USMC M3A1 37mm Anti-Tank Gun

The M3 37mm gun was the first dedicated anti-tank gun used by US forces. It was introduced in 1940 and became the standard gun as its size allowed it to be towed by a jeep. However, continuous improvement in German tanks rapidly made the 37mm gun ineffective and in 1943, in Europe and the Mediterranean, it was gradually replaced by the more powerful British-designed 57mm M1 gun.

In the Pacific, where Japanese tanks were less threatening, the M3 continued in service until the end of the war. Like many other light anti-tank guns the M3 was also used extensively for infantry support and anti-personnel work, firing high-explosive and canister rounds.

The M3 first saw combat during the defence of the Philippines in December 1941. After this it was deployed in the Guadalcanal Campaign, where it was successful against both Japanese tanks and infantry.

Throughout the war it remained effective against Japanese vehicles, which were lightly armoured and rarely employed in large groups. The gun's light weight made it easy to move in difficult terrain; however, against enemy fortifications the M3 was only marginally effective due to its small high-explosive round.

Because of its general effectiveness and ease of handling the gun remained in service with the Marine Corps and some Army units in the Pacific until the end of the war.

Pack contains 1 metal gun and 3 metal crew figures.