M8, Combat Vehicle, 1/48 scale model
M8, Combat Vehicle, 1/48 scale model
M8, Combat Vehicle, 1/48 scale model

More images posted by Tom Foti on: https://finescale.com/product-info/kit-reviews/2023/05/workbench-review-tamiya-148-scale-m8-us-howitzer-motor-carriage-plastic-model-kit

I’m checking out Tom Foti’s build of the Tamiya 1/48 scale M8 U.S. Howitzer Motor Carriage, and there’s a lot to admire here. Right off the bat, the overall finish looks super tidy, which is something I always appreciate. The paint job really stands out—nothing too flashy, just a solid representation of the original vehicle’s rugged nature. And the weathering? Just enough to hint at a history, without making the model seem worn out. It feels like it’s seen some action but is well cared for.

Speaking of history, the M8 was a handy piece of artillery in WWII, known for its mobility and firepower. Designed to support infantry and light armored units, this little beast packed a punch for its size. You can almost imagine it rolling through the frontlines, providing crucial fire support.

The tracks on this model look fantastic—weathered to show use, but not excessively so, adding a sense of realism that’s hard to achieve. The decals are crisp, aligning perfectly with the model’s paint to highlight those classic WWII insignias. I think Tom did a great job keeping everything precise, from the little tools attached to the hull to the fine detailing on the turret.

One of the impressive parts of this build is how Tom handled the gun barrel and turret. The subtle touches and care put into ensuring realistic angles and wear patterns contribute majorly to the overall authenticity of the piece. I wonder if Tom had a specific scene or battle in mind when he put this together. It’s that kind of attention to detail that keeps you looking.

To wrap it up, what really makes this model interesting is the balance between clean construction and storytelling through paint and weathering. It’s a great example of how a simple, well-executed model can bring history to life in a compact, detailed package. I’m definitely inspired to dive into my stash of WWII kits after seeing this.