Painting non figure kit, soldiers... (look inside for explination it seems)

I would definenetly prime them. As for sanding i'm thinking a sanding stick would work.

 

A set of needle files should work fine for mold line removal. I have a nice set from Tetors Model Master that did not cost much and are oh so handy. Priming your figures may be a bear though. If they flex due to the plastic, most any type of paint will flake off. Just like the old 1/32 Airfix  soft plastic figures.

For the soft plastic figures a sharp knife works best for cleaning mold lines off. The local DIY store should have a primer made specificaly for priming plastic patio furniture that works fine for the initial prime. Once primed, regular paints work well.

the problem with the figures is they are rubbery, and the seams arent cutting cleanly off, and this blade is sharp, and if they dont go off cleanly, I cant sand them because its like sanding rubber.

 

 Try using 000steel wool I've had some success with it.Also there is an auto paint that is used to paint the inside door panels on cars it flexs with the plastic cant remmember what it's called. Try asking over in the,dare I say, auto forums.