Model figures

New unpainted metal and resin/plastic figures/kits reviewed this issue by Gary Haines and Paul Osborne

- Gary Haines and Paul Osborne

ICM

Various new releases

First up from ICM for Autumn 2019 comes this very well-appointed 1:35 scale set of German machine-gunners from WWI set number 35711, (for reference a WWII MG08 Team has also been released).

The MG08 was the German army’s primary machine-gun for much of the War. It was a heavy beast, most frequently mounted on a folding sled that formed the shooting platform when erected - it was a formidable static weapon and cost countless thousands of British troops their lives in defence of the German trenches of the Western Front.

The sled parts are well detailed and intricately moulded, without being unnecessarily fiddly. A nice touch is the option to model the gun in a low prone-firing position, or in a high position for sitting/trench placement by selecting one of two leg stops moulded on the mainframe. A choice of two elevating arms is provided to set the gun cradle correctly for the firing height. Also provided is an LMG08/15 ‘Spandau’ most commonly used with a fixed bipod and drum-feed.

The two figures are in classic kneeling pose and wear full battle order, including packs and rolls, though this would be less likely in most static situations. Modellers will need to replicate the ‘y’ straps on the back of these figures if the packs are not used, as they are not present. Moulding is generally sharp, making these figures more compatible with likely urban vignette settings and popular automobile kits in the same scale, is a new S.W.A.T. team.

Inside the box we have four figures in various poses and states of readiness that would suit individual or paired usage in a smaller scene though, with careful placement, they will form a plausible team together.