King & Country WS393 MG34 Gun Team Review

KING AND COUNTRY WS393

Overview

Introduction
Real‑World Historical Context
Collector Notes

King & Country’s WS393 “MG34 Gun Team” captures a Waffen‑SS Panzergrenadier gun crew in dynamic wartime action. Released in September 2023, the set comprises three finely sculpted, mid‑war‑period figures: a gunner manning the MG34, a loader assisting with ammunition, and an NCO commanding the action. The figures wear authentic camouflage smocks and helmet covers, reflect Eastern Front summer conditions around Kursk in 1943, and echo the realism collectors expect from King & Country’s WWII line.

Historical Background

The WS393 MG34 Gun Team depicts a Waffen‑SS Panzergrenadier crew engaged in combat during the summer of 1943 on the Eastern Front, notably around the Battle of Kursk. Facing massive Soviet defenses, German forces—including elite 1st SS Leibstandarte, 2nd SS Das Reich, 3rd SS Totenkopf and 5th SS Viking divisions—launched Operation Citadel in July 1943. The MG34, a versatile general‑purpose machine gun firing up to 900 rounds per minute from 1936 onward, provided crucial suppressive fire. Usually operated by a two‑man team—a gunner and loader—with an NCO providing command and situational awareness, these crews held defensive lines and supported infantry assaults.

Camouflage smocks and helmet covers, used extensively by Waffen‑SS units, increased battlefield concealment and distinguished these troops from Heer formations. The MG34 team’s role was critical during the protracted fighting at Kursk, where defensive firepower enabled German counterattacks and defensive integrity, though ultimately the Soviets prevailed. The significance lies in the pivotal shift on the Eastern Front: Kursk marked the last major German strategic offensive and a turning point toward sustained Soviet advances.

Collector Notes

Collectors identify WS393 by its SKU “WS393” and box label “MG34 Gun Team (3x figs)”. Released September 2023, it’s priced around US $169 new via outlets like Sager’s Soldiers & Miniatures (sagerssoldiers.com). Packaging includes three metal, unpainted 1/30‑scale figures in King & Country’s characteristic blister card or boxed presentation, depending on retailer. Notable variants may include pre‑release promotional liveries, but most appear with factory‑standard olive metallic primer. Look for distinct camouflage smocks and detailed helmet covers; paint application highlighting these details adds value. Common condition issues involve bent bayonets or thin helmet brim areas; use gentle straightening. Secondary‑market pricing ranges US $140–$180 depending on paint and condition.

Moreover, ensuring the inclusion of the NCO figure—often commanding with MP40 or pistol—is essential for completeness. Overall, this set remains sought after for its dynamic poses, armor‑support context, and mid‑war Waffen‑SS authenticity.