top of page
Tamiya 1/35 U.S. Medium Tank M26 Pershing (kit no. 35254 / MM254)

Tamiya 1/35 U.S. Medium Tank M26 Pershing (kit no. 35254 / MM254)

$64.95Price
Excluding Sales Tax |
Quantity

Tamiya 1/35 U.S. Medium Tank M26 Pershing


The U.S. Medium Tank M26 Pershing entered combat near the end of World War II as America’s answer to heavier German armor. Armed with the powerful 90mm gun and featuring improved armor protection over the Sherman, the Pershing successfully engaged Tiger I and Panzer IV tanks during the final months of the war. The vehicle later served extensively during the Korean War.

Tamiya released the M26 Pershing in 2002, and the kit quickly became one of the company’s best-regarded U.S. armor releases because of:

  • Excellent fit

  • Workable suspension

  • Clean molding

  • Easy assembly

  • Strong overall accuracy

  • Excellent late-war detailing

  • Smooth beginner-friendly engineering

Builder & Reviewer Feedback

Modelers consistently praise:

  • Outstanding fit

  • Excellent suspension engineering

  • Smooth assembly process

  • Crisp detail

  • Excellent turret appearance

  • Good crew figures

  • Strong weathering opportunities

FineScale Modeler forum builders described the kit as:

“No construction issues” during assembly.

The same discussion praised:

  • The stock gun barrel

  • Suspension flexibility

  • Overall engineering quality

Modeling Madness highlighted:

  • “Easy buildup”

  • Nice accessories

  • Plenty of options

Missing Lynx specifically praised:

  • The innovative workable suspension

  • Sprung suspension components

  • Clever engineering solutions

Builders frequently mention:

  • Excellent Korean War weathering possibilities

  • Great compatibility with infantry figures

  • Strong urban combat diorama potential

  • Excellent balance of detail and simplicity

  • Outstanding base for aftermarket upgrades

Modelers also note:

  • Vinyl tracks are older Tamiya flexible style

  • Some advanced builders replace tracks with individual links

  • Engine deck detail is somewhat simplified

  • Open hatches invite extra interior detailing

Despite newer Pershing kits from other manufacturers, many armor builders still strongly recommend the Tamiya Pershing because:

  • The engineering remains excellent

  • The fit is exceptionally clean

  • The suspension is enjoyable to build

  • The kit is extremely reliable and beginner-friendly

Recommended Skill Level

Beginner to Intermediate


Features

  • 1/35 scale U.S. Medium Tank M26 Pershing

  • Detailed 90mm main gun

  • Workable suspension system

  • Detailed lower hull and suspension

  • Rotating turret

  • Positionable crew hatches

  • Two crew figures included

  • WWII and Korean War marking options

  • Classic Tamiya engineering

Recommended Accessories

A perfect companion heavy Pershing variant is:

Tamiya 1/35 T26E4 Super Pershing 

Up-gunned Pershing variant featuring additional armor and the long 90mm T15E1 gun for dramatic late-war heavy tank displays.

A strong recovery vehicle companion is:

Tamiya 1/35 M26 Armored Tank Recovery Vehicle ·

Large armored recovery vehicle ideal for Pershing towing and maintenance dioramas.

Paint Suggestions

  • Olive Drab

  • Korean War dust weathering

  • Winter mud effects

  • Heavy track wear

  • Gun soot weathering

  • Matte operational finish recommended

Builders frequently recommend:

  • Mud accumulation around suspension

  • Chipped hatch edges

  • Dust buildup on lower hull

  • Fuel staining

  • Worn metallic tracks

  • Exhaust rust weathering

Store Recommendation

The Tamiya M26 Pershing remains one of the best all-around U.S. WWII armor kits in 1/35 scale thanks to its excellent fit, reliable engineering, and enjoyable build experience. It is especially attractive for modelers wanting a stress-free armor project with excellent display presence.

    bottom of page