Lead Adventure Forum

Miniatures Adventure => The Conflicts that came in from the Cold => Topic started by: trev on November 14, 2022, 03:44:39 PM

Title: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 14, 2022, 03:44:39 PM
I've been planning some skirmish forces for the Congo Crisis, starting with the Simba Rebellion circa 1963-5, for a while now and I've finally got some paint on a few figures.  I thought some here might like to see them. 

First up some mercenaries in the style of 5 Commando.  These are mostly the old Mongrel Miniatures figures now sold by Badger Games.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBD4bTKIRFwljIPhchayrhohx_7g6spZZ05QZpPaljpcO04ZOcZIUlSVrf26jPGJxAc8YcQSd2Rt4hwrqTlFkiRdWKJqRwCC11taoCZY-pBibl1CiwokwpS8aSe-ntb0U7JVFJyFdobxE7Uz3zNqz1MPzHnomOR3gO6W6gCEc6WvO0N3Zlg0FW-SHxoA/s827/5%20Cdo%20Mercs%2001.jpeg) 

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighJ-JAo4WlWvL4urPk2Xk1PVV8XiHSGO2_D0uV2wzOLzlNkFrA21YgjLT8vavXlUED9Nz6l6fb58B7QmyIpXmqQqvMLXL6dqrJKmitYZw5rd0gO4GkeTN2PSG5Bq9LTddJ9qB0HpRpEXAbu_WeZ4jkz9fyQyNdusbgdBFmyQ5EfoW8Onkv7wtbnY7Ew/s860/5%20Cdo%20Mercs%2002.jpeg)

Here is my version of Mad Mike Hoare, a headswap from a Full Metal Minis figure.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQcxJvobjA6jrcWGEvf-Ob-7N5sWTzy7dukTlwcdD09PxuUUZ-HlFvT7mKqAAhVSKezUzaN4MJM_OLHUZ2jpvFETQYudzsxJTeKgxz8R087CEX1lu9koqmj7Ab1cRdGNeS99v4vvGKQ6vFWXbNfVbvqZ0tcpQtPXo7gMwvUCUiKHnXzaxMOch4cGJOA/s795/Mad%20Mike%20Hoare%2001.jpeg)

And a bit of fire support a la Africa Addio.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghxKtR23ls041DTaYPLZkYoX0hsI6SAmeBwybP1oo_owfHTpmGF1X9zNxpZDn9kFkkbZZO37cMeaZ3w9jvsRADQQQ8-Ey_ycQGCFr3NJIpMppiVNF-MhipZ8rU4hnqek686ppW7zZ8b-kaa7ZdxSnNnrq3z8hcpG6gid_uWpSLQCyeyO1FKRaWq-xKjQ/s776/5cdo%20Merc%20MG%2001.jpeg)

My project was very much inspired some of the posts here, so special mention goes to James (https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=70998.msg) and Joe (https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=130340.msg1651779)

Some Simbas to come next ...
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: gimzod on November 14, 2022, 07:42:09 PM
Very nice. Can't wait to see what's next
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: CapnJim on November 14, 2022, 09:49:21 PM
Those guys look good!  I have some of them in my "To Paint" pile...
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Terryb on November 15, 2022, 07:04:10 AM
Very, very nice
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on November 15, 2022, 07:04:48 AM
Looking good! I especially like that machinegunner.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Harry Faversham on November 15, 2022, 12:15:57 PM
Lovely figures you've painted there Trev!
Did you mention...

Di' Simbas!!!

(http://www.thewargameswebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/hm_bbpui/90991/ij9g6m9bi5fgw90c1ut58k3wph7sc04l.jpg)

(http://www.thewargameswebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/hm_bbpui/90991/lbv8i31fvb492oqq8o1w3ev19aqiklcv.jpg)

 :o
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 15, 2022, 02:00:00 PM
Thanks for the comments all.  Nice Simbas Harry.  Sadly I came to this too late to get any of the Wild Geese figures. 
Here are my Simbas so far. 

