Introduction:

Assault Models utilizes 3D scanning technology for producing their figure kits. The process not only results in super-realistic miniatures, but also enables the company to offer the same figure in several different scales.

After releasing the US Special Ops figure depicting a soldier in harsh Afghan winter conditions in 1/35 scale, Assault Models produced the same figure in large scale. This review covers: Marine, US Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC), Afghanistan, 2014 (AM16006).

Review:

The figure is packed in a large plastic box featuring an image of a fully assembled and unpainted figure. Inside the box is a single zip-lock bag which holds 11 resin pieces:

- head,
- torso,
- legs,
- left arm,
- right arm,
- both hands holding a weapon,
- equipment pieces and weapon accessories (5x).

Cast in grey resin the pieces look really good with loads of details perfectly delivered. I was very impressed with the level of realistic details… the folds of the windbreaker conveying the “feel” of material, texture of Velcro patches, the perfectly rendered weapon and accessories… However, I did find several seam lines that have to be taken care of. The cleaning procedure should be performed carefully, without damaging the detail. Carrier blocks are large, but very easy to remove using sharp side cutters and x-acto blade.

Assembly:

Assault Models designs their kits very intelligently with all the pieces featuring protrusions and indentations to facilitate the assembly process. The perfect fit of the pieces makes this figure very easy to build, even for the modelers not experienced in working with resin. The putty work can be kept to an absolute minimum, which is also a big plus.

There are no instructions in the kit and I feel none are really needed as it is easy to deduce which part goes where. I started by joining the torso and legs. Fitting the main figure pieces can sometimes result in less than optimal alignment, but I encountered no problems here with no visible gaps after gluing the parts. I added the equipment next. Each piece fits really well. I would suggest taking some time to dry-fit the arms to the torso and hands with the weapon to the arms. Although the fit is perfect, it is always better to check and double-check the optimal position of these pieces before actually gluing them. Finally, I added the head to finish the figure.

The figure represents US Special Forces operative with his weapon ready for any sign of hostile activity. The walking pose looks good and balanced, the head sculpt and facial features are very convincing. The figure wears Crye Precision Combat Pants and Level 6 GORE-TEX Parka. Crye Precision Jumpable Plate Carrier (JPC) provides attachment point for various equipment pieces: triple ammo magazine pouch, radio pouch, IFAK pouch and a large backpack with integrated hydration system. As for the headgear, the figure sports MICH-2000 with NVG bracket mount and Velcro patches, strobe and Surefire helmet light. Asolo tracking boots are partially covered with Outdoor Research gaiters. Oakley glasses, Petzl gloves and Garmin GPS secured to the figure’s wrist add to the Special Ops feel of the miniature.

Armed with MK18 Mod 1 featuring Elcan Specter DR scope with Docter red dot sight, forward grip, AN/PEQ-15 target pointer/illuminator/aiming laser and KAC silencer, this figure means business.

Conclusion:

If you liked this figure in 1/35 scale, you’ll definitely like it even more in 1/16.

Marine, US Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC), Afghanistan, 2014 (AM16006) from Assault Models is a great figure. Developed using 3D scanning process and delivered in resin, the figure offers impressive level of details all around. The kit is intelligently engineered, the fit of the pieces is perfect and the figure is very easy to assemble.

A big thanks to Pavel from Assault Models for this review sample.