Sherman tank
The Sherman tank or M4 Sherman was an American-built tank used extensively by the Allies during World War II.
It was easy to mass produce, allowing large numbers to be fielded. It was also highly mobile.
Compared to late-war German tanks, the Sherman had weak armor and less firepower. It was rumored to be more vulnerable to combustion.
In its favor, good fuel economy and reliability often made it more available than German tanks. The mass-produced Shermans were highly customizable, and many specialized variants were produced.
In concert with infantry, artillery, and air support, the Sherman helped give the Allies a decisive advantage over the Germans. It was used on almost every front including North Africa, Italy, Western Europe, and Eastern Europe.
Late in the war, improved M93 HVAP armor-penetrating ammunition became available, putting even the regular M4 Sherman on par with the Panther in terms of anti-tank firepower. This contributing to their surprising victory at the Battle of Arracourt
It was named after Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman.
Large numbers were given to the Soviet Union for use on the Eastern Front.
Variants[edit | edit source]
- Firefly - British 17 lb. high velocity gun. It was a useful anti-tank gun but slower to reload and aim. The breech was very large and made for crowded and uncomfortable conditions in the turret.
- Rhino / Prongs (British) - fitted with steel teeth in front to punch through hedgerows instead of going through them. aka Culin hedge cutter.
- Easy Eight. 76 mm upgraded gun, easy to use and better against tanks than the previous 75 mm gun. Upgraded suspension with wider tracks. Upgraded armor. Most advanced Sherman of WWII, appearing late in the war. Not quite as good anti-tank function as the Firefly, but much better at infantry support and other roles.