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH2B_aPushwi4nQ6UniZC5d-sX92yTvpMGAdNAZk-zuzeg3nHM1C28toNiprNgvv1KEDKj25oCgIHYMKfgJuiPmxZq2Y31TObTrVYB-12tvjIG0zyS91GVgcuUOrSsTKkPyQO-yXJKypHWvD3g3ou-sUhh8QG5T3H7Qalt6T36LP7DhPVzAoHwvKrvYg/s729/The%20Simbas%2001.jpeg)

They are TAG miniatures with a bit of green stuff or head swaps to add the details. 

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTU2DHd_8ZUInnmDqDOMb3DP8Px7i8SNJ6A8YKJLMeVY3pdlC9Fg4X798_HtQX9IfSBj8zSje5GIK3klj6LGcMgT6qTtmDk1sNtbktNi-E3nkQSmhlAJyosffUJ4aiOlos1TQNHA4L-VVfN4URzeidzyq0rBxjkZ8z6whgMJsrPEnnKt6cXHe3vmh5A/s752/The%20Simbas%2002.jpeg)

Hopefully they are suitably rag-tag.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCH6zhivPpnG0Mem1wTxBGc3rkl2pReS2QX0AzgajfIZ8Ix-jg2XPlvaBAXn9t2qqxkKUDSc2lOmg7uA7ezE1EIA2l6ydR0J_cG_l-0BCRefO-8ruFo2gMhPwex2RBvCdGRqShozKgOLvFExPfTBv4Aztfek-97Z93pfoh17AaKbapbIVlFLyQv37yYA/s781/The%20Simbas%2003.jpeg)

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNSkoTb9Y960xLU-BamuvW1ZPOGs8D3R2uM31guCeWKnwhQjYD8rByKDSr5Ix6CpplYVmct_RDkP-A3YuNjA36YrX8R7Q5vVBE2hi3FzuoU_-AysN5n9DcYwtM8kZ2aA_O1WfTGjbrhu6vEIVMxD1bw-QloebZVAMlWpgeFjcGMbtwCUZlt3RwC18oQ/s824/The%20Simbas%2004.jpeg)

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOWKPXB6mb_UnR3j5953yb_sif8qbzPmUsve8xilEtnsBFYjvqmH0-GHd6qAbCLymviA7HDmldcHIdFcf2Fvt09dlHttCKKIz1_fHzLrzLFJQBjjl2-YaRqqCUMWDRPmWGteZ7c678Hl7gzx-nX_ny-6LIN6SIvKoSaJT1ExNruISKkcE97DFdFJslig/s750/The%20Simbas%2005.jpeg)

I'll be adding the more traditional bow and spear armed militia types later.

I also need to think about vehicles for both sides.  Probably just trucks and civilian stuff for the Simbas.  For the mercs, a Ferret, an M8, several jeeps and a few trucks would be a good start.  Any suggestions on the best sources?
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Cypher226 on November 16, 2022, 11:13:27 AM
Some great work here.  I especially like the Mad Mike conversion.


I also need to think about vehicles for both sides.  Probably just trucks and civilian stuff for the Simbas.  For the mercs, a Ferret, an M8, several jeeps and a few trucks would be a good start.  Any suggestions on the best sources?

What scale do you prefer for the vehicles?  There are some nice kits out there for all the military vehicles, but options vary between 1:56 and 1:48/1:50
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 16, 2022, 01:13:00 PM
What scale do you prefer for the vehicles?  There are some nice kits out there for all the military vehicles, but options vary between 1:56 and 1:48/1:50

That's the question, I suppose.  I don't have any experience with WW2 kits in 28mm.  I used 1/48 or 1/50 for my RCW where I could get them but they were big Copplestone figures.  So I'm thinking 1/56 might better for the smaller figures I have used.  especially if I add the Eureka figs in too, they are about the same height but slighter than the TAG/Mongrel ones.

Here is what I have found so far:

This is a brilliant resource on the Jeeps in the Congo.  Lots of great photos showing troops too.
https://cj3b.info/History/Congo.html (https://cj3b.info/History/Congo.html)

For the jeeps then we're talking M606 types, so I think WW2 versions are closest and will be better than Vietnam era MUTTs.  At least for most of the Congo Crisis and Simba Rebellion.  Some MUTTs at the end.

