Photo Review

Roman Legionnaire from ABC

in approximately 1:12 scale
from ABC Magazine

by Peter Crow

Model photographs by the author

Kit Description:

This model is one of four that came in my last issue of ABC for 2004. The model consists of about 60 pieces, and stands roughly 8” high. The graphics and coloring are outstanding, as with all the ABC kits that I have seen. The instructions are all in Czech, but for me, the diagram was enough to go by. I’ve gotten so used to doing models where the instructions are in a different language that it’s become the norm.

Construction:

I started out with the base. Doubling the pieces onto thicker stock, I then added the top to the sides, and left the bottom open. When dry, I filled the base with sand, and then added the bottom piece. When this was dry, I glued a scrap piece of felt to the bottom and, when it was dry, trimmed it to fit. I let it sit overnight, and then brushed on about 5 coats of Future, giving a light buff and rub before each additional coat, ending up with a finished base that has the appearance of polished wood.

From this point on, it was just a matter of following the diagram and building the figure from the inside out. Starting with the torso and then working out layering the clothing and other body parts as I went. The same goes with belts, and armaments.

When finished, I mounted him on the base. From there I added assorted ground cover from odds and ends that I have laying about. Once I had a look that I was happy with, I sprayed a couple of light coats of Future over the whole model to seal and protect the model. It also helps to blend in the colors that I use to touch-up edges and such.

CONCLUSIONS

I was very pleased with the end result, and look forward to doing the other three in the series. One of the best things about the ABC subscription, in my opinion, is the wide variety of subject matter; and it’s always a pleasant surprise to see what the next issue will hold.