A random modeling question

[SoCalBobS]

A have a question regarding the pioneer tools (shovel, pickaxe, breaker bar, etc.) on our models, particularly on WW2 vehicles. What colors were they on the original vehicles? I've seen them painted over with the vehicle color, usually on vehicles in museums and such. I've seen them presented as bare metal and wood. Sometimes the metal is painted, but the wood is not, and vice versa. As they are used, I'm sure paint rubs off and rust can set in, so there is a mix. If the wood is left unpainted, is it a light color like ash, or is it stained dark? Museum displays aren't necessarily accurate, and most photos are black and white, or artificially colorized.

Inquiring minds want to know!

[tank_me]

I did the same research last year. Simple answer is...yes. Depending on who made them or the unit, some were wooden color handles and some were completely painted tank color. There really isn't any wrong answer. Some of the wood was light colored and some dark depending on the manufacturer. Some of the tools were bare metal and some were painted.

[SoCalBobS]

I did the same research last year. Simple answer is...yes. Depending on who made them or the unit, some were wooden color handles and some were completely painted tank color. There really isn't any wrong answer. Some of the wood was light colored and some dark depending on the manufacturer. Some of the tools were bare metal and some were painted.

Cool! I enjoy some artistic license, so contrasting or standout colors are always tempting. Thanks.

[Meter Rat]

If you want some more variety. The handles of the wire cutters would be dull red/brown, as they were made from Backerlite.

[tank_me]

If you want some more variety. The handles of the wire cutters would be dull red/brown, as they were made from Backerlite.

Yes for German vehicles. I guess my answer was more toward US vehicles.

[rb67mustang]

A have a question regarding the pioneer tools (shovel, pickaxe, breaker bar, etc.) on our models, particularly on WW2 vehicles. What colors were they on the original vehicles? I've seen them painted over with the vehicle color, usually on vehicles in museums and such. I've seen them presented as bare metal and wood. Sometimes the metal is painted, but the wood is not, and vice versa. As they are used, I'm sure paint rubs off and rust can set in, so there is a mix. If the wood is left unpainted, is it a light color like ash, or is it stained dark? Museum displays aren't necessarily accurate, and most photos are black and white, or artificially colorized.

Inquiring minds want to know!

That's a great question, Bob. Tank me answered well. I think most tools like that used hickory for the wood due to its strength and I'll bet it was unfinished. I'd say the same for the steel. The US Army needed so many sets of pioneer tools, and that's why I think they were unfinished.

Consider the cost of a Tommy Gun, compared to the Greese Gun. I'll bet Tommy Gun protection was lower after the cheaper Greese Gun became available.

How you detail the tools is up yo you, there's no wrong way to do it, as Tank me said.