1/35 British Valentine 25pdr SP ‘Bishop’ – Bronco Model CB35077
SKU:
Bronco Model CB35077
Build the unique British Valentine‑based Bishop self‑propelled gun with Bronco’s detailed 1/35 kit. Features crisp molding, full fighting‑compartment detail, and rich North Africa history.
Old price:
$59.99
$50.00
The Bronco Models 1/35 British Valentine 25pdr Self‑Propelled Gun ‘Bishop’ (CB35077) recreates one of the most distinctive and historically important British artillery vehicles of WWII. Developed in 1941, the Bishop was an expedient solution to the British Army’s urgent need for mobile artillery in the North African desert. Built on the reliable Valentine infantry tank chassis, the Bishop mounted the proven 25‑pounder field gun inside a tall, box‑shaped armored superstructure.
🔹 Historical Background
The Bishop was created as a stopgap measure after British forces observed the effectiveness of German self‑propelled guns like the Wespe and Hummel. The goal was simple: give the 25‑pounder mobility and protection so it could keep pace with armored formations.
Key historical points:
Entered service in 1942, first seeing action at the Second Battle of El Alamein.
The tall, fixed superstructure limited gun elevation, reducing maximum range—forcing crews to improvise by digging pits or parking on embankments to achieve higher angles.
Despite limitations, the Bishop provided valuable mobile fire support during the North African campaign and later in Sicily and Italy.
It was eventually replaced by the American‑built M7 Priest and the British Sexton, both offering superior range and mobility.
Only around 100 Bishops were produced, making it a rare and fascinating subject for modelers.
The Bishop’s unusual silhouette, improvised design, and important battlefield role make it a standout vehicle in the evolution of Allied self‑propelled artillery.
Kit Highlights
Bronco’s kit captures the Bishop’s unique engineering and battlefield character with exceptional detail:
Highly detailed Valentine chassis with accurate suspension and hull features
Fully rendered fighting compartment with gun controls, breech detail, and interior fittings
Detailed 25‑pounder gun assembly with elevation and traverse mechanisms
Optional open/closed hatches and rear doors
Ammunition racks, shells, and stowage items included
Link‑and‑length tracks for realistic sag and easier assembly
Photo‑etched parts for fine detail and scale accuracy
Decals for multiple North Africa and Mediterranean vehicles
This kit is ideal for modelers who enjoy British armor, desert warfare subjects, and historically significant self‑propelled artillery. The Bishop’s distinctive shape and rich operational history make it a compelling centerpiece for any WWII collection or diorama.
Available now at AFV Hobby Hub with fast shipping and secure checkout.
