Lord Ashram's House of War

Okay, reached three decisions on the new project

2012-01-25T05:36:00.000-08:00

Howdy all!

Okay... reached a trio of decisions about the 15mm modern military project.

First, I think I will hold off on doing it until I finish the 25mm Vikings that I never finished. It is only 16 figures so will get done soon, but I figure setting a goal will get me to finish that project I hadn't finished.

Second, I have basically settled on the company for the figures (Rebel). I am still thinking I'll do about 20 Americans, because that is roughly how many come in a pack and I don't want to have to spend another ten bucks for 20 more. But maybe I'll change my mind.

Last decision? Well, this is more a "thought" than a decision... I may, once I have finished, sell the whole lot. We'll see how I feel about it.

Anyway... good stuff!

Considering a new project... thoughts?

2012-01-22T13:54:00.000-08:00

(Above inspirational photo courtesy of Agis Neugebauer... excuse me while I drool!)

Howdy all!

Recently been thinking about possibly tackling a new project... wanted to see what folks thought!

I've never painted any sort of modern troops, and thought that might be fun!

So... the idea was inspired by an article I read in Wargames Illustrated; a set of modern troops with a modular set of buildings and road tiles to go with them. The project would have four parts:

First, a small force of modern US troops. I am thinking around 20 infantry, a pair of humvees, and an M1A1 Abrams would do nicely. I could add something to it later (a LAV-25 or a chopper) but I think that is basically all I would need.

Second, a slightly larger force of generic Middle Eastern enemies. I am not sure if I want to do more of an Afghan style enemy (wearing traditional Afghan headwear) or a more insurgent type of force with masks and such. Thoughts?

Third, I would get a bunch of the MDF buildings from GameCraft miniatures. They have some great stuff, and it seems very affordable. I'd have to get a number of buildings... maybe 12 or 15 smaller ones and 8 or so mid-sized/larger ones.

Lastly, I'd make up a set of modular boards for it. I think a bunch of boards which are 1x1 would do it. I think I'd do maybe eight with various road layouts, and something special for the other two... maybe one with some fields, and one with a small oasis. I'd make parts of it raised, maybe using a heavy cardboard, to represent city sidewalks and to help make the roads stick out. I'd probably also pick up some palm trees and some various assorted bits and pieces you'd find in a city that you could use as cover... jersey barriers, barbed wire, oil drums, etc.

I would then do a set of rules for all of this as a "solo play" game where you control the Americans and the terrain and enemies are randomly generated and can fight without you... I think that would be pretty sweet:)

So! Any suggestions for the new project?

A table chock FULL of miniatures!

2012-01-21T17:10:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would share... a "behind the scenes" shot of the photo session for the chateau... and frankly, a damn lot of figures on the table. Any Napoleonic player would enjoy looking through it all for a while up close... I know I do!:)

Just because I like the photo...

2012-01-18T23:09:00.000-08:00

Some of my French light infantry open fire on the chateau from an old rock wall.

The Chateau is finished! And for sale... :)

2012-01-16T13:54:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

Well... I am done! The 25mm Chateau is all finished up!

This was a two part project. I finished the original layout several years ago. I wanted a true 25mm building that could be a centerpiece on a large table, or even used for a skirmish game. I wanted to be able to go into every piece of it, and have troops fight within. I finished the model, but never quite got it to the level I wanted.

Then, recently, I revisited the project with the idea of really finishing it off and making it a true scenery centerpiece. And voila!

I'll start with some shots from the outside, with captions beneath.

Here is a shot from the front, with a Rifle Captain for scale. The gates do open and close on a hinge mechanism. On the right side is the farmhouse. On the left is a long barn/stable. The rest of the outbuildings can be used as stables, storage, or whatever! The tree on the front corner can be removed, and you can just cover the hole up with a piece of bush (included, of course).

Here is a shot from the side. You can see a patrol of Rifles returning to the outside door of the farmhouse. These chateaus were very secure and made excellent defensive positions on the Napoleonic battlefield.

A shot from the back... you can see the small back entrance.

One thing I wanted to do with this piece is include a lot of secondary scenery pieces for it. So... I did! There is a table and chairs for the inside of the farmhouse. There is a stone wall that can be used wherever you'd like. There is a well, hand-built out of greenstuff and balsa. There are some assorted crates and barrels. There is a small vegetable garden. There is a woodpile. And there are five stalls for horses, that can go in any of the outbuildings to indicate a stable. I did make sure that the basing on the pieces matches the chateau, and each piece can go in many different locations... or can be used interdependently of the chateau if you wish!

Here is a closer-up shot of three pieces; the well, the veggie garden, and the woodpile.

Here are the crates and barrels... I can't help but think they would make an excellent objective.

Here is a shot where you can see the gate being open... not sure those Brits will be able to close it in time!

As I mentioned, all of the roofs can be removed. The farmhouse is two floors, with the outbuildings all being one floor.

Here is the upstairs of the farmhouse. This would be a perfect bedroom... nice and cozy in the winter.

Here is a shot looking down into the first floor of the farmhouse; the second floor lifts right out, and reveals the kitchen and a sitting room. For the entire model all exterior doors and windows are outlined on the interior with wood and blackened out, with a fireplace for cooking in the kitchen as well.

Clearly a sign of things to come... here you can see some French soldiers inside the chateau, and you get a glimpse of the interior of the main barn. The barn is finished like the other outbuildings, with stone floors and scattered straw.

So! That is my 25mm Chateau... perfect for Napoleonic gaming or WWII gaming.

