Difference between revisions of "M10 GMC"

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| about = American tank destroyer '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = American tank destroyer '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
|other
 
|other
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|usage-1 = other uses
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|usage-1 = other versions
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|link-1 = M10 (Disambiguation)
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|link-1 = M10 (Family)
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|usage-2 = other vehicles of the family
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|usage-2 = other uses
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|link-2 = M10 (Family)
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|link-2 = M10 (Disambiguation)
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (or the '''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''', unofficially the ''Wolverine'') is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American tank destroyer {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.49 "Weapons of Victory"]].
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The Fall of France led the United States to frantically find ways to counter the new threat profile of the German panzer divisions. This led to the formation of the Tank Destroyer Branch whose main purpose was to blunt any German armoured exploitation attempts with a mobile tank destroyer force to eliminate the enemy tanks. The rapid creation led to placeholder vehicles like the 37 mm GMC M6 and [[M3 GMC|75 mm GMC M3]] to be put in service, but these were not ideal as the Tank Destroyer Branch sought a vehicle that could reach ideal positions faster than regular tanks. While such a [[M18 GMC|tank destroyer]] was in development, the urgency for a vehicle led to a conversion of a [[M4A2]] hull with a larger, open-topped turret carrying a high-velocity 3-inch gun into battle. This weapon system would be adopted as the '''{{Specs|name}}''' and would see service for all of World War II after its introduction in the Tunisian campaign. The M10 would also be famously known as the ''Wolverine'' in modern pop culture, though this is likely a post-war invention and not a term used during World War II.
  
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The M10 GMC (Gun Motor Carriage) takes much from the [[M4A2|M4A2 Sherman]] which it was derived from. The drivetrain is identical with the drive shaft running from the engine in the rear to the front transmission and sprockets. The hull is sloped to a larger degree. The [[M7 (76 mm)|3-inch (76 mm) cannon]] originally mounted on the experimental M6 Heavy Tank lacks the muzzle brake of the 76 mm M1A2 gun used on the later Rank III Sherman's and the M18 Hellcat. The turret is a pentagonal shaped M5 Mount type.
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Introduced in [[Update 1.49 "Weapons of Victory"]], the '''M10 GMC''' takes much from the [[M4A2]] Sherman which it was derived from. The drivetrain is identical with the drive shaft running from the engine in the rear to the front transmission and sprockets. The hull is sloped to a larger degree. The [[M7 (76 mm)|3-inch (76 mm) cannon]], originally mounted on the experimental M6 Heavy Tank, lacks the muzzle brake of the 76 mm M1A2 gun used on the later Rank III Shermans and the M18 Hellcat. The turret is a pentagonal shaped M5 Mount type. It has a powerful 76 mm gun; however it is held back due to the sluggish turret traverse speed. This severely limits the ability to quickly react and engage opponents when fired upon, a problem that can prove costly in high intensity matches. However, should any enemy come into the crosshair of the 3-inch gun, the M10 is very likely to put a penetrating hole in the enemy's armour.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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* Hull rear sides are protected by attached grousers that give 20 mm of extra armour.
 
* Hull rear sides are protected by attached grousers that give 20 mm of extra armour.
  
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The armour of the M10 is quite decent for the rank and can make shells ricochet when angled properly, but nonetheless, the armour is not thick enough to resist the stronger tank weapons of Rank II. The thickest part of the front hull is the 51 mm lower plate and the upper plate is 38 mm, though both are sloping at 55 degrees from vertical. The sides and back are only 19 mm slightly angled and thus can be penetrated by most weapons stronger than a 12.7 mm machine gun. This fact is made worse by the positioning of ammo racks on the sides, making it easy to knock out the M10 in one hit with a side penetration. The turret has slightly better armour with the gun mantlet having 57 mm angled at 45 degrees on the front, but it is still very weak on the sides and back. The front of the turret can often eat shells as the shell will fragment on the initial armour, and the massive breech of the 76 mm cannon will often absorb most if not all of the spalling, leaving the turret crew untouched. This will take the M10 out of combat, but when backed up by team-mates it is possible to reverse away to repair. The turrets top is exposed and because of that artillery barrages and HE shells are much more lethal to the crew. One should avoid angling the armour a great degree as it may expose the weaker side armour at a more perpendicular angle.
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The armour of the M10 is quite decent for the rank and can make shells ricochet when angled properly, but nonetheless, the armour is not thick enough to resist the stronger tank weapons of Rank II. The thickest part of the front hull is the 51 mm lower plate and the upper plate is 38 mm, though both are sloped at 55 degrees from vertical. The sides and back are only 19 mm, which is slightly angled and thus can be penetrated by most weapons stronger than a 12.7 mm machine gun. This fact is made worse by the positioning of ammo racks on the sides, making it easy to knock out the M10 in one hit with a side penetration. The turret has slightly better armour with the gun mantlet having 57 mm of armour angled at 45 degrees on the front, but it is still very weak on the sides and back. The front of the turret can often eat shells as the shell will fragment on the initial armour, and the massive breech of the 76 mm cannon will often absorb most if not all of the spalling, leaving the turret crew untouched. This will take the M10 out of combat, but when backed up by teammates it is possible to reverse away to repair. The turrets top is exposed and because of that artillery barrages and HE shells are much more lethal to the crew. One should avoid angling the armour a great degree as it may expose the weaker side armour at a more perpendicular angle.
  
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For those fighting the M10 from the front, firing towards the upper left side of the hull glacis (towards the right from the firing perspective) will be able to knock out both the driver and/or gunner if the shot penetrates in the right angle. If this does not completely destroy the tank, it certainly has crippled it and the follow-up shot should go towards the opposite side to knock out the rest of the crew. Repeat if necessary in cases where the crews are still active inside the tank. It is also a good idea to shoot the bottom of the hull to disable the transmission if the M10 is trying to flee. Since the M10 is an open-topped tank destroyer, overpressure from HE rounds will have no problem dealing with the entire crew in a single shot, as long as the round hits the M10. When using HE against the front of the M10, aim center mass, as that will give you the strongest possibility of hitting it.
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For those fighting the M10 from the front, firing towards the upper left side of the hull glacis (towards the right from the firing perspective) will be able to knock out both the driver and/or gunner if the shot penetrates at the right angle. If this does not completely destroy the tank, it certainly has crippled it and the follow-up shot should go towards the opposite side to knock out the rest of the crew. Repeat if necessary in cases where the crews are still active inside the tank. It is also a good idea to shoot the bottom of the hull to disable the transmission if the M10 is trying to flee. Since the M10 is an open-topped tank destroyer, overpressure from HE rounds will have no problem dealing with the entire crew in a single shot, as long as the round hits the M10. When using HE against the front of the M10, aim center mass, as that will give you the strongest possibility of hitting it.
  