Empress do a nice 1/50 kit here but no gunner models
https://www.empressminiatures.com/jeep1-jeep-only-368-p.asp (https://www.empressminiatures.com/jeep1-jeep-only-368-p.asp)

Warlord do one gunner model on it's own.
https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-jeep-gunner?_pos=7&_sid=ff94a211d&_ss=r (https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-jeep-gunner?_pos=7&_sid=ff94a211d&_ss=r)

The Warlord WW2 models look to be a decent source for as a basic versions in 1/56, with quite a bit of variety.  They come with gunners.  I don't think I can be too choosy about kit without creating a lot of conversion work.  they do a 50 cal and an armoured version.

https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-army-jeep-with-30-cal-mmg?_pos=5&_sid=a854eea3b&_ss=r (https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-army-jeep-with-30-cal-mmg?_pos=5&_sid=a854eea3b&_ss=r)
https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-army-jeep-with-50-cal-hmg?_pos=4&_sid=a854eea3b&_ss=r (https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-army-jeep-with-50-cal-hmg?_pos=4&_sid=a854eea3b&_ss=r)
https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-armoured-jeep-1?_pos=3&_sid=a854eea3b&_ss=r (https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-armoured-jeep-1?_pos=3&_sid=a854eea3b&_ss=r)

Maybe also some of the other ones might be useful for the passenger mounted guns or more crew.

https://store.warlordgames.com/search?type=product&q=JEEP (https://store.warlordgames.com/search?type=product&q=JEEP)

They may be others.  Rubicon has a 1/56 kit but it is out of stock
https://rubiconmodels.co.uk/collections/usa-vehicles/products/49?variant=750127644716 (https://rubiconmodels.co.uk/collections/usa-vehicles/products/49?variant=750127644716)

For other vehicles

Empress have a 1/50 Ferret
https://www.empressminiatures.com/ferret-armoured-car-2704-p.asp (https://www.empressminiatures.com/ferret-armoured-car-2704-p.asp)

Sloppy Jalopy have 1/56 Ferret
https://sloppyjalopy.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=68_79_82&product_id=84 (https://sloppyjalopy.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=68_79_82&product_id=84)

Warlord and Rubicon both do 1/56 M8s
https://rubiconmodels.co.uk/collections/usa-vehicles/products/m8-greyhound-m20-scout-car (https://rubiconmodels.co.uk/collections/usa-vehicles/products/m8-greyhound-m20-scout-car)
https://store.warlordgames.com/products/m8-m20-greyhound-scout-car-plastic-box?_pos=2&_sid=496c445ba&_ss=r (https://store.warlordgames.com/products/m8-m20-greyhound-scout-car-plastic-box?_pos=2&_sid=496c445ba&_ss=r)

Rubicon and Warlord both do M3 Scout Cars in 1/56
https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-army-m3-white-scout-car?_pos=1&_sid=4041aafd6&_ss=r (https://store.warlordgames.com/products/us-army-m3-white-scout-car?_pos=1&_sid=4041aafd6&_ss=r)
https://rubiconmodels.co.uk/collections/usa-vehicles/products/280083-m3a1-scout-car-early-late (https://rubiconmodels.co.uk/collections/usa-vehicles/products/280083-m3a1-scout-car-early-late)

I'm not sure about 1960s trucks and Civilian cars in either scale yet
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Ash on November 16, 2022, 06:08:52 PM
That 'Military jeeps in the Congo' article is a superb find, thanks for posting the link.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: vodkafan on November 16, 2022, 11:05:15 PM
Britannia do Mad Mike and lots of other mercenary figures in jeeps, (and standing) available from Grubby Tanks, plus the Simbas
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Ash on November 17, 2022, 12:57:40 PM
The Britannia range does have some good looking figures & Jeeps, with the right looking kit. They are however, quite a bit bigger than the Mongrel blokes.
I ended up building up the bases on my Mongrel Congo force and they still looked a tad vertically challenged next to the Britannia figures.

