For a long time the only Tamiya figure kits available were the sets which first appeared up to 30 years ago and as such these days they are starting to show their age, especially when they are compared to some of the more contemporary sets from some of the other figure kit manufacturers.
However over recent years Tamiya have introduced a number of new figure kits like this one which represents four figures restocking a tank with ammunition. This, and other more recent Tamiya kits like it, have improved greatly on the quality compared to those earlier kits. The moulding quality here is excellent with clear, sharp detail and distinct facial features, each with an individual look.
Coming in the usual Tamiya open ended figure box, containing two sprues moulded in dark yellow these are the usual Tamiya quality of finish, no flash, minimal mould seams, and clear sharp detail. Averaging 50mm tall these scale out at 168-175cm tall or 5 foot 9 which is a big improvement over some of Tamiyas earlier figures.
In this set you get four figures in tanker overalls with a mix of bareheads and overseas caps. The two sprues are identical giving you two poses with two figures in each pose, so what Tamiya have done here is to include extra heads and arms to allow you to vary the poses. So you end up with four figures with eight heads and twelve arms.
The figures in this kit only make up half the kit though, as you also get a total of eight wooden ammo crates, all with separate lids, internal detail and very nicely done woodgraining detail. These represent two cases each for 7.5cm KwK 40 ( Pz.Kpfw IV ) shells, 7.5 cm KwK 42 ( Panther ) shells, 8.8cm KwK 36 ( Tiger I ) shells, and 8.8cm KwK 43 ( Tiger II ) shells. For these you get six Pzgr. Patr. 39 KwK 40 shells, two Pzgr. Patr. 39 KwK 42 shells, four Spgr. L/45 KwK 36 shells, and two Pzgr. Patr. 39 KwK 43 shells. A small sheet of decals is also included for case markings.
You also get two spare Panther road wheels with very nice detailing, though you will need to drill out the centre bolt holes, and in a rather nice little touch there are two cats.
Assembly and painting instructions are included on the rear of the box and are very easy to follow.
Although the figures are double up of two poses the interchangeable heads and arms does actually make them look quite different, and all the included bits and pieces of ammo make this a very worthwhile set. The quality is excellent, the figures and boxes look very good, and the inclusion of the cat just really gives it that extra little bit of character.
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