Introduction:

Live Resin revolutionized the military model market by producing 1/35 scale models of various weapon systems and accessories utilizing advanced 3D rapid prototyping technology. Moreover, Live Resin produced their first 1/35 scale military figures using the same process, turning the digital image of the human form into a resin figure kit.

The latest figure sets released under Live Resin label are 3 slightly different versions of the same miniature, USMC soldier manning the M240G on Platt Swing Mount. This review covers one of these sets: USMC tanker figure for MCTAGS and LAV-25 turrets with CVC helmet (LRM-35007).

Review:

The set is packed in a hard cardboard box featuring two CAD box art images showing the figure and suggesting its use with M240G on Platt Swing Mount set (LRE-35251). The box contains a zip-lock bag securing 8figure pieces:

- torso,
- legs,
- head,
- right arm,
- left arm,
- right boot,
- left boot,
- helmet microphone.

The pieces are cast in grey resin. The cast is absolutely perfect with no visible defects in the resin whatsoever, with incredible level of details superbly delivered in scale. I was very surprised to find helmet microphone as a resin part in this set... I don't think there are many companies who would venture in casting such a delicate and complex piece in resin. Live Resin took the challenge and impressed me once again. Wow! I was extremely careful when cleaning the tiny piece; some extra effort was worth it as the microphone can bring the figure to a whole new level of realism.

The figure depicts USMC tanker manning the machine gun. The figure wears USMC’s Flame Resistant Organizational Gear (FROG) uniform, Modular Tactical Vest (MTV) and CVC Helmet. My references show that all the details on the uniform and equipment have been reproduced very realistically and accurately in scale.

Assembly:

I like the way Live Resin designs their miniatures. Featuring protrusions and indentations, the corresponding pieces are easily aligned and the putty work is kept to a minimum. I fixed the torso to the legs first, attached boots and arms next, and added the head. The tiny microphone was fixed when everything was in place, reducing the possibility to damage the piece while handling the miniature. In fact, I would suggest leaving the microphone off until all the painting is done.

As the name of the set suggests, the figure is designed to fit MCTAGS and LAV-25 turrets. Being a USMC tanker, I would use the figure with USMC AFVs. LAV-25 with a Platt Swing mounted M240 would probably be an ideal solution, while the other versions of this figure (LRM-35008 or LRM-35009) would be better suited for USMC softskin vehicles.

Conclusion:

USMC tanker figure for MCTAGS and LAV-25 turrets with CVC helmet (LRM-35007) is an impressive 1/35 scale figure from Live Resin. The figure is sculpted in an interesting pose, perfectly cast and easy to assemble, and should work really well with USMC armored vehicles.

Thanks to Live Resin for this review sample.