Hobby Boss 1/48 Soviet T-34/76 Model 1942 Factory No 112 # 84806

The T-34 in its Model 1942 (Factory No. 112) configuration represents one of the most important and widely produced versions of this iconic World War II tank.

Built at Krasnoye Sormovo Factory No. 112 in Gorky, this variant reflects both wartime necessity and evolving battlefield requirements.

Design and Production

By 1942, the T-34 was already proving itself against German forces, but production had to be simplified and accelerated to meet urgent demand.

Factory No. 112 became one of the key production centres, turning out large numbers of tanks under intense wartime pressure.

Typical features of Factory 112 vehicles included:

- A distinctive cast “hexagonal” turret (often called the “nut” turret)
- Rougher casting and weld finishes, reflecting rapid manufacturing
- Simplified construction techniques to increase output

Despite these rougher finishes, performance remained highly effective.

Battlefield Characteristics

The T-34/76 Model 1942 combined several revolutionary features:

- Sloped armour, improving protection without excessive weight
- A 76.2mm main gun, capable against most contemporary tanks
- Wide tracks for excellent mobility in mud and snow

These qualities made it especially effective on the Eastern Front.

Role in Combat

Tanks from Factory No. 112 played a key role in major engagements, including:

- Defensive and counteroffensive operations during critical phases of the war
- Large-scale armoured battles such as those around Stalingrad

They were used for:

- Breakthrough and exploitation
- Infantry support
- Anti-armour combat

Legacy

The T-34/76 Model 1942 exemplifies the Soviet approach to warfare—mass production, rugged design, and battlefield effectiveness over refinement.

Vehicles from Factory No. 112, with their distinctive appearance, are particularly valued by historians and modellers for their character and historical significance.

This variant stands as a testament to industrial resilience and remains one of the most recognisable tanks of the Second World War.