Britannia 20mm vs Revell 1/72, Second World War

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

Britannia is well known for its 20mm Second World War range. The company covers all the major participants in great depth. Besides figures, Britannia has a range of vehicles and also offers artillery pieces and various other useful items.

These particular models come from Britannia’s British range, but the actual model codes are unclear. Because Britannia does not publish a complete illustrated catalogue, it is not feasible to determine exactly which models they are.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured to eyes): 19mm.
Height (measured to head): 21mm.

Availability and Cost:

In January 2011, Dave Howitt, the founder of Britannia Miniatures, passed away. Following a period of uncertainty, his complete catalogue was taken over by Andrew Grubb of Grubby Tanks. After a few more months of transition, the complete Britannia line was once again available. The website for this incarnation of Britannia is:

http://www.britannia-miniatures.com/

Foot figures in this range are being sold individually for £0.65.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figure on the left comes from box 02508 “German Engineers,” while the figure on the right can be found in box 02510 “Soviet Infantry.” The German set includes 40 foot figures in 12 poses, along with a few odds and ends. The Soviet set is a bit bigger, and comprises 48 figures in 18 poses.

Revell has produced a number of sets covering this conflict.

Figure Characteristics:

02508 (German) height, measured to eyes: 21mm.
02508 (German) height measured to top of head: 23mm.
02510 (Soviet) height, measured to eyes: 23mm.
02510 (Soviet) height measured to top of head: 25mm.

Availability and Cost:

Both of these sets were first released in the early 1990s. The Soviet set remains in production at Revell, and can be found online and at local hobby shops. The German Engineer set is not being produced at present, but the company has recently reintroduced a number of other sets from this period, so this one may soon be available again.

Falcon 25mm AWI vs 1/72 Revell SYW, foot

THE METAL FIGURES


Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures come from the “Falcon AWI” range currently offered by Minifigs under the Matchlock brand. The figures in this line were originally sculpted and released under the Falcon Miniatures name (not to be confused with Falcon Figures).

The two models are catalogued as:

AW12 Continental on Guard
AW41 German Officer Walking

There are currently 30 codes available in this line, all of them foot figures. They represent British and American forces, as well as German troops allied with the British. There are no cavalry or artillery units represented in the range.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured to eyes): 23mm.
Height (measured to head): 25mm.

Availability and Cost:

This line can be found on the Minifigs website, by selecting the “Matchlock” label and then looking for the “Falcon AWI tab.”

http://www.miniaturefigurines.co.uk/

Foot figures in this range are being sold individually for £1.10.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturers’ Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from two boxes. From left to right they are:

02579 “Austrian Artillery, 7 Years’ War.” This box includes 24 figures in 17 poses as well as three guns and a team of 4 horses.
02574 “Austrian Infantry, 7 Years’ War.” This box includes 46 foot figures in 13 poses, plus a mounted officer.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes):
Box 2574: 23mm.
Box 2579: 23mm

Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head):
Box 2574: 25mm.
Box 2579: 25mm.

Availability and Cost:

These sets are not currently listed as being in production at Revell, but boxes and used figures can be found at online and local hobby shops.

Notes on the Samples:

Some of the Revell figures were donated by Liam Sullivan.

25mm Falcon vs 1/72 Accurate and IMEX, AWI foot

THE METAL FIGURES


Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures come from the “Falcon AWI” range currently offered by Minifigs under the Matchlock brand. The figures in this line were originally sculpted and released under the Falcon Miniatures name (not to be confused with Falcon Figures).

The two models are catalogued as:

AW12 Continental on Guard
AW41 German Officer Walking

There are currently 30 codes available in this line, all of them foot figures. They represent British and American forces, as well as German troops allied with the British. There are no cavalry or artillery units represented in the range.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured to eyes): 23mm.
Height (measured to head): 25mm.

Availability and Cost:

This line can be found on the Minifigs website, by selecting the “Matchlock” label and then looking for the “Falcon AWI tab.”

http://www.miniaturefigurines.co.uk/

Foot figures in this range are being sold individually for £1.10.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The plastic figures have been released by three different manufacturers.

The American figure was originally released by Accurate in box 7201 “American Revolution, American Militia.” After IMEX bought Accurate, they included this figure in an expanded set 511, “American Revolution, George Washington’s Army.” Finally, Revell re-released the original Accurate set as 02561 “American War of Independence, American Militia.”

