Mechanized Mercs

I've decided to go with the orange/white color combo for my mercenary force.  Here's a reminder of the color scheme...

I got frustrated as I contemplated doing a size-able force of FW Elysian models.  Why?  Because a great deal of the poses look rather silly, to be honest.  Before going that route, I decided to try a pack of the new Corporation Rangers from Mantic.  Although I wasn't greatly impressed by the previews I saw, I decided to give them a chance.

I shouldn't have bothered...the models are awkwardly posed, very strange.  The legs are too long for the body and the head is too squat.  What follows is a comparison pic, low quality because of my phone.  The old camera gave out so it's the phone for now.

From the left:  Mantic, Altered-Mantic, Mantic, DKoK, Cadian

Funny enough, the issues with the Mantic Corp. Rangers were eased with the addition of an Elysian Head and arms.  In my opinion, it totally changed the feel of the model and made it worth my attention.  Here is a side comparison to illustrate some of the Mantic shortcomings.

Another negative for me is the general soft details, especially compared to the FW Elysian.  I suppose I should expect there to be that kind of difference, I just hoped they would work out better.

So...I guess it's time to re-consider my rejection of the Elysian models, maybe I'll try toying with some Cadians.

Anyways, thanks for reading.  Feel free to offer up any experiences you've had with these Mantic figures.  I'm anxious to see what others think of them.

The war goes on,
Hessler

The Greatcoat Mystery

Here are a few hobby realities that I deal with every day...

1. I have no sculpting skills or patience to gain any
2. My giant hands make fine detail work a challenge, at best.
3. I am too poor to purchase Forge World models.

In light of these facts I have, nevertheless, found myself wanting to have some troops with greatcoats. In fact, almost every 40K related forum out there has at least 1 "plastic greatcoats" rumor thread, so I know I am not alone. In my constant search for some cost-effective alternative, I came upon an idea the other day that I was finally able to bring to life.

I went to my local hobby/craft store(here, it's Hobby Lobby) and purchased a 12" x 30" roll of soft aluminum.

After some persistent tinkering this afternoon, I believe I have achieved a result that will allow me my greatcoats, on a budget. Here is a picture of what I came up with...

I do realize there needs to be some fine tuning. This product is used in floral treatments and in embossing so it is very workable. My next step is to try and add some folds and details.

Please leave me your reactions and input and tell me if you have come up with a similar idea that you where happy with. I'm interested in what you readers think of the result and the potential.

The war goes on,
Hessler