straight track sections simplify construction while maintaining accuracy.
• Marking Options
• Decals for two schemes: one representing the 3rd Army in Luxembourg, and the other 774th Tank Destroyer Battalion in Germany, including winter camouflage and unit badges.
• Modeler Feedback
• Enthusiasts highlight Tamiya’s famous ease of build and clean engineering, praising this kit as both approachable and impressive in its detail without excessive complexity.

Historical Context

The M36 Jackson replaced early 76 mm-armed tank destroyers with its powerful 90 mm gun, entering service in October 1944. Deployed across the Western Front including the Battle of the Bulge, it provided Allied forces with much-needed anti-tank firepower until VE-Day.

Conclusion

Tamiya’s 35390 1/35 M36 Jackson is a standout release combining structural precision, interior detail, and manageable build complexity. Whether you’re a seasoned modeler or exploring U.S. armor kits, this well-balanced kit offers rewarding assembly and authentic representation of one of WWII’s most capable tank destroyers.