Introduction:
The M32 MGL (Multiple Grenade Launcher) is a new United States Marine Corps (USMC) adoption of a repeat-fire, portable grenade launcher. The weapon was trialed with USMC units in Iraq and offers suppression of enemy positions through a spring-driven, non-removable, six-shot revolving cylinder capable of projecting 40mm-type grenades out to ranges of 400 yards. The M32 is based on the patents of the excellent South African MGL-140 system designed and manufactured by Milkor Pty Ltd. The original MGL design was debuted in 1981 and accepted into service during 1983, going on to see widespread service across the globe with over a dozen nations.
Adapted from: http://www.militaryfactory.com/
Review:
The M32 Multi-Shot Grenade Launcher (MGL) with Trijicon RX01 red dot sight (LRE-35300) set from Live Resin is the latest addition to the company’s growing range of 1/35 scale weapons. The set is packed in a zip-lock bag additionally secured within a hard cardboard clamshell. The box art displays the M32 included in this kit, noting the kit contains 2 weapons: one with closed cylinder and the other with the opened cylinder magazine.
The kit includes 13 pieces cast in grey resin. As with all Live Resin weapon sets, the resin is absolutely flawless featuring a ton of details perfectly rendered in scale. Most of the parts in this set are very delicate and small, so extra care is needed not to damage or lose the pieces when cleaning them from their carrier blocks.
Upon closer inspection, I was very impressed as the set delivers M32 MGL in 1/35 scale perfectly. The complex shape of the weapon is accurately reproduced, with an adjustable stock, frame and firing mechanism, the massive revolving cylinder magazine, and sections of Picatinny rail over the receiver and on all sides of the handguard. The weapons in this set feature forward grip under the handguard and M2A1 reflex sight (not Trijicon’s RX-01 as stated on the kit label). One of the weapons is cast as a single piece on its own carrying block, while the other weapon is produced in two main pieces, which enables depicting the weapon with its magazine open exposing the cylinder chambers for reloading. The M2A1 sight for this weapon is supplied individually. Also, there are two full 40mm rounds and six additional tiny pieces which can be used to depict the back of the rounds inserted into the magazine cylinder. Wow! A word of advice... when depicting the M32 MGL open, do not use box art as a guide. The real M32 actually opens to the opposite direction, as the rear of the cylinder (including the pistol grip) is unlatched and pivoted counter clockwise. The weapon latch is supplied as a separate part as well.
Conclusion:
Live Resin designs their sets using CAD software and, with the help of 5-micron rapid prototyping, produces incredibly realistic weapons and accessories in scale. The M32 Multi-Shot Grenade Launcher (MGL) with Trijicon RX01 red dot sight (LRE 35300) set is no exception to the rule. The set features a 1/35 scale rendition of a portable grenade launcher currently in use by the USMC in Afghanistan and Iraq. The set consists of two weapons (one of which can be built open for reloading) wonderfully delivered in resin and featuring loads of perfectly defined details.
References:
Milkor USA
Modern Firearms
Military Factory
Wikipedia
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