 
The M10's side is lined with ammo racks and it's extremely easy to knock out the tank with a single shot. Simply aim below the turret, shoot the side and the ammo should explode in a blaze of glory. If the ammo does not explode the first time, then try shooting the same spot again or aim more to the front of the hull to knock out any remaining crew. It is possible to blow up the fuel tanks or set it on fire by shooting the rear of the M10, the worse case at least the engine will be disabled.
 
The M10's side is lined with ammo racks and it's extremely easy to knock out the tank with a single shot. Simply aim below the turret, shoot the side and the ammo should explode in a blaze of glory. If the ammo does not explode the first time, then try shooting the same spot again or aim more to the front of the hull to knock out any remaining crew. It is possible to blow up the fuel tanks or set it on fire by shooting the rear of the M10, the worse case at least the engine will be disabled.
  
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There is not a whole lot of places to shoot at the back of the M10, though a shot at the turret can knock out the turret crew or a shot in the hull can cripple the engine. Two ammo racks are present at the rear of the turret, but these racks are most likely empty as 1) They are the first two to run dry and 2) Players will usually keep this empty with reduced ammo load. The best place to shoot in the rear would be the engine to immobilize the M10 and potentially set it on fire.
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There are not a lot of places to shoot at the back of the M10, though a shot at the turret can knock out the turret crew or a shot in the hull can cripple the engine. Two ammo racks are present at the rear of the turret, but these racks are most likely empty as 1) They are the first two to run dry and 2) Players will usually keep this empty with reduced ammo load. The best place to shoot in the rear would be the engine to immobilize the M10 and potentially set it on fire.
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
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The M10 has roughly the same mobility characteristics as the M4 Sherman. Spaded, the tank moves surprisingly fast in a straight line, but the turning speed is a bit sluggish as well as the reverse speed. The M10 struggles while driving on inclines due to its narrow tracks. All in all the M10's mobility is moderate and it can get to its location reasonably fast.
  
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=582|rbMinHp=363|AoAweight=0.5}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=582|rbMinHp=363|AoAweight=0.5}}
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The {{PAGENAME}} has roughly the same mobility characteristics as the M4 Sherman. Spaded, the tank moves surprisingly fast in a straight line, but the turning speed is a bit sluggish as well as the reverse speed. The {{PAGENAME}} struggles while driving on inclines due to its narrow tracks. All in all the {{PAGENAME}}'s mobility is moderate and it can get to its location reasonably fast.
 
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
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First off get all protection modifications: Parts and FPE. The M62 shell should be a top priority since it is superior to the stock M79 AP shot in all aspects. After that move on to research modifications from the Firepower tree: Horizontal Drive, Adjustment of Fire, and the Elevation Mechanism. Lastly research the Mobility tree: Tracks, Filters, Engine, Transmission, Suspension, Brake System.
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First off, get all protection modifications: Parts and FPE. The M62 shell should be a top priority since it is superior to the stock M79 AP shot in all aspects. After that move on to research modifications from the Firepower tree: Horizontal Drive, Adjustment of Fire, and the Elevation Mechanism. Lastly research the Mobility tree: Tracks, Filters, Engine, Transmission, Suspension, Brake System.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
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{{main|M7 (76 mm)}}
 
{{main|M7 (76 mm)}}
  
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The 3-inch (76 mm) cannon is a wonderful and powerful gun. APCBC ammo can penetrate any tank on the battlefield even from long range. It is not a bad idea to carry a few HE shells as well to fight lightly armoured and open top tanks like the [[M16_MGMC|M16 SPAA]]. The powerful gun and potent ammunition make the M10 a good sniper vehicle at its battle rating, especially with its -10° gun depression, giving the M10 the ability to maximize a hull-down position. Unfortunately, even though this tank destroyer does feature a turret, its turret rotation speed is extremely slow (< 4.0°/s) due to its historic configuration of only possessing a hand crank for the turret traverse. It is possible to crest a ridge and watch as the enemy rotates their turret, takes aim, and shoots the M10, all while the latter is rotating its turret into position. Thus, it is better to see it as a regular fragile SPG instead of a turreted SPG and fight from a distance and in possible concealment. Take warning that the gun's excellent penetration is too much for lower rank tanks and can lead to over-penetration, thus dealing less or even no damage to the enemy. Also, start each round with at least six missing shells (as detailed in the [[#Ammo_racks|Ammo Racks]] section) to remove the ammo racks on the rear of the turret, reducing turret penetration vulnerability to an instant cook-off.
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The 3-inch (76 mm) cannon is a wonderful and powerful gun. APCBC ammo can penetrate any tank on the battlefield even from long range. It is not a bad idea to carry a few HE shells as well to fight lightly armoured and open top tanks like the [[M16 MGMC]]. The powerful gun and potent ammunition make the M10 a good sniper vehicle at its battle rating, especially with its -10° gun depression, giving the M10 the ability to maximize a hull-down position. Unfortunately, even though this tank destroyer does feature a turret, its turret rotation speed is extremely slow (< 4.0°/s) due to its historic configuration of only possessing a hand crank for the turret traverse. It is possible to crest a ridge and watch as the enemy rotates their turret, takes aim, and shoots the M10, all while the latter is rotating its turret into position. Thus, it is better to see it as a regular fragile SPG instead of a turreted SPG and fight from a distance and in possible concealment. Take warning that the gun's excellent penetration is too much for lower rank tanks and can lead to over-penetration, thus dealing less or even no damage to the enemy. Also, start each round with at least six missing shells (as detailed in the [[#Ammo_racks|Ammo Racks]] section) to remove the ammo racks on the rear of the turret, reducing turret penetration vulnerability to an instant cook-off.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 54 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+30° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 3.96 || 5.48 || 6.66 || 7.37 || 7.84 || rowspan="2" | 8.19 || rowspan="2" | 7.25 || rowspan="2" | 6.68 || rowspan="2" | 6.30
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| rowspan="2" | 54 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+30° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || 4.0 || 5.5 || 6.7 || 7.4 || 7.8 || rowspan="2" | 7.15 || rowspan="2" | 6.32 || rowspan="2" | 5.83 || rowspan="2" | 5.50
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
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| 2.68 || 3.15 || 3.83 || 4.23 || 4.50
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| 2.7 || 3.2 || 3.8 || 4.2 || 4.5
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
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{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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{{:M7 (76 mm)/Ammunition|M79 shot, M42A1 shell, M62 shell}}
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! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
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! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
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! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
| M79 shot || AP || 134 || 132 || 121 || 109 || 99 || 89
 
−
|-
 
−
| M42A1 shell || HE || 7 || 7 || 7 || 7 || 7 || 7
 
−
|-
 
−
| M62 shell || APCBC || 149 || 146 || 133 || 119 || 106 || 94
 
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|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
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! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
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! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>mass (kg)
 
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! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
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! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
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! rowspan="2" | Explosive mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
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! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| M79 shot || AP || 792 || 6.8 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
 
−
|-
 
−
| M42A1 shell || HE || 853 || 5.84 || 0 || 0.1 || 390 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
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| M62 shell || APCBC || 792 || 7 || 1.2 || 14 || 63.7 || 48° || 63° || 71°
 
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|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
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|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
Note:
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'''Note''':
  
 
* As they are modeled by sets of 2, shells disappear from the rack only after you fire both shells in the set.
 
