1/72 (Snap-Fit) Soviet 37mm Anti-Aircraft Gun 61-K with Crew

This is a plastic snap fit model kit, which comes unassembled and unpainted. So model paints and other basic modelling tools are additionally required. This "snap fit" model can be assembled without glue.

This kit includes one plastic model Soviet artillery piece with two soldier crewmen. The set includes unit flag and unit card for use with the Art of Tactic WWII game.

After studying the excellent British Bofors model anti-aircraft gun in the early 1930s, Soviet designers determined that a larger calibre gun was needed. Thus the 37mm M1939 61-K was developed, entering service in 1940 and seeing action throughout World War II. Nearly 15,000 low- and medium-altitude aircraft would ultimately be shot down by these superb AA guns, which would remain in service until the 1950s.

The 61-K could fire up to 60 rounds per minute at a muzzle velocity of 880 meters per second. It could hit aircraft at altitudes up to 6700 meters. This gun also proved effective as a direct fire field piece for use against enemy light armour, as it could penetrate 37mm of armour at a range of 500 meters. More than 20,000 of these guns were ultimately built, with both land-based and ship-based naval versions seeing action.

For transportation, the gun was mounted on a four-wheeled carriage that could be towed by truck or other vehicle. When deployed for firing, the carriage was supported by four screw jacks for firing stability.