And as I said, it is for sale. I think $250 US, plus shipping and handling, would be appropriate for this piece. It is large (just for the sake of scale, my table is SMALL... only 6 x 4, which is why I am not keeping this building) and so shipping won't be the easiest. I live in the northern NJ area of the United States, so would be happy if someone nearby would buy it so they can come and pick it up!

So... I hope everyone enjoys looking at the pictures, and I hope it can find a good home!

The last two bits for the Chateau are done!

2012-01-14T13:01:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

Well, with a little work (and some babysitting courtesy of Grandma K and Mr. T) the next two bits for the Chateau are done!

They are the woodpile (a donation courtesy of a buddy of mine, who had an extra) and a small garden of veggies!

As usual, I tried to base them such that you could use them on your table even without the Chateau, and of course they can fit in many different spots within the Chateau itself... here are two permutations!

Anyway... just a few barrels left to paint, a little touching up, and we are ready to go! Anyone out there with a little Christmas money interested in buying a real centerpiece?

Work continues on the 25mm Chateau

2012-01-14T10:08:00.000-08:00

Howdy all!

Well, it has been a LONG damn time since I worked on toy soldiers. Between the new baby, working on my video game, and now Battlefield 3 (stupid XBOX and friends!) toy soldiers have taken a back seat.

However, I really want to finish my 25mm Chateau so it can be sold to a happy home!

So... I am working on the last few bits to go with it!

Now, I already have some crates, some barrels, and a well that go with the chateau. I am adding three more bits; some more barrels, a little vegetable garden, and a woodpile!

The woodpile is primed and ready for paint... I'll get it done today.

I also made the garden; it fits in a few places in the chateau, and will look really fantastic when it is done. After I took this photo I primed it, and will paint it ASAP.

Oh, and another project that I did recently... a name plate for my son's door that matches his room.

So... back to toy soldiers!:)

So... what should this fence look like?

2012-01-08T18:13:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

Okay... finally getting back to my 25mm French chateau, which I plan to sell soon!

I am working on finishing up the main gate, and on a few of the "supporting" pieces that I will include with the chateau when I sell it.

I've done some crates, some barrels, a stone wall, and a well. I still have to finish some more barrels, the woodpile, and then I want to make a small garden for the inside courtyard.

It would be a small rectangle with fence on three sides; the back side is meant to be put up against a building. It will fit either next to the house or next to the barn.

My question is; what should the fence look like around it? Would it be planks, like on the right? Or small timbers with spaces (as on the left)? Or what? I have no idea what style of fence would be used inside a courtyard!

Any help?

The Gaming Holiday Gifts

2012-01-04T09:41:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

Well, like any self-respecting gamer, I did manage to get a few neat pieces of look this holiday season, thanks to my INCREDIBLY generous in-laws. I did have to suffer a few barbs and arrows (my father in law, a former Army officer and State Trooper said to my father, another former military man, that shopping for me was easy; just pretend you are shopping for a 13 year old) but whatever, it was worth it in the end:)

So... three things I got.

First up, for the XBOX, Battlefield 3. Already wasted a lot of hours rumbling around in an M1A2 with my best friend blasting buildings to pieces... it is a lot of fun:)

More importantly (to this blog at least) was a year subscription to Wargames Illustrated, and a copy of the "Waterloo" rules (bought at half price, thank god!)

The Waterloo book is VERY impressive, and is a lot of fun to read. Some beautiful shots of toy soldiers too! I do love owning lots of books with pictures of toy soldiers in them!

Anyway... I took a few photos to share... and listen, if there is ANY chance either of the Perry twins read this blog, or anyone who knows them happens to... next time I am in England (which will probably be never, as I've never been there and tend to head towards Paris and Florence when I am in Europe) could I please come and hang out? I want to see all this stuff up close!:)

Okay gunpowder/miniature folks... this is for you

2011-12-29T09:45:00.001-08:00

Heh? Would you like this on your XBOX or maybe iPad, featured in a simple but involved strategy game?

Yeah, you know you would.

Anyway, just a quick throw-together animation to see what it would look like.

A Little Proof-of-Concept

2011-12-28T09:44:00.001-08:00

This is a first pass (and really rough; it is not a real animation, and the figure isn't animated, and...) at how I would like to indicate combat results mid-combat. The more explosions the more damage the unit took. One is min damage. Two is some damage. Three would be max damage.

What's up, Helo insertion?

2011-12-27T20:23:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I whupped ass. That's what three Insertion Teams on an already-worn-down enemy base will do.

Got a good game in!

2011-12-25T21:39:00.000-08:00

... of my latest video game!

Here is one particular square with one of my fully leveled units. When units level up (and only certain types can) they eventually get "named" (in this case the 1st Inf - "The Big Red One") and an extra unit slot... spent here on a medic to keep the squad going! Add in another NATO infantry unit with a Captain, and a Humvee one square over lending fire support, and you've got a nasty little combo!

The New Video Game: The NATO faction Specials!

2011-12-25T14:55:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

Okay, hot on the heels of the NATO unit preview, I thought I'd give folks a look at the NATO special weapons, known ingame as the Operations!

Now, Operations generally come in three flavors; reinforcements, attack, and square upgrades.

All factions have four Operations. So, let's take a peek at the NATO operations!

First up; Drone Strike! Drone strike is a high powered attack that can hit enemies anywhere on the board. While the Drone only hits one target at a time, it is capable of killing anything, including reducing enemy armor to scrap. Expensive but powerful, the Drone Strike is a long distance killer.

NATO can call on Reinforcements in the form of a Helicopter Insertion team! A chopper sweeps in and drops off a fully-equipped Insertion Team (see right) capable of taking on any foe. Unlike the reinforcements of the other factions, the NATO Insertion Team can be deployed anywhere on the map. They come fully armed and armored, and even feature a Support Sniper armed with a .50 cal sniper rifle capable of taking on light enemy vehicles, an upgrade unavailable to any other unit in the game. While they cannot level up, the Insertion Team is plenty capable as is.