* As they are modeled by sets of 2, shells disappear from the rack only after you fire both shells in the set.
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Pintle || 400 (200) || 577 || -10°/+28° || ±60°
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| Pintle || 400 (200) || 575 || -10°/+28° || ±60°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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With a location like that, the M10 can utilise its -10° gun depression and use hull down. Its turret front and mantlet can consistently cause ricochets especially in a downtier. Looming behind bushes, an M10's well aimed shots should be able to knock out most enemy tanks at the battle rating range from long range. Even if you get spotted, any slope or hard covers will provide protection for you.
 
With a location like that, the M10 can utilise its -10° gun depression and use hull down. Its turret front and mantlet can consistently cause ricochets especially in a downtier. Looming behind bushes, an M10's well aimed shots should be able to knock out most enemy tanks at the battle rating range from long range. Even if you get spotted, any slope or hard covers will provide protection for you.
  
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If fighting in a close quarter's environment, do not try to push forward without support. Stay behind friendly tanks in order to support them without being shot at. If in an urban scenario on maps like [[Poland_(Ground_Forces)|Poland]] or [[Normandy (Ground Forces)|Normandy]], utilize the tank's turning speed to rotate the turret to the right angle. But, the best option is still to find a hull down location. For example, in [[Normandy (Ground Forces)|Normandy]], during arcade, the best location is towards the C point, where there are hills and dips that can be used to hide the hull, while giving a good view of the battlefield.
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If fighting in a close quarters environment, do not try to push forward without support. Stay behind friendly tanks in order to support them without being shot at. If in an urban scenario on maps like [[Poland_(Ground_Forces)|Poland]] or [[Normandy (Ground Forces)|Normandy]], utilize the tank's turning speed to rotate the turret to the right angle. But, the best option is still to find a hull down location. For example, in [[Normandy (Ground Forces)|Normandy]], during arcade, the best location is towards the C point, where there are hills and dips that can be used to hide the hull, while giving a good view of the battlefield.
  
 
The M10 has a very slow turret rotation speed, but the M10 can traverse faster than it can rotate its turret and use its high speed when at high gear to produce some interesting skids via the physics engine to swerve the M10 and angle its gun at an enemy tank around the corner. It is recommended to understand and get a good feel of the M10's mobility and horsepower on dirt and paved roads before attempting this stunt. The low turret rotation speed means that a M10 player must always be aware of where the enemy tanks are, because they will not be able to turn the turret quickly if the enemy is able to flank the M10. In addition, the M10's side armour is weak, and the ammunition storage is in the hull sides, so if the enemy is able to shoot the M10 at that location, it is very likely to explode the ammo rack and destroy the tank with one shot.
 
The M10 has a very slow turret rotation speed, but the M10 can traverse faster than it can rotate its turret and use its high speed when at high gear to produce some interesting skids via the physics engine to swerve the M10 and angle its gun at an enemy tank around the corner. It is recommended to understand and get a good feel of the M10's mobility and horsepower on dirt and paved roads before attempting this stunt. The low turret rotation speed means that a M10 player must always be aware of where the enemy tanks are, because they will not be able to turn the turret quickly if the enemy is able to flank the M10. In addition, the M10's side armour is weak, and the ammunition storage is in the hull sides, so if the enemy is able to shoot the M10 at that location, it is very likely to explode the ammo rack and destroy the tank with one shot.
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'''Enemies worth noting:'''
 
'''Enemies worth noting:'''
  
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[[R3 T20 FA-HS]]: this vehicle is the exact opposite tank when comparing to an M10: extremely high topspeed, great traverse and fast gun rotation. A well-manoeuvred R3 can easily circle around the M10 and shoot AP shells through the thin side, while the M10 struggles to get the gun on target even when traversing the hull with the gun. If you know an R3 is around, you better turn your hull towards the possible direction and be ready to engage. Move the hull with the gun to target quicker. Even if you miss, the M2 Browning can still penetrate the R3 and knock out its crews. Note that a side shot on the R3 does not guarantee a kill as the fuse might not get triggered, and the crew are pretty separated. The R3 can run away and repair for another attack. A frontal shot, however, is likely to one shot it as the crew are all lined up.
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[[8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl.]]: also known as the "flak truck" or "flak bus", it is rather hard to knock out with armour-piercing shells because its armour is so thin that almost every shell will overpenetrate, dealing almost no critical damage. Additionally, this vehicle faces the side to aim the cannon, making it even harder to knock it out as the crew are all far apart. The flak truck can take quite a few hits and retaliate by taking out attackers one by one. Aim for the left side of its turret to disable its gunner first, then knock out the rest of its crew (right side of the turret & driving compartment). Do not rely on the M2 HB to knock out the crew: while it can penetrate the gun armour, the vehicle crew will be safe behind armour too thick to penetrate.
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[[8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl.]]: also known as the "flak truck", it is rather hard to knock out due to the fact that its armour is so thin that almost every shell will over-penetrate, dealing almost no critical damage. Plus this vehicle mostly face their side to the targets, making it even harder to kill them as the crew are all far apart. So it can usually take quite some hits and take out the shooters one by one. As the shooter, aim for the left side of its turret first to disable its gunner first, then knock out the rest of its crew (right turret & driving compartment). Do not hope that the M2 HB can kill the crews, the "flak truck" 's armour is too thick for any MG to penetrate.
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
 
+
* Main cannon penetration and damage are very good for the rank, can knock out many tanks (e.g. T-34, KV-1 or even the [[Tiger H1]]) in one hit
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* Main cannon penetration and damage is very good for the rank, can knock out many tanks (e.g. T-34, KV-1 or even the [[Tiger H1]]) in one hit
 
