Kit review: Alpine's 1/16 USMC

Alpine Miniatures are known for their fantastic 1/16 scale line of single figures. The latest addition is no exception in terms of sharp, well defined detail and natural looking poses.

The parts break down into logical components such as the feet are separate under the brim of the trousers, hands connect at the shirt sleeves and the watch strap which make for perfect connecting points as filling in gaps on flesh can be problematic.

Two heads are provided which showcase the variations of helmets, one covered and one 'steel' which is par for the course for Alpine miniatures in all scales. The facial expression is very well defined which should make for excellent painting. The M1 with bayonet is superbly cast and appears to be the proper thickness required to convey a sufficiently 'hefty' weapon.

If there is one criticism I have it is with the use of straight resin parts for the hanging sling and the two chin straps. This is more of a personal preference issue rather than a problem, I'm used to using lead foil rather than heating and bending resin. All that being said the various buckles and clips on the sling can be clipped off and used in conjunction with lead foil. My reference for this warrior is Osprey Men At Arms #342 "The US Army In World War II (I) The Pacific." Hical, James