1:16 German tank crew in pit dot Part 2

The real subject

A crew gives a tank model both scale and a story. An empty vehicle looks like a technical drawing, whereas a figure leaning against a fender or hanging out of a hatch gives away at once how big the machine is and what is going on around it. With German tanks of the Second World War the crew moved between the turret, the bow and the surroundings of the vehicle, so figures are usually modeled in stances that suit one of those places.

What the set offers

This is the second part of a pair of figures of a German tank crew in 1:16; the first part is a separate item and both parts were intended for one scene. A large scale makes higher demands on painting than tiny figures do, but at the same time it rewards careful work: the texture of the cloth, the buckles and the expression of the face are all visible. The figures will serve with a model on a base, in a diorama, and as company for a radio-controlled vehicle that is otherwise displayed at rest.

Building and painting tips

First dry-fit the figure and find it a place in the scene; only then join the parts, because the turn of the torso and the head cannot be corrected once the glue has dried. Cut the excess material off with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand the remnant down. Wash and degrease before painting, and choose the glue according to the material stated on the package. Fill and sand the seams at the shoulders or at the waist, otherwise you will see them more after the base color is sprayed on than you do now.

Terms of supply

Figures are supplied. The paints, the putty and the glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.