The British figure was included in Accurate box 7200, “American Revolution, British Infantry," as well as IMEX set 512, “American Revolution, British Redcoats.” It also was released by Revell in 02560 “American War of Independence, British Infantry.”

Each Accurate box contains 50 figures, with 17 poses for the British, and 16 for the Americans. The Revell releases are identical.

IMEX changed the mix to include 2 new mounted poses and 3 new foot poses in each of their boxes.

Figure Characteristics:

7200 (British) Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 22mm.
7200 (British) Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 24mm.
7201 (American) Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 21mm.
7201 (American) Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 23mm.

Availability and Cost:

Although Revell is not currently producing these sets, IMEX still seems to have them in production. They can be found through various plastic model distributors, and at hobby shops.

Notes on the Samples:

Some of the sample figures were donated by Liam Sullivan.

20mm Platoon 20 vs 1/72 Revell, First World War

The photo above compares two plastic figures from Revell with a pair of metal figures from Platoon 20. Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures are from Platoon 20, currently manufactured by East Riding Miniatures. These two figures are found in pack G-G1 “German Infantry Command (Pickelhaube).” This code includes 4 figures in 3 poses. Platoon 20’s First World War range covers Austria, Belgium, Britain, France, Germany and Russia. The German contingent includes 8 codes, 2 of which are mounted. Some of the figures in this range were previously manufactured by Lancashire Games

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured to eyes): 21mm.
Height (measured to top of head): 23mm.

Availability and Cost:

East Riding Miniatures sell most of the Platoon 20 figures in packages of 4, with multiples poses, for £2.50.

The website can be found here:

http://shop.eastridingminiatures.co.uk/

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 02504 “German Infantry WWI.” This box includes 48 figures in 12 poses, along with a pair of dogs. At the present time, this is one of only two sets which Revell has made for this conflict.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 22mm.
Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 23mm.

Availability and Cost:

According to PSR, this set was first released in 1990. It is currently in production at Revell, and can be found online and at local hobby shops.

20mm Kennington & SHQ vs 1/72 Italeri, Napoleonic mounted

The photo above compares two plastic figures from Italeri with a pair of metal soldiers from Kennington & SHQ. Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures are sold by both SHQ and Kennington, and are catalogued as BRC 2 “Napoleonic British Heavy Dragoons, Command.” The Napoleonic range from these two firms is quite extensive, and includes all the major participants.

Figure Characteristics:

Rider Height above ground (measured to rider eyes): 33mm.
Rider Height above ground (measured to top of head): 35mm.

Availability and Cost:

The metal figures can be purchased directly from the two manufacturers. The cavalry featured here sell for €5.50 at MBM Models (Kennington) or £4.50 through SHQ. For that price, you get 3 horses with 3 riders (2 officers and one trumpeter).

Kennington figures are available on the MBM website:

http://www.mbmmodels.com/1-72/kenf20mm/ken20f.htm

The SHQ site is here:

http://www.shqminiatures.co.uk/

Notes on the Samples:

The metal figures were generously provided by Peter Edwards from SHQ.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The first Italeri figure comes from box 6016: “French Imperial General Staff.” It contains 8 foot figures in 5 poses, as well as 13 riders in 7 poses and 13 horses in 5 poses.

The second Italeri figure comes from box 6007, “Prussian Cuirassiers, Garde du Corps, Napoleonic Wars 1806/7." The set has also been released by Revell as box 02589 “Prussian Curassiers, Mounted Regiment K2.” The box contains 17 figures in 9 poses.

Figure Characteristics:

6007 Rider Height above ground (measured to rider eyes): 31mm.
6007 Rider Height above ground (measured to top of head): 33mm.

6016 Rider Height above ground (measured to rider eyes): 30mm.
6016 Rider Height above ground (measured to top of head): 32mm.

6007 Rider Body Height (measured from foot, to knee, to hip, to eyes): 21mm.

Availability and Cost:

Italeri is currently set 6016 and it can be found through various plastic model distributors, and at hobby shops. Set 6007 has been recently withdrawn from production, but is still easily found.

Notes on the Samples:

The sample figure from box 6007 was donated by Mike Epting.

