Sherman M4A3E8 76(w) HVSS Prototype

[Armortek]

Now that the prototype castings have arrived (woohoo), it is probably time to start a thread on the Sherman Prototype.

[Armortek]

Turret casting being loaded for the first op

[simon_manning]

The effort that goes into making these kit's still amazes me, after year's of owning several vehicles it's an eye opener, keep at it regards simon manning.

[Alex Easten]

Looking good! Any chance of a bit more CAD to see the design from different angles?

Cheers,

Alex

[Armortek]

Prototype turret going through a second op on a 5AX - will try to get some film of this tomorrow.

[William Vallejo]

The effort that goes into making these kit's still amazes me, after year's of owning several vehicles it's an eye opener, keep at it regards simon manning.

I’m not a machinist, but I’m a journeyman marine blacksmith and metal heat treater, now retired. Working in close collaboration with machinists and many others in the metal trades for years, has given me a great appreciation of what it takes to design and produce these kits.

[Robert E Morey]

Great looking casting! These 5 axis machines are superb! Can't wait to see the E8 take shape.
Bob

[Armortek]

Some big milestones in the last week - not only do we now have the prototype castings, but we also got the prototype tyres and tracks.

[David Brady]

Hi,

Coming along nicely- any chance of offering steel tracks and sprocket rings as an option - I think this model could handle them
Cheers

[Alex Easten]

Thanks for the updates Kian, it's good see that M4A3 rear end coming together!

Cheers,

Alex

[Armortek]

Manufacturing the bogie frame for the Sherman.
Over 1 hour 40 minutes manufacturing time per model ....

[youtube][/youtube]

[Armortek]

Coming along nicely- any chance of offering steel tracks and sprocket rings as an option - I think this model could handle them

Would not make economic sense for us to do that. After mould costs, machining time, testing time and limited market we would need to sell them for a pretty penny - which would make the market even smaller and drive up the cost even more ... which would make the market even smaller .... and on and on.

[David Brady]

Thought as much, thanks for the reply, I understand it's a balancing act - model looks amazing

Cheers

[Robert E Morey]

I think those tracks are beautiful! Wow. Looks like the rear upper deck, floor plate and sponson bottoms are Aluminum alloy? Is this correct? Would be nice to shave a few pounds off that way.
Bob

[William Vallejo]

Some big milestones in the last week - not only do we now have the prototype castings, but we also got the prototype tyres and tracks.

Great pics. I always enjoy the progress reports. With one reserved, the anticipation is barely under control.