To make the Crab Flail I need an M4A4 am i wright in thinking this or where other types used.Ihave the Legends Flail conversion set and want to make a british version based on a photo from the concord book the sherman at war. Would I be correct to say that a firefly Vc chassis and hull with a diferent turret and gun would work for this or is there an OOB kit I could use would be greatfull for any advice on this.

The Firefly VC used the Sherman V (M4A4) hull with a few differences. On the Firefly the hull machine gun position was eliminated and plated over (it was used for Ammo storage), and depending on the model it may or may not have applique armor.

John

Hi Keith.

I have the Osprey book on the Flail and assuming you're thinking NWE an M4A4 would be correct. The Dragon or Taska Firefly would be you're best bet as a donor kit.

I haven't yet read the booklet in great depth but there is evidence of M4 Sherman Mk I's being used in the trials but these were unuder-powered for the job.

You'd need a 75mm turret and the gun mantle was sealed with an odd periscope on the RHS. Also extended periscope guards, a bit like on the Cromwell only longer, were used to protect the periscopes from dust, mud etc.

I don't know what all comes with the conversion set but worth doing a bit of research on things like the station keeping devices and so on.

Hope this helps a bit. I'll add some pics I have from Bovington.

Al

Pics from Bovington Tank Museum:













































I have plans for one of these myself along with a Sherman ARV Mk I, I haven't gotten round to the conversin set yet. A smoke discharger on the RHS woudl be OK too.

Have fun

Al

Brilliant just the info i was looking for and with added detail, photos are an added bonus Cheers Alan and John for your replys.The convertion kit contains two periscopes extentions will be sourceing some more ref material asap.Just so happens i have the drogon Vc in my to do pile will start on the hull soon just need to get the 75mm turret and gun again many thanks.