The NATO faction also has two square upgrades among their Operations. First up is a Recon Base. The Recon Base is built in any friendly square, and takes money to run each turn. However, in exchange it keeps a steady stream of recon drones circling above the square the base is in and all the surrounding squares, and radios the location of enemy units back to headquarters. This is particularly useful as Resistance units infiltrate your front lines and try to disrupt your supplies... a few Recon Bases will make sure you can keep a close eye on your territory at all time, and will be ready to deploy troops to the rear in a heartbeat!

The last NATO Operation is another square upgrade; the Forward Operation Base. The FOB is built in any friendly square and gives any friendly unit in the square a bonus to its defense against infantry and vehicles, as they shelter behind the walls and sandbags. This makes NATO troops especially tough to kill when they are defending their territory.

So... those are the NATO Operations... next time I'll do a quick runthrough of the Resistance Faction!

The New Video Game: The NATO faction

2011-12-24T11:14:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

First off, happy holidays to everyone who reads the blog... I hope everyone has a lovely time celebrating family and eating like crazy!

Now... the blog has been super quiet recently, but a large part of that is because I (and a buddy of mine) have been hard at work on our new video game for the XBOX, Windows Phone, and eventually (fingers crossed) for the iPad.

It will be a tile based wargame in which you control one of three factions (NATO, the Dictator, or the Resistance) and try to take over the Middle East!

Anyway... the game is nearing completion, so I thought I'd take some time and show people a bit about it!

First up... a walkthrough of the NATO faction units!

First up is the lowly Police squad. They are cheap, they have little equipment to choose from, and they die easy. But when you cannot afford any of the regular (i.e. expensive!) NATO units, the Police can do a good job holding down territory and even hunting down enemy militias and insurgents when needed.

The Allied Infantry, troops from the home country, are very useful to the NATO faction. They are cheaper than regular NATO troops (albeit not as effective) but still capable of bringing the fight to militias, insurgents, and a host of other enemy troops. However, when you want troops that can REALLY roll, you have to go with...

... the NATO soldiers. These guys are expensive, but they can go toe to toe with almost anyone, even enemy elites. They have a wide range of gear to pick from (again, expensive, but worth it!) and excellent upgrades. Plus, they can level up, and you can find yourself commanding The Big Red One or the Black Watch or any number of well known units

The NATO faction can also hire Marines. The Marines are tough, aggressive troops, able to defeat any foe. They are not ideal for taking and holding land, and require a large number of resources (including ever-precious oil) to maintain, but when it comes to a fight, they are almost unmatched. Plus, they can level, and you can find yourself commanding the First of the First, various Commando groups, and even The Royal Gurkha Rifles!

NATO can also hire in Snipers. Snipers are not great at handling damage (although Ghillie Suits and Claymore upgrades can help) but holy cow they can dish out PUNISHMENT. Ideal for taking down militias, insurgents, and suicide bombers before they can attack up close. Give them some big caliber rifles and they can even go after light enemy vehicles. They also have the Infiltrate skill, which allows them to move past enemies in the same square, which is pretty rare in NATO units, who prefer a stand-up fight.

The cream of the crop when it comes to infantry for the NATO faction is the Special Operations guys. They hit hard, they are hard to kill, AND they can infiltrate. They can't wear the heaviest armor, but when it comes to killing enemies the SpecOps guys are the best of the best... and when they level, you can field the DEVGRU teams and SAS troops, among others.

NATO has two vehicle options as well (not counting drones and the helos for the Insertion Teams). First is the Humvee. It isn't a heavy duty vehicle, but it is still capable of wrecking enemy Technicals. Now, it won't stand up to a BMP or, heaven forbid, a tank, but the Humvee is still the absolute workhorse of the NATO faction.

Finally we come to the M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank. The Abrams is a brute, capable of killing anything on the battlefield and capable of sweeping entire squares clear of enemies. It costs an arm and a leg to maintain, but there is nothing capable of standing up to the Abrams. Nothing, that is, except maybe a few units of Insurgents bristling with RPGs...

So those are the units in the NATO faction! Next up I'll share a bit of their Upgrades, as well as the NATO Operations, including Drone Strikes and the ever-popular Helicopter Insertion!

The trailer for "The Hobbit" is out

2011-12-21T04:00:00.000-08:00

Here it is!

And I do want to see it. Nice to see so many familiar faces. Not sold on the dwarves though.

That's it... Games Workshop has gone full retard

2011-12-17T12:11:00.000-08:00

Okay.

Listen... I appreciate Games Workshop. They've been in the toy soldier biz for a LONG time, and have contributed a lot of the most important bits of toy soldiering to the hobby. I've been reading White Dwarf since around issue 70 (and have them all in boxes) and have owned a LOT of Games Workshop and Citadel miniatures.

But with the latest edition of White Dwarf, and indeed the recent White Dwarfs (or is it Dwarves?) I feel like they have just gone too far.

So... Storm of Magic.

Holy crap, it is terrible. Forget the fact that they have these arcane fulcrums, which are so over the top and ridiculous and they are making these instead of, say, more useful battle boards or decent houses and the like. Forget the fact that the actual soldiers don't matter so much anymore compared to the magicians. Nope... what kills me is this ridiculous "binding scroll" thing by which you can have all sorts of horrific evil monsters fighting alongside the Empire, Dwarves, and Elves. Oh god. It is f'ing ridiculous. The latest White Dwarf had a photo on the back of an Empire army. Now, everyone should know I have a weak spot for the Empire (btw, proud to say that when you do a google image search for Middenheim army, mine is the first to show up!) But what the hell... it has a giant six armed minotaur fighting for it?! W... T... F?!

