DML 1/35 Defense of the Reich - Gen2 Gear Kit First Look

By Cookie Sewell

First Look

DML has now released another set of four individual (e.g. non-interactive) figures in one box for very late war troops. These include an SS infantryman in smock with MP44; Volksturm fighter with rifle and Panzerfaust; Fallschirmhjaeger with smock and FG42 (illustrated); and a Wehrmacht sniper in smock and soft cap.

All of the figures are basic DML fare of six parts (head, torso, legs and arms) with the paratrooper having a four piece skirt for his long smock. Molding of all of the figures is excellent but all are in very static positions (e.g. standing, relaxed).

The main sprue provides some additional parts such as the sniper scope for a Kar 98k rifle and the separate cocked/carry trigger/handle assemblies for the Panzerfaust.

The kit comes with the now nearly universal German “G” sprue of generic kit for the figures, and also the “W” weapons sprue. Originally my review sample came less the supplemental “WD” sprue with the FG42 for the Fallschirmjaeger on it. DML has since sent a replacement set and this is a very nicely done weapon.

The excellent box front artwork is by Ron Volstad, but the back is the unfortunate “stick here” photo assembly type of directions with minimal additional information. A small sheet of Cartograf decals is provided for the Panzerfaust.

Overall this is a nice set for either late war or “Panzer ‘46" modelers. But as one wag noted it does seem to indicate that DML may now stand for “Deutsche Modell Ladung” or German Model Goods. I hope they are going to make a more concentrated effort on other nations’ armor and figures.

Sprue Layout:

• 6694 55 Four figures and basic kit
• G 60 German Generic Kit - helmets, canteens, mess kits, ponchos, etc.
• G 4 Entrenching tools
• G 4 Entrenching tools (different carrier)
• W 30 German Generic Weapons: MP40, MP44, Kar 98K, MG34, MG42, Gewehr 43
• WD 7 German Generic Weapons: FG42 Fallschirmjaeger rifle