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In-Box Review
135
Verfügungstruppe
Verfügungstruppe, France 1940 1:35 '39-'45 Series
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by: Jim Starkweather [ STAFF_JIM ]

The latest figure release for DML is a set of four soldiers in the SS Verfügungstruppe (V-Division or Reich) are depicted in relaxed poses after the invasion of France (1940). This set was just announced at the Shizuoka Hobby Show in Japan and we are happy to be able to preview them for you here on Armorama.

The Figures

The kit is a regular release for Dragon, not a Premium or Gen 2 release. The kit contains over 50 parts and is recommended for modelers over the age of 14. There are no decals or photo-etch included with this kit (nor would one expect them to be in this release). DML has done it's usual best with sculpting and mold quality while packing in enough detail on this kit to make a Gen2 kit jealous. I think their experiences with Gen2 have helped them gain some real perspective on how far you can go with figures, just as they have done for AFVs in general.

The kit includes an excellent array of weapons and gear including two Granatbûche 39 anti-tank rifles, and what looks like a Bergmann MP28 II. Six helmets are included also.

Of course that is not to say the kit is perfect by any means, but for the low cost involved, a little sanding of seam lines here and there and some very minuscule flash and you will be all set. The realism of the sculpting is apparent in the photos here.

So if you are looking for a new and different figure set for a post-battle early war scene, this is the set for you. Pose them next to a Hotchkiss (as seen on the boxcover), or you can place them next to a Panzer I-II as well of course.
SUMMARY
Highs: Excellent detail for a normal (non-premium, non gen2) release.
Lows: Minimal seam lines to be sanded.
Verdict: For the early war builder this kit will be a very welcome addition.
Percentage Rating
92%
  Scale: 1:35
  Mfg. ID: 6309
  Suggested Retail: $10.95 USD
  PUBLISHED: May 24, 2007
  NATIONALITY: Germany
NETWORK-WIDE AVERAGE RATINGS
  THIS REVIEWER: 89.91%
  MAKER/PUBLISHER: 86.16%

Our Thanks to Dragon Models!
This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.

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Photos
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About Jim Starkweather (staff_Jim)
FROM: NEW HAMPSHIRE, UNITED STATES

I started building models in 1971 when I was 6. My first model was a 1/32 P-40 Warhawk. Revell I believe. From there I moved onto the standard cars, Apollo spacecraft, and other kid orientated kits. I don't know what got me started on Armor. I must have seen a Monogram tank kit one day and said "Mom...

Copyright ©2021 text by Jim Starkweather [ STAFF_JIM ]. All rights reserved.



Comments

Thanks for the review Jim. From the pics, Id have to agree, that the Dragon standard kit has benifited from their technology expanse. The relief on small detail appears much better (straps, buckles, laces), but the quality of their heads and details contained are excellent. Even the ears have improved. Id rather have these heads than the GenII split-heads anyday. Those close-ups of the heads would be nearly enough to sell me! Ive liked the artwork from the set-go, but its nice seeing the actual sprues. Nice one.
MAY 24, 2007 - 11:02 AM
Love all those photos. Really gives a great idea of the sprue. For regular DML figures (i.e. non-Premium or Gen2) those faces look incredible. Definitely not the traditional expressionless, generic sort of faces we have seen from DML up until about 3 releases back. A well deserved well done to DML for improving those faces!! Thanks for the preview, Jim. Rudi
MAY 24, 2007 - 11:04 AM
Thanks for the heads-up Jim. Looks to be another quality set from Dragon. Believe the vehicle is a Hotchkiss though: now that would be something to look forward to!
MAY 24, 2007 - 05:13 PM
Seems they also have another new set on the way - new tank crew http://www.hlj.com/hlj_gallery2/v/shs2007/military/Additional+Military+-+03.jpg.html Alan
MAY 24, 2007 - 05:34 PM
Darn... you're right I was looking solely at the turret (and am no French tank expert). Ruined my punch-line though but I re-wrote the end. Thanks for pointing that out though. Cheers, Jim
MAY 24, 2007 - 07:41 PM
   
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Photos
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