Musket 25mm AWI vs Revell 1/72 SYW, infantry

The photo above compares three metal figures from Musket Miniatures (A,C,E) with a pair of plastic soldiers from Revell (B,D). Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures come from Musket Miniatures’ 25mm American Revolution range. They are from code AWR 1720 “Hessian Grenadiers Command” which comes with 4 figures in 4 different poses.

Musket’s American Revolution range is very large, and contains roughly 90 different codes, not including the larger unit packs.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 22mm.
Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 25mm.

Availability and Cost:

Figures from Musket Miniatures can be found on the company’s website:

http://www.musketminiatures.com/

Foot figures are sold in several ways. Command packs include 4 figures for $3.75 US, while the rank and file can be purchased in groups of 6 for $5.50. Finally, a regiment of 20 figures, including command, costs $17.50.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturers’ Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from two boxes. From left to right they are: CHECK

B: 02574 “Austrian Infantry, 7 Years’ War.” This box includes 46 foot figures in 13 poses, plus a mounted officer.
D: 02572 “Prussian Infantry, 7 Years’ War.” This box includes 46 foot figures in 11 poses, plus a mounted officer.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes):
Box 2574: 23mm.
Box 2572: 23mm.

Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head):
Box 2574: 25mm.
Box 2572: 25mm.

Availability and Cost:

These sets are not currently listed as being in production at Revell, but boxes and used figures can be found at online and local hobby shops.

Notes on the Samples:

Some of the Revell figures were obtained in a trade with Will McNally, and others donated by Liam Sullivan.

SHQ and Kennington 20mm vs 1/72 Revell, Napoleonic mounted

The photo above compares two metal figures from SHQ and Kennington (A,C) with a pair of plastic troopers from Revell (B,D). Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures are sold by both SHQ and Kennington, and are catalogued as BRC 2 “Napoleonic British Heavy Dragoons, Command.” The Napoleonic range from these two firms is quite extensive, and includes all the major participants.

Figure Characteristics:

Rider Height above ground (measured to rider eyes): 33mm.
Rider Height above ground (measured to top of head): 35mm.

Availability and Cost:

The metal figures can be purchased directly from the two manufacturers. The cavalry featured here sell for €5.50 at MBM Models (Kennington) or £4.50 through SHQ. For that price, you get 3 horses with 3 riders (2 officers and one trumpeter).

Kennington figures are available on the MBM website:

http://www.mbmmodels.com/1-72/kenf20mm/ken20f.htm

The SHQ site is here:

http://www.shqminiatures.co.uk/

Notes on the Samples:

The metal figures were generously provided by Peter Edwards from SHQ.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturers’ designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 02576, “French Mounted Guard Chasseurs, Napoleonic Wars." The box contains 17 riders in 8 poses, 17 horses in 6 poses, and one dismounted figure.

Figure Characteristics:

Rider Height above ground (measured from ground to rider eyes): 30mm.
Rider Height above ground (measured from ground to top of head): 32mm.
Rider Body Height (measured from foot, to knee, to hip, to eyes): 21mm.

Availability and Cost:

Revell is not currently producing this set, and it is getting hard to find at hobby shops and second hand dealers. At present, most of the comprehensive online figure retailers list the product as out of stock.

IMEX, Accurate 1/72 vs Musket 25mm, AWI foot

The photo above compares three metal figures from Musket Miniatures (A,C) with a pair of plastic soldiers from Accurate/IMEX/Revell (B,D). Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures come from Musket Miniatures’ 25mm American Revolution range. They are from code AWR 1720 “Hessian Grenadiers Command” which comes with 4 figures in 4 different poses.

Musket’s American Revolution range is very large, and contains roughly 90 different codes, not including the larger unit packs.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 22mm.
Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 25mm.

Availability and Cost:

Figures from Musket Miniatures can be found on the company’s website:

http://www.musketminiatures.com/

Foot figures are sold in several ways. Command packs include 4 figures for $3.75 US, while the rank and file can be purchased in groups of 6 for $5.50. Finally, a regiment of 20 figures, including command, costs $17.50.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The plastic figures have been released by three different manufacturers.

