M36B1 Tank Destroyer

[tao]

This model has been out for a while but really like this Mato version/tank destroyer. I also like the suspension/tracks and brass gearbox:)

[Max-U52]

I've been looking at these, too. I have the Mato all metal PzIII

http://www.matomart.com/prodview.php?p=1171

and it's a pretty nice little tank. I got mine before they started doing ready to run tanks but it's basically the same set up, with the TK22. I had it on the Mato 6 channel TX, the same one that comes with current RTR models, but now it's on the TGY-i6 and that's a much nicer TX. One thing that makes me curious is this - they don't currently offer an M-36 unpainted without electronics, but if I wanted one would it be the same price reduction as the PzIII? Right now if you get the PzIII without paint or electronics it's $167 less than an unpainted RTR and if you apply that to the M-36 it would be right around $480 without guts or paint. For me that sounds a whole lot better, as I'd rather have an IBU2 and I have enough spare parts to do the whole insides, like rotation units, elevation units, switches & wires & what-not. I already did the insides of my PzIII so I'm pretty familiar with wiring a Mato tank. This is the Mato PzIII



I've also noticed that the M-36 isn't available in airsoft and you never see photos of the inside of the fighting compartment. The one photo at matomart only shows the very back wall of the compartment. There's a good review on the forums, though, that does show those parts.

I have an idea, Tom. You should buy one so you can get me some photos.

[tao]

Nice Panzer! I will look into the options available too. I like this model a lot.. So yes if I get it pictures for sure!

[tomhugill]

Hi tom, here's the write up I did when I got my one:

viewtopic.php?f=1&t=19476&hilit=M36b1

[wibblywobbly]

I always wanted an M36B1, so seeing as someone gave me a Mato lower hull, and I managed to pick up an HL upper hull, I am now awaiting the Mato M36B1 turret, and metal suspension, and I will be good to go. My only concern is how much the turret weighs but it will be simple enough to beef up the HL upper hull if I need to.

There is a guy on You Tube who has made some very high quality videos of the all metal Sherman.

phpBB [video]

[tao]

I can see now is a great tank thanks to your excellent review! I am quite impressed by literally everything you pointed out! I hear the suspension is also one if not the best out there as well.

[Max-U52]

Hi tom, here's the write up I did when I got my one:

viewtopic.php?f=1&t=19476&hilit=M36b1

That's the one!

They look real good, but I still want to see what they do with the M-10, and if anyone (besides Young Fyn) comes out with a Hellcat!!

[Max-U52]

That's a pretty cool video, Wibbs, but mine has Jasmine.

phpBB [video]

I was sure you'd have seen this by now, My Friend.

[Dr Phibes]

I too got this Mato all-metal M36B1 a little while back, funny enough after I saw tomhugill's pics. Frankly I wasn't in the market for this tank, or even a Sherman at the time but being all metal and having the upgraded 90mm gun turret I just loved the look (the convertible roof!) and build - it became something of an instant object of desire for some reason (the all metal thing is big a one for me)!
I haven't done a great deal with it though because my free time is tied up at the moment on my Torro KT build. I got the unpainted RTR version with full electronics and T74 (no duckbills). I really like the Clark board and servo rcoil/elevation, and the detailing is very good I think for an all metal tank. Moreover the radio gear is actually better than I expected, although I don't really need it. However, as far as the RTR version is concerned I was not impressed with Mato's QC to be honest. Don't misunderstand the tank was fully operational straight out the box but when I did a detailed inspection a number of shortfalls became apparent. Nothing major I should add, and mostly very easily fixed (I'll tell all when I get round to this one) but considering the price tag Mato really need to up their game in the QC department.
This said, however, I did give it a few quick trips around the garden and, after a few adjustments (mainly to tracks) it runs really very well indeed - good quality gearboxes help. These dual ratio steel fully ball-raced and they come set 5:1 but you can shift the drive gear cog (simple hex screw) for 3:1 ration if you prefer.
Anyway I'll post some pics and maybe give a fuller review later.

[tao]

That would be great thank you! So far it sounds fantastic!