1/16 iLoveKit M4A3E8 Sherman "Easy Eight" Medium Tank - Late Production
The M4A3E8 Sherman represents the pinnacle of American medium tank development during World War II. Known affectionately as the "Easy Eight" by American soldiers, this late-production variant achieved an exceptional balance of firepower, armor protection, and mobility that rivaled the Soviet T-34/85 and German Panther tanks of the same era.
Historical Background
The M4A3E8 introduced the revolutionary HVSS (Horizontal Volute Spring Suspension) system, replacing the earlier VVSS (Vertical Volute Spring Suspension). This new suspension system, combined with wider tracks, reduced ground pressure and provided a smoother, more stable ride even with the increased weight from enhanced armor and the upgraded 76mm main gun. The improved handling characteristics earned it the "Easy Eight" nickname among crews who appreciated its superior performance.
Armed with a 76.2mm gun (76mm, 54.5 caliber), the M4A3E8 could penetrate over 110mm of vertical armor at 2,200 meters when using high-velocity armor-piercing ammunition. The tank featured an integrated front armor design with 107mm thickness set at an angle for improved protection. To enhance crew survivability, the E8 incorporated ammunition "wet stowage" (water jackets around ammunition storage) to reduce the risk of catastrophic explosions. Despite weighing over 30 tons, the tank maintained an impressive top speed of 45 kilometers per hour.
Model Kit Features
- Scale: 1:16
- Finished Dimensions: 467mm length × 178.6mm width
- Total Parts: Over 2,300 highly detailed components
- Total Sprues: 30 sprues plus upper hull, lower hull, and turret
- Track System: 320 individual track links for maximum realism
- Metal Parts: Includes springs, track shafts, and copper cable
- Photo-Etched Parts: 4 sheets of PE parts for ultra-fine detail
- Multi-Slide Molding: Advanced molding techniques for refined hull and turret detail
Detail-Up Set Included
- 1 resin figure
- Over 80 additional photo-etched parts
About iLoveKit
iLoveKit is known for producing highly detailed, large-scale armor kits with exceptional accuracy and engineering. This M4A3E8 kit represents their commitment to quality and historical authenticity.
Released: September 2024
Explore our complete selection of 1/16 scale military vehicle kits and armored vehicle models. For more iLoveKit products, visit our iLoveKit collection.
Complementary Products: Enhance your build with model paints, modeling tools, weathering supplies, and photo-etch accessories.