(https://i.ibb.co/qg3VsWL/28mm-size-comparison-lettering-LR.jpg)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: vodkafan on November 17, 2022, 05:37:28 PM
The Britannia range does have some good looking figures & Jeeps, with the right looking kit. They are however, quite a bit bigger than the Mongrel blokes.
I ended up building up the bases on my Mongrel Congo force and they still looked a tad vertically challenged next to the Britannia figures.

(https://i.ibb.co/qg3VsWL/28mm-size-comparison-lettering-LR.jpg)

Wow yes all the others are way too small  lol
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 17, 2022, 05:55:05 PM
The Britannia range does have some good looking figures & Jeeps, with the right looking kit. They are however, quite a bit bigger than the Mongrel blokes.

That was my thinking on the Britannia figs, too big.  So I discounted them.  Probably after seeing that photo of Ash's on a different thread. 

Similarly, I have some of the Eureka Bush Wars figs, which are really nice but more realistically proportioned, so look a bit small and thin next to the Mongrel and TAG ones.  I think I will have to save them for another project.  Angola?  Rhodesia?  SA Border War?  Hmmm... must stay focused.

After a bit more digging around, I think I'm decided on 1/48 or 1/50 for the vehicle scale.

I'll start with the Empress Jeeps and a mix of crew figures from various places
https://www.empressminiatures.com/jeep1-jeep-only-368-p.asp (https://www.empressminiatures.com/jeep1-jeep-only-368-p.asp)

(https://files.ekmcdn.com/adf666/images/jeep1-jeep-only.-368-p.jpg)

The Empress kits look great for the jeeps and can be bought with or without crew for less than the Warlord kits anyway.  They're also clean of stowage, so easier to customize.  Empress do a lot of other potentially useful stuff in their modern range too.
https://www.empressminiatures.com/vehicles-41-c.asp (https://www.empressminiatures.com/vehicles-41-c.asp)

The Ferret and Land Rovers are useful for the Simba Rebellion but the Saladin, Saracen, T-55, M-48 etc. all have imagi-nations potential for the future.  Who knows?

For jeep crews these guys from Brigade games are probably where I'll start.
https://www.brigadegames.com/ww2-desert-commando-patrol-jeep-crew (https://www.brigadegames.com/ww2-desert-commando-patrol-jeep-crew)

(https://www.brigadegames.com/assets/images/brigadegames/BG-2WW005_lg.jpg)

Company B, Colonel Bill and Dixon also do separate crew figures that might be useful for conversions or as is. 
https://company-b-models-and-miniatures.myshopify.com/collections/crews-for-afvs?page=3 (https://company-b-models-and-miniatures.myshopify.com/collections/crews-for-afvs?page=3)
https://www.colonelbills-store.co.uk/store/Drivers-Passengers-&-Pedestrians-c132189255?offset=18 (https://www.colonelbills-store.co.uk/store/Drivers-Passengers-&-Pedestrians-c132189255?offset=18)
https://www.dixon-minis.com/shop/28mm-wwII/#pack-u-s-vehicle-drivers (https://www.dixon-minis.com/shop/28mm-wwII/#pack-u-s-vehicle-drivers)

I'm intrigued by the plastic commandos at the bottom of this blog post too.  Do they vehicle crew in the box?
https://toomuchterrain.blogspot.com/2022/02/ww2-vehicles.html (https://toomuchterrain.blogspot.com/2022/02/ww2-vehicles.html) 
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 17, 2022, 05:58:01 PM
Wow yes all the others are way too small  lol

 :D

These ANZACs from Full Metal Miniatures might go well with the Britannia figs.  they are big lads too.

https://www.fullmetalminiatures.com/anzac-forces-5-c.asp (https://www.fullmetalminiatures.com/anzac-forces-5-c.asp)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Rick F on November 17, 2022, 09:23:02 PM
These are cracking mate, I've been wanting to do mercenaries in Africa for a while.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: FifteensAway on November 18, 2022, 01:59:17 AM
Nice project.  Just recently finished reading David Reed's Save The Hostages about rescuing the folks in Stanleyville.  Interesting read. 