Figure “B” was originally released by Accurate in box 7201 “American Revolution, American Militia.” After IMEX bought Accurate, they included this figure in an expanded set 511, “American Revolution, George Washington’s Army.” Finally, Revell re-released the original Accurate set as 02561 “American War of Independence, American Militia.”

Figure “D” was included in Accurate box 7200, “American Revolution, British Infantry," as well as IMEX set 512, “American Revolution, British Redcoats.” It also was released by Revell in 02560 “American War of Independence, British Infantry.”

Each Accurate box contains 50 figures, with 17 poses for the British, and 16 for the Americans. The Revell releases are identical.

IMEX changed the mix to include 2 new mounted poses and 3 new foot poses in each of their boxes.

Figure Characteristics:

7200 (British) Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 22mm.
7200 (British) Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 24mm.
7201 (American) Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 21mm.
7201 (American) Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 23mm.

Availability and Cost:

Although Revell is not currently producing these sets, IMEX still seems to have them in production. They can be found through various plastic model distributors, and at hobby shops.

Notes on the Samples:

Some of the sample figures were donated by Liam Sullivan.

Outland 20mm vs Revell 1/72, Seven Years War mounted

The photo above compares two plastic figures from Revell (A,C) with a pair of metal troopers from Outland (B,D). Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The Outland models come from their SYW range. Unfortunately, I was not given catalogue numbers for them; and no comprehensive set of images was available on either the Outland site or the GFI site when they were active. Therefore I cannot positively identify the figures, although I think these sculpts were originally released under the Battalionfeuer banner.

Figure Characteristics:

Rider Height (measured from ground to eyes): 29-30 mm.
Rider Height (measured from ground to top of head): 31-32 mm.

Availability and Cost:

Outland’s figures were available through GFI, but as of late 2010 GFI has suspended operations. Since the Outland website is also defunct, it seems that the figures are not currently available.

Notes on the Samples:

The Outland models were generously provided by the manufacturer

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from two sets. Figure A is from 02573 “Austrian Dragoons, 7 Years’ War.” Figure C is from 02575 “Prussian Hussars, 7 Years’ War.” The Dragoon set includes 15 riders in 8 poses, and 15 horses in 7 poses. The second set includes 17 riders in 9 poses, and 17 horses in 6 poses. Revell also makes a couple of infantry and artillery sets for this period.

Figure Characteristics:

02573 Rider Height (measured from ground to eyes): 32 mm.
02573 Rider Height (measured from ground to top of head): 34 mm.
02575 Rider Height (measured from ground to eyes): 30 mm.
02575 Rider Height (measured from ground to top of head): 32 mm.

Availability and Cost:

As of the current date (July 2011), these figures are not listed as being in production on the Revell website.

Notes on the Samples:

The Revell figures were obtained in a trade with Will McNally.

Garrison vs Revell, Saxon Warriors on Foot

The photo above compares two plastic figures from Revell (A,C) with a metal warrior from Garrison (B). Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figure is from Garrison Wargames Figures and comes from their 25mm Medieval range. Garrison uses the code “HS 10” to describe this figure, which they call “Saxon fyrdman with throwing axe.”

The Medieval range from Garrison includes 12 Saxon poses, 11 Normans, and 14 Vikings (2 of them mounted).

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 23mm.
Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 26mm.

Availability and Cost:

The metal Medievals retail for £0.60 each, and can be ordered directly from the Garrison website:

http://www.garrisonminiatures.com/index.asp

Notes on the Samples:

The Saxon figure was kindly provided by Rob Young at Garrison.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 02551 “Anglo-Saxons, 1066.” This box includes 40 foot figures in 15 poses, along with a pair of mounted figures in individual poses. Revell has also made a Norman set for this period.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 20mm.
Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 22mm.

Availability and Cost:

According to PSR, this set was first released in 1989. It is currently in production at Revell, and can be found online and at local hobby shops.

Notes on the Samples:

The Revell sample was kindly donated by Liam Sullivan.

Rose vs Revell, First World War German Infantry

The photo above compares two plastc figures from Revell (A,C) with a single metal soldiers from Rose (B). Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURE

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figure is a Rose Miniature, currently manufactured and sold by Garrison Wargames Figures. This figure is from the 20mm Rose range, which also covers Napoleonic, American Civil War and colonial subjects. At present the range includes 5 figures representing First World War soldiers. Garrison uses the code “ROSEGWG1” to describe this figure.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 20mm.

Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 22mm.

Availability and Cost:

The Rose figures are sold for £0.50 each, and can be ordered from the Garrison website:

http://www.garrisonminiatures.com/index.asp

Notes on the Samples:

The Rose sample was kindly provided by Garrison.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 02504 “German Infantry WWI.” This box includes 48 figures in 12 poses, along with a pair of dogs. At the present time, this is one of only two sets which Revell has made for this conflict.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 22mm.

Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 23mm.

Availability and Cost:

According to PSR, this set was first released in 1990. It is currently in production at Revell, and can be found online and at local hobby shops.

Revell vs RSM, Napoleonic foot

The photo above compares three metal figures from RSM (A,C,E) with a pair of plastic soldiers from Revell (B,D). Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures come from the former RSM 95 range, now produced by the Dayton Painting Consortium. The range includes foot and mounted figures representing Britain, France, Austria, Brunswick, Spain, Saxony and Bavaria, as well as some artillery pieces. There are about 75 Napoleonic codes in total in their catalogue.

I do not have the actual identification for these figures, although the one on the left is one of the Saxon models.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 20mm.
Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 22mm.

Availability and Cost:

The RSM figures are currently available from DPC. They are sold in bags of 24, including command figures, for $10.80 (US). The website is here:

http://www.dpcltdcom.org/

Notes on the Samples:

The Saxon figure was provided in a trade from Mike Epting.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturers’ Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 02581 “British Rifles, Napoleonic Wars.” The set contains 42 figures in 12 poses.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 21mm.
Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 23mm.

Availability and Cost:

This set is still in production at Revell, and can be found at hobby shops and online dealers.

Notes on the Samples:

The sample figures were donated by Liam Sullivan.

Accurate, Revell vs Musket Miniatures, ACW foot

The photo above compares three metal infantrymen from Musket Miniatures (A,C,E) with a pair of plastic soldiers released by both Accurate and Revell (B,D). Click on the image to see a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation:

The metal figures come from Musket Miniatures’ 22mm American Civil War range. They are from code CWH125 “Infantry standing loading” which comes with 8 figures in 4 poses, and includes several head variations.

Musket’s range is very large, and contains more than 300 different codes.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 20mm.
Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 22mm.

Availability and Cost:

Figures from Musket Miniatures can be found on the company’s website:

http://www.musketminiatures.com/

They are sold in several ways. Individual figures can be purchased for 75 cents (US), packages of 8 castings cost $5.25 US, while a regiment of 20 figures, including command, costs $12.95.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation:

The blue figure comes from Accurate set 7202 “American Civil War, Union Infantry” The figure was also issued by Revell as set 02559 with the same name. The sets feature 50 figures in 15 poses.

The grey figure can be found in three sets:
Accurate 7205 “Soldiers of the American Civil War: Union Engineers”;
Accurate 7209 “Soldiers of the American Civil War: Confederate Engineers”;
Revell 02564 “American Civil War, Confederate Pioneers”;
Each includes 31 figures in 10 poses.

Figure Characteristics:

7202 Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 22mm.
7202 Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 24mm.
7205, 7209 Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 23mm.
7205, 7209 Height (measured from sole of foot to top of head): 25mm.

Availability and Cost:

The Revell and Accurate plastic figures can be easily found in hobby shops.

Garrison Romans vs Revell Celts, foot

The photo above compares three metal Romans from Garrison and Greenwood & Ball (A,C,E) with a pair of plastic Celts from Revell (B,D). Click on the image for a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

I believe that the metal figures come from Garrison’s “20mm Ancients” range, and were previously produced under the Greenwood & Ball name. Within the Ancients range, Garrison currently offers 23 different poses for 1st Century Imperial Romans. However, the poses shown in this image do not seem to be currently in production.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 21mm.

Availability and Cost:

As mentioned, these figures are not available from the manufacturer at the present time. However, other Roman figures are in production, and can be purchased from Garrison directly. Foot figures are sold for £0.60 each, while mounted figures cost £1.50

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturers’ Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 02553 “Celts (Gauls).” This box includes 50 figures in 14 poses.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 20mm.

Availability and Cost:

This set is not currently listed as being in production at Revell, but new boxes and used figures can be found at online and local hobby shops.

