Tamiya started producing a range of figures in 1/16th scale several years ago. The majority are, not surprisingly, German subjects. However, as the range is constantly expanding, sooner or later they will produce a WWII Allied Figure. This figure attracted me in the first instance, as it is a long while since I did anything in the Winter-Camo gear, and this struck me as an excellent opportunity...

The kit

The figure comes in two sprues, one containing the parts of the figure, the other containing the equipment and weaponry. Two weapons are included - an MP44 and an MP38 the correct pouches are also included in the kit for attachment to the figure. Curiously enough, I compared the Tamiya MP44 to the Dragon MP44 in their Quartermaster's Series Set and I found the former slightly better defined. No sling is included in the kit so it will be necessary to fabricate one (a relatively simple process in this scale)...
The usual equipment is included, Gas-Mask canister, Bread bag, Entrenching tool and a bayonet.
The uniform portrayed is the two-piece (reversible) uniform - one side mottled camouflage, the other the White, winter uniform. Boots are the low ones worn with gaiters - a nice touch here, the 'jackboots are a little too 'prevalent' on German figures..
The figure is portrayed wearing 'mittens' and has a scarf wrapped round his head as in the other 'winter scene' figure. Perhaps it would have been better if Tamiya had included a choice of heads - another wearing the late-war forage cap would have been a nice touch...
A helmet is provided - which for me is once again an example of 'cutting-corners' it has no detail, none of the (correct) rivets which would be seen on a helmet of this periodand to my eyes, seems a little 'flat' The Helmet is going to be covered in cloth when I get round to assembling the figure....

Conclusions

It is a nice figure although, lacking in the 'crispness' we would come to expect, particularly those accustomed to the (better) resin figures. The moulding varies from the excellent to the soft - the face is a little lacking in definition. Perhaps it would benefit from a change in head, various companies such as Verlinden do a series of heads in this scale. Compared to the Dragon figures in this scale, the quality is there although careful assembly will pay dividends. The subject matter is excellent as well - there are many possibilities with this uniform type. Highly recommended and in particular for those who have never attempted a figure in this scale before. Now, if only Tamiya would expand the range and think about some accessory sets in this scale.....