WWII German IR Infantry

Kit # WFM72022

At the end of the Second World War Germany started to field a small number of AFs with infra-red (IR) vision devices. An even smaller number of individual troops were equipped with MP44s (aka StG44) that were fitted with the Vampyr IR scope (as shown in this picture). This set gives three figures that can be portrayed as such.

Two of them are upright, one is kneeling. All are carrying smocks and MP44 pouches. Only one has a separate head, so I am not sure if the set is supposed to have three identical heads with a cap and one with a helmet as separate parts. I also have the impression that one of the separate arms is a double. If you look closely, you will see that only two of the MP44 have the IR device fitted integrally, while there is a separate IR device in the set. (It appears to have broken off the rifle.) It is obvious that you can alwas shave off the IR devices, if you want more regular troops. If you do so chose, then you can fit the packpacks to the figures, if not you are required to fit the battery packs. Spare parts come in the form of shovels and small packs. There is also a Panzerfaust, but I am not sure which figure should be bestowed with that piece of equipment, but it is probbaly one of the standing ones. A small strand of wire is also provided, presumably to connect the rifle to the battery pack; it is not clear how this is to be done exactly.

Casting is excellently done is sculpting is quite convincing, with perhaps the eye sockets a bit deep. It is to be seen how these will look after some paint is put on.

Note that most of the nightfighting troops were clad in Leibermuster camo (which had special IR properties), so you'd better put some money aside for high quality brushes and polish up your painting skills.

In all a very original set that I personally welcome.

Sample kindly provided by Ian Hanratty of Wee Friends.

Article Last Updated: 19 October 2012