Introduction:

The duffle bag is a large cylindrical bag made of cloth with a top closure, issued to US military recruits at the reception depot as the primary way to carry the other items issued. A common item for US soldiers since 1943, during World War II, the duffle bag has remained in use with the US military with only a few changes since its introduction.

Adapted from: http://olive-drab.com

Review:

Legend Productions recently offered two sets of US duffle bags in 1/35 scale and this review covers their US Duffle Bag set (Modern/10 pcs) (LF1358).

The set is packed in a typical Legend Production cardboard box with a box art image on the front showing the contents of the set. The set includes 10 resin pieces, each piece on its individual casting block. Cast in grey resin, the pieces look very impressive, featuring sharp details nicely delivered in scale with no visible imperfections whatsoever.

The duffle bag is made from olive drab canvas in a cylindrical shape with a sewn in round bottom and open top with a circle of grommets. The size is about 36-38 inches long and 12-15 inches in diameter. Duffle bags issued during WW2 had a cotton duck carrying handle and a shoulder strap that extends from the center of bag, ending in a snap hook. Modern US duffle bags added additional small features to the standard design, such as a side pocket next to the carrying handle, secured with a snap, and a replacement of the single carrying strap with a double harness so the duffle bag can be carried like a pack. Duffle bags are stamped with a black US, usually toward the bottom beneath the carrying handle. Other nomenclature and contract information will be stamped in black inside the opening rim along the line of grommets. The soldier's full or partial name will be stenciled or chalked on, possibly along with rank and serial number - the details of what is marked varied with time and field conditions.

The kit contains 5 slightly different duffle bags, each supplied two times in the set. The bags depict modern US military duffle bags and are accurately sized with all the details clearly recognizable. Although offering some variety, I wish one of the bags were displayed open to offer additional diversity in the set. With some stencils and chalk marks, these duffle bags can turn into a focal point of modern day dioramas.

Conclusion:

US Duffle Bag set (Modern/10 pcs) (LF1358) delivers 10 modern US duffle bags in 1/35 scale. The resin pieces are perfectly cast with details nicely rendered. With 5 slightly different duffle bags, the set offers a dose of variety.