Miniatures Showcase compiled by the White Knight

Vehicles: Scale Models

The models on this page are initially intended for displays and diorama's. They are usually highly detailed kits, with many fiddly bits that take some time and skill to assemble. This also means they won't always stand up very well to repeated handling over time.

One thing that sets apart wargaming WW2 from most other historical periods is the large array of armour and vehicles that are available to chose from. However, the gamer who wants to include tanks, trucks or jeeps soon finds himself confronted with one question that has no easy answer. What scale should the vehicles be?

Now, the obvious answer is that, since the miniatures are said to be in the "28mm scale", the vehicles should be 28mm as well. But we all know that 28mm isn't really a scale, but rather a measurement system. The fact alone that some measure it to the eyes, while others measure it to the top of head should make this clear. Add to this that in 28mm the proportions of the figure are distorted. While the average height might come down to 1/60th or 1/56th scale, the heads and bulk of the figure are in line with 1/48th scale and thus closer to 35-40mm.

So if working with an exact scale is not an option, what is one to do? The answer is quite simple. In the end, it is all in mind. Put a figure next to the vehicle and if it looks right, then it *is* right. So whether you prefer 1/60, 1/56, 1/50 or 1/48, the main rule is consistency. Stick to the same scale as much as possible or if you must mix scales, at least stick to one scale for each vehicle type. After all, unlike humans, one Willys jeep is exactly as big as the other.

Click here to go to Wargame models page - Diecast page - Accessories page - WWII main page


1. Matador Models - 1/48

This UK company produces a 1/48th scale "Airfield Accessories" range with many useful WW2 vehicles for various nationalities. Most of them are trucks or tractors, but there is the occasional kübelwagen. These are resin and white metal kits.


2. Tamiya - 1/48

Tamiya is producing a growing range of 1/48 WW2 plastic kits. More detailed than the old Bandai kits, these make a worthy addition to the field. So far the range includes vehicles for German, American, Soviet and British forces. One to watch.

- German:

- Allied:


3. Wespe- 1/48

Romanian manufacturer of a large range of 1/48th scale model kits. These are resin kits for the collector (price ranges from €40 to €70).


4. Frog/Fuman (Bandai) - 1/48

Another range of plastic kits, in the vein of the current Tamiya range. The models have been OOP for some years, but there is a healthy trafic of them on Ebay.


5. Tarmac - 1/48

Tarmac makes a range of resin kits and accessories, as well as conversion packs for the old Fuman plastic kits . You can see some here.


6. Verlinden Productions - 1/48

Verlinden Production's resin "aircraft accessories" and "kits, diorama, base & accessories" ranges include plenty of useful bits and the occasional vehicle.


Click here to go to Scalemodels page - Diecast page - Accessories page - WWII main page

Don't forget to visit the Weird World War II and the Pulp Era Showcase for some more miniatures that can be used with this period.

If you want to share your comments or feel that I left out a company that should be listed or if you represent a company that was left out or whose products didn't get the credit and appreciation they deserve, feel free to contact me on the FU-UK! Froth Forums or directly by clicking here.
Naturally, any free samples you might provide would greatly aid us to form a documented opinion.

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