WWII U.S. Army Infantry at Rest

Tamiya, 1/48 scale

Reviewed by Cookie Sewell

FirstLook
 
Continuing their excellent line of new 1/48 scale kits Tamiya provided this set as a rear area or command group set to compliment its earlier combat pose infantry set (32513). This set provides nine new figures, of which three are generals (Patton, Eisenhower and a generic one that could be used as a lower ranking officer).

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

Uniforms are varied. Patton and Eisenhower both come with “Ike” jackets (the former with a helmet, the later with a service cap). The rest have either M1941 or M1943 field jackets, combat boots or leggings, and other details. One comes with a “jeep” cap whereas the rests have helmets.

One figure is seated on a crate and a second is obviously the jeep’s driver. The remaining four are in casual poses such as standing or walking slowly.

The Jeep is quite detailed and should compare very well with previous releases from Bandai and Hasegawa of this vehicle. The Bandai one has 97 parts and the Hasegawa one 58; both also came with figure sets. Decals are included for two individuals with stars but no unit codes are provided.

 Eisenhower would probably be best used with the Monogram C-47 in a D-Day diorama as that kit comes with paratroopers on the ground next to the aircraft. Photos show him like this and it does provide a reason for him being present. Patton and the other one could be used anywhere.

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

As a suggestion, as these figures are rather “clean” it is probably a good idea to get the other kit as well and use the weapons and gear there to spice up these figures. This one also provides a good selection of gas cans and fuel drums for accessories and vehicle loads.

 Overall this is a good starter for diorama thinking!

 
Sprue Layout:

A             22           Willys MB Jeep undercarriage and wheels

B             43           Willys MB Jeep body and details

S              4              Clear styrene

Y              47           Fuel drums, jerry cans, packs, tarps

Z              44           Nine figures and details

Purchased by reviewer

Tamiya kits are distributed in the UK by The Hobby Company Limited