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I was wondering if anyone had any experience using Tamiya models to make Trukks, Warbikes, and Warbuggies. Specifically, german 1/35 scale. I know tanks can be too big, but for smaller vehicles I think 1/48 is too small. I would to hear if anyone has tried this before I embark on the project.

bb

I think Tamiya's 1:48 stuff would be a better bet.

The problem with bikes and 'open' vehicles (I presume you're looking at things like the kubelwagen and the light halftracks) is that the scale difference is more obvious with visible seats etc - far more so than with a tank.

I have a 1:35 halftrack, it actually looks OK scale-wise. I haven't converted it, just to be clear, just put some minis next to it. 1:48 would be too small.

The best thing would be to compare an Ork figure with 1/35 scale and 1/48 scale human figures.

I suspect that GW Ork figures are probably larger than 1/35 humans.

I have some old Tamiya models that I have used for bits, and they came, as they always do, with figures. The 1/35th guys are almost an exact match for IG figures from the waist up, but the legs are almost twice as long. I understand that GW minis are "heroic" so that accounts for a lot of it. Also, 28mm is about equivalent to 1/44 scale, closer to 1/48 than 1/35. But, GW vehicles are totally off base for their minis--could you really fit 12, plus crew, in a Chimera?

I'm planning on doing a lot of converting, so things don't need to be exact. What I would really like to see pics of someone elses work on say making the half track into a Trukk, or the BMW cycle in to a warbike. If no such thing exists, well, I guess I'll start my own project log!

thanks,

BB

If your looking to convert ..for Battelwagons the New Ray (1/32nd) Easy build halftrack is a great jump point ..even if it is 1 " longer overall than the "official battlewagon" is the same height and width ..and it really is closer to 1/35th than 1/32nd..(also about 1/2 the price of the Tamiya less detail but your going to orkyfy it anyway) ...there are a few Military humvee models out there that are perfect for trukk conversions cheap to ..New ray also has some tank easy build models that make great convertion bases..
Now for a looted wagon any Tank that falls in size between a Rhino, Devilfish, Chimera, Land Raider or Lemon Russ is fine...

28mm is closest to 1/56 scale, however although the GW models are greatly exaggerated except in height (due to their stumpy legs) they stand on 5mm tall bases which brings them back up a bit.

GW Orks are very chunky IMO, however your mileage may vary.