Hey folks!
I'm in the plans on constructing a 12" x 12" WWI diorama and I'm in a jam. Sort of. I am thinking on creating a trench model (quite WWI, eh? :D ) and I am on an extreamly tight budget (as little money spent as possible). I have a small idea in mind, but can use quite a bit more advice:
I have constructed Tamiya's Flak 36/37 kit for another project and never used the crew provided. I was thinking on using the crew on this diorama; an artillery foward observer team in the front lines preparing for upcoming attack.
I was thinking of placing the section chief model(one who is pointing in one direction and holding a set of binocs) next to a soldier with the range-finder "scope" (the bazooka-looking thing) with both standing on top of a small ledge in the trench (the fire step).
Meanwhile, right behind the commander is a soldier holding a map (planning on using the 'cycle figure for this purpose). What I'm trying to confer is that the commander and the range finder soldier are scouting out ranges for the artillery units (not shown in diorama) while the map holder "records" them.
Alright, now I'm lost. I have six figures left and I would like to use them (may not have to use all six). What should I do with them? I was thinking on having two of them fill up sandbags and place them on the ledges in front and behind them.
That still leaves two "sitting" figures and a standing figure. I was thinking on having the two sitting figures propped up against the wall of the trench, wounded. I would have the remaining "standing" soldier have the action of handing the wounded soldiers canteens.
However, I still have three problems that I'm stuck on.
1. Does anyone know of a source that sells 1/35 scaled Mausers/Kar98s? I don't need all the other weaponry that the Tamiya kit provides, as I can only use like two to remain accurate time-period wise.
2. Does anyone know of a source in America that offers brass-etched barbed wire?
3. Can the WWII miniatures pass as WWI soldiers? I'm planning on sanding off all the molded details and leave only the "harness" and the catridge packs on the soldiers. What should I do with the helmets? Will there be a noticable difference between WWI and WWII helmets?
Would all this action detract from the over all feel of the diorama? What ideas would you guys suggest?
Thanks for all the help, guys (and gals)!
Regards,
Brian