Most importably, I came away safe from adding another period to my collection!  lol.  Interesting but not seductive to me for model purposes.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 18, 2022, 12:08:34 PM
Thanks both.  I like wargaming projects that are a bit different and this era certainly fits the bill!  Magic Marxist revolutionaries, colonial settler mercenaries, corrupt and brutal warlords in leopard-skin hats, Belgian paratroopers, nefarious mining corporations, the CIA, Cuban emigre pilots, Che Guevara, a UN mission with a 'murdered' secretary general, cannibals, pygmies, jungle drums, rebellions, mutinies, coups, gunboats, jeeps and Dian Fossey.  What's not to like?   :o  ;)




Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Harry Faversham on November 18, 2022, 01:55:41 PM
I went proper 'Old Skool' tackle wise, making do with diecast!

(http://www.thewargameswebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/hm_bbpui/90873/ss175b12t00imxn4zr568ncxfggfmg84.jpg)

(http://www.thewargameswebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/hm_bbpui/90873/9n5axq4dqb4xto4wqqs1g3l8xnfcwgvv.jpg)

(http://www.thewargameswebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/hm_bbpui/90873/iywpjkwj9xoh1ldh0ez3tm23p4q770wg.jpg)

 :o
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 18, 2022, 10:48:33 PM
I don't mind diecast.  Making kits can be a pain.  Is that game 28mm or 20mm?
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Harry Faversham on November 19, 2022, 11:03:10 AM
28mm, 'Wild Geese' vs Di' Simbas!

 :)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 19, 2022, 11:23:43 AM
Of course, you posted the Simbas earlier. :P  I did a search and found this page but some of the pictures on page 2 are now missing.

https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=106927.0 (https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=106927.0)

Edit:

This one has more photos!   Poor Betsy.

https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=109616.msg1370678#msg1370678 (https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=109616.msg1370678)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Harry Faversham on November 19, 2022, 05:14:32 PM
Yep, poor Betsy, it's a cruel world!

 :'(
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 21, 2022, 05:12:18 PM
This new pack from WA looks promising for Congo conversions.  Dennison smocks and British webbing.  The bodies on the sprue are quite clean, with no backpacks moulded on.  Good for converting to Belgians, Mercs or ANC.

https://wargamesatlantic.com/collections/world-ablaze/products/british-sas-commandos-1 (https://wargamesatlantic.com/collections/world-ablaze/products/british-sas-commandos-1)

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0078/4764/1186/products/BritishSASBoxBig_1800x1800.jpg?v=1668176825)

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0078/4764/1186/products/SASSprueFront_1800x1800.jpg?v=1668176844)

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0078/4764/1186/products/SASSprueBack_1800x1800.jpg?v=1668176844)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 25, 2022, 04:34:22 PM
A few more Simbas.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtVfNDzraRrkY7Hc69Ai_6E5aL-2H-kT37OBWkMFYbDUvCFpLI3PxmRJmxQq9_e0ES-BWOjihIjbd7rhJTmqx2Ngy00uGO_PnjM_PvvYfTfevjniA3h-YbYeEoPIRTZNLlx01SERy7X6ZcjhLaifZtDhYV8NCQfC7Dufc1rX96Jry20rbVgFcgnyH2g/s698/Simba%20MG%2002.jpeg)

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBZJ_I_2rh_TrQYJjLht9LA9PLcpR3QYbeyBHD9EdCn7VhLimS1GgAcA6gLIfTcTgKN6OC_MC34DHgezBpTYdaxctgbjATUMzJ_jrvUtaRwYQYB0Q2KDikX_TWU6gtIeHsXpqfclAei66aY_AIk9pCWlUvIF00lMwgnx7cI1Ih705sT5EA8e1pfoSjA/s594/Simbas%20Mortar%2002.jpeg)

Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: v_lazy_dragon on November 25, 2022, 04:50:40 PM
Cracking work!
Have you thought about converting some Foundry Darkest Africa figures to flesh out the Simbas? Also think the North Star Matabele with rifles might work...

Too big for your stuff, but the Tiger Miniatures Hotten Tots work well with the Brittania miniatures range. Not great sculpts but squint hard enough and they look adequate...
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 25, 2022, 07:33:50 PM
Cracking work!
Have you thought about converting some Foundry Darkest Africa figures to flesh out the Simbas? Also think the North Star Matabele with rifles might work...

