Introductory and Historical Background

ICM’s Notes

DShKM with support/tripod

In 1946, the Soviet Army adopted the DShKM heavy machine gun—a modernized version of the previous DShK model. This powerful weapon had broad applications, serving both infantry units and as a mounted weapon on various equipment types. With a muzzle energy of 19.2 kJ and high rate of fire, combined with exceptional reliability, it stands as one of the finest weapons in its class. The DShKM proves highly effective against lightly armored vehicles: its B-32 armor-piercing incendiary ammunition can penetrate 20mm-thick armor at distances up to 500m. The weapon accommodates multiple ammunition types including armor-piercing, incendiary, armor-piercing incendiary, tandem, and explosive rounds. Originally designed for anti-aircraft defense, the DShKM saw extensive use throughout the 20th century and remains in service with various armed forces today. In the Armed Forces of Ukraine, it serves as a heavy infantry weapon, mounted either on special mounts or various pedestals. Additionally, fire groups employ the DShKM in counter-drone operations.

Recommended reading on the DShKM weapons:

• Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DShK
• US Air Force Museum: https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/196038/dshk-193846-heavy-machine-gun/
• YouTube Review: ICM 1/35 DShKM with Support (35747) Review https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyQdv1omoWY

Construction Notes for the DShKM

To give you some idea, here’s what ICM provides in this kit:

• Kit contains only plastic sprues. [meaning there are no PE or masks]
• This kit doesn't contain any decals
• Only a very simple four-page instruction sheet (with six or seven assembly steps, depending on the version chosen)

This is about as simple a modeling experience as you will ever encounter (in my opinion). As you open this small box, with a four-page instruction sheet. You’re then greeted with two identical grey sprue trees, each with nineteen kit parts. The two trees contain tripod and pedestal bases. Steps 01 through 04 are identical, with the next two to three illustrating the two different bases. This entire kit looks and fits together very nicely without any surprises.

I was a bit disappointed not to find either the steel wheels, protective shield, or the aerial gun sights; each of these items or attachments is shown in many period photos from WW II, Vietnam, or the Ukrainian wars. There is no indication that these items were to be included, but it would have permitted an extensive number of diorama possibilities had they been included.

There are afew assembly steps after adding the eight pieces comprising the guns themselves and painting these with the four paint colors called out on the first page of the instruction sheet. The remaining two or three assembly steps are to assemble the triangular or pedestal bases. The three-leg base is the trickiest one, as the positioning of the three legs (i.e., their height and spread distance is up to your choice) whereas the pedestal base is predetermined. This really is a simple build and can be completed in an hour or two.

Painting Notes

The paints I used include: (and used the box art as a visual clue about the paints to be used)

• Mr. Surfacer 500 Surface preparation (optional)
• Mission Models MMS-001 Black Primer
• MMP-021 US Army Olive Drab Faded 2
• MMP-032 Russian Modern Green
• Life Color LC 02 Matt Black
• VMS Varnish Matt (acrylic top coat)
• (also used several AK Real Colors Markers for both touch-up and to pick out small knobs.)

Followed by an overcoat sprayed coat of Alclad II Lacquer’s Aqua Gloss Clear (#ALC 600). This is my personal favorite, which produces a great, clear finish (though in the bottle it appears cloudy, not to worry).

I completed my dry brushing, using my old standby Winsor & Newton’s Artist Oil color, Naples Yellow Light, No. 426.

As there are no decals, that step is not required.

And I sprayed my overall final finish using VMS Varnish top coat MATT, which produces a very flat overall finish. I recognize this product may be new to many modelers; however, I believe its small dispenser tip and acrylic easy to clear up aspects deserve your attention.

Conclusion

I loved this small, inexpensive kit with two guns, which can provide you with several benefits. It’s well designed, quick and easy to build, and can provide both the novice and experienced builders a rewarding experience -I highly recommend this kit. I would like to thank ICM for this neat kit and the opportunity to review it,