About the M4A3 VVSS W (76mm) – "Cool Studs Inc. #4" 761st Tank Battalion: Showing up on the battlefield in the autumn of 1944, the Sherman M4A3 76W VVSS proved deadly effective against the German panzers. Upgraded armor, engine, and gun turned the Sherman into a menace and a favorite of the crews that operated them. The 76mm M1A1 (or A2) cannon was a powerful replacement to the previous short barreled 75mm guns. The added velocity proved better against enemy tanks and troop embankments. An interesting upgrade was the addition of “wet” storage for the main gun’s ammunition. In previous iterations, the M4’s ammunition was vulnerable to enemy fire. Originally located in the sponsons, the ammunition racks of the M4A3 76W were moved into the floor. Sixty-five shells lined either side of the driveshaft, protected by 34.5 gallons of water. An additional six shells were kept in reserve for emergencies. This upgrade protected the crew from internal explosion. The M4A3 76W was the mainline tank of the 761st Tank Battalion, known as the “Black Panthers” or “Patton’s Panthers.” The 761st was a segregated Black unit that was known for its relentlessness in combat. The battle-hardened unit paved the Allied advance across Europe as the tip of Patton’s spear.
Additional information about this Brickmania® custom building kit: Expertly designed to feature interior space with brick-built driver controls and a brick-built engine with opening hatch, the new M4A3 Sherman is a ground up remodel with an incredible printing showcase. The kit includes one custom minifig, and you can complete your crew by adding the Black Panthers 761st Crew Pack. Other features include a BrickArms M2HB and .30 cal ball mount. Printed details include the barrel, serial number, turret markings, front gears and more for a total of 18 printed elements. Also featured is a high-quality sticker sheet with 2x naming options. Model Statistics: Designed by Nathan Parker 696 LEGO®, Brickmania®, & BrickArms® elements 1x custom minifigs Custom printed elements High-quality sticker sheet Full-color printed building instructions 1/35th scale to match other Brickmania kits Intermediate Skill Level (4-6 years building experience recommended) All Brickmania® model kits are made of new-condition LEGO® bricks. This model comes disassembled and includes complete printed building instructions. This is a limited-edition kit and production may be discontinued at any time. This is not a LEGO® Product. LEGO and the LEGO minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group, which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse this product. The LEGO Group is not liable for any loss, injury or damage arising from the use or misuse of this product.