The M4A2 was the lend-lease version of the Sherman. The kit has link-and-length tracks, three-bar cleats, poseable hatches, clear periscope lenses, Russian food cans, and an M2 machine gun. Markings for two Russian and two U.S. versions are included.

Starting with the turret, modelers can choose between two different muzzles: early or late. Assembly for the coaxial machine-gun mount was easy enough. The periscopes subassemblies can be positioned 360 degrees. I painted and assembled all the periscopes and set them aside along with the M2. After painting the turret, the placed the decals, which stuck well with Micro Sol. After a flat coat, I added the periscopes and machine gun. The detail inside the hatches will work well for those who want to leave them open.

Many parts comprise the lower hull. The bottom went together without issues, but the notches on the panniers (parts B25 and B26) did not line up with the bottom of the firewall (Part B27). I cut off the locators and relied on the forward alignment points. The suspension pieces went together quite nicely, but I had to use the extra track (Part E2) to complete the run.

The hull top has the usual gas caps, hooks, lights, and tools, all added separately. Engine hatches can be positioned open or closed, and the instructions show how builders can install an aftermarket engine if desired. The driver and radio operator hatches can be modeled open or closed, too.

Overall, I painted with Tamiya olive (XF-62) and finished the tracks with Tamiya earth (XF-52) and silver on the bars. The markings are for the 1st Mechanized Corps. For those who want to build the Marine “Caesar” option will need T49 steel-chevon links; references I found show those instead of three-bar cleats. 

I took 20 hours to build and paint my Zvezda Sherman M4A2. With the easy assembly and good detail, I’ll be looking for Zvezda’s next Sherman release.