I am currently building the Dragon M4A3 76 W VVSS BOB Sherman and would like to know if I should be putting in a canvas / rubber shroud between the gun mantlet and the turret. I am unable to find any pics of this particular model that show the detail I need.

If I do need to add one, tips on the best way to achieve would be appreciated. I was thinking tissue and white glue.

Regards Alex H

Don't believe any were used on Shermans. If they had been, the tissue and diluted glue method is the best to replicate it.

You're referring to the canvas mantlet cover. I've only seen one photo of one installed in a WW2 combat Sherman. Don't know why they were so rare but they don't show up in photographs. You see some with the fittings but the cover isn't fitted. These tend to be late war T23 turrets, as well.

I've never even seen the fittings to a BOB era 76mm Sherman.

Alex,

I'm building mine without a cover, as I have never seen a pic of one installed on WWII vehicles.

Also, I noticed your mantlet is installed upside down.

Hey Alex
I agree with all. Don't go with a canvas foul weather cover for WWII. (As spotted by Taylornic the mantlet is upsidedown, the 'loops' being lift rings for removal of the turret. They logically are at the topside for balance during removal.)
Think there are pics in the Sherman 'walkaround' M4 book that shows a late T23 turret with the attachment points for the cover in good detail
Cheers
Brad

Guys,
Thank you for you info re the shroud and for spotting the deliberate error with regards to the mantlet being upside down.
At the moment the gun is not glued in place and I only shoved it on for the pic so you could see what I was talking about. I can assure you all that when I get around to actually gluing the gun mantlet in place it will be the right way up.

Thanks again
Alex H

PS I won't bother with a shroud.