16mm figure 3D scan Metal Detectorist, a real person - MD260 1:19 scale SM32

These figures are 3d scanned from real people to get both realistic looks and poses! 

This figure is a metal detectorist, a brilliant cameo scene searching for artifacts and treasure. Hopefully he gets to do the gold dance one day. He is approx 88mm tall (slighlty bent over) and is in 16mm Scale 1:19   

(16mm , Garden Railway, SM32 etc)

The model is printed here in the UK  using high detail resin. The model is supplied unpainted and can be primered with Halfords grey primer or Tamiya fine surface primer.

All items are cleaned and cured by hand, and the figures may require some minor finishing if needed before painting. The condition is new and they are dispatched by Royal Mail 2nd class.

Our packaging is Eco friendly, the exterior packing is made in part from Recycled Materials and is fully recyclable, the interior packing materials are acid free and made from 99% recycled pulp fibres.

Please do bear in mind that resin can be quite delicate so try to avoid dropping your parts! Sadly, we cant be held responsible for breakages once your item has arrived. However, if the piece is broken in the post, please provide images and we will see what we can do to help to make things good.

Needless to say these items are not toys and are not suitable for minors as they could be a choking hazard because of small parts. 

Sold under commercial license from Design Scan Print 3D

FAQ – Product FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What scale and size is this metal detectorist figure?

The figure is in 16mm scale (1:19), suitable for garden railway setups such as SM32. The model is approximately 88mm tall, with the pose slightly bent over as he searches for artifacts and treasure.

How was this figure created?

The figure has been 3D scanned from a real person to capture realistic looks and natural poses, giving you a highly lifelike cameo scene for your layout.

What material is the figure made from?

The model is printed in the UK using high detail resin. This allows for fine surface detail that really comes to life once painted, but also means the figure should be handled with care.

Is the figure supplied painted?

No, the figure is supplied unpainted. You can finish it in your own style to match your railway, diorama, or garden layout.

How is the figure packaged and shipped?

The figure is dispatched by Royal Mail 2nd Class. Our packaging is eco friendly: the exterior packing is made in part from recycled materials and is fully recyclable, while the interior packing is acid free and made from 99% recycled pulp fibres.

Is this figure suitable for children?

No, these items are not toys and are not suitable for minors. They contain small parts and can be a choking hazard, and are intended for adult hobbyists and collectors.

My figure arrived with a broken part, what should I do?

If the figure has been damaged in the post, please take clear photos of the damage and contact us. While we cannot be responsible for breakages once the item has arrived safely, we will always see what we can do to help put things right when damage occurs in transit.

Can the figure be used outdoors on a garden railway?

The figure is intended for 16mm garden railway use (such as SM32), but as it is made from resin, its longevity outdoors will depend on how it is painted, sealed, and protected from extremes of weather. Many modellers use such figures outdoors, but we recommend sensible care and storage when not in use.

Is any additional finishing needed before painting?

All items are cleaned and cured by hand, but the figures may require some minor finishing before painting. This might include light sanding or smoothing of small areas to suit your preferred level of detail.

How detailed is the figure?

The combination of 3D scanning from real people and high detail resin printing gives a very realistic appearance, with natural folds, posture, and features that stand out once primed and painted.

Does this product come with any accessories or separate parts?

The description refers to the metal detectorist figure itself. Any additional items shown in your own layout, such as scenery or rolling stock, are not included unless specifically stated elsewhere in the product listing.

The resin feels delicate. Is this normal?

Yes, high detail resin can be quite delicate, especially around thin or fine features. This is normal for this type of model and allows for better detail, but it does mean you should avoid dropping or roughly handling the figure.

What primer should I use on this figure?

The model can be primed with Halfords grey primer or Tamiya fine surface primer. Both work well on this resin and give a good base for acrylic or enamel paints.

My primer is not adhering well. What can I do?

If primer is beading or not sticking, try the following:

• Gently wash the figure in lukewarm water with a tiny amount of mild detergent.
• Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely.
• Apply light, misted coats of primer rather than one heavy coat.

This usually improves adhesion on resin surfaces.

The surface looks slightly rough in places. How can I improve it?

Minor surface texture can be smoothed by carefully sanding with very fine abrasive (e.g. 800–1200 grit) or using fine sanding sticks. Work gently, especially around small details, and re-prime afterwards if needed.

The figure seems slightly warped or bent. Can it be corrected?

Very slight bends in thin areas can sometimes be eased by carefully warming the part in hand-hot (not boiling) water, gently straightening it, and then cooling it in cold water. Always test cautiously and avoid excessive force to prevent breakage.

What should I do if a small piece snaps off during handling?

Resin can be repaired using a good quality cyanoacrylate (super glue). Make sure both surfaces are clean and dry, apply a tiny amount of glue, and hold in place until set. For very fine parts, tweezers can help with positioning.

Do I need to wash the figure before painting?

All items are cleaned and cured by hand, so many painters go straight to priming. However, if you prefer, you can lightly wash the figure in lukewarm water with a drop of mild detergent, rinse, and allow it to dry fully before applying primer.

Do I need to assemble anything on this figure?

This product is supplied as a single figure rather than a multi-part kit, so there is typically no complex assembly required. Any minor preparation is usually limited to small clean-up and finishing before priming.

What type of paints work best on this resin figure?

Once primed with a suitable primer such as Halfords grey primer or Tamiya fine surface primer, most hobby acrylic or enamel paints will work well. Many railway modellers prefer acrylics for their quick drying time and ease of use.

How can I bring out the realistic details when painting?

To make the scanned details stand out, you can:

• Apply a solid base coat over the primer.
• Use gentle washes to settle into folds and creases.
• Drybrush lighter tones on raised areas like clothing edges and facial features.

This helps to emphasise the natural pose and sculpted detail.

Can I modify or convert the figure?

Many modellers like to personalise figures. The resin can be carefully cut, drilled, or filled, but always work slowly and support thin areas to avoid snapping. Any conversions are at your own risk, as the material is delicate.

How should I handle and store the figure after painting?

Handle the figure by the base or sturdier areas rather than fine features, and avoid dropping it, as resin can be quite delicate. For storage, keep it in a padded box or on a secure display, away from excessive heat and direct sunlight to protect both the resin and the paintwork.