Based on the M2A1/M3 scout car, the M2 series of half-track was originally intended as a reconnaissance vehicle and prime mover for the 105mm howitzer. This American half-track could accommodate ten passengers in the rear compartment, even though it was shorter than the later M3 half-track. Total production of the M2 series half-track reached 13,058, making this an immensely important Allied vehicle.
There was a major difference between the M2 and M2A1 - the former had a skate rail for AA machine guns fitted around the inner edge of the rear compartment, while the M2A1 eliminated the skate ring and had an M49 ring mount for a .50-cal machine gun located in a “pulpit” over the co-driver’s seat. It also had three pintle mounts in the rear for a .30-cal machine gun. Either of these vehicles can be fully built up, since all necessary parts for both vehicles are included.