1:35 British Paratroopers with Small Motorcycle

British Paratroopers with Small Motorcycle 1:35, Tamiya

This set from the military miniatures range of Tamiya of Japan holds four figures of British paratroopers in 1:35 scale and two models of the small folding motorcycle. The figures are posed both standing and sitting on the motorcycle. The manufacturer adds photo-etched parts for the wheel spokes and the chain, a haversack, an ammunition pouch and a water canteen for the kit, and further the weapons: Enfield rifles and Sten Mk.II submachine guns. The package does not contain decals.

The real subject

The folding motorcycle was created for British special operations and its frame could be folded into a narrow air-drop container. Several thousand were built and they went above all to the airborne divisions, which were to gain mobility with them after landing. It was also used during the Normandy landings. The figures match British paratroopers from the fighting in western Europe: helmet, camouflage smock and the kit typical of the operations of 1944.

Building and painting tips

Sand the mold seams on the bodies down before painting, otherwise they will show through a light shade. Figures are painted in layers from the primer up to the highest planes. The face is painted sparingly in 1:35 scale, because exaggerated detail on so small an area looks coarse. Glue the metal wheel spokes with cyanoacrylate glue and degrease them before painting. Paint cloth and metal separately and bring the scene together only at the end.

Who the set is for

• builders of dioramas of the fighting in western Europe
• modelers who want to add infantry to British vehicles
• anyone interested in less usual airborne kit and equipment
• collectors of figures in 1:35 scale

The figures are supplied unassembled and unpainted. Paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.