
It would be succeeded by the M24 Chaffee, which would improve upon its predecessor in nearly every way imaginable. The cherry on top? It ran on automobile grade gasoline. It offered a previously unheard of level of reliability and performance, and many a GI was pleased to be driving a “Cadillac.” Even the Brits loved it and gave it their own affectionate nicknam, “Honey.” In an era when many tanks did not enjoy high levels of reliability, and the potentially mortal consequences that could entail, this reliability and trust cannot be understated. The M5A1 brought with it necessary changes as well, but none as dramatic as the changes between the M3 and M5. The Army was also fond of the M5 as the main hull, tracks, suspension, and turret were derived from the M3A3, so very little changes were required on the initial assembly line at the GMC plant in Detroit. It was not only a stealthier tank, but also much roomier inside, and now easier to drive as an automatic. In came the M5 Stuart, using dual Cadillac V8 engines mated to a smooth and quiet Hydra-Matic transmission.

Seeking air superiority during World War 2, the demand for radial engines grew radically and the days of the M3 Stuart, which used such a radial engine, were numbered.

So without further ado, here are the military vehicles of the 2018 September Premiere Firearms Auction. That way when the catalog is released in early August, you’ll know everything that’s being offered in this category – not just the highlights. Since all these items are so fascinating, what I wanted to do is quickly list them all right here. While each of these items could easily fill their own blog (or video) with their specs, service history, and quick peek inside, those will come in the weeks that follow. Perhaps what most people can’t believe is that these vehicles can be owned in the private sector by regular, ordinary civilians.

We have tanks, armored fighting vehicles (AFVs), Jeeps and lots of other items with a “cool factor” high enough that anyone can appreciate – not just the military vehicle collectors. Unless you’ve been completely ignoring our social media accounts, you’re probably aware that we have some pretty fantastic military vehicles coming up for auction, beginning in the September 7 – 9 Premiere Firearms Auction.