Notes on the Samples:

The sample figures were obtained from two sources: a trade with Frank Ivansic, and a donation from Liam Sullivan.

Revell Thirty Years War vs Les Higgins ECW, mounted

The photo above compares two metal ECW troopers from Les Higgins (A,C) with a pair of plastic figures from Revell (B,D). Click on the image for a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The Les Higgins models come from their English Civil War range, which has been extended under the brand “20mm Nostalgic Revival.” They are catalogued as EP11 “Trooper of Horse with Sword.”

The ECW range currently comprises 16 codes, some of which have multiple poses. Coverage includes officers, pikemen, musketeers, cavalry and artillery.

Figure Characteristics:

Rider Height above ground (measured from ground to rider eyes): 30mm.
Rider Body Height (measured from foot, to knee, to hip, to eyes): 20mm.
Rider Body Height (measured from foot, to knee, to hip, to top of head): 22mm.

Availability and Cost:

The Les Higgins figures are currently available from Nostalgic Revival. Most figures can be ordered individually, though these come with two riders in a pack (one of each pose). I believe the cost is 40p (UK) for each rider, and another 45p per horse – although you should confirm this when ordering.

Notes on the Samples:

The Les Higgins models were generously provided by John Cunningham at Nostalgic Revival.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 2567, “Thirty Years’ War, Swedish Cavalry." The box contains 15 riders in 8 poses, as well as 15 horses in 8 poses.

Figure Characteristics:

Rider Height above ground (measured from ground to rider eyes): 32mm.
Rider Body Height (measured from foot, to knee, to hip, to eyes): 22mm.
Rider Body Height (measured from foot, to knee, to hip, to top of head): 24mm.

Availability:

According to PSR, Revell first released this set in 1991. The set is not currently in production.

Notes on the Samples:

The plastic figures were obtained in a trade with Will McNally.

Lancashire vs Revell, WW2 US Infantry, part 2

The photo above compares three metal infantry figures from Lancashire Games (A,C,E) with two plastic paratroopers from Revell (B,D). Click on the image for a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures come from Lancashire Games’ 20mm WWII American Range. They can be found in set 20/WBP32, which is a large battle pack titled “American Infantry.” The figures can also be found in smaller sets in the range. Lancashire offers 13 different sets of US Infantry, including several modeled in greatcoats. Each code includes several poses. Other US sets in their WW2 range cover the Marines (7 sets) and Paratroops (6 sets) .

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 21mm.

Availability and Cost:

These figures are currently available from Lancashire Games. Battle packs of 24 figures are sold for £10.50 with a discount for purchases of multiple items. Standard packs with 3 figures sell for £1.50.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 02517 “WWII US Paratroopers.” This box includes 44 figures in 12 poses.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 20mm.

Availability and Cost:

According to PSR, this set was first released in 1995. It is currently in production at Revell, and can be found online and at local hobby shops.

Notes on the Samples:

The Revell figures were obtained in a trade with Eric Yin.

Revell Thirty Years War vs SHQ & Kennington ECW, mounted

The photo above compares a pair of metal miniatures from SHQ & Kennington (A,C) with a pair of plastic figures from Revell (B,D). Click on the image for a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures are sold by both SHQ and Kennington, and are catalogued as ECWC 44 “Cavalry in Breast Plate and Soft Hat, Charging.” The ECW range from these two firms is quite extensive, and includes 67 foot poses, 15 cavalry poses, as well as artillery crew poses, and guns.
Figure Characteristics:

Rider Height above ground (measured from ground to rider eyes): 32mm.
Rider Body Height (to eyes): 22mm.
Rider Body Height (to top of head): 24mm.

Availability and Cost:

The metal figures can be purchased directly from the two manufacturers. The cavalry featured here sell for €5.50 at MBM Models (Kennington). For that price, you get 3 horses with 3 riders.
Notes on the Samples:

The metal figures were generously provided by SHQ.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 2567, “Thirty Years’ War, Swedish Cavalry." The box contains 15 riders in 8 poses, as well as 15 horses in 8 poses.

Figure Characteristics:

Rider Height above ground (measured from ground to rider eyes): 32mm.
Rider Body Height (measured from foot, to knee, to hip, to eyes): 22mm.
Rider Body Height (measured from foot, to knee, to hip, to top of head): 24mm.

