I’m considering buying this kit. After all, you can never have too many Shermans sitting on your shelves. I know its not a new Dragon offering, so I’m expecting something less than perfection. Any opinions on the kit, good or bad, would be most welcome. Thansk a bunch for the feedback.
It’s not a Tamiya kit in terms of ease of assembly, but it’s got great detail and it’s definitely buildable, unlike the MP M-51 from years back. It’s also easier than a conversion kit.
As to accuracy of details, I can’t comment, but I built one awhile ago it certainly looks like an M51. I didn’t have any troubles building it, but I think the tracks drove me nuts. IIRC, it was the early issue type that required you glue each of the guide horns to the link and the connecting plates too. I may be wrong, it might be another one of their Shermans.
Jeff
If you aren’t happy with some of the details, Accurate Armour sells an improvement set for this kit. The set does come with a better muzzle break than what is the DML model. HTH
The problem with any kit from Academy, Dragon and whatever is that in the IDF there has always been an issue with inaccuracies when it comes to kits. The first thing is names. now I’m not too picky when it comes to names, but Isherman wasn’t used in the IDF as much as the word Shmira wasn’t used for their Jeeps. I promise to get back to you in regards to the build up of this tank. I have seen a few reviews of the Dragon M-51 Sherm. There are many conversion sets and resin update sets to make these vehicles “correct”, however if you aren’t concerned about the big intricatte problems of the kits then by all means buy one and build it up! The problems are mainly size issues and scale issues. I have alot of referencs to aid you as I have dedicated myself solely to the IDF and their vehicles. If you need anything please don’t hesitate to ask. I would recommend getting the kit as it will look like an M-51 and will build up just fine, however, I would recommend Academy’s kit aswell.
Thanks guys. As far as accuracy goes, as long as it looks like an M-51, I’m happy. I can always take a look at the aftermarket stuff when the time comes.
Quite right! The first I heard of that name, was when I saw it on a kit last year! Shmira means (not quite literal) guarding or guard duty. I guess they meant a patrol Jeep, but even then, not the right word (see, that’s what happens when you translate from Hebrew to English via Korean! 
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you are very right with the translations. I am currently leaning Hebrew, so hopefully it’ll help me with a more better understanding of IDF terminology! Looks like you got your answer in other forums mate… that link was exactly what I was going to give you! Mhaust is one of the better refrences for IDF vehicles. Have a go at it, and post alot of pictures
You need to know the vintage of the M-51 you are building. The exhaust and some other engine deck details changed after the 1967 war.
Also, check your pictures for exterior stowage, I have seen changes.
The crews wore US style uniforms from the Vietnam era with WWII type helmets in 1967 - the “bone dome” style in 1973. Some crews in 1973 had the Nomex jumpsuits but remeber in 1973 the Shermans were pulled from war reserves and manned by reserve crews.
Saransk