"Help! Looking for 1/72 WW2 Pilots" Topic

I am currently building a force of 1/72 scale planes to use in wargaming. Unfortunately most of the models do not come with a pilot figure. I have used up the supply from my parts bin and am (in desperation) currently converting tank crew figures. What I looking for is the classic seated pilot figure that Revell would provide in their WW1 and single-seat WW2 fighters (or something close to that).

I could make a mold and cast my own but I would rather buy some if at all possible.

Thanks in advance for the help.

You and me both, think it's a pretty common problem.

You don't mention a particular nationality but a quick google search turned up these

link

Several shops on Shapeways offer seated pilots in various scales. If you can't find what you want in the appropriate scale, at least some of the shops will resize figures upon request.

I bought bunches of Decapod 1/144 pilots on Shapeways. They're a bit featureless, which doesn't matter much in 1/144 scale (especially inside a closed canopy), but might be a problem in 1/72 scale. If you're putting pilots into open cockpits in the Planes With Spats™, there are a couple WWI torso-only pilot sets that might work: link link

Plastic Soldier Review lists lots of pilot/crew sets on the WWII page. I clicked on a few sets and they looked mostly like ground crew and standing pilots, but there may be some seated pilot sets on that page somewhere.

- Ix

Made a pilot and observer for my Fletner a while back probably have some in a bag somewhere…………..

Plastic Soldier Review sets with pilots at:
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link

Hi
And don't forget there are pilot figures in resin. Me myself am using those from PJ Productions a lot. Loose arms so you can reposition and switch to give some variation. They have them in all periods and countries. See pj-production.be/en

Cheers
Jorrian

@Jordor

+1 I have quite a few of these, reasonable price given how high quality they are and ideal if you can get these over the pond.

Back in the day most aircraft kits came with crew, now lots don't which is a shame, I always like to incorporate the human element in models of vehicles and aircraft.

I just rob the Tank Commanders from Armor kits. As long as they have goggles on they are good to go. Maybe a bit of work t9 make a hat look like a skull cap, no sweat. I checked out the resin figures mentioned. If you are doing a special model I might spend that kind of money for single figures. If I need Wargames Quantity of miniatures, I am going a cheaper route with a decent paint job. Yes a closed canopy will/does help.

If you like metals then have a look at SHQ's aircam range.

link

Eureka makes a 20mm 1/72 pilot link

Maybe Eureka USA can get some in for you.

Thanks guys! I will be running down several of those leads. For now I'm converting WW2 infantrymen into pilots with mixed results (desperation is a cruel master).