US Stryker Driver

[Mike]

US Stryker Driver

1:35 Legend Productions

This resin figure is designed to be seated in the driver position of either the Trumpeter or AFV Club Stryker family, which makes him the candidate for quite a number of kits, as at least 5 variants have been kitted of this versatile vehicle by Trumpeter alone.

Inside the box is a gaggle of parts in a ziplok bag, comprising torso with legs moulded in, separate arms (minus hands) and head. The hands are moulded integral to the resin steering wheel, to save those awkward moments trying to position the arms so that the hands grasp the wheel in a realistic fashion. Anyone that's tried knows how frustrating this can be.

The moulding is crisp, and the driver sports a modern flak vest covered in MOLLE loops, although no pouches are moulded in. Whether he'd realistically wear any pouches in his cramped cockpit is a question for your research - I suspect one or two mag pouches for his crew weapon (a short M4 variant) and a pistol holster (Beretta M9) would be sported in case he has to leave the vehicle in a hurry. There is evidence of a little mould slip near his feet, although nothing that can't be sorted with a scalpel or sanding stick. You will need to remove the web of thin resin between his legs, but again that's a moment's work.

The steering wheel will need more work to remove it from its casting block, as it is a complex mould, and has supports here and there to improve the moulding process and allow bubbles to exit quickly. A little care will be needed, but the positives of not having to fiddle with the pose for hours far outweigh this minor inconvenience!

The casting block on the driver's head is a little indistinct around the join, so take care when you remove it, or your driver will end up with a flat head. It would be better to cut well away from his domed helmet and sand it back until it looks right. As usual, take care when sanding resin, as it can be harmful if breathed deeply into your lungs.

Conclusion

This figure will add a bit of scale and life to your Stryker, whatever version you choose to make. It should be pretty easy to paint, as the majority of his face is covered by a wrap to keep the dust out of his mouth and nostrils, and he wears a set of goggles to protect his eyes. A dab of flesh colour on the nose and cheeks, and you're away.

Recommended

Review sample courtesy of