Hi everyone
I've got some updates on the Kursk dio...
After completing the first figure I turned my attention back to the base as I need the terrain complete before I can complete the tank.
First I stuck the layers of foam board on to the MDF base using PVA glue. At this stage I also shaped the foam a bit using a hot wire.
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After this dried I covered the base with a layer of plaster bandages - this will provide a firm base for the rest of the layers. I was careful to make sure that the bandages closely followed the contours of the trench as I didn't want the shape 'softened' too much. The contraption on the right of the photo is the hot wire.
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With this drying I continued with the T-34 suspension I started last night. Now the AFV Club kit has 'working' suspension and I intend to use this to full effect in the dio. This is the reason I need the base first so that I can conform the suspension to the terrain. The build went together without too much bother, the only amend I made to the suspension was to shorten one suspension rod to enable the arm to fully depress right up to the suspension stop. The reason for this will become clearer later in the build but is to do with 'knocked-out' portion of the tank. I built up the wheels so that I could position the tank on the base once dry. You may notice that some of the tyres are missing, this is again part of the 'knocked-out' build as I wanted some of the tyres burnt off the rims (it is fantastic luck that this kit actually has separate tyres!)
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I decided I didn't like figure 1 - it just didn't seem animated enough, so I decided to turn him into the soldier leaping the trench. This obviously involves a lot more alts to the figure than the NCO but I was encouraged by the previous effort so, what the hell!!!
I cut his limbs through the joints and drilled into them inserting copper wire. I had to fill the body once I'd cut into it because the torso was hollow at the top of the legs. Once this was dry I was able to drill it and insert the legs. Further details will be added but this is the basic structure. Obviously he's looking a bit skinny at the mo and really needs to hit the gym but I'll bulk him out once I've ensured the pose looks right on the base.
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...one last thing...
I built up 1 of the tracks from the working set last night - what a dull task that was. Built this in front of the telly watching Uruguay v Holland to relieve the boredom!!!
I have to say they do look good though and are necessary for what I have in mind for the dio.
...and that's about it for now...
Cheers
Paul
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