Verlinden
Productions
1765
This set is a retread, in poses if not exactly identical pieces,
of several previous VP figures. One soldier stands with his BAR
(still in 1/32 scale) at port position, a pose identical to a rifleman
in "U.S. WWII Streetfighters" (#1673) and the BAR gunner
in "U.S. Riflemen WWII" (#747). Alas, there is still no
BAR figure, in resin or plastic, actually posed firing his weapon.
The
other figure is kneeling, firing his Garand (still in 1/32 scale).
Again, the pose is the same as the figure in "U.S. Recon WWII"
(#1700) though the latter figure has his head raised instead of
looking down the weapon's sight.
What
about flip-flopping parts to have one figure firing the BAR? Well,
since the hands are molded onto the Browning and Garand, you must
significantly alter them or the arms of the other figure in order
for him to convincingly hold the gun for firing. While molding hands
onto weapons eliminates that "loose grip" one experiences
with many figures, this also makes it virtually impossible for most
modelers to swap weapons. Perhaps someday we'll get a BAR gunner
doing something other than standing around, but VP seems to be intent
on not being that company that offers it.
Otherwise,
this is a typical VP set in sculpting, detailing and accessories.
The figures both wear the M1943 jacket, wool trousers and canvas
leggings. One will have to take care removing the molding plug from
the bottom of the torso of the kneeling figure due to the long drape
of the bandolier across his chest. Make sure you have some putty
on hand as VP figures often have gaps where arms meet shoulders,
particularly when both hands hold a weapon.
All
said, this is an uninspiring pair of figures that will still serve
its modest purpose while leaving some of us frustrated that VP didn't
apply a bit more imagination to this effort.
-tss- |