Thanks, and definitely!  A mix of Darkest Africa musketmen, spearmen and archers would be great for the tribal militias or Jeunesse.  The Azandi and Pygmies would work too and the Northstar Africa range has some useful figures as well.  Both Foundry and Northstar do some figures in a mix of traditional and western clothes.  Unfortunately they are all musket or rife armed though, none with bows or spears.  I might try converting a few.  A few spearman or archers in a mix of traditional and modern civilian, or military, gear would be quite unique.

Quote
Too big for your stuff, but the Tiger Miniatures Hotten Tots work well with the Brittania miniatures range. Not great sculpts but squint hard enough and they look adequate...

I didn't know the Tiger miniatures were big.  I've considered them for other projects in the past.  They do some interesting stuff.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: juergen c. olk on November 26, 2022, 12:43:46 AM
Great looking collection. For lots of pictures checkout 'Modern African Bushwars Group'' on Facebook.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Terryb on November 26, 2022, 09:10:58 AM
Love the machine gun and mortar team. Are they conversions from a particular range?  Most of my collection are from the Britannia miniature range  which unfortunately do not do heavy weapons for the Simbas
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 26, 2022, 04:39:27 PM
Great looking collection. For lots of pictures checkout 'Modern African Bushwars Group'' on Facebook.

Thanks, and cheers for the photos.

I was briefly on Facebook.  Posted some Wargames stuff, got some awards and lots of positive feedback, then the app admins suspended my account and ignored my appeal.  So **** them.  :P
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on November 26, 2022, 04:44:40 PM
Love the machine gun and mortar team. Are they conversions from a particular range?  Most of my collection are from the Britannia miniature range  which unfortunately do not do heavy weapons for the Simbas

Thanks.  The MG and Mortar are TAG figures with Perry Heads from the Victorian Little Wars range and a bit of green stuff.  See here for links and in progress pics.

https://thebitsbox.blogspot.com/2022/10/congo-progress-2-simbas.html?m=1 (https://thebitsbox.blogspot.com/2022/10/congo-progress-2-simbas.html?m=1)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: CapnJim on November 29, 2022, 12:39:47 AM
This all quite interesting.  And I may have to get some of those WA Commandos, and experiment with conversions...
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on March 18, 2024, 12:28:21 AM
Hello all.  I've finally got back to this project and made a little progress. 

First up are some Congolese army troops I have finished this weekend.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsmOYNFEcIv5lEPxR68eYy4UfBmYUeYBmf9jv9s2sL8ZMX1ioGsQeM-Zo80FYZHU0DrcchdcpDmSytP_0QrXYAtkb0TBAk7HkIO2nGhQCp6lJ64Q_Km9Xzyz0qJ0bEtfHvWC1Sk4R-A2zSJUiZx__9MN_x2Iiq4BJLGkYI6SasZl2qrbXuVBwKn1v8x5Mm/s1920/Congolese%20Army%2003.jpeg)

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1xGTmmZuZixlzpEqrrQSopR9fVFjpF0hJO19t30eWUc1MsQyfCUzu0jIEKsh8IMOOmKouH3WcvHd0wZMr48-kn0OI7axEuf8eFFNUT_Au59v2ggmIjNMp11cL3GI7SD4NN5HDDtsKaWj251fw08Y3GO_90VMErM2peOlODbcdaQkI0pEdAjBATbNCbL4/s1920/Congolese%20Army%2001.jpeg)

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllUP_hplao5DtjOI2omG0njtDOjgqCPggT8nZmxZXBTPbV9J4fBDuZASQ7uGeG5kQyK-h_EoBHRUrh-w4bLZfTuO50AJODdCaiIaEc0kad5BKiUMUppftrxcSM1UMTdYGZqIpOdemIwPspRryupqqEbF1FS4D6gclmReawINOYooMAVeF87iaT200F6sq/s1920/Congolese%20Army%2002.jpeg)

