I've come across an aesthetic dilemma. Every Space French army needs a WW1 machine gun themed heavy bolter, but which one is better?
No. 1 is a stubber to be converted into a Chauchat-like LMG with iconic magazine should I settle with it. Pros: Looks even cooler with magazine, appropriately themed. Cons: A bit weedy, and not really a bolter. Also, the real life Chauchat was an irredeemable piece of shit, which will affect my sensibilities.
No. 2 is a bolter with an extended, WW1-looking muzzle, on tripod. Pros: Looks formidable, and like an actual bolter/heavy MG. Cons: Looks like a bolter with a muzzle slapped on, will demand work.
No. 3 is a standard tripod heavy MG look, can be converted to be magazine-fed or belt-fed. Pros: Appropriately themed. Cons: Weedy, not a bolter.
All Cadians are placeholders for Space French.