Britains Deetail

Lore & Background

Britains Deetail figures were developed in 1971 as a replacement for the Herald Miniatures line, which had been produced in Hong Kong since 1966. The new figures were moulded in PVC plastic rather than polythene, with plug-in arms glued to bodies to achieve poses not previously possible. Each figure had a T-shaped footlug that locked into a rectangular metal base, ensuring they stood better than rival products and giving a heavier feel that consumers perceived as better value. The first Deetail figures depicted Second World War American and German infantry; sculptor Rod Cameron rented uniforms from theatrical costumers Berman's and Nathan's, and gave model Les Harden his air rifle to pose with. In 1978, the Super Deetail range introduced an overmoulding process that combined different coloured plastics in a single figure, starting with modern British paratroopers wearing red berets.

Reader's Guide

Britains Deetail represents a significant evolution in toy soldier manufacturing, bridging the gap between traditional hollowcast metal figures and modern plastic miniatures. The use of PVC plastic allowed for greater detail and pose variety, while the metal bases provided a heft and stability that distinguished them from competitors. The line covered a wide range of historical periods—from medieval knights to modern military—and included not only foot and mounted figures but also Combat Weapons sets with working spring-loaded firing mechanisms. The retail counter boxes, containing 48 standing figures or 18 mounted figures, came with promotional plinths for display. Deetail figures were sold loose, in boxed playsets, blister packs, and Patrol sets. The range's longevity and the variety of themes—Waterloo, American Wild West, American Civil War, African Desert, and Space—made it a staple of toy shops in the 1970s and 1980s. The eventual move of production to China and subsequent phase-out marked the end of an era for a line that had maintained a strong connection to Britains' heritage while adapting to modern materials and manufacturing techniques.

Did You Know?

• The first Deetail figures were based on Second World War American and German infantry.
• Super Deetail figures used an overmoulding process to combine different coloured plastics in one figure.
• General Custer is the only model in the Deetail range that represents a real historical person.
• Combat Weapons sets included working spring-loaded firing mechanisms and supplied ammunition such as ball bearings or plastic shells.