Bring your M48 Patton, M551 Sheridan, or M113 ACAV models to life with this 1/35 scale 3D printed figure set. This trio of US Army tank crewmen captures the distinct look of American armor crews operating in the sweltering heat of the Vietnam War.

• Iconic "Bone Dome" Headgear: All three figures are sculpted wearing the CVC (Combat Vehicle Crewman) helmet, widely known as the "bone dome." The helmets feature detailed boom microphones and earcups, the signature look of Vietnam-era tankers.

• Armored Protection: Reflecting the high threat of shrapnel and mortar attacks, each crewman is wearing a fragmentation protective vest (likely the M69 or M1952 pattern) over their uniform.

• Commanding Poses:

• The Commander: One figure stands with hands on hips in a confident, authoritative pose, equipped with a shoulder holster carrying a sidearm.

• The Loader: A second standing figure is depicted gripping the lapels of his vest, wearing a standard hip holster.

• The Driver: The third figure is seated, elbows on knees, holding a canteen in a moment of downtime.

• Jungle Gear: The figures are outfitted with tropical jungle boots and trousers with large cargo pockets, accurate to the period.

The US Army Armor Corps in Vietnam

Despite initial assessments that Vietnam's terrain was unsuitable for tanks, American armor proved to be a decisive factor in the conflict.

• Jungle Busting: Medium tanks like the M48 Patton were used effectively to crush through dense vegetation, creating paths for infantry and destroying enemy bunkers with canister shot and high-explosive rounds.

• Route Security: Armored Cavalry Regiments (ACR) played a vital role in keeping supply routes open, using M113 ACAVs and M551 Sheridans to escort convoys through dangerous ambush zones ("Thunder Runs").

• Firebases: Tanks often served as mobile artillery at fire support bases, providing direct heavy fire support to defend perimeters against night attacks.

The Tank Crew and Their Gear

The Vietnam tanker's loadout was a balance between protection and surviving the stifling tropical heat inside a steel hull.

• CVC Helmet: The T56-6 was designed to protect the head from the violent movement of the tank while allowing for clear communication via the intercom system, essential for coordinating fire and movement.

• Flak Vests: While hot and heavy, flak vests were commonly worn by crews (especially commanders exposed in the cupola) to protect against shrapnel from RPGs, mortars, and mines.

• Personal Weapons: Due to the cramped interior of tanks, crewmen relied on pistols like the M1911A1 .45 caliber (seen in the shoulder and hip holsters on these figures) and compact submachine guns like the M3 "Grease Gun" for personal defense if they had to bail out.

• Uniform Variations: Crews often mixed standard jungle fatigues with mechanic's coveralls or, in the intense heat, stripped down to T-shirts under their vests.