Availability:

According to PSR, Revell first released this set in 1991. The set is not currently in production.

Notes on the Samples:

The plastic figures were obtained in a trade with Will McNally.

Lancashire vs Revell, WW2 US Infantry part 1

The photo above compares three metal miniatures from Lancashire Games (A,C,E) with a pair of plastic figures from Revell (B,D). Click on the image for a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures come from Lancashire Games’ 20mm WWII American Range. They can be found in set 20/WBP32, which is a large battle pack titled “American Infantry.” The figures can also be found in smaller sets in the range. Lancashire offers 13 different sets of US Infantry, including several modeled in greatcoats. Each code includes several poses. Other US sets in their WW2 range cover the Marines (7 sets) and Paratroops (6 sets) .

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 21mm.

Availability and Cost:

These figures are currently available from Lancashire Games. Battle packs of 24 figures are sold for £10.50 with a discount for purchases of multiple items. Standard packs with 3 figures sell for £1.50.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturers’ Designation and Number of Poses:

The Revell figures come from box 02506 “WWII US Marines.” This box includes 50 figures in 12 poses.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 22mm.

Availability and Cost:

According to PSR, this set was first released in 1993. It is currently in production at Revell, and can be found online and at local hobby shops.

Notes on the Samples:

The Revell figures were obtained in a trade with Eric Yin.

US in Vietnam: Rafm vs Esci, Italeri, Revell

The photo above compares three metal figures from Rafm (A,C,E) with three plastic figures originally released by Esci (B,D,F). Click on the image for a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturers’ designation and Number of Poses:

The Rafm figures come from the “Charlie Company” range; the specific figures come from the following codes (each code comprises multiple poses):

A.RAF 06993 “US Army Rifle Squad”
C. RAF 06971 “USMC Rifle Squad”
E. RAF 06970 “USMC Command”

Rafm has 14 different sets available in the “Charlie Company” range. In addition to the figure sets, the company also offers a helicopter and a 105mm gun with crew.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 20mm.
Body Build: Average.

Availability and Cost:

Rafm’s metal figures are currently available, and can be ordered directly from the manufacturer. The Army Rifle Squad and USMC Command sets both cost US$7.95 for nine or ten figures (in different poses). The USMC Rifle Squad costs a dollar more, and includes 14 figures.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The plastic figures were originally released by Esci as set 228 “Vietnam War, US Elite Forces.” The box included 50 figures in 15 poses.

The set was reissued by Italeri as set 6078, “American Special Forces, Vietnam War.” Revell also produced it, as set 02527, with the same name as the Italeri set.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 21mm.
Body Build: Average.

Availability and Cost:

The Italeri and Revell versions of this set can be found easily. For instance, Ye Olde Toy Soldiers is selling the Italeri version for $9.99 US.

Platoon 20 vs Esci, Revell, Italeri VC and NVA, Vietnam War

The photo above compares three metal Viet Cong figures from Platoon 20 (A,C,E) with a similar number of plastic NVA and VC troops, released originally by Esci (B,D,F). Click on the image for a larger version.

THE METAL FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The metal figures are from Platoon 20, currently manufactured by East Riding Miniatures. The “Vietnam Wars” range currently offered includes figures for the Vietminh to fight the French, as well as NVA, and VC for the later period.

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 18mm.
Body Build: Average.

Availability and Cost:

As mentioned, Platoon 20 figures are available from East Riding Miniatures. They are generally sold in packages of 4, with multiples poses, for £2.50.

THE PLASTIC FIGURES

Manufacturer’s Designation and Number of Poses:

The plastic figures were originally released by Esci as set 229 “Vietnam War, North Vietnamese.” The box included 50 figures in 15 poses.

The set was reissued by Italeri as set 6079, “Vietnamese Army/Vietcong, Vietnam War.” Revell also produced it, as set 02526 “Vietcong, Vietnam War.”

Figure Characteristics:

Height (measured from sole of foot to eyes): 21mm.
Body Build: Average.

Availability and Cost:

The Italeri and Revell versions of this set can be found easily. For instance, ModelsForSale.com is selling the Italeri version for £6.50 and the Revell version for the much lower price of £4.88.