 
* Mantlet sometimes absorbs shots with its sloped armour
 
* Mantlet sometimes absorbs shots with its sloped armour
 
* Good gun depression of -10°, perfect for hull-down positions
 
* Good gun depression of -10°, perfect for hull-down positions
−
* Frontal glacis is somewhat bouncy due to a steep angle. Also the huge, V-shaped gun mantlet can often bounce / absorb shells (e.g. 75 mm M3 and 76 mm F-34 / ZiS-5), as well as the large gun breech behind it further protecting the turret crew
+
* Frontal glacis is somewhat bouncy due to its steep angle. Also, the huge, V-shaped gun mantlet can often bounce/absorb shells (e.g. 75 mm M3 and 76 mm F-34 / ZiS-5), as well as the large gun breech behind it further protecting the turret crew
−
* 5 crew members to replace 3 incapacitated crew members, plus one more with [[Crew Replenishment]] modification
+
* 5 crew members increase survivability
−
* Storage bustle on the rear of the turret helps protect it by absorbing shots aimed at it
 
 
* Turreted purpose-built tank destroyer allows for a wide field of fire compared to casemate designs
 
* Turreted purpose-built tank destroyer allows for a wide field of fire compared to casemate designs
−
* Powerful roof-mounted [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|M2 Browning]] can damage light vehicles ([[R3 T20 FA-HS]])or low flying aircraft well
+
* Powerful roof-mounted .50 cal M2 Browning can damage lightly-armoured vehicles or low-flying aircraft
−
* A lot of camouflages to unlock with relative ease
 
 
* Access to modification "[[Add-on Armor|Add-on Armour]]", that increases hull protection significantly on the sides and front
 
* Access to modification "[[Add-on Armor|Add-on Armour]]", that increases hull protection significantly on the sides and front
−
* Has relatively no problem when getting up-tiered
+
* Has relatively no problem when getting uptiered
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
 
+
* Mediocre turret traverse speed combined with its rather sluggish hull traverse "locks" it as a long-range sniper for most players. Close-quarters combat is difficult, as it often cannot get its gun on target in time
−
* Very poor turret traverse speed combined with its rather sluggish hull traverse "locks" it as a long range sniper for most players- close quarters combat is difficult and great situational awareness is required, as it often cannot get its gun on target in time
+
* Base armour is quite thin, and can get easily penetrated by common opponents
−
* Base armour is quite thin, can get easily penetrated by common opponents like the [[Pz.IV F2]] or StuG III F/G
+
* Open-topped, vulnerable to aircraft strafing and artillery strikes
−
* Open topped, vulnerable to aircraft strafing. Watch out for any IL-2 or Hs-129 B2
+
* Poor reverse speed won't save you from a dangerous encounter
−
* Poor reverse speed can sometimes get the player killed
 
 
* Only x3.5 gunsight zoom making it hard to shoot distant targets
 
* Only x3.5 gunsight zoom making it hard to shoot distant targets
  
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The M10 received their baptism of fire in Tunisia, with the Tank Destroyer putting their doctrine into practice at the Battle of El Guettar on 23 March 1943 against the 10th Panzer Division. Afterwards, the Allies found themselves on the offensive while large-scale German armoured punches became sporadic and scarce. Discontent with valuable guns and vehicles being left in reserves, a tactic was devised by Lt.Col. James Barney of the 776th to use the M10 in an artillery role with their 3-inch guns, a role the M10 found itself in during the fighting in Italy.<ref name="ZalogaM10" />
 
The M10 received their baptism of fire in Tunisia, with the Tank Destroyer putting their doctrine into practice at the Battle of El Guettar on 23 March 1943 against the 10th Panzer Division. Afterwards, the Allies found themselves on the offensive while large-scale German armoured punches became sporadic and scarce. Discontent with valuable guns and vehicles being left in reserves, a tactic was devised by Lt.Col. James Barney of the 776th to use the M10 in an artillery role with their 3-inch guns, a role the M10 found itself in during the fighting in Italy.<ref name="ZalogaM10" />
  
−
The M10 was also deployed as the standard equipment in 11 Tank Destroyer battalions during Operation Overlord, serving alongside [[M18 GMC|M18 ''Hellcats'']] and towed guns in the same tank destroyer role. Due to once again the armour engagements in Normandy and the rest of France to being scarce, the M10 found themselves supporting infantry advances into German territory. In July, encounters with [[Panther G|Panther tanks]] shocked the tank destroyer crew as there was a belief the armaments were capable of easily dealing with the new German tanks, and complaints were made for the fielding of a better gun on the field. The solution came in the form of the [[M36 GMC|M36 ''Jackson'']] with a 90 mm cannon and the T4 HVAP ammo for the 3-inch gun.<ref name="ZalogaM10" />
+
The M10 was also deployed as the standard equipment in 11 Tank Destroyer battalions during Operation Overlord, serving alongside [[M18 GMC]] ''Hellcats'' and towed guns in the same tank destroyer role. Due to once again the armour engagements in Normandy and the rest of France to being scarce, the M10 found themselves supporting infantry advances into German territory. In July, encounters with [[Panther G|Panther tanks]] shocked the tank destroyer crew as there was a belief the armaments were capable of easily dealing with the new German tanks, and complaints were made for the fielding of a better gun on the field. The solution came in the form of the [[M36 GMC]] ''Jackson'' with a 90 mm cannon and the T4 HVAP ammo for the 3-inch gun.<ref name="ZalogaM10" />
  