So yeah. I am a bit sick of GW right now. Warhammer has slowly and surely become more and more over the top and ridiculous, and this latest decision (made, I am sure, so they can sell more of each model... after all, if EVERY army can field a giant six armed minotaur certainly you'll sell more of them!) just does it for me.

Our first XBOX wargame is well underway!

2011-12-13T19:18:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

So, I know it has been a while, but I've also gotten back to our first XBOX wargame, which we started some time ago but laid off of for a while...

Thought I would include some screenshots... the game is pretty playable, although it is missing some key functions. I've been playing a LOT of the Dictator faction recently... while the Dictator doesn't have the infiltrating units of the Resistance faction, or the sheer badass units of the NATO faction, it DOES have a nice assortment of cheaper-but-still-badass units, and the addition of the BMP for long range firepower and the Secret Police to help quickly control area... well, add into that the SUPER cheap Militia units, and you've got a fun little force! Once we get the Scud missiles ingame and all of that, look out!:)

Here are a few screenies...

Okay, above is a square full of Dictator troops... I brought in a unit of Loyal Infantry with an RPG to help fend off enemy armor. I then have a unit of Presidential Guard, which are among the best troops the Dictator has at his disposal, with a Foreign Advisor, who really helps all of the other units in the square in all stats. Then there is a unit of Secret Police being accompanied by the Dictators Son, which makes all of the units in the square fight a lot harder. A lot of force multipliers here (albeit at a price!)

Okay... another square, with a Loyal Infantry unit (with one spot left for upgrades... I was still waiting to see what sorts of enemy were attacking) a BMP (rock ON... the BMP is the second best piece of armor in the game) and a unit of Secret Police, who are armed with AKs, IEDs (to protect them from attack) and a nice car battery to REALLY convince those squares to come over to my side, right quick!

And here is a shot of my home square... it features a unit of Still Shadow mercenaries... these guys are stealth-capable (which is pretty damn rare... only the secret police can do that, and they are not prime combat units with limited combat upgrades) and are pretty bad-ass. Keep in mind they can only use the third-world-style weapons, because they blend into the populace... if you manage to hire a Mjolnir team, those guys can carry any weapon available in the game. This square also has an example of a trick I like for the Dictator... hire up a cheapo militia unit, and then give the a Captain... it is the only chance the Dictator has at getting a defense-oriented leader who can impact all of the friendlies in the square... a nice combo!

So... that is it, so far... hope everyone can give it a try when it comes out, it will only be about a dollar!

Two honest wargamers!

2011-12-10T07:16:00.000-08:00

So... I recently had the good fortune of dealing with some SERIOUSLY honest wargamers!

As most of you know, I recently had my first kid, and unfortunately between that and a pay freeze at work thanks to a lack of contract bills have been getting a little intimidating.

So, I decided I'd try to sell some of my older figures that were sitting around not getting played with!

First up, I had someone express an interest in my old Warhammer figures... this particular gent has a blog all about them...

http://warhammerforadults.blogspot.com/

He asked what I would like as a price. Well, I thought about it, and emailed him back with a price, only to immediately email him again with a slightly lower price... I didn't really know what they were worth and didn't want to seem like a money hog. So, two emails sent, I waited!

And promptly got back an email saying I was insane, and that the buyer wouldn't give me less than three times what I was asking, and even THAT wasn't necessarily a fair price.

Seriously now? Who does that? Well, a very honest chap, that's who!:)

Then it happened again! I had a bunch of Epic 40k figures that I needed to sell, and a chap named Chris emailed me, interested in buying them. Again, I give a quote, and again a buyer says I am nuts and insists on paying more! WTF, people... don't you know to take advantage of folks?

It was funny because I was trying so desperately not to rip anyone off, because the figures weren't getting played with while I had them, and both guys ended up having to guide me through the process.

So... kudos to two VERY fair and honest wargamers! Thanks from this overworked and underpaid new dad!:D

Okay wargamers... anyone recommend a Christmas Village?

2011-12-03T10:56:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

Well, now that I've got a kid I have an excuse to buy a Christmas village set!

The only thing is... which one?! They are remarkably hard to find!

Do any of you wargamers out there have a company you can recommend? I would love to find something ultra-detailed and really neat, and which of course would light up like the one above (taken from this blog... great set there!) I prefer a smaller-scale sort of model... but anything "neat" is perfect!

Any recommendations guys and gals?

Ohhh, things are quiet!

2011-11-30T07:28:00.000-08:00

Hey all!

Just wanted to say that I'm sorry I haven't gotten much posted recently... we are smack dab in the toughest time of the year with work, and with that, three days of physical therapy a week for a bum shoulder, beginning to push to a finish on my latest video game project, and a six week old, I have just not found time for toy soldiers!

But fear not... I'll be back to posting soon:)

A revolutionary wargames product... and charity to boot!

2011-11-10T10:13:00.000-08:00

Hello all!

Okay... remember how, some months back, I mentioned working on a super secret wargames project? A unique wargames project that was unlike anything ever done before?

Well... it is here!

I want to extend a hearty wargames welcome to Gordon and Hague Wargaming!

This new company, founded by a wargaming and reenacting enthusiast, was created with the idea of making wargaming accessible and easy to ALL folks, painters and non-painters, those with some free time and the rest of us who don't have much at all!

Not only are they releasing a free set of full-color, filled-with-awesome-photos rules, but more importantly they are releasing what I think is the first EVER line of pre-painted, ready-to-go-out-of-the-box (or blister pack) American Civil War wargames figures!

