History

Designed in 1932, Breda 20/65 was adopted by the Italian armed forces in 1935, it was the one of two 20 mm anti-aircraft guns used by Italy during World War II. Designed as a dual purpose weapon for use against both aircraft and ground targets, it was effective against light tanks, with the armor piercing round being able to penetrate 30 millimeters of armor at a range of 500 meters. It had a two-wheeled trailer, but due to its structural weakness that limited the towing speed to 20 km/h, the weapon was usually transported on a truck bed instead.

the kit

So what’s in the box?
Well of course you get the Breda 20/65. Molded in a light grey plastic, Italeri has done a nice job on the gun itself and the carriage. Fifty five finely molded and detailed parts make up the gun and carriage, which can be built either as towed or deployed. Two versions can also be built; one appears to be for ground targets, the other set up in the anti aircraft role. (Believe me, I’m not expert on anything Italian even though I live in “Jersey”, but do love the food and women!)

General Impressions

Now for the letdown after the good points, and humor, the servants, I guess the stubborn mule counts as a servant, or figure, since the box says THREE figures. You get two figures, one pushing the gun, and one pulling the mule.

I have to say if you were expecting Dragon figures you are surely going to go into a massive depression, if on the other hand you were expecting typical Italeri figures, your expectation will surely be met. The pushing guy consists of one body, two arms, and a helmet and backpack. The pulling dude is a one piece molding, helmet, and backpack. Two rifles are also included. A little old fashion file and knife work will certainly be needed to brings these guys up to snuff.

The Mule is pretty neat, having a typical stubborn mule stance, consisting of two halves, a tail, mane, saddle, and frame for towing, He is sure to show up in other places besides fighting with these two Italians. The weapon will make a nice stand alone piece for those so inclined.

Since the Commonwealth forces captured large numbers of these weapons in North Africa, and used them in great numbers, I expect to see a few Australian troops gathered around one of these in vignettes and dioramas soon.

Conclusion

It’s a shame Italeri doesn’t bring their figure sculpting into the 21 century, or at least subcontract it to another company, and just concentrate on doing vehicles, boats, etc.

I bought this set from Squadron, cost was $19.80

No Italians or animals were harmed in the making of this review.