−
Towards the end of 1944, the German Ardennes Offensive (Battle of the Bulge) caused the M10 and the other employed tank destroyers to face off once again against a dedicated armoured punch of Panthers and [[Tiger II (H)|Tiger II]] tanks. During this campaign, a deception mission was launched by the Germans named ''Operation Grief'', which had ten [[Ersatz M10|Panther tanks dressed up to look like M10s]] externally to fool Americans.<ref name="HartPanther">Hart 2003</ref> All of these mock-ups were destroyed by battle or scrapped after it. After the Battle of the Bulge, the majority of German armoured forces have dwindled and armour engagements largely declined in the final months of the war in Europe.<ref name="ZalogaM10" /> One of the M10's most notable action in 1945 was done on January 26 in the Colmar Pocket when the most decorated soldier of World War II, Audie Murphy, used a knocked out M10's M2 Browning machine gun to hold off a German counterattack of six tanks plus infantry while calling in artillery. He held for an hour and killed about 50 German soldiers from behind the burning M10 wreck, forcing the tank units to retreat due to loss of infantry support. Audie Murphy was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions.<ref name="USOMurphy">Walker 2015</ref><ref name="MoHMurphy">Smithsonian Institution. "The Price of Freedom: Audie Murphy's Medal of Honor Citation."</ref>
+
Towards the end of 1944, the German Ardennes Offensive (Battle of the Bulge) caused the M10 and the other employed tank destroyers to face off once again against a dedicated armoured punch of Panthers and [[Tiger II (H)|Tiger II]] tanks. During this campaign, a deception mission was launched by the Germans named Operation Grief, which had ten [[Ersatz M10|Panther tanks dressed up to look like M10s]] externally to fool Americans.<ref name="HartPanther">Hart 2003</ref> All of these mock-ups were destroyed by battle or scrapped after it. After the Battle of the Bulge, the majority of German armoured forces have dwindled and armour engagements largely declined in the final months of the war in Europe.<ref name="ZalogaM10" /> One of the M10's most notable action in 1945 was done on January 26 in the Colmar Pocket when the most decorated soldier of World War II, Audie Murphy, used a knocked out M10's M2 Browning machine gun to hold off a German counterattack of six tanks plus infantry while calling in artillery. He held for an hour and killed about 50 German soldiers from behind the burning M10 wreck, forcing the tank units to retreat due to loss of infantry support. Audie Murphy was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions.<ref name="USOMurphy">Walker 2015</ref><ref name="MoHMurphy">Smithsonian Institution. "The Price of Freedom: Audie Murphy's Medal of Honor Citation."</ref>
  
 
The M10s were a part of the American Lend-Lease program to the Allies and as such many M10s found their ways into British, Free French, and Soviet hands. In all, 1,855 M10s were sent in the Lend-Lease program, of which 1,648 were to Great Britain. The British designated the M10s as the 3" SPM (Self-Propelled Mount) M10. The most famous of the British usage of the M10 was the conversion of the armament into the 17-pounder gun. These converted M10s were designated ''M10C'' or ''M10 17-pdr'' under British nomenclature, though they did issue a name [[Achilles]] to designate all forms of M10 under British service.<ref name="ZalogaM10" />
 
The M10s were a part of the American Lend-Lease program to the Allies and as such many M10s found their ways into British, Free French, and Soviet hands. In all, 1,855 M10s were sent in the Lend-Lease program, of which 1,648 were to Great Britain. The British designated the M10s as the 3" SPM (Self-Propelled Mount) M10. The most famous of the British usage of the M10 was the conversion of the armament into the 17-pounder gun. These converted M10s were designated ''M10C'' or ''M10 17-pdr'' under British nomenclature, though they did issue a name [[Achilles]] to designate all forms of M10 under British service.<ref name="ZalogaM10" />
Line 246: Line 204:
  
 
;Videos
 
;Videos
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{{Youtube-gallery|trEB3qmyePk|'''Giving Advice on the {{PAGENAME}} Tank Destroyer''' - ''Joseph 2000''|e66dcmyd7Xk|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}
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{{Youtube-gallery|trEB3qmyePk|'''Giving Advice on the M10 GMC Tank Destroyer''' - ''Joseph 2000''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 257: Line 215:
 
* [[M10 (Family)]]
 
* [[M10 (Family)]]
 
* [[M36 Jackson (Family)]]
 
* [[M36 Jackson (Family)]]
−
 
−
;Vehicles equipped with the same gun
 
−
 
−
* [[M6A1]]
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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=== References ===
 
=== References ===
 +
 
;Citations
 
;Citations
 
<references />
 
<references />

Latest revision as of 20:12, 3 July 2024

Rank 7 USA
F-5C Pack
This page is about the American tank destroyer M10 GMC. For other versions, see M10 (Family). For other uses, see M10 (Disambiguation).
M10 GMC
us_m10.png
GarageImage M10 GMC.jpg
ArtImage M10 GMC.png
ArtImage2 M10 GMC.jpg
M10 GMC
USA flag.png USA
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.7 3.3 3.3
Class:
Research:11 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:22 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Fall of France led the United States to frantically find ways to counter the new threat profile of the German panzer divisions. This led to the formation of the Tank Destroyer Branch whose main purpose was to blunt any German armoured exploitation attempts with a mobile tank destroyer force to eliminate the enemy tanks. The rapid creation led to placeholder vehicles like the 37 mm GMC M6 and 75 mm GMC M3 to be put in service, but these were not ideal as the Tank Destroyer Branch sought a vehicle that could reach ideal positions faster than regular tanks. While such a tank destroyer was in development, the urgency for a vehicle led to a conversion of a M4A2 hull with a larger, open-topped turret carrying a high-velocity 3-inch gun into battle. This weapon system would be adopted as the 3-inch Gun Motor Carriage M10 and would see service for all of World War II after its introduction in the Tunisian campaign. The M10 would also be famously known as the Wolverine in modern pop culture, though this is likely a post-war invention and not a term used during World War II.

Introduced in Update 1.49 "Weapons of Victory", the M10 GMC takes much from the M4A2 Sherman which it was derived from. The drivetrain is identical with the drive shaft running from the engine in the rear to the front transmission and sprockets. The hull is sloped to a larger degree. The 3-inch (76 mm) cannon, originally mounted on the experimental M6 Heavy Tank, lacks the muzzle brake of the 76 mm M1A2 gun used on the later Rank III Shermans and the M18 Hellcat. The turret is a pentagonal shaped M5 Mount type. It has a powerful 76 mm gun; however it is held back due to the sluggish turret traverse speed. This severely limits the ability to quickly react and engage opponents when fired upon, a problem that can prove costly in high intensity matches. However, should any enemy come into the crosshair of the 3-inch gun, the M10 is very likely to put a penetrating hole in the enemy's armour.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull51 / 25 / 25
Turret57 / 25 / 25
Crew5 people
Visibility87 %

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
  • Cast homogeneous armour (Gun mantlet, Transmission area)
  • Structural steel (Counterweight)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 38.1 mm (55°)
50.8 mm (7-55°) Transmission area 		19.05 mm (38°) Top
25.4 mm Bottom 		19.05 mm (28°) Top
25.4 mm (7-52°) Bottom 		19.05 mm Front
9.5 mm Rear
Turret 25.4 mm (68-89°) Turret front
57.15 mm (0-47°) Gun mantlet 		25.4 mm (24-47°) 25.4 mm (30-47°) Turret rear
50 mm (0-50°) Counterweight 		N/A

Notes:

  • Suspensions wheels are 20 mm thick, bogies are 10 mm thick, and tracks are 20 mm thick.
  • Belly armour is 12.7 mm thick.
  • Hull rear sides are protected by attached grousers that give 20 mm of extra armour.