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj20xAwvUCMsp-KZYj8dnWUnjSd-xMKfVWuDs1MLpDP1GeMAVSAsBnjfJ-toKh4PEdfOe1nt4wVFC0gI5J7AahiEXASV73fqnlSsxz0hTWkyZxZlnVNcMrREeEDzyroNtWXXuD0_dKMR1lT-swPxma2rBJtiIPH0eSZKcDOPGkczkLMUzvItrtsqwJsP8Jr/s1920/Congolese%20Army%20MG%20&%20Officer.jpeg)

And for those that haven't seen them already on FB, some WIP pics of a few vehicles I've been working on.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-dSGAm6_OOB703DmY_19zIX0Yj6gvDWlrGkbn14hDZxkjnMReP2La6u_zyEluPuBmNAhXJ2e6f9Jk0D5AYHJMCDQIAYAXFGGZ27FwoLMjeIA1qY2HTARRD8xIs2Lj5IQVd-3Oet4Oq3zPjrO72IXMk-gu3xtrKJzyOAurM7r4dkWFmQ1JxiQOLsIZ3jj/s960/Empress%20Ferret%2001.jpg)

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPIEkCz06QiM9gyT0aU_OYiLk3irrhUK4jWilQuuVXwWPmPScm96AhewRr2TlrOA6FBaA0nKOhxYkglyKe8RiyRw5B2F9KDb6oHf7cLre252KnxU_SL30lNVyOBtIxcA7VZJzezHca5blGv2VJyHupOUGqH30I6u_JwyZjqEV29Vt3sI17QSWkNu8p9xjK/s1920/Congo%20Merc%20Jeeps.jpeg)

More details on the blog (https://thebitsbox.blogspot.com/search/label/Simba%20Rebellion) as usual, if anyone is interested.

Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Tom Dulski on March 18, 2024, 11:14:41 AM

 Oh very cool, looks like RAT PATROL!
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on March 18, 2024, 06:30:05 PM
Nice work.
Who makes the Ferret?
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on March 18, 2024, 07:25:35 PM
Thanks both.

Oh very cool, looks like RAT PATROL!

I wasn't aware of Rat Patrol when I bought the figures but that's probably what the sculptor was inspired by.  The bush hat is quite typical for the Congo Crisis though, so I left it.

Nice work.
Who makes the Ferret?

The vehicle is from Empress miniatures, the commander figure is a 1st Corps para jeep passenger.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: mikedemana on March 20, 2024, 12:06:27 AM
Very nice! I really like the uniforms...

Mike Demana
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on March 21, 2024, 03:38:40 PM
Thanks Mike.  I might tidy them up a bit yet, as the washes are a bit overdone compared to the mercs.  I'm very much at the block painting and simple techniques level of skill.  :D

This is my latest acquisition.  It needs a bit of work on the nose and turret as they're not quite right but it's a good basis for a nice and unusual vehicle to add to my Ommegang.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo16y7T1KMqeVNBbAscRt9HLDoScy-RpQlj12dTJ0p-Gbb6CZieRgBv-VxgpQAaBgPQBDBceoVYXKNHnZpLYO45gKx05kwS25VvJYnoTvnK1ejZWxZHNlE4LkXEc66p65cHfh7dUepXMyFpFOgcn4L6412TE0DszGaczfotz6mJGJqXsv-AauabBxlbmzg/s1920/SKPF%203D%20Print.jpeg)

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-tGFKzaAafNbGs7azmKG1-DQfJutXbQZXsTAwFyVc9UJrtBY65ZFch2WINcXeaqDETLI2YT43YW9iTvhqgc0J0OuNpDahC1LM-RjTymSB9pcurYmIWgW7PqZEFOlsf1ttLcb8G4xHcUYHbTMnw5Vw8Nki1-ATHTwJDPADcKyVxFFbFzT3-Ll4h8cPJx3E/s736/18fa88f2bb135ab782e02642740b886b--picture-story-august-.jpg)

