M5 Half-Track
Recreate a versatile American armoured personnel carrier with this detailed M5 Half-Track model. Built during the Second World War by International Harvester, the M5 combined the mobility of front wheels with the traction of a tracked rear suspension, allowing troops and equipment to travel across difficult terrain.
Historical Role
The M5 served primarily as an armoured troop carrier, transporting infantry while providing protection from small-arms fire and shell fragments. Produced to supplement existing American half-track production, it was supplied extensively to Allied forces through Lend-Lease. M5s supported infantry formations, moved supplies and personnel, and could provide defensive fire from their mounted machine guns.
Distinctive Appearance
The vehicle’s open-topped troop compartment, prominent front radiator armour, truck-like bonnet and combined wheel-and-track running gear create its unmistakable silhouette. Flat front mudguards, robust side armour and rounded rear hull corners help distinguish the M5 from closely related American half-tracks. Stowage and exposed crew areas also offer excellent opportunities for additional modelling detail.
Variant Differences
The M5 was developed as an International Harvester-built counterpart to the better-known M3 Half-Track. It used a different engine, transmission and axle arrangement, together with rolled homogeneous armour rather than the face-hardened armour used on the M3. Its general armament concept remained similar, but rounded rear armour corners and other hull details provide the clearest visual differences. The variant existed to expand production capacity and support Allied demand.
Modelling Uses
Ideal for Second World War dioramas, model railways, wargaming displays and collectors, the M5 can represent troop transport columns, supply routes, training scenes or Allied operations in several theatres. Its open rear compartment is particularly suited to crew figures, cargo, weapons and battlefield stowage.
Fun Fact
Although the M5 closely resembled the M3, many of its mechanical components were different, making it a distinct production design rather than simply another factory-built M3.
Available Scales
Available in 1:87, 1:76, 1:72, 1:48 and 1:35 scales.
Finish Options
Choose from Cleaned Resin Grey, Grey Primed - Ready for Painting, or Historical Base Colour.
Very small details may vary slightly depending on the scale selected.
