1/8 Scale M830 120mm HEAT Round

This is the third model in my series of 120mm tank ammunition models. It is a highly detailed 1/8 scale model of the U.S. M830 HEAT-MP-T (High Explosive, Anti-Tank, Multipurpose with Tracer), generally referred to as a “HEAT round”.  The warhead contains a copper cone that produces a plasma jet that erodes its way through armor when detonated, and features a standoff spike on the nose to ensure the round detonates at the correct distance from the target to ensure maximum effectiveness. The small ridge at the top of the spike pushes air out of the way, giving the projectile far better aerodynamic qualities than one might expect, given the blocky shape.

This was designed using measurements from a full-size dummy round, along with an inert target practice HEAT warhead. No supports are necessary. I would recommend infill for this model given the geometry of the warhead - I printed the examples in the photo at 8% infill. Don't forget to set your bottom surface pattern to “concentric” to mimic the machining marks on the bottom of the stub base/aft cap.

Proper colors are as follows:

 - Stub Base/Aft Cap: Silver-gray

 - Primer: Gold or Copper

 - Rear Obturator/Rubber Seal and Warhead: Black

 - Cartridge Case: White or Light Silver (Cameras see it as white, eyes see it as silver, do whatever you think looks cool)

 - Forward Obturator/Copper Band (around the base of the warhead): Copper (obviously)

This model technically requires 5 colors, as most primers on 120mm tank rounds are gold in color. However, examples do exist of HEAT stub bases with copper colored primers, so I elected to print mine in 4 colors instead (I also do not have 2 AMS units on any of my printers, and I bet not many of you do either). A 0.2mm nozzle is not necessary, but I find that it makes the bottom of the stub base look better, as well as adding some shine to any part printed in silk PLA.

I hope you enjoy! I have more designs coming, we're not out of tank rounds yet! Thanks all, and remember to be kind!