World of Tanks: BZ-176 commander's review
Hello comrades,
Today, we will discuss the king of modern premium tanks. In my opinion, it is the strongest machine Wargaming has ever created. Last year, it was available from New Year chests. When I first got it, I didn't pay much attention to it. A Chinese tank, slow, with awful cannon characteristics, and slow, etc. But in a short period of time, I realized how lucky I was to have gotten this tank. Let the discussion begin.
Basic Characteristics
Pluses:
At first glance, you may think that this tank has only negatives. It sports a 160mm gun with an infinite reloading time. This caliber is one of the largest in the game, making ricochets almost non-existent. Premium shells are what you should use on this tank, offering 225mm of armor penetration and an average damage per shot of 800, making this tank extremely dangerous. Moreover, these are high explosive shells, so in 99% of cases, you will inflict some damage if you manage to penetrate the opponent's armor. If you penetrate armor, you will surely cause some crew or module crits. It's worth noting that the higher the caliber you have, the stronger the damage to inside modules you will cause. With a 160mm cannon, the damage will be super high. The tank has 1500 health points, an average number but still good for an 8-level tank. Strong turret armor and hull armor will make your opponents scream sometimes when they are unable to damage you. The rocket launcher with 4 charges will help you reach key positions first and be ready to send your shell to enemies. Elevation angles at -10 degrees will allow you to comfortably play using terrain.
Minuses:
It is hard to find significant minuses in this machine. You don't have camouflage, but do you need one if this tank must be played only at close distances? Your shell traveling speed, armor penetration rate, and accuracy will not let you be a bush sniper. The gun has poor accuracy and aiming time, but it doesn't matter when the opponent's tank is within 100 meters or closer. Traveling speed without the rocket launcher is also a problem. At 30 km/h, it will not let you quickly change attacking flanks. And the last minus is reloading time. In my configuration with extra rations and improved ventilation, I have about 19 seconds, so don't stay on the flank alone; you need allies.
Necessary:
- Gun Rammer: to increase reloading rate.
- Vertical Stabilizer: helps you aim much faster.
- Extra Rations: in my opinion, should be used to make the tank more comfortable and deadly.
Optional:
- Improved Aiming: if you think accuracy is still too bad for you.
- Turbocharger: could add several km/h if 30 is too slow for you.
- Improved Hardening: increases your survivability and repair rate.
- Improved Ventilation: overall slightly improves all tank's characteristics, making it more comfortable.
Conclusion and Ranking
The BZ-176 is a great farming and fun machine. With high damage per shot, extra mobility with the rocket launcher, and good armor, you can wreak havoc at the top of Tier 8 and make Tier 9 and 10 tanks, especially those with low armor, sad in Random Battles. Since this tank will never be nerfed, I am not sure if it will ever be added to the Premium shop. It is highly likely that it will be added to some Chests at the New Year event. But if you see this tank available for trading, buy it without any hesitation. Its farming potential and high rate of fun will make you love this tank.
Firepower: 8/10
Survivability: 6/10
Difficulty: 4/10
Fun to Play: 10/10
Overall Rating: 9
Suitable for new players and game veterans.
I hope this short guide will help you make a decision on this tank. See you on the battlefield!
To leave comments, please log in.
