I'm sure they are using the turret from their previous M36 kit. Academy already had the M4A3 upper hull from the M4A3 HVSS (105) release. Add a non HVSS lower tub and they're complete. There's really no need to re-tool anything frankly. Another Academy M10 GMC re-pop isn't much to anticipate either, IMHO. Yes, I know I'm spoiled by the Asuka/Tasca kits I fiddle with -- but life is too short and modelling time is too precious for me to settle on Academy half-hearted efforts when so many other kits are calling me.

that's what I was afraid of,maybe I hoped that in light of Asuka's drive to up the ante on injection moulded Shermans that other manufacturers would follow suit and raise the level of their own efforts but this may not (sadly) be the case.... Is there a faint glimmer of hope following the JGSDF M32 announcement that Asuka are still in the game for M4 based vehicles?All they would need for their own M36B1 would be a new tool turret(?) hohum

Frankly, as it's the only modern plastic game in town currently, I may get this at some point. Along with their regular Slugger. Really what I hope Asuka will do is maybe come out with a Hellcat... I feel like we could use a spot-on Asuka quality M18... Yeah, I know, no chance... The research involved and new tools need to be cast... But it'd be great if it came about. Or even if Bronco could pick up the idea... I know,

I agree Mike. I think it'll be a matter of time before new molds of M10, M36, M18 GMCs; M3 and M551 Light Tanks; M47, M46 and M3 mediums -- get issued. I even believe M5 and M9 halftracks will make it to market one day. I know that companies like DML, Bronco and AFV Club are cutting dies for some pretty interesting subjects. I can't help but think that once some of the newer subjects get done, that those "classic" American WW2 and postwar AFVs will make it to market. Like I said above, given my near glacial pace of model building these days, I can't complain too much about what is or isn't getting issued. I've got super nice kits on the shelf, just waiting for the knife and model cement and paint -- even if none of those wanted kits ever hits the hobbystores!

I'm a fan of Academy kits ! I am definitely getting this!

The M3 Lee definitely needs a new tool pop. Something from Bronco or AFV Club or even an Academy new tool is needed. Frankly I hope that Dragon doesn't decide to do these as we now all know what might come out.

I disagree with you about this, Mikey. To me, it's clear that DML has different design teams. The ones that have worked on the recent Sherman-family AFVs such as the M7 Priest and the Sexton -- are FANTASTIC kits. If an M3 Lee were to come out, it would be this team that issues it -- not the one that did the M103A1. Don't over generalize a few recent clunkers from DML amidst a sea of great kits. If DML issues an M3 -- I'm pretty sure it'd be hard to beat in terms of accuracy.

Well, you're right. I was seeing a stream when I should've been seeing an ocean. Although I would prefer somebody else produce a Lee, unless they've already done a Sherman-based kit, it might be more expensive due to research and tooling as it would be for Dragon as they have the molds they need.

I'm still waiting for DML to release an M10. Looks like without Tasca it'll be a no contest.