The armour of the M10 is quite decent for the rank and can make shells ricochet when angled properly, but nonetheless, the armour is not thick enough to resist the stronger tank weapons of Rank II. The thickest part of the front hull is the 51 mm lower plate and the upper plate is 38 mm, though both are sloped at 55 degrees from vertical. The sides and back are only 19 mm, which is slightly angled and thus can be penetrated by most weapons stronger than a 12.7 mm machine gun. This fact is made worse by the positioning of ammo racks on the sides, making it easy to knock out the M10 in one hit with a side penetration. The turret has slightly better armour with the gun mantlet having 57 mm of armour angled at 45 degrees on the front, but it is still very weak on the sides and back. The front of the turret can often eat shells as the shell will fragment on the initial armour, and the massive breech of the 76 mm cannon will often absorb most if not all of the spalling, leaving the turret crew untouched. This will take the M10 out of combat, but when backed up by teammates it is possible to reverse away to repair. The turrets top is exposed and because of that artillery barrages and HE shells are much more lethal to the crew. One should avoid angling the armour a great degree as it may expose the weaker side armour at a more perpendicular angle.

For those fighting the M10 from the front, firing towards the upper left side of the hull glacis (towards the right from the firing perspective) will be able to knock out both the driver and/or gunner if the shot penetrates at the right angle. If this does not completely destroy the tank, it certainly has crippled it and the follow-up shot should go towards the opposite side to knock out the rest of the crew. Repeat if necessary in cases where the crews are still active inside the tank. It is also a good idea to shoot the bottom of the hull to disable the transmission if the M10 is trying to flee. Since the M10 is an open-topped tank destroyer, overpressure from HE rounds will have no problem dealing with the entire crew in a single shot, as long as the round hits the M10. When using HE against the front of the M10, aim center mass, as that will give you the strongest possibility of hitting it.

The M10's side is lined with ammo racks and it's extremely easy to knock out the tank with a single shot. Simply aim below the turret, shoot the side and the ammo should explode in a blaze of glory. If the ammo does not explode the first time, then try shooting the same spot again or aim more to the front of the hull to knock out any remaining crew. It is possible to blow up the fuel tanks or set it on fire by shooting the rear of the M10, the worse case at least the engine will be disabled.

There are not a lot of places to shoot at the back of the M10, though a shot at the turret can knock out the turret crew or a shot in the hull can cripple the engine. Two ammo racks are present at the rear of the turret, but these racks are most likely empty as 1) They are the first two to run dry and 2) Players will usually keep this empty with reduced ammo load. The best place to shoot in the rear would be the engine to immobilize the M10 and potentially set it on fire.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB53 / 6 km/h
RB and SB49 / 5 km/h
Number of gears5 forward
1 back
Weight30.4 t
Engine power
AB782 hp
RB and SB410 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB25.7 hp/t
RB and SB13.5 hp/t

The M10 has roughly the same mobility characteristics as the M4 Sherman. Spaded, the tank moves surprisingly fast in a straight line, but the turning speed is a bit sluggish as well as the reverse speed. The M10 struggles while driving on inclines due to its narrow tracks. All in all the M10's mobility is moderate and it can get to its location reasonably fast.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock AoA Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 53 6 29.9 0.5 582 782 19.46 25.72
Realistic 49 5 363 410 12.14 13.49

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB675 → 913 Sl icon.png
RB810 → 1 095 Sl icon.png
SB984 → 1 331 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications10 330 Rp icon.png
13 930 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost750 Ge icon.png
Crew training6 300 Sl icon.png
Experts22 000 Sl icon.png
Aces210 Ge icon.png
Research Aces220 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
50 / 80 / 100 % Sl icon.png
124 / 124 / 124 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
910 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
620 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
620 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
870 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 200 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 500 Sl icon.png
155 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 500 Sl icon.png
155 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
910 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
620 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement us.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
870 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 200 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods tank additional armor.png
Add-on Armor
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 500 Sl icon.png
155 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
910 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
620 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
76mm_usa_APCBC_ammo_pack
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
620 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
870 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 200 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png

First off, get all protection modifications: Parts and FPE. The M62 shell should be a top priority since it is superior to the stock M79 AP shot in all aspects. After that move on to research modifications from the Firepower tree: Horizontal Drive, Adjustment of Fire, and the Elevation Mechanism. Lastly research the Mobility tree: Tracks, Filters, Engine, Transmission, Suspension, Brake System.

Armaments

Main armament

76 mm M7 cannon
Ammunition54 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
7.1 → 5.5 s
Vertical guidance-10° / 30°
Main article: M7 (76 mm)

The 3-inch (76 mm) cannon is a wonderful and powerful gun. APCBC ammo can penetrate any tank on the battlefield even from long range. It is not a bad idea to carry a few HE shells as well to fight lightly armoured and open top tanks like the M16 MGMC. The powerful gun and potent ammunition make the M10 a good sniper vehicle at its battle rating, especially with its -10° gun depression, giving the M10 the ability to maximize a hull-down position. Unfortunately, even though this tank destroyer does feature a turret, its turret rotation speed is extremely slow (< 4.0°/s) due to its historic configuration of only possessing a hand crank for the turret traverse. It is possible to crest a ridge and watch as the enemy rotates their turret, takes aim, and shoots the M10, all while the latter is rotating its turret into position. Thus, it is better to see it as a regular fragile SPG instead of a turreted SPG and fight from a distance and in possible concealment. Take warning that the gun's excellent penetration is too much for lower rank tanks and can lead to over-penetration, thus dealing less or even no damage to the enemy. Also, start each round with at least six missing shells (as detailed in the Ammo Racks section) to remove the ammo racks on the rear of the turret, reducing turret penetration vulnerability to an instant cook-off.

76 mm M7 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 54 -10°/+30° ±180° - 4.0 5.5 6.7 7.4 7.8 7.15 6.32 5.83 5.50
Realistic 2.7 3.2 3.8 4.2 4.5

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
M79 shot AP 134 132 121 109 99 89
M42A1 shell HE 17 16 15 13 12 10
M62 shell APCBC 149 146 133 119 106 94
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
M79 shot AP 792 6.8 - - - 47° 60° 65°
M42A1 shell HE 853 5.84 0.2 0.1 390 79° 80° 81°
M62 shell APCBC 792 7 1.2 14 63.7 48° 63° 71°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the M10 GMC
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
54 49 (+5) 37 (+17) 25 (+29) 13 (+41) 1 (+53) No

Note:

  • As they are modeled by sets of 2, shells disappear from the rack only after you fire both shells in the set.

