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In-Box Review
135
Soviet Motor Rifle Troops IV
Soviet Motor Rifle Troops IV Summer 1943 - 45
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by: Darren Baker [ CMOT ]

Introduction

In this review I will be taking a look at a series of Russian motor troops which represent Tanks very early figure releases, in fact if the identification codes represent Tanks release schedule this is the 12th set of figures to be released. This set consists of two figures which can be used individually or with any number of the six twin figure sets available in the same vein. The sets are designed to be used on or around Russian armour of World War Two.

Contents

The figures in this pack are in the standard white card box with a colour print showing the figures assembled and painted on the front. Inside the box there are two clear zip lock bags with the parts for each of the figures together in each bag. Both figures are moulded in a light tan resin and consist of;

• Torso and legs moulded in one.
• Two arms.
• Flat top head.
• Water bottle.
• Drum magazine or clip magazine canvas pouch.
• Helmet.
• Personal weapon.

Review

Figure one depicts a leaning figure wearing a backpack and armed with a Pistolet-Pulemet Shpagina obrazets 41. The uniform is well detailed with the later style of shirt and reinforcement area on the knees of the breaches being well depicted, the creases are naturally depicted and logically placed. The left foot looks a little unnaturally placed but it will I believe look right when placed on a vehicle or base.

The hands are not the best I have seen in resin in terms of detail but they are more than a match for current injection moulded plastic offerings, I believe this is down to the age of the moulds rather than a lack of effort on the part of Tank. The facial detail is very good and will be a good canvas for figure painters.

The Pistolet-Pulemet Shpagina obrazets 41 appears accurate in regards to size and detail, and has a separate drum magazine. The water bottle and spare drum magazine canvas holder are well detailed, the helmet which looks the part is spoilt in my opinion by the pour plug connection point being in the centre top of the helmet.

The second figure shares all the same attributes of the first with the following changes. The figure is depicted in a walking crouch position, and is armed with what I believe is a Pistolet-Pulemet Sudareva obrazets 42. The weapon does not have the foldable stock depicted in any way and as it also does not look to have been broken off at any point leads me to believe this is an oversight by Tank. The other changes with this figure are the canvas three magazine pouch and knapsack.

Conclusion

Despite these two figures being older offerings from Tank I have no concerns about recommending them to you. One thing with Tank figures is that you never seem to encounter air bubbles or any of the other problems that can be found with resin products, in fact the only resin related issue I can ever remember finding was a badly cured weapon in one case and that is a very rare occurrence with this manufacturer.

Pictures of assembled and painted figures are from Tank
SUMMARY
Highs: This product from Tank has very good detail overall with the natural and logical placement of creases being a high point for me.
Lows: For me the low points of this product are the connection points on the helmets and the possible oversight of the stock on the Pistolet-Pulemet Sudareva obrazets 42.
Verdict: Highly recommended as riders for your World War Two Russian armour.
  Scale: 1:35
  Mfg. ID: T-35012
  Suggested Retail: £10.99
  PUBLISHED: Oct 01, 2011
  NATIONALITY: Russia
NETWORK-WIDE AVERAGE RATINGS
  THIS REVIEWER: 87.04%
  MAKER/PUBLISHER: 83.00%

About Darren Baker (CMOT)
FROM: ENGLAND - SOUTH WEST, UNITED KINGDOM

I have been building model kits since the early 70’s starting with Airfix kits of mostly aircraft, then progressing to the point I am at now building predominantly armour kits from all countries and time periods. Living in the middle of Salisbury plain since the 70’s, I have had lots of opportunitie...

Copyright ©2021 text by Darren Baker [ CMOT ]. All rights reserved.



   
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