37mm 61-K – Soviet Anti-Aircraft Cannon

About the 37mm 61-K – Soviet Anti-Aircraft Cannon:

The M1939 61-K was a Soviet 37mm towed antiaircraft (AA) gun. Based off the design of the smaller Swedish 25mm model 1933 Bofors cannon, the 61-K became the standard use “small” caliber AA gun of the Soviet Army. The gun proved effective against low-flying aircraft of the Axis powers. However, like many antiaircraft guns of World War Two, the barrels were turned down to also fend off both infantry and vehicles. Its long-range capability proved very effective in this role. To maximize efficiency, the 61-K utilized a crew of seven or eight to direct, aim, fire, and reload. The gun was fed with five-round clips, with 200 kept at the ready. In total, this 37mm gun fired at a rate of 60 rounds per minute. For easy transportation the gun was fitted on a ZU-7 four-wheeled carriage. Other variations of the 61-K were attached to SU-76 hulls to create mobile air defense platforms.

Like many guns of the Soviet Union, the M1939 went on to serve Communist Bloc nations during the Cold War. Once used to fend off Nazis, the 61-K was then used to suppress the ideals of the West. Today, many of these guns can be seen in museums around the world.

Specifications:

Crew: 8
Caliber: 37mm (1.5in)
Effective firing range (effective ceiling): 4 km (13,000 ft)
Maximum firing range (maximum ceiling): 5 km (16,000 ft)

Additional information about this Brickmania® custom building kit:

This intricate build features a pair of custom minifigs and a variety of play features including an elevating gun, rotating gun mount, a pair of crewman seats, and deployable carriage with twin outriggers for stable firing as well as transport.

Model Statistics:

Designed by Katya Hodgson
78 elements
2x custom minifigs
Full-color printed building instructions
1/35th scale to match other Brickmania kits
Sophomore Skill Level (2-4 years building experience recommended)