1:35 Us soldier in Iraq N°2

The real subject

The subject is an American soldier in Iraq. The number two in the name sets this item apart from the other sets with the same subject inside the line, so several figures can be bought without the same pose being repeated. The 1:35 scale is the most widespread one for military vehicle models.

Where to use the figure

A single figure does surprisingly much for a scene. Standing beside a vehicle it shows its real size, and on patrol or at a checkpoint it gives the diorama a story. It pays to think about the placing before the vehicle gets its final coat, so that the figure can be adjusted slightly if need be. The composition of the set and the breakdown of the parts are given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Building and painting tips

Before painting, wash the parts in lukewarm soapy water and let them dry so that no grease is left on the surface. Cut any excess material away a little distance from the part with a sharp blade and sand the remainder with fine abrasive paper. Choose both glue and paints to match the material of the parts. What matters most is the face: start with the base flesh tone, then add a shadow under the chin and in the eye sockets and finally a highlight on the forehead, the nose and the cheekbones. Shade the uniform from photographs, as fabric fades quickly in the sun.

Who it is for

For modelers of modern American hardware and for builders of dioramas from the Iraq mission who want to add a human figure to the scene. It will also serve as a piece of figure painting in its own right.

Paints, glue and a base are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.