It is a 10mm line of plastic ACW miniatures. They come in larger "army deal" boxes that are modeled on Civil War ammunition boxes (you can see the back of the Federal Starter Army box to the left) along with "booster" blister packs that you can use to beef up your forces! They come painted and based, and ready to roll!

The website also has available a number of "extra" products, including a large range of "Army Painter" products, as well as links to all sorts of scenery manufacturers, as well as an entire section dedicated to newcomers and ANOTHER entire section dedicated to Hobby Projects... in short, everything you need to get to wargaming!

And the cherry on the sundae? They are donating a part of their proceeds to the Civil War Preservation Trust! The Trust is dedicated to preserving and maintaining Civil War battlefields across the United States, and to educating our people about the great sacrifices so many Americans had to make in order to make our Nation what it is today. Come on... you can't get much better than that!

So! Looking for something to stick under the tree for your son or daughter? Looking to get a Union or Confederate army on the table without spending the next six months painting? Looking for a one-stop-shop for everything American Civil War? Well... head on over to Gordon and Hague and pick up some of maybe the most unique wargames project of some years!

Oh, and check them out on Facebook too!

Some textures and graphics that might be of use to wargamers!

2011-11-05T15:37:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay... things are REALLY slow right now because of the new baby, but I thought I would post some of the textures I put together for my chateau. If people want to steal them and use them, go ahead!

I am also including a link to an AWESOME graphic of 25mm rugs that I found on the blog "Adventures in Lead". This is a GREAT little treat for ANY wargamers... check it out HERE.

Anyway... here you go!

A stone floor:

Some wallpaper:

A tile floor:

A wooden floor:

What are these guys worth?

2011-11-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Found a bunch of Epic 40k guys that I am selling... anyone want to hazard a guess at what they might be worth? I find that I have absolutely no idea!:D It is a huge mixed box of guys, a bunch of Knights, an Imperator titan, some orc warbuggies, and some half sprues of chaos.

Any advice is welcome!

Doug K at Battlefield Terrain Concepts does me a solid!

2011-10-27T17:58:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Well, while I do love the arrival of the new guy, he HAS made it impossible for me to attend Fall In! I am sad about that... my buddy and I travel down there and drink and look at toy soldiers and buy stuff and generally it is awesome. I also love taking photos of the games and dealer hall and then revisiting it when I miss it! But what can you do.

However, I did get a gift card some time back for Battlefield Terrain Concepts for Christmas! Talk about a great gift:) However... now I won't get to use it! That sort of stinks, because they make pretty cool terrain! The corn at the top of this post is there, as is the hill to the left (which was actually a housewarming gift from my buddy!)

So, I got in touch with Doug K at BTC and let him know about having a gift certificate that I can't use.

And what did he do? He agreed to let my buddy "redeem" it for me and pick some scenery up for me! So I'll just mail it to him, and in return I get some neat scenery even though I cannot make it to Fall In this year!

Anyway... it is always nice when someone takes care of someone in the toy soldier hobby, and I am real thankful to Doug for taking care of me!

And if you need some scenery, be sure to stop by there awesome stand... these Spanish buildings to the right are from BTC as well!

Anyone know the manufacturer of this figure?

2011-10-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

He is a bit small, and is wearing a hat of unknown style... it is certainly not a shako. Anyone know the manufacturer?

:)

Can't wait to paint up his first army of toy soldiers!! Only bad side? No trip to Fall In this year:( Booo!!

More chateau details being finished

2011-10-16T15:30:00.001-07:00

Howdy all!

Working on some more of the "extras"... the well has paint and flock, but is still shiny from a coat of stain. Did the boxes... got one more thing of barrels to do. A buddy also has a woodpile that he said he would donate to the cause.

So! Tonight I might make a few beds and tables and stuff to scatter around. I started in on the gates, and they look good, except one broke because I was clumsy... and I am out of good glue to repair it. So, eventually I'll get it done.

Stable walls for the chateau

2011-10-16T11:08:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks,

Okay, in the midst of a weekend of relaxing (likely my last one before the baby is born... yikes!) I did five sets of stable walls for the outbuildings. I left them loose so you can use them in other outbuildings, but for the photo I put them in the long barn.

I also added some straw scattered around the floor... it looks pretty good, even if the flash makes it look a little severe:)

A well for the chateau

2011-10-16T09:07:00.000-07:00

Just working on a well for the chateau... never done this much green stuff work before, so I hope it doesn't suck!

Need to find a bucket now... I think I have one somewhere, but not sure where...?

And unfortunately I am out of black spraypaint. I'll have to see if I can find any hidden away anywhere...

Epic Imperial Guard for sale

2011-10-16T07:28:00.000-07:00

Hey folks!

Okay, while looking through my old Warhammer stuff, found a new box of epic Imperial Guard, still on their sprues!

Anyone want them?

If you are interested in buying them, shoot me an email... grenadierguardscampaigns AT yahoo DOT com

Man, I remember that picture on the box cover with SUCH affection... right when the Imperial Guard were first released. Loved that shot... very non-40k in its own way:)

And if you love epic, let me know... I have a HUGE huge box of loose, unpainted guys just sitting around... hundreds and hundreds of figures... if you want them, better to send them to a loving home than have them wasted here by not killing each other!:)

Sorry folks, but these guys have already found a home! Thanks though!

Now THIS is some OLD SCHOOL Warhammer!

2011-10-15T13:59:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay... was going through some old boxes of figures (a gent across the pond is interested in buying them) and thought I'd share what I found... some SERIOUSLY old school Warhammer figures! For some it will be fun to reminisce... for others it may be a first time you see them! Please forgive the paintjob... I was very young!

