USMC M3A1 37mm Anti-Tank Gun from Warlord Games

The 37 mm M3 gun was the first dedicated anti-tank gun used by the American armed forces. Introduced in 1940, it became the standard-issue weapon because its size allowed it to be towed by a jeep. However, the continuous improvement of German tanks quickly rendered the 37 mm gun ineffective, and by 1943 it was gradually replaced in Europe and the Mediterranean by the more powerful 57 mm M1 gun developed by the British.

In the Pacific, where Japanese tanks posed less of a threat, the M3 remained in service until the end of the war. Like many other light anti-tank guns, the M3 was used extensively in infantry support and for engaging personnel, firing high-explosive rounds and canisters.

The M3 was first used in the defense of the Philippines in December 1941. It was subsequently deployed in the Guadalcanal campaign, where it proved successful against both Japanese tanks and infantry.

Throughout the war, it remained effective against Japanese vehicles, which were only lightly armored and rarely deployed in large groups. The gun's light weight facilitated movement across difficult terrain, but its small, high-explosive projectile made the M3 only partially effective against enemy fortifications.

Due to its general effectiveness and ease of use, the gun remained in service with the Marine Corps and some army units in the Pacific until the end of the war.

The package contains 1 metal cannon and 3 metal crew figures.