Introduction

Ultracast have recently released a new 1/35th scale WW2 tanker; British Empire Tank Commander (North Africa & Italy 1941-45. The figure was mastered by the late Pete Morton.

The figure

The figure comes packed in the standard Ultracast format; a zip plastic bag attached to a backing card. The card carried details of the product and manufacturer and some simple instructions . Attached to the inside of the card is a colour photograph of the painted figure for reference.

The figure consists of 7 parts. The body cast as a whole, 3 choices of head and 3 arms, one offering an alternative right arm. The figure is cast in a cream coloured resin. There will be some flash to clean off the main body (lower legs) and the pour plugs to remove from the head, arms and feel of the main body.

The figure is dressed in KD shirt and shorts. The shorts appear to be of 1941 pattern with the second pattern filed dressing pocket on the front, belt loops and double buckle fastening on the front. The shorts are turned up at the ends. The KD shirt is the two buttoned type closed part way down, open at the neck with two pleated pockets. The lower legs wear boots, hose and putties. The figure leans towards the left and I believe was designed to fit in a tank cupola, but could be used on its own leaning against something.

The left arm is at 90% with the lower part and hand dipping down. You get two right arms, one holding what appears to be a packet of cigarettes and the other holding a radio mike.

Three heads are provided with the figure, all are nicely done. One wears an officers cap with a pair of goggles around the brim. This face is nicely done and sports a fine looking moustache on mature features. The second of the heads wears a beret, wireless ear phones and goggles around the beret. This face is also nicely done being slightly younger looking than the previous version. Finally the last head wears a beret, ear phones and has a mature looking face with a moustache. The detail on all three look very good indeed.

The figure measure approximately 40mm from boot toe to collar. Noprmal precautions apply when working with resin.

Conclusion

Another excellent figure from Ultracast and with a choice of heads you could locate him just about anywhere. The detail and casting looks very good, with only some flash and the pour plug to deal with. Another good addition to their range of British and Commonwealth soldiers.