Border Model’s recent 1/35 Type VIIC U-boat can be enlivened via two bespoke resin figure sets.
You may have seen our recent review of Border Model’s new 1/35 partial Type VIIC U-boat kit, which is a splendid package. As mentioned in our coverage, the manufacturer also produces two resin figure sets to accompany the vessel. One supplies a gun crew, while the other provides torpedo loaders… but both have the same two officer figures.
The set highlighted here is the latter, BR-003, catering for torpedo loading. Border’s kit offers the opportunity to have the U-boat’s torp’ loading hatch open, with angled cradle in situ, so you can sit the weapon on the cradle and have the crew manipulating the replenishment proceedings.
For the conning tower, the two officers both hold binoculars and one is gesturing with his left hand, as if they are both discussing tactics or a potential heading, while at the same time keeping a weather eye on their busy crew.
Two of the latter group are standing; one of these submariners is working the azimuth of the 88mm gun, ensuring the barrel is clear of the torpedo loading efforts. The other standing man is posed to be close to the cradle with a hand on the torpedo itself, as if guiding its progress. The final figure is sculpted in a crouching position to be on the opposite side of the weapon, also directing its travel.
Sculpting on all of the figures is impressive, with plenty of clothing folds and creases, which can be accentuated with careful shadow/highlight/lowlight work. No instructions are provided, but the images on the box act as a guide to position and pose. All that’s necessary is for the parts to be removed carefully from the casting blocks, assembled, washed (to remove any casting residue and sawing dust) and then painted. Notably, the facial features on each figure are well defined.
This set costs £49.95 and is distributed through Border’s UK importer Albion Hobbies, which you can email or telephone via Albion’s website to check on your nearest stockist.
