U.S. Crew with PSP Plate
Modeling the U.S. Army in WWII

Precision Models
35049F

This is an interesting pair of figures toting a length of PSP (perforated steel plate) that was used for various purposes. When interlocked, it provided stable surfaces for runways or suppy staging areas. It also was used to provide traction for vehicles, which this tanker apparently has need of. He's dressed in the lined winter combat trousers and winter combat jacket. He also wears the winter combat helmet for warmth under his crash helmet, which is provided separately (from the box art it appears he's holding it in his right hand, but the hand as molded has the fingers closed).

The G.I. bringing up the rear appears to be an infantryman, from the magazine pouch for a Thompson submachine gun, ammo bag, and canteen molded to the figure. He's also dressed for colder weather, with a scarf around his neck and another item (perhaps a poncho?) looped over his web belt. He wears canvas leggings with his trouser bloused loosely over them. A .45 and entrenching tool are provided as separate items, through it's unclear where the tool would be attached given all the other gear draped from his belt.

The sculpting of the figures is good and the uniform details are there, if more subtly rendered than in other resin figures. Given the seasonal uniforms, it would have been nice to see the soldiers wearing gloves perhaps. The faces are well defined, which is a particularly good thing since the heads are molded onto the one-piece bodies. One will need to take some care positioning the arms to properly carry the load. The parts require a bit of clean up; the infantryman shows signs of wear and tear in the mold but nothing that can't be easily rectified with the hobby knife.

The piece of brass photo-etch plating is well done, if perhaps a bit thin as it can be easily bent. I've also used Verlinden's PSP and it's thicker and sturdier. The PSP will need some finishing work to give it the proper rusty steel appearance.

Precision Models has produced a unique offering that can properly accompany a tank that has found itself in need of additional traction.

-tss

 

Modeling the U.S. Army in WWII © 2002—2008 Timothy S. Streeter