SI’s conv proj: RAF Regiment 1978/82

[Silent Invader]

This thread originally opened with me looking for suitable figure ranges for RAF Regiment in the late 1970s with suggestions sought.

Please note that suggestions for mini ranges are now no longer needed.

I’ve now settled on a conversion project using the Eureka Aden minis as a base, hoping to finish up with a section of Gunners that is original/distinctive. Any suggestions on uniform, kit, procedures, structure, section transport, etc are all still gratefully appreciated.

Thanks all for the great help so far

13/9/20

Original Post for ‘the record’:

Looking for suitable figure ranges, preferably 28mm but 20mm considered, for RAF Regiment in late 1970s. Any suggestions? Ta

[Paul @ Empress Miniatures]

Empress Miniatures in just over a week.

[Malamute]

Ooooh, this should be interesting!

[Dr DeAth]

Looking for suitable figure ranges, preferably 28mm but 20mm considered, for RAF Regiment in late 1970s. Any suggestions? Ta

Do you have any pictures of the uniforms/equipment you're looking to represent?

[Silent Invader]

Do you have any pictures of the uniforms/equipment you're looking to represent?

Hmmm, I’m struggling to find images of what I’m looking for. Most of what has come up online is parade ground, off duty or outside the period (WW2 or more recent Middle East) or if the right time is the wrong theatre (Falklands). Unfortunately my memory from 40 years ago is not quite as sharp as I’d like it to be.

I’m really thinking about airfield perimeter patrols, protection of Harrier forward operating bases, etc. Theatre-wise, either NWE or possibly even Cyprus.

[Dr DeAth]

Found those but I think that's an SA80 so probably too late?

[Silent Invader]

It’d be SLR rather than a ‘modern’ bull pup.

[Malamute]

Have you looked at Eureka Miniatures? They may have something suitable.

[carlos marighela]

I’d wait for the Empress chaps if you want temperate uniforms but there’s always the Crooked Dice infantry, if you don’t mind filing back gaiters or just want something near enough.

If you want Rock Apes for warmer climes then the Eureka Aden Brits are your best bet.

[Silent Invader]

I’d wait for the Empress chaps if you want temperate uniforms but there’s always the Crooked Dice infantry, if you don’t mind filing back gaiters or just want something near enough.

If you want Rock Apes for warmer climes then the Eureka Aden Brits are your best bet.

Thanks Nick and Carlos.

TBH I’m not keen on Empress Miniatures so I don’t expect to be buying from them (it’s why I recently sold off my Nam project).

I like the look of the Eureka Aden minis and I think could work with them but am not sure about the webbing arrangement. Does anyone have images from the rear (I’ve looked at both the Aussie and UK websites but can’t see anything useful). I’m contemplating the degree of conversion that might be required.

Ta. 

[carlos marighela]

I’ll take a pic in the morning if you like. It’s belt order no harness, no kidney pouches, just basic pouches and one or two waterbottles.

[Silent Invader]

I’ll take a pic in the morning if you like. It’s belt order no harness, no kidney pouches, just basic pouches and one or two waterbottles.

That’s sounds workable and the image would be appreciated thanks.

If the existing belt order is in the right place it shouldn’t be too difficult to add the harness, kidney pouches (or 3 waterbottle pouches), perhaps a resp case and maybe a couple of bum rolls.

 

[Silent Invader]

Found a rear-view photo of the Eureka Aden minis:

https://www.wargamesillustrated.net/28mm-aden-emergency/

Nice details. The webbing is 44 but as it’s just belt order it wouldn’t take much reworking to 58 (and the 44 waterbottle carrier was quite popular as an extra).

[Dr DeAth]

Those are nice figures, they look well proportioned and the weapons aren't chunky.

Do you know who sculpted them?

[Dags]

Fairly sure they were by Alan Marsh