Machine guns

12.7 mm M2HB machine gun
Ammunition400 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate575 shots/min
Vertical guidance-10° / 28°
Horizontal guidance-60° / 60°
Main article: M2HB (12.7 mm)
12.7 mm M2HB
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 400 (200) 575 -10°/+28° ±60°

Usage in battles

The M10 is a support vehicle. Find a good sniping position and lay behind the team taking out enemy tanks from a distance. Try to stay away from enemy tanks to avoid getting destroyed quickly. To make full use of its decent sniping capacity, find a spot that:

  • overlooks key passageway / street / battle area
  • is not too close to the frontline
  • has slopes, hard covers or bushes
  • is not too hard to get to

With a location like that, the M10 can utilise its -10° gun depression and use hull down. Its turret front and mantlet can consistently cause ricochets especially in a downtier. Looming behind bushes, an M10's well aimed shots should be able to knock out most enemy tanks at the battle rating range from long range. Even if you get spotted, any slope or hard covers will provide protection for you.

If fighting in a close quarters environment, do not try to push forward without support. Stay behind friendly tanks in order to support them without being shot at. If in an urban scenario on maps like Poland or Normandy, utilize the tank's turning speed to rotate the turret to the right angle. But, the best option is still to find a hull down location. For example, in Normandy, during arcade, the best location is towards the C point, where there are hills and dips that can be used to hide the hull, while giving a good view of the battlefield.

The M10 has a very slow turret rotation speed, but the M10 can traverse faster than it can rotate its turret and use its high speed when at high gear to produce some interesting skids via the physics engine to swerve the M10 and angle its gun at an enemy tank around the corner. It is recommended to understand and get a good feel of the M10's mobility and horsepower on dirt and paved roads before attempting this stunt. The low turret rotation speed means that a M10 player must always be aware of where the enemy tanks are, because they will not be able to turn the turret quickly if the enemy is able to flank the M10. In addition, the M10's side armour is weak, and the ammunition storage is in the hull sides, so if the enemy is able to shoot the M10 at that location, it is very likely to explode the ammo rack and destroy the tank with one shot.

Enemies worth noting:

8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl.: also known as the "flak truck" or "flak bus", it is rather hard to knock out with armour-piercing shells because its armour is so thin that almost every shell will overpenetrate, dealing almost no critical damage. Additionally, this vehicle faces the side to aim the cannon, making it even harder to knock it out as the crew are all far apart. The flak truck can take quite a few hits and retaliate by taking out attackers one by one. Aim for the left side of its turret to disable its gunner first, then knock out the rest of its crew (right side of the turret & driving compartment). Do not rely on the M2 HB to knock out the crew: while it can penetrate the gun armour, the vehicle crew will be safe behind armour too thick to penetrate.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Main cannon penetration and damage are very good for the rank, can knock out many tanks (e.g. T-34, KV-1 or even the Tiger H1) in one hit
  • Mantlet sometimes absorbs shots with its sloped armour
  • Good gun depression of -10°, perfect for hull-down positions
  • Frontal glacis is somewhat bouncy due to its steep angle. Also, the huge, V-shaped gun mantlet can often bounce/absorb shells (e.g. 75 mm M3 and 76 mm F-34 / ZiS-5), as well as the large gun breech behind it further protecting the turret crew
  • 5 crew members increase survivability
  • Turreted purpose-built tank destroyer allows for a wide field of fire compared to casemate designs
  • Powerful roof-mounted .50 cal M2 Browning can damage lightly-armoured vehicles or low-flying aircraft
  • Access to modification "Add-on Armour", that increases hull protection significantly on the sides and front
  • Has relatively no problem when getting uptiered

Cons:

  • Mediocre turret traverse speed combined with its rather sluggish hull traverse "locks" it as a long-range sniper for most players. Close-quarters combat is difficult, as it often cannot get its gun on target in time
  • Base armour is quite thin, and can get easily penetrated by common opponents
  • Open-topped, vulnerable to aircraft strafing and artillery strikes
  • Poor reverse speed won't save you from a dangerous encounter
  • Only x3.5 gunsight zoom making it hard to shoot distant targets

History

Main article: History of the M10 GMC

Development

Conceived after the Battle of France, the US Army employed a doctrine to fight against the expected massed armoured attack the Germans had employed with their Panzer Divisions.[1] The doctrine called for a Tank Destroyer Branch that would be held in reserve to be deployed against an armoured attack. The first few vehicles produced on this concept was the 37 mm GMC M6 and the 75 mm GMC M3. While adequate, these were only seen as a stop-gap measure until better tank destroyers could be developed.[2][3] With requests being sent for a 3-inch Gun Motor Carriage (GMC), a proposal was made in November 1941 for a turreted tank destroyer that would use the chassis of M4A2 Sherman and armed with the 3-inch gun from the M6 heavy tank. The resulting prototype was standardized in June 1942 as the 3-inch Gun Motor Carriage M10 in June 1942.[2]

Production started on the M10s in September 1942 at Fisher Tank Arsenal at Grand Blanc, Michigan with a production priority rating much higher than even the new M4 medium tank. Due to the concerns of not meeting production demands, a separate variant developed on the M4A3 chassis as the M10A1. Production of these two vehicles would run until December 1943 (M10) and January 1944 (M10A1) for a total production number of 6,706 vehicle produced, 4,993 M10s and 1,713 M10A1s.[2]

Today, the M10 is often referred to as the "Wolverine". However, the origin of this nickname is unknown. Some have contested that it was a British nickname, but it is unlikely as they gave it the designation "Achilles". It also is not an American nickname as well as all official documents referred to the M10s by their designation or "TD". It is widely accepted that "Wolverine" is a post-war nickname similar to the "Hetzer" nickname on the Jagdpanzer 38(t).[2]

Combat usage

The M10 received their baptism of fire in Tunisia, with the Tank Destroyer putting their doctrine into practice at the Battle of El Guettar on 23 March 1943 against the 10th Panzer Division. Afterwards, the Allies found themselves on the offensive while large-scale German armoured punches became sporadic and scarce. Discontent with valuable guns and vehicles being left in reserves, a tactic was devised by Lt.Col. James Barney of the 776th to use the M10 in an artillery role with their 3-inch guns, a role the M10 found itself in during the fighting in Italy.[2]

