If Asuka would only make their texture a little rougher, always include periscope guards, adopt Dragon's rotating periscope mounts and use casting numbers it would be the (IMHO) ultimate Sherman line. The more recent Dragons are vastly improved over their early ones but it appears that Dragon has stopped developing them.

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If Asuka would only make their texture a little rougher, always include periscope guards, adopt Dragon's rotating periscope mounts and use casting numbers it would be the (IMHO) ultimate Sherman line. The more recent Dragons are vastly improved over their early ones but it appears that Dragon has stopped developing them. [/quote]

I agree.

Given that the molds are already made it is doubtful Asuka will make any changes to the texture. Casting numbers would be a wonderful addition. I am hoping one of the 3D or resin guys does some glue ons.

I might be wrong (I'm at work) but the Asuka late war Shermans do have photo etch periscope guards. It was in with the decals as I recall.

Early war Shermans, North Africa, Sicily and Italy did not have periscope guards. Many US M4's were re-fitted for Normandy and had the guards added. Many early British and Common Wealth M4's never had the guards fitted.

I really wish Asuka would start putting their new plastic guards in their models. They may be a little thick, but for old tired eyes and hands are much easier to work with than etch or resin parts.