1:35 LRDG Driver #3

Third version of the desert patrol driver

The resin casting in 1:35 scale extends the line of figures for the British Long Range Desert Group with another man at the wheel. The manufacturer lists it outside both numbered series, so it can be used as a substitute for the driver from either of them or as the crew of a second vehicle in a column.

The patrol vehicle fleet

At first the patrols drove commercial trucks with rear-axle drive, modified for the desert: the cab was cut away, mounts for weapons were added, along with a larger radiator and carriers for sand mats. Later came Canadian machines with all-wheel drive, and at the end of the campaign light cross-country cars for fast raids. Each patrol counted several vehicles so that the crew had something to fall back on in case of a breakdown.

Preparing the parts before painting

Apply the primer in thin coats so that the engraved folds of the clothing are not lost under it. The driver's pose calls for the hands to be set precisely to the steering wheel, so first only offer both limbs up and glue them once the wheel sits right. The headgear will take a strong contrast, because the fabric wound around the head creates deep grooves.

For what builds

• Columns of several patrol vehicles one behind another
• A substitute for the driver from the numbered series
• Scenes from long range reconnaissance in Libya
• Collections of figures of British special forces

This is a single unpainted casting; the patrol vehicle is bought separately.