Folks, I'm attempting to model one of the USMC's M1A1s from Task Force Tarawa; I've been collecting reference photos and see that many of the vehicles stayed in their basic green (multi-shaded - is that correct or is it a photo artifact? I thought the USMC used a single shade), rather than having the sand overspray. This if the first time I've tried a modern USMC vehicle, and need advice on paint selection. Has anyone on the board done this, and if so, what brand/colors would you suggest? I've got a set of the excellent Archer dry transfers on order, so I think I'm all set for the decals (and barrel art!). However, I'd be most grateful for any advice on the color scheme, or any additional applicable color references anyone might suggest. I'm using the Minicraft-Trumpeter kit I just picked up this week at Hobby Lobby - can't beat it for $9.49 (1/2 price)! Actually scooped up almost all of this "new" series they released. I found the new DML Modern US Marines set last week, and I think they'll be perfect, as well.
Speaking of figures, saw something interesting some of you might also appreciate - I have a friend who collects 1:6 figures ("GI Joe" scale
- 12" tall). Dragon is a big player in that scene, and is doing a line of modern US and British ground troops from the Iraq theater - they make very fine references for small-scale figure painting. My friend demonstrated how they can be posed to match 1:35 figures, and I've got to say they are incredibly useful for painting reference, particularly given the 3-D complexity of modern camouflage, and the mix of woodland/desert schemes that were so common with the infantry in Iraq. Not cheap, but really amazing quality and accuracy. You can see them on the Dragon website, so I guess this probably isn't news to anybody on this list. I was very impressed.
Also finally scored my 1/2 price Academy F-18, so pretty darn good week all the way around. Thanks in advance for any guidance on the color of the beast,
Chris Kansas City