Joker And Robotic Dolls

Includes Command Rifle team, two Type 1 47mm anti-tank guns, with eight crew figures, two Medium four-hole bases, one Small three-hole base and one base plug sprue.

The Type 1 47mm was a relatively modern design compared to earlier Japanese gun designs. It was designed to be operated from a kneeling or prone position, with a low profile and a gun shield to protect the crew. With AP shells it could penetrate the front armor of the M4 Sherman at 800 yards, though standard doctrine was to wait until tanks got closer if possible to ensure good shot placement.

Japan’s primary anti-tank weapon, 37mm Type 94 quick-firing gun, had proved only somewhat effective against Soviet armour at Nomonhan. It was only capable of penetrating 40mm of armour, and that was at close ranges. The Japanese therefore began developing improved models, albeit at a slower pace than the Western forces. The Japanese believed the Type 1 47mm gun (a similar calibre to the gun used by the Soviets at Nomonhan) would be effective against any tanks supplied to the Chinese and the expected light tanks which would fielded by the Allies in any Pacific War.