Some elf wardancers... these were the height of my childhood painting!

A bunch of old school elves... Skarlocs rangers (minus Skarloc and the wardancer guy who was the unit champ) some beastmasters with their animals, Elric, and the guy from a cool four horse chariot (which I couldn't find, dammit!)

Old school elf dragon rider. He came off his base, but is fine.

Some representatives of THE original plastic set... missing from the photo are the dwarf and the elf!

An awesome regiment of black orcs with halbards. LOVE the musician with the cymbals, and the champ with the BIG sword. A very cool unit.

Rugluds Armored Orcs, minus the boss himself... also two random crossbow guys, and two OLD school Citadel orcs... some of the very first released I think.

Some more of the original plastic orcs, a cool orc warboss on a boar, an old school goblin chariot with swordsman and shaman, and a GREAT orc warboss on a wyvern (his wing is off but can easily be reattached.)

Agh, cannot remember the name of this skeleton unit (which is missing a few figures.) Anyone remember it?

Argh! Forgetting this one too! A Dark Elf unit... something like Mengels Manhides? Note it was half witch elves and half warriors!

Some GREAT original chaos dwarves... plus an original Jugg, some older chaos warriors, and a GREAT chaos mage:)

A few more elves.

Some original Golfags ogres! I have a standard bearer and another trooper somewhere... I'll have to find them.

Here is that giant, pictured with a Foundry russian for scale. Notice the painted toenails and fingernails... my giants are FIERCE, baby!

Two of the eight hobgoblins... seven are the trooper to the right. I think I may have a standard bearer for them, I'll have to look.

The trolls! I do love the old school GW trolls:)

Anyway... it was a lot of fun to look through these guys... hope everyone enjoys them!

Sorry everyone, these guys have found homes! Thanks though!

Some sold figures get a new lease on life!

2011-10-11T15:39:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Just thought I'd post this up... I had sold these fellows some time ago, and their new owner has CERTAINLY done them justice... crap, if I knew how cool they would look I would have never sold them!:D

Anyway, please do stop by John's excellent blog, Wargaming in 28mm and Sometimes Smaller and give them a look... and while you are there, check out some of the other awesome miniatures!

Chateau interiors WIP... nearly done!

2011-10-09T15:08:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Okay, with some advice from some folks I got working on the chateau interiors.

I did the outbuildings with a stone floor, white painted interiors, and simple framing of the doors. The stone floors I think turned out fairly cool... the dark spots from the glue are a bit noticeable with the flash, but in person they look fine. Now I have to go back and touch up the white, create a few horse stall walls, scatter some hay in there (what should I use for that I wonder?) and maybe do a few crates or something in the corners.

The farmhouse I did a bit more on. I added an upstairs, with a wooden floor and a rug. I cut out a bit of a space for the chimneys so it would fit on easier (even though it leaves a little space when the floor is installed. I also left a spot for where the stairs come up, which serves double duty as a finger hole for removing the floor!

When you remove it, you get a downstairs as well, that is split into two rooms. It isn't totally finished (I need to do something to make the foam that holds up the second floor a little less ugly, but not sure what) but it is near to finished... again, a rug on the floor of the main room, as well as a fireplace (which you cannot see in this photo.)

Of course, now I am running into another question; do I do some basic furniture for it? I could make some, which would be fiddly... or I could buy some, but would the money spent end up adding value when I sell the whole thing? Not sure.

BTW... if anyone out there likes the looks of it and is considering purchase and has any questions, let me know at grenadierguardscampaigns AT yahoo.com !

Thanks for all the help folks!

Advice on the chateau?

2011-10-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay... so, I have a plan for the interior of the farmhouse... floor in wood, walls in wallpaper. I might do a second floor too... would be fairly simple to run a ring around the top and "set" a floor down on it. We'll see, might be worthwhile. You can see the basics to the right.

However, now I am not sure what to do with the barn and stable areas. I am a bit torn... I think I'll paint the walls a simple white to represent the whitewash. However, what about the floors? Do I do the floors in the same wood as the farmhouse, to tie them together? Or do I do paint it grey like a stone floor?

And what about interior walls? Originally I was going to make a few standing stall walls for the stable that could be moved around as needed, but in my mind I was putting them in the barn, which is huge (the long building to the left in the photo to the left). I realized that they would most likely be in the L shaped part of the building... namely the piece attached to the farmhouse, with the two big doors which look awful stable-like. However, that part of the building isn't long enough to really hold any stable walls. So... what do I do? And what about the smaller building part at the end of the L shape from the farmhouse? Should they all just be painted white interiors with wooden floors, and skip any interior walls?

So... anyone have any thoughts about what to do with the interiors of the outbuildings? Wood floors okay? What about interior stuff?

Starting to do some mockups of the chateau interior...

2011-10-08T13:20:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay, after a long and exhausting week of work, and spending a big chunk of the day preparing for the arrival of the baby, I did take a few minutes to mock up some interior stuff for the chateau.

I'll do some framing for the windows and doors, and probably do a few fireplaces and an interior wall that can be moved around. Still haven't decided if I'll make or buy furniture... we'll see. Then I'll move on to the barn and stables.

Thoughts?

Trees for the chateau, and some extras painte

2011-10-02T16:26:00.000-07:00

Okay, doing a little thinking about trees... I am obviously going to glue on some bushes, but I am thinking about doing a large tree as well... probably on the front left corner, but should it go elsewhere?

I am also a bit sorry that I didn't offset base now that I found six perfect little old school Warhammer trees that look SO much like trees from an orchard... that would have looked awesome. I may have to do an accompanying orchard just because. Here are three pictured to the right.

