Early War
Japanese Naval Pilot

MDC, 1/32 scale

Reviewed by Rob Baumgartner

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Need something to stand next to your 1/32 scale Zero?

MDC has the answer with their first figure in this scale.

He represents a carrier pilot from the early war period, and wears a brown one-piece gabardine flying suit. With no fur lined collar, the clothing represents the “summer” pattern, a design which was quilted on the inside for additional warmth.

It’s sculpted by Seth Nash and his attention to detail is obvious. This is especially apparent when viewing the kapok-filled life jacket. Not only are the separate chambers carefully rendered but if one looks carefully under the parachute straps, the small utility pocket can be seen on the right breast.

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

The leather Model Type 30 flight helmet was typical fare at this time and it is faithfully reproduced here. The careful replication of the crown’s six triangular segments as well as the “D” shaped ear covers; once again demonstrate the creator’s dedication to detail.

A Type 97 parachute harness completes the attire and although not mentioned in the painting guide, a white cloth name tag can be simulated by the modeler on the right vertical strap.

Speaking of the instructions, these feature colour notes in the form of a completed figure by Adrian Hopwood. While specific paints are not quoted; six images are presented that cover all angles of the subject, thus leaving little doubt as to how the figure should be completed.

Two examples are available from MDC, one in white metal and the other in resin.
Both exhibit excellent detail although my preference is for the latter as it appears to be more sharply defined.

Sadly the parachute itself is not included in either packaging.

I hope this is the start of a series of figures from this sculptor.

The detail is excellent and is based on sound research.

The casting is up to the latest standards expected in the respective mediums and having each type available will please figure painters on both sides of the fence.

Highly Recommended

Thanks to MDC for the sample.

Review Text Images of Unpainted Figure Copyright © 2007 by Rob Baumgartner
Images of painted figure Copyright © 2007 by MDC. Figure painted by Adrian Hopwood
Page Created 13 December, 2007
Last updated 24 December, 2007

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