"Hans" was more than just a World War II German Infantry NCO. He became the new benchmark that all 1/6 scale 12-inch action figure manufacturers would aspire to emulate and improve on. It marked the new age of 1/6 in 1999 and since "Hans" debut, the 1/6 market has truly taken off in leaps and bounds. The mantle has since been passed between Dragon and BBI over to Hot Toys (for movie-related and modern military figures), DID (for World War II and historic figures) and Soldier Story (modern military figures, post World War II and recently, World War II as well).
Ladies and Gents, I give you the second "Father" of 1/6 figures (GI Joe was the FIRST) - "Hans"
A brief description of the Wehrmacht Infantry NCO (Feldwebel) "Hans" - German Armed Forces (Sergeant), his uniform and equipment on the cover inner flap
A brief description of the Wehrmacht Infantry NCO (Feldwebel) "Hans" - German Armed Forces (Sergeant), his uniform and equipment on the cover inner flap
"Hans" out of box - the figure was revolutionary in its time in terms of head sculpt and body type. It certainly paved the way for the super articulated figures available today. What was really interesting was the "clacking" sound when you moved his arms - why they did that, I have no idea but it seemed cool at the time :)
Han-dsome "Hans" wearing his M35 field blouse with tresse braiding denoting an NCO from the rank of Unteroffizier to Stabsfeldwebel on the dark green collar. Around his neck is slung the standard 6 x 30 binoculars with protective lid.
On his belt is the belt buckle bearing the traditional Prussian motto "GOTTMITUNS" ('GOD WITH US') around the endorsed wing eagle and swastika emblem. For a even better detailed look, check out my post of the Takara Combat Joe WWII German Infantryman here.
He also has his pair of MP40 triple magazine pouches, ammunition for his MP40 SMG. He wears the infamous German jackboots, also called "dice shaker" marching boots.
The basic load was supported by his leather combat suspenders. The triple magazine pouches have since been improved to fully opening pouches made of cloth or leather, depending on the type worn. Takara Combat Joe WWII German, released in March 1984 already had opening leather MP40 ammo pouches but in terms of price, Dragon's was much much more affordable. Gone are the days of affordably priced 1/6 scale 12-inch collectibles.
The bare back showing the Y harness. I did not add the basic load as this "Hans" is the one that I left in the box (sentimental reasons)
Hans' M35 helmet which displays both insignias, the gas mask canister with gas cape bag strapped to it, M31 breadbag to which is strapped his M31 mess kit and water bottle, folding type entrenching tool carried in a leather frame which also holds his M1884-98 Mauser bayonet with scabbard
IMHO "Hans" was a good looking fella and I used this head sculpt for some of my other uniform sets as well, most notably my Takara Combat Joe CHP (California Highway Patrol) officer (pictures here)
The MP40 or Maschinen Pistole 40 which fired 9mm Parabellum rounds and the 32-round straight box magazines were usually carried in the triple magazine pouches. This was one of the finest SMGs to appear during the war and was eagerly sought after by soldiers of both sides.
Other WWII Germans covered earlier: Takara Combat Joe WWII German Infantryman (link here), Action Man German Stormtrooper (link here) and 'Colditz' German Stormtrooper (link here)
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