Everybody who is anybody seems to be well aware of Hornet's status as the supplier of replacement heads to 1/35th scale modellers. This latest addition to their range just reinforces the fact that Hornet produce the best and the widest range.
The set
The set is actually labelled for 1:32 or 54mm figurines, but placing them next to an older 1:35 scale Hornet head shows only the tiniest of size increases, and they are well within the range exhibited by real heads, so could easily be used for 1:35 scale figures.
Hornet resin is of a hardness that makes it easy to work with, and to shape the neck to fit the figure you're working on. This set consists of five replacement heads, each connected to a small pouring block as all Hornet replacement heads are, which are easily removed by simply snapping off, leaving a very small residue which can then be removed with a scalpel blade. As usual, Hornet thoughtfully provide a slightly longer neck than you will probably need, so that the heads can be attached seamlessly at almost any angle.
Each head, as per usual is different, and as you can see from the relevant pictures, carry a range of expressions from quiet contemplation to ribald laughter! Each face is finely sculpted and good painting with oils would pay result in a fine finish. However, the really nice thing about these Hornet heads is the extremely smooth finish. What this means is that if you are accustomed to using washes to achieve the final result on your faces, then these are perfect, since they take a wash really well, which cannot be said for replacement heads from other manufacturers, which if examined really closely, are not so smooth.
The heads are all provided bald, therefore appropriate headgear can be added without too much effort, or your favourite product applied to represent hair. There's plenty of things to choose from if you decide to go down this route. The absence of headgear I see as an advantage, since they can then be used to represent any nationality.
in conclusion
Hornet heads already have a well-earned reputation for being amongst the best you can get. With the expressions provided here, this set is at the top of the list for the next set of figures I complete. Highly recommended.
My thanks to Hornet for the review sample.
SUMMARY
A superb addition to the range of available headsets.
Our Thanks to Hornet! This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.
I discovered Hornet replacement heads sveral years ago, but only recently used'em ...fan-bloody-tastic, love'm , I think, that I'll be using them on most if not all my 35 scale figs. The sculpting is excellent and gives the painter alot to work with.
Can't recommend them enough
Regards
Joker
Hey Dave, do you know anyone who makes banjos in 1:35th?
These are really well done... There are some quite sombre faces,as well as the goofballs! If we have the time, I reckon someone should go through the whole catalogue and get the closest match to a big A member... :-)
Hornet heads are the best when it comes to 1/35 scale. I have used dozens of them on various figures, mostly Dragon, and they are a perfect match. The bald headed heads can easily be snipped and cleaned up to accept almost any form of headgear. The range of facial expressions is terrific, the various headgear and hair is superb and a must have for serious figure folks. The latest sets look like some of their best yet.
You can get them at a lot of places but I usually order mine from LINK as they are reliable and quick.
Check 'em out and enchance those new SS men or British tankers or GIs with the netting and cammo covers.
IronMike
Are Hornet 135 heads suitable for all DML and Tamiya sets? I found DML sets are diffferent in size. Some sets have large figures with large heads.
Thank you
Oleg Lukyanov
I've seen quite a few DML figures with Hornet replacement heads (some with hands too) in forum galleries. The DML figure looks so much better!
I've got to try a Hornet set one day...
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