Picked up a couple of auctions on Ebay. The first was a batch of Airfix German Mountain Troops. My plan is to form a 12-figure regiment for the wargames table while converting the remainder into artillery crew. I might also draft a few into my Zubrowka army, which was previously recruited from these figures.
The second batch are Airfix Japanese. They really are nicely designed, and a pleasure to paint. Only problem, it will be a real issue converting any of them into artillery crews. I can see why most collectors/wargamers utilise 1/35 scale for their support weaponry. The cost for all these figures, including delivery, was £15.90. Perhaps thats a bit high but I'm pleased with the gains.
Finally, have mentioned to Brad, I'm hoping to use some plastic Chinese-made copies for an unusual project. On Saturday, at my local market, I was able to pick up some 'strange' moulded toy soldiers for just £2. Its their odd-shaped German helmets which have opened up this idea. Have already associated them with a German artillery piece and an old lead machine-gunner.
I'm so glad that your local trader showed up on Saturday with a real bargain Michael! Now, the real mystery is what you will do with them! I can't wait to see what you have in mind!
ReplyDeleteThanks Brad, have already done some milliput work on the figures, and I think its working. Hope the project is not a disappointment. I'm certainly finding it a bit of fun, and it will provide an interesting alternative scenario.
DeleteMichael
I too am intrigued by the mystery use of those figures! Classic Toy Soldiers makes 54mm German and American artillery crews but alas, that's it. BMC/Marx has a Japanese figure with what looks like hands over the ears and that might work for manning a gun.
ReplyDeleteHi John, I love the range of 1/35, and understand why using them with 1/32 is no great issue. However, the costs of 1/35 has convinced me to try and convert what I need. I will keep an eye out for your suggestion of using a BMC/Marx Japanese figure, working on the idea of mustering two or three crew for most support weapons. No problems with the German artillery crews, the mountain troops have provided all I need. Have just completed another small unit of German infantry, something also unusual! And the 'mystery' figures are coming on quite well too.
DeleteMichael