I have a modelling dilema. I would like to build one of the new Academy releases, either the M3 or M3A1. The problem is that I would like to build a kit with an accurate interior (I have heard the M3 "Honey" interior is inaccurate) and I would like to use the paint scheme for the M3 "Honey". That means that I must either find a way to correct the M3 interior or use the M3 paint scheme on the M3A1. My questions are, can the M3 "Honey interior be corrected or can the blue and yellow paint scheme be used on the M3A1 without making it innacurate?

Thanks,
Andrew

The only things that are wrong with the interior, that I know of (Ido not yet have this kit) is the turret basket does not belong in an M3. It was in the later M3A1s. Additionally, the kit is missing the final drive transmission at the front of the vehicle.
As ar as I know, the paint scheme was only used on the M3s of the British 8th Army, not on any M3A1s.

For more info you can go here: Academy M3 Stuart "Honey" By Lance Whitford

I've seen the new M3A1s at the hobby shops. Looks like the same kit, different decals and turret. Might be a few other differences. I believe the interior is now correct for the M3A1. A way to "fix" the Honey problem is to build the kit buttoned up. That way no one will know the interior is "wrong".

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Hehehe...works for me.

Here's a review on the new M3A1 by Terry Ashley over at PMMS: M3A1Stuart

I read somewhere that to fix the turret basket issues, find a few photos of the interior of an M3, and work on figuring out how the seats mounted. *shrug* I am building the M3A1, and enjoying it, since it's quite an interesting model. And, I have the Honey, although I will probably try and find a way to "correct" it, at least so the two can sit side by side and show some internal differences.

The images I have seen of the A1 kits decal sheet include a 50 star flag which was not used until 1960. Builders should note this and make efforts to replace this unless Academy has corrected the decal sheet in later production releases.