Introduction:

Stalingrad is a small company from Russia specialized in producing 1/35 scale resin figures. Sculpted by Alexander Zelenkov, one of the most talented figure sculptors and owner of the company, the miniatures released under Stalingrad label are extremely realistic, receiving stellar reviews on modeling websites.

As the company name suggests, Stalingrad is dedicated to producing WWII era figures. Recently, however, the company released their first modern day military miniatures, depicting a group of Afghan mujahideen. This review covers one of these figures, Afghan Rebel Commander (S-3603), while the reviews of other miniatures from the mujahideen group can be accessed here: link.

Review:

The set is packed in a nicely decorated cardboard box featuring image of fully assembled and painted figure. Opening the box there is an inscription on the tuck flap... "Enjoy your hobby!" Nice touch from Stalingrad, as most of us tend to forget what scale modeling is all about.

The figure pieces are secured in a zip-lock bag. The set consists of two pieces only:

- full body,
- right hand with radio.

The parts are cast in grey-greenish resin and the cast is very impressive. I didn't find any imperfections in the resin whatsoever, with the sharp figure details wonderfully delivered in scale. The radio antenna was damaged in transport; I managed to find the broken piece and fix it back using superglue. The hand fits nicely to the right arm, although I did have to play a bit with the piece to find an optimal alignment.

The figure depicts Afghan rebel commander. The pose nicely portrays the figure’s status, as does his specific outfit. Instead of the usual Afghan pajama shirt and trousers, this figure wears field jacket and fatigue trousers. Army boots, Panjshir scarf and sunglasses add to the character. On his head, the figure wears a traditional round-topped Afghan cap, Pakol. Before it is put on, Pakol resembles a bag with a round, flat bottom; the wearer rolls up the sides nearly to the top, forming a thick band, which then rests on the head like a beret.

The sculptor captured the feel of Afghan mujahideen commander really well. The posture, the uniform, the sunglasses and a long beard… wow! Based on the appearance, I would say this figure can be used as mujahideen from the Soviet-Afghan war, or a rebel fighter from more recent conflicts in Afghanistan.

Conclusion:

Afghan Rebel Commander (S-3603) is the first Stalingrad figure I have and I must admit I’m very much impressed. The best part of the figure for me is the sculpt, so lifelike and realistic… Alex Zelenkov really is a master in his craft. The figure is nicely cast in resin and very easy to assemble.

Altogether, this is one of the best Afghan figures on the market today and, with the rest of the rebel group, it could make a great focal point of many Middle Eastern dioramas.