Introduction

MK 35 Editions the French manufacturer of resin figures has released three figures for use with a Stug III. The figures have been packaged as two offerings which are a twin figure set for adding figures to the fighting compartment hatches, the other offering is a single figure shimmying up the barrel to add or remove a cover on the muzzle break. This review looks at the single figure shimmying up the barrel offering from MK 35 Editions for the Stug III.

Review

This offering of a German figure to crew a Stug III by MK 35 Editions is packaged in a Ziploc plastic bag with a card insert showing the figure assembled and painted. The figure is loose inside this Ziploc plastic bag. To the best of my knowledge MK 35 Editions products are only available direct and so the packaging that MK 35 Editions utilise is the only real protection against the postal services of the world. This sample arrived in nearly perfect condition inside a cardboard container travelling from France to the UK.

This figure is depicted shimmying up the barrel of a Stug III and either tying or releasing a cover over the muzzle brake of a Stug III, the canvas cover is also supplied in this offering. I will say that while this is indicated as being for a Stug III I see no reason it cannot be used in various vehicles. The figure is supplied as a full torso and legs, boots, arms and a head. An examination of the mouldings reveals no major issues as regards potential faults, but care will need to be taken with the clean up.

The full length body of the figure is well moulded as regards the jacket and baggy trousers. The jacket is well tailored with good crease detail throughout. My only disappointment with this aspect is the lack of emblems and badge detail, but this detail could easily be added in the form of decals that are available from several sources. The pour plug connection point is on the ankle of the left leg and this is one of the areas that will require care when cleaning the area up. The body has been moulded in order that the figure lays on the barrel of the vehicle in a realistic and pleasing way.

The boots of this figure are supplied as separate items and they have very nice detail on both the upper portion of the boots and the sole where the stud pattern is clearly visible. The arms have pins present that locate into holes on the main body, this enables the modeller to easily add the arms to the figure and know when the arms are in the correct orientation. The hands are well done and they are positioned as if holding cords, I would suggest carefully drilling a small hole and the threading some cotton or possibly wire in the hands.

The head of the figure is attached via an elongated neck and with this being a popular method other resin heads could be utilised such as those from Hornet. The face of the figure is very good I feel and I like the effort that has gone into features present, those modellers that excel at face painting will I feel be pleased and enjoy the result. The hat design has been criticised by modellers due to the raised area above the peak; however a search of the internet did produce some images that would seem to support this look and so satisfies me.

The canvas cover that replaces/covers the muzzle brake has been very nicely detailed with a lot of subtle details present. Looking at the front of the item there is very nice stitching detail present around the circumference. Crease detail along its length has been well replicated and should add an area where colour variation shows nicely. The back of the canvas is where the pour plug was connect and will need to be cleaned up, but as most of the area will be hidden I am not concerned about it. Around the back area there is an area that looks to be pulled tight via a tie and this is a nice touch that could easily be overlooked.

Conclusion

This is a very nice figure offering performing an interesting function, but having stood next to a Stug III I don’t understand why this task would not be done standing on the ground, regardless it is a pleasing pose. Details provided are good but will benefit from further detailing such as the insignia. All told this is another great offering from MK 35 Editions.