Head: BlowTorch 2002
Torso: Duke BTR modified with Milliput
Arms: Scarlett 2005 Comic Pack
Waist and legs: Cross Hair 2003
Grenade, MP5 and belt: BBI

Like Many others, I too thought the head on Blow Torch was perfect for Duke. In fact, I always hated the Gold and Brown paintjob on Blow Torch and he eventually ended up in my parts drawer.

I sculpted the cross strap in two sessions. The first session was to make a flat, even strap. When that was dry, I carved and sanded it until I was happy with it. Then I created some pouches and buckle and finished it off by pinning on a Grenade, who's back I cut and flattened a bit so it would sit better.

I was surprised that Scarlett's arms worked for this piece. I wanted long sleeves and I got em'. I also feel that there aren't enough rank insignias on Joes. Rank is an important part of the military. Maybe I am wrong, but there are two ranks on Duke's first file card, Master Sergeant and First Sergeant. If I am not mistaken, those are two different ranks. I chose to include the higher rank of First Sergeant.

It wasn't until recently that I learned the 1983 Mail away Duke came with a small American Flag sticker to be applied to his left shoulder. To pay homage to that, I included a flag on his left shoulder. (which took a long time)

Finally, I wanted simple, issued Army pants for him. I cut down the extra bits on Cross Hair and repainted them.