introduction

A new company out of France, Manta Figurines has released two Afrika Korps figures for the Tasca 1:24 Pz.II, along with a few accessories for the same kit. Their small catalog (at this time) also includes a couple of 1:35 figures, both WWII and modern. This quick first look will hopefully show what this new company has in store for us.

the leutnant

The figure, sculpted by Christophe Camilotte, arrives in a clamshell package with a card insert showing the painted figure. Manta has elected Nemrod to do the casting, and I believe the figure was painted by Nicholas Gohin. This figure is designed to fit in the turret with one hand resting on the hatch.

The body (knees to shoulders) is cast in one piece, with the lace up boots and both arms as separate pieces. A choice of two heads is given, both wearing the tropical field cap. Rounding out the pieces is the headband for the headphones.

Casting is well done with minimal clean-up required; some light seams on one arm and right side of the torso, along with some minor flash and slight imperfections. Sculpting is exquisite and life-like down to the creases on the palms of the hands. The veins on the back of the hands look to be a few too many (then again, I may be short a few). Reliefs for the pockets and scarf are well done, as well as the molded on holster.

Two heads are included, one wearing headphones with the other option sporting goggles. The one wearing headphones has one earpiece in place with the other resting on his cap. An expression of concentration as he listens/communicates to both his commander and whoever is on the radio. A throat mike is also molded on with this head. The second head shows this officer in a more relaxed mode, goggles resting on his cap and the impression of a faint smile.

Fit of the parts was very good and will require just a bit of filler at the shoulders, (in the photos I only have the head temporarily attached).

Scale wise, this figure measures out to approx. 5’8” – 5’9”.

conclusion

Figures add a great sense of scale and realism to models, and the Tasca 1:24 Pz.II is one worth adding this figure to. Manta Figurines has made a great debut with these figures, and Christophe Camilotte has done an excellent job in sculpting.