MK35 Editions 1/43 series of resin military figures includes WWII US Soldier, Ardennes Winter 1944-45, Hiver. It is crisply cast complete except for the barrel of the Thompson submachine gun, and features a base.
The figure
Cast in a pastel lime resin the model is sealed in a zip-lock baggie. Included is a paper 'box art' label and painting guide. The figure is cast complete except for the barrel of the Thompson submachine gun, and features a base. All pieces share the same pour block. The figure and clothing are cast sharp and clear.
Scale
MK35 WWII military figures are 1/43, compatible with model railroad O scale in Britain and continental Europe. In 1/48 O scale this figure, posed in a relaxed slouch, is 6-foot 3-inches tall from boot bottom to eye level (40 mm). Such tall soldiers served in WWII, thus this figure can be used with 1/48 models so long as the modeler is happy with the ratio of the helmet and other equipment.
Detail
The GI is sculpted in a relaxed pose. He is clothed in boots with web gaiters, the thigh-length four-pocket M1943 Field Jacket with concealed buttons, greatcoat, scarf, and 'tin pot' M1 helmet. Despite wielding an M1928A1 45-caliber Thompson submachine gun the model lacks any belt webbing and pouches. The helmet chinstrap is pulled over the flared rear helmet rim. Nice lacing details the back of the web gaiters.
Facial detail is muted as half of the face is under the helmet overhang. Good facial structure - cheeks, nose, lips, eye sockets - is sculpted.
His Thompson is detailed and mostly to scale although the foregrip and barrel seem bulky.
Painting instructions
Humbrol paint is the sole hobby brand referenced. However, MK35 presents special painting ideas by including the mixing of special effects using Winsor & Newton oils, as well as using pencil lead. They also list a mix for the flesh tones.
Conclusion
This figure is one of several models in a series of US soldiers, Ardennes Winter 1944-45. He is nicely cast with a convincing pose and departs from cliché of being laden down with gear.
It looks properly proportioned with maybe the Thompson barrel being overscale.
I appreciate this model and recommend it.
SUMMARY
Highs: Casting is sharp and clear with a convincing pose.Lows: Maybe the Thompson barrel is overscale.Verdict: A good looking model that fills a void in 1/43.
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About Frederick Boucher (JPTRR) FROM: TENNESSEE, UNITED STATES
I'm a professional pilot with a degree in art.
My first model was an AMT semi dump truck. Then Monogram's Lunar Lander right after the lunar landing. Next, Revell's 1/32 Bf-109G...cried havoc and released the dogs of modeling!
My interests--if built before 1900, or after 1955, then I proba...
Didn´t even know there was a 1/43 market!!
Never go by the artwork for this brand. Check out the cast figure instead. Always beautifully cast and great detail.
[/quote]Didn´t even know there was a 1/43 market!![/quote]
Hi Frank,
I thought I saw somewhere that there are some resin and injection 1/43 kits out there. I think most 1/43 are die cast: Schuco, Corgi, Solido, et al. Schuco detail and scaling appears pretty impressive. I surmise that collectors of this range want good looking figures now.
True. I don't understand how a company thinks it is good to market their products with such a sloppy boxart image. The cast looks quite good, so it is obvious this figure has much more potential then could be seen on the boxart.
Mario
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