The M10 was also deployed as the standard equipment in 11 Tank Destroyer battalions during Operation Overlord, serving alongside M18 GMC Hellcats and towed guns in the same tank destroyer role. Due to once again the armour engagements in Normandy and the rest of France to being scarce, the M10 found themselves supporting infantry advances into German territory. In July, encounters with Panther tanks shocked the tank destroyer crew as there was a belief the armaments were capable of easily dealing with the new German tanks, and complaints were made for the fielding of a better gun on the field. The solution came in the form of the M36 GMC Jackson with a 90 mm cannon and the T4 HVAP ammo for the 3-inch gun.[2]

Towards the end of 1944, the German Ardennes Offensive (Battle of the Bulge) caused the M10 and the other employed tank destroyers to face off once again against a dedicated armoured punch of Panthers and Tiger II tanks. During this campaign, a deception mission was launched by the Germans named Operation Grief, which had ten Panther tanks dressed up to look like M10s externally to fool Americans.[4] All of these mock-ups were destroyed by battle or scrapped after it. After the Battle of the Bulge, the majority of German armoured forces have dwindled and armour engagements largely declined in the final months of the war in Europe.[2] One of the M10's most notable action in 1945 was done on January 26 in the Colmar Pocket when the most decorated soldier of World War II, Audie Murphy, used a knocked out M10's M2 Browning machine gun to hold off a German counterattack of six tanks plus infantry while calling in artillery. He held for an hour and killed about 50 German soldiers from behind the burning M10 wreck, forcing the tank units to retreat due to loss of infantry support. Audie Murphy was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions.[5][6]

The M10s were a part of the American Lend-Lease program to the Allies and as such many M10s found their ways into British, Free French, and Soviet hands. In all, 1,855 M10s were sent in the Lend-Lease program, of which 1,648 were to Great Britain. The British designated the M10s as the 3" SPM (Self-Propelled Mount) M10. The most famous of the British usage of the M10 was the conversion of the armament into the 17-pounder gun. These converted M10s were designated M10C or M10 17-pdr under British nomenclature, though they did issue a name Achilles to designate all forms of M10 under British service.[2]

After the end of World War II, most M10s were scrapped or given away as part of the Military Assistance Program to other allies.[2]


Archive of the in-game description

A self-propelled artillery/anti-tank mount based on the Sherman tank. A new open turret featuring a more powerful gun, but only manual targeting, was installed on it. It was released from September 1942 to January 1944 and proved to be quite effective in combat against German medium tanks. However, it was not powerful enough to stand up to the Tiger or Panther. And also... Due to its open turret it was vulnerable to artillery barrages and in battles in populated areas. It was frequently used as a standard linear tank.


Media

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Giving Advice on the M10 GMC Tank Destroyer - Joseph 2000

See also

Vehicles equipped with the same chassis

External links

References

Citations
  1. ↑ Moran 2016
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 Zaloga 2002
  3. ↑ Zaloga 2004
  4. ↑ Hart 2003
  5. ↑ Walker 2015
  6. ↑ Smithsonian Institution. "The Price of Freedom: Audie Murphy's Medal of Honor Citation."
Bibliography
  • Hart, Stephen A. Panther Medium Tank 1942-45. Great Britain: Osprey Publishing Ltd., 2003
  • Moran, Nicholas. "US Tank Destroyer History." YouTube. YouTube, 26 Aug. 2016. Web. 08 Feb. 2017. Video
  • Smithsonian Institution. "The Price of Freedom: Audie Murphy's Medal of Honor Citation." The Price of Freedom: Audie Murphy's Medal of Honor Citation. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2017. Website
  • Walker, Dale L. "Audie Murphy: To Hell and Back." United Service Organizations. N.p., 20 Sept. 2015. Web. 24 Feb. 2017. Website
  • Zaloga, Steven J. M10 and M36 Tank Destroyers 1942-53 Great Britain: Osprey Publishing Ltd., 2002
  • Zaloga, Steven J. M18 Hellcat Tank Destroyer 1943-97 Great Britain: Osprey Publishing Ltd., 2004


U.S. Army Ordnance Department/Corps*
Light tanks  T18E2 · M24 (Designed in collaboration with Cadillac)
M3 Stuart  M3 · M3A1 Stuart · M3A1 (USMC)
M5 Stuart  M5A1
Medium tanks  M3 Lee
M4 Sherman  M4 · M4A1 · M4A2 · M4A3 (105) · Calliope
  M4A1 (76) W · M4A2 (76) W · M4A3 (76) W
M26 Pershing  T20 · T25 · M26 · M26E1 · M26 T99
Patton Series  M46 · M46 "Tiger" · M47
Prototypes  T54E1 · T95E1
Heavy tanks  M103
M4 Jumbo  M4A3E2 · Cobra King · M4A3E2 (76) W
M6 Heavy  M6A1 · M6A2E1 · T1E1
M26 Pershing  T26E1-1 · T26E5
Prototypes  T14
T29  T29 · T30 · T34
T-32  T32 · T32E1
Tank destroyers  M3 GMC · M10 GMC · M56
M8 GMC  M8 HMC · M8A1 GMC
M36 GMC  M36 GMC · M36B2
Prototypes  T28 · T95
SPAAGs 
Production  M19 MGMC · M42
Export/Captured  ␗M8 HMC · SU-57
Stuart  Stuart I · Stuart III · ␗M3A3 Stuart · ␗M3A3 (1st PTG) · ▄M3A3 · ▄M3A3 Stuart · ▃Stuart VI (5th CAD) · ␗M5A1
Lee/Grant  ▂M3 Medium · ▃Grant I · Grant I
M4 Sherman  Sherman II · ▄M4A1 · ␗M4A1 (75) W · ▀M4 748 (a) · ▂M4A2 · ▄M4A3 (105) · ▅M4A3 (76) W · ▄M4A3E2
  ␗M4A4 · ␗M4A4 (1st PTG) · ▄Sherman V · ▄M4A4 · ▄Sherman I Composito
M26 Pershing  M26 "D.C.Ariete" · M26A1
M47 Patton  mKPz M47 G · ▅M47
M10 GMC  ␗M10 GMC · ▄M10 GMC
M36 GMC  ␗M36 GMC · M36B1 · ▅M36 · ▄M36B2
M19 MGMC  ▅M19A1
M42 MGMC  ▅M42 · ␗M42
  *The Ordnance Department was renamed to the Ordnance Corps after the Army Reorganization Act of 1950.

USA tank destroyers
M10  M10 GMC
M36  M36 GMC · M36B2
T95  T28 · T95
M109  M109A1
ATGM  LOSAT · M901
Wheeled  M3 GMC · T55E1
Other  M8 HMC · M50 · M56
China  ▃LVT(A)(4) (ZIS-2)

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