I've got lots more period pictures here (https://thebitsbox.blogspot.com/2024/03/the-swedish-white-elephant.html).  Mostly in their UN 'white elephant' paint scheme.  I think my 'elephant' will be green for advancing on Stanelyville.  More like this.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxlKq056zIllEKAtC_zGsr3sc3Q4ypoBXvODw-YYUUkt6DMsparpdLxwbnEeCiYMXhIiFgTDWfWLit5Xvx_-qDDwFBEJnBWznAQo6OlOYL_urS3qyCbVq45RZkhazMgfigWexkMMbzA0d-0-Mb55rSRzBS0fGG8YgGb5cgcGJakYtu1ckd9EC6SnDQM9pB/s2048/Congo%20Merc%20Column%20,'LIMA%201,%201964%20,enroute%20to%20Stanleyville.jpg)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Tom Dulski on March 23, 2024, 10:50:46 AM

 What a hideous looking vehicle. I had no idea this ever existed. Looks like a giant wooden clog.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: traveller on March 23, 2024, 12:19:24 PM
Wow! Great thread! Where did you find the UN vehicle. I need one for my Swedish Congo UN force ;) ;)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: AKULA on March 23, 2024, 09:35:02 PM
BRILLIANT!

I love (and hate) that UN vehicle in equal measure...it must have been a pig to operate  ;D
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on March 23, 2024, 10:13:51 PM
What a hideous looking vehicle. I had no idea this ever existed. Looks like a giant wooden clog.

It is wonderfully ugly.  Very different. 

Wow! Great thread! Where did you find the UN vehicle. I need one for my Swedish Congo UN force ;) ;)

Here (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4855929) is the 3d print file. It's not perfect but a good start.  They should look great in UN white. Did you see the pictures I posted on my blog here (https://thebitsbox.blogspot.com/2024/03/the-swedish-white-elephant.html)? Lots of the UN vehicles.  I've got a few more to add too.

This is mine after a bit of work.  I've made a few changes to the turret and started adding a bit of detailing.

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIU1bzjCdtOUqTBiMWi4bqgTMNkgXmPhaG4r3mJ70Pbp4roLhsrvzdDRlaE2DcHRn4-xisK5ja1ObeHMZbuptteqM9Fcpo1jNVzmg5iTF_EdgY0kzr53Jkuv7KJkFkvTcgOX6Q8anCo1cE0cBu13lJsodZ58IW6J0ge3_tW9P_oTI2McTJv-z5u9B39c6D/s1631/SKPF%2001.jpeg)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: traveller on March 24, 2024, 06:57:17 AM
It is wonderfully ugly.  Very different. 

Here (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4855929) is the 3d print file. It's not perfect but a good start.  They should look great in UN white. Did you see the pictures I posted on my blog here (https://thebitsbox.blogspot.com/2024/03/the-swedish-white-elephant.html)? Lots of the UN vehicles.  I've got a few more to add too.

This is mine after a bit of work.  I've made a few changes to the turret and started adding a bit of detailing.

Thanks!

(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIU1bzjCdtOUqTBiMWi4bqgTMNkgXmPhaG4r3mJ70Pbp4roLhsrvzdDRlaE2DcHRn4-xisK5ja1ObeHMZbuptteqM9Fcpo1jNVzmg5iTF_EdgY0kzr53Jkuv7KJkFkvTcgOX6Q8anCo1cE0cBu13lJsodZ58IW6J0ge3_tW9P_oTI2McTJv-z5u9B39c6D/s1631/SKPF%2001.jpeg)
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: mikedemana on March 24, 2024, 03:50:02 PM
That will be a great piece to add to a modern Africa tabletop! Awesome - keep the good stuff coming...!!  :-*

Mike Demana
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: carlos marighela on March 25, 2024, 11:42:56 AM
Nice looking M/42. Now we want an Irish Mk VI Ford armoured car.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: trev on March 25, 2024, 02:03:36 PM
Thanks both. 

Carlos,

I know some were handed over to the ANC but I've not seen a photo of a Mark VI with the Mercenaries.  I might do some UN troops eventually though.  The blue hats and white vehicles is quite a striking look.  I think Traveller has done some Swedes.  We need to see pictures.
Title: Re: Trev signs on in the Congo
Post by: Earther on March 25, 2024, 10:10:37 PM
Great thread and blog - the Congo Crisis is one of my faves. Bravo!