I also did up one of the sets of barrels... I based it so that it would both match the chateau grounds as well as be useful independently... so it looks best placed towards the side, where it hooks up with the grass already in the chateau, although it could be center placed if you wanted to.

Chateau is glued down, flocked, and getting close to finished

2011-10-02T12:41:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay, had to set up the outside workbench for this step... AND go through a LOT of flock... but the chateau is coming along!

Here is a shot of the courtyard. You can see a few of the "extras" I am painting up to scatter in there, including some barrels and some crates. You can also see some grey gravel in front of the doors... that is proper colors now.

I have to figure out how to mount the doors... here you can see a failed mechanism. However, I am including the small stone wall to indicate that the door is barricaded.

The corner. You can see the back door of the farmhouse here.

The back side. You can see a bit of grey scatter here... that is in front of several doors that didn't get grass and needs to be painted to match the other ground.

Angle shot of the back side.

Here is a shot with the roofs off... I painted the insides black for now.

I am not sure how detailed to do the inside. I am tempted to leave it, but the idea of a semi-finished interior is awful tempting.

I have a buddy who jokingly said "Drop it off here for a month and I'll do it." He loves doing the interior stuff, and LOATHES leaving stuff half-finished. As a sample, here is some interior work he has done in the past.

So... do I attempt it myself? Or drop it off at his place and let his natural instinct to model (and his inability to not work on something in front of him?) knock it out? :)

Anyway... some outdoors work left to go, but most of it small-scale. Then the interiors, and then off for sale!

Base is made... painting comes next

2011-10-02T07:41:00.000-07:00

Howdy all!

Okay, the base is done. I went with the center mount, even though everyone turned out to recommend the offset mount! Dammit, I was sure no one would like that idea:( I have to admit, I am a little sad now, but I cannot bear the idea of redoing it (plus, it took all of my white glue and all of my black spray paint, so I can't). Shucks. Oh well... hopefully it looks fine anyway:(

Here are some shots WITHOUT the flash so you can really appreciate the weathering I did using a light stain. I'll get the base painted up this morning.

Okay, need some help... thoughts on mounting?

2011-10-01T19:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, keep the randy jokes to yourself. I mean the mounting of the chateau!

So... do I center mount it (as seen at right) with about 3 inches all around? Bad side... harder to run a road right up to the edge. Or do I offset a bit so you CAN run a road right up to the gate? I would then have a bit of space on two sides I could fill in with a garden or something similar.

Thoughts?

Chateau all plastered

2011-09-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

Did all the plastering... next up painting the doors and roof, and doing the base (the one it is on above isn't the right one... the real one is a bit smaller).

I think I'll also paint up a number of "additions" to put along with it... namely some crates, barrels, and a well. They will be moveable.

Also, I am thinking about doing a wood floor for the buildings and some simple walls and wall papering. Then, who knows what else.

More to come!

The first few walls of the chateau plastered...

2011-09-27T18:17:00.000-07:00

Well, the first few walls are plastered... and I think it looks pretty sharp! The barn extension at the front and the gatehouse walls are plastered (although they have some touching up to do.) The back isn't. Ignore the balsa cross-supports on the doors, need to get those painted:D

So... I'll look for some MDF board as the base, and then get to getting it plastered and mounted!

Renovating an old Napoleonic project!

2011-09-25T15:17:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay... I was looking over my stuff, trying to get my sell-off organized (I am plotting getting rid of some old, random figures and things that someone might want) and looking at the main piece... namely, a 25mm chateau that I built some time ago.

So... I was looking at it... it is sort of a cool model, to be honest, that I never reeeeaalllly put the finishing touches on. I included some shots of the WIP stages as well:)

Well, I was looking at it sitting there, sort of finished but not as awesome as it should be, and it occurred to me that I should finish it up:)

So that's what I started tonight! I am going to putty the entire outside to represent the whitewash and stuff. I am then going to repaint all the doors and the bricks and maybe the windows, so they look better. I think I'll then give the roof another highlight (and maybe one or two other touches) and then secure the entire thing onto a base! Do the inside nicely, a little garden maybe and the like... And who knows... all the roofs come off, maybe I can timber the floors...:)

Then, once it is all finished, maybe I'll sell it? Would be a perfect centerpiece for a big game... it is a bit too big for my table, to be honest.

Anyway... any thoughts? Anyone have any advice what material I should secure the whole thing on? It is a big, big piece...

Has anyone painted up any Perry rioters yet?

2011-09-25T08:49:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Just curious... Has anyone painted any of the great Perry rioters up yet? They are such awesome minis, and they singlehandedly make me want to game "Gangs of New York!". Anyone done them yet?

The British attack prepares to go...

2011-09-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

Just one shot of the table... here are three brigades under the Duke of Wellington (from L to R... a line brigade, a brigade of Guards, and a Brunswick brigade) preparing to scale Del Sol hill and plunge down on the other side into the two French Guards brigades at the woodline, with a brigade of line in reserve... it should be interesting, especially as the French artillery begins to pour fire into the attackers!

The latest 10mm Napoleonic battle begins!

2011-09-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Well, the game is underway!

Above is a shot of the board without any troops on it. Two French divisions start in the top left corner, and one in the bottom left. The French started on the board, with the British and their allies only coming on in random rolls... and then, bang, within two turns the entire British army was on the board, spread evenly along the righthand side. Oh well!

Here is a shot of the French cavalry division under the command of Marshal Ney moving onto the board in the top left corner. They did get a little held up by some orchards and farms, but they got themselves sorted out eventually.

Also in the top left corner was a large infantry division under the command of Marshal Davout, which advanced in down the road and through the fields.

On the far side of the French line Napoleon himself led a smaller infantry division (including all of the French guard and most of the artillery onto the field. The artillery was not in an ideal position, and they quickly began to redeploy across the board.

Two thirds of the British army entered on the first turn! A mixed division of British infantry and cavalry and Spanish infantry commanded by General Martinez marched in at the center.

And in the near corner a division of infantry, including a Guards brigade, entered the field commanded by the Duke of Wellington.

Napoleon, faced with two entire British divisions, began to advance his men to the woods at their front.

Meanwhile Ney tried to manage his cavalry and get them onto the far left French flank.

Marshal Davout began to move his infantry division forward, but several commanders failed their orders rolls, and they halted their brigades to await clarification of their orders. Sacre bleu!

Here is a shot of the table after two or three turns... the French at the top left are desperately trying to get into position (and would LOVE to get some artillery on the hill in front of the Santos farm. Napoleon is moving his men into the woods at the foot of Del Sol hill, hoping he can get to the top of the hill and hold off what appears to be a huge number of enemies heading his way... he tries to get his artillery to the summit first!

Davout's infantry begin to sort out where they are supposed to move to.

Here is a shot showing the field a few turns later.

The Duke of Wellington decides that the Brunswickers will begin the attack, with his Guards close behind and a brigade of infantry under Colonel Harper moving through the woods to their flank.

The two Guards brigades in the woods deploy voltigeurs to keep the hilltop clear of British artillery and they begin to advance towards the organizing British.

Ignoring the preparations for an attack up Del Sol hill, General Martinez has his Spaniards occupy the farm, almost running right into a French battery that is trying to get across the river.

Meanwhile, on the far left flank of the French line, one of Ney's subordinates, Colonel Bosquet, failed a crucial orders roll, and promptly ordered his cavalry to advance. The British, seeing the French cavalry get a little far from their infantry support, quickly pounced, with supporting cavalry crossing the river to threaten their flank. In a flurry of horrible, horrible, HORRIBLE rolls, while few men fall from their saddles, almost every cavalry unit between the French and British forces fails their Steady! test and become Unsteady! This fight might not last long...

Cursing, Davout redirected a brigade of infantry under Colonel Nez, to the hilltop to secure it in case the French cavalry was crushed.

So! That is where we have left off!

The infantry brigades assemble

2011-09-17T11:48:00.000-07:00

Here they are!

A total of seven brigades for the British (picture above).

1st (Guards) Brigade: 3 Guard battalions
2nd Brigade: 4 Line battalions
3rd Brigade: 3 Line battalions, 1 Guard battalion (Highlanders)
4th Brigade: 3 Line battalions
5th Brigade: 4 Line battalions (Spanish)
6th Brigade: 4 Line battalions (Spanish)
7th Brigade: 4 Line battalions (Spanish)

The British also have two "brigades" of cavalry, which I'll show later. The British rolled up a some amount of artillery... 2 regular foot batteries, and two horse batteries.

Now for the French!

The French rolled up six brigades.

1st (Guard) Brigade: 3 Guard battalions
2nd (Guard) Brigade: 3 Guard battalions
3rd Brigade: 3 Line battalions
4th Brigade: 4 Line battalions
5th Brigade: 4 Line battalions
6th Brigade: 3 Line battalions

The French have two "brigades" of cavalry (one of which is quite huge, with a lot of heavy cav) and rolled up a ton of artillery... one battery of horse artillery, and four batteries of foot artillery. That works out well for them, given that they will begin the game on defense, with the majority of their troops already deployed on the board (unlike the British, who will have troops come on the board with rolls.)

So... I'll get some more photos of the rest soon!

The commanders assemble for the next battle

2011-09-17T11:18:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Whelp, I've got the commanders together for the next 10mm Napoleonic game!

It will be nine brigades of British and their allies against eight brigades of French. The British rolled up a ridiculously even set of brigade commanders... eight of the nine are average commanders, with the ninth being a tragic -2. The French, on the other hand, rolled up the most insanely varied group of commanders I've ever had... of their eight brigade commanders, only TWO were average... the rest were either below or above. Now, considering that the roll to generate an average commander on 2d6 is 5-9, that is pretty crazy.

So... next up, assembling the two forces!

Blogger.com is f'ing worthless

2011-09-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

Well, I think I have to move my blog. After all this damn time I've put in, and after how well established the domain name is, these morons have completely fucked up my account.

First, everything is going through Picassa and apparently I am out of space, so everything is getting resized to 800x800.

And now my old photos won't even load when you click on them. Here, check it out yourself...

Click on this link

When I click on the photos there, I get nothing.

I hate Blogger so, so, so, so much. HATE. Why the hell do companies create good products and then devote themselves to making them suck?

A few more photos of the latest table layout

2011-09-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

Here you go! Some French cav are out scouting...

The next 10mm Napoleonic Spain table is underway...

2011-09-11T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay, after another piece of that big super secret project I've been hinting at for a number of months, I got myself into my next 10mm Napoleonic set-up.

Again, the land is Spain. There is a major road that runs through the board (currently shown using MS Paint!) the San Antonio. There is one hill to the north, a fairly large but gentle plateau atop which sits the Santos farm (pictured to the left). Across the river and near the crossing is another farm, the DeGuerra farm (pictured to the right.) Both farms have small orchards of olive trees, grape vines, and fields of wheat around them. Overlooking the intersection between the San Antonio and Damingo roads is a gentle hill, Del Sol Hill.

So.... this is my initial layout. Gotta look it over, decide if it needs more, and then start flocking.

A random box of miniatures

2011-09-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

Because why not?!

The sold guys begin their new life...

2011-09-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Well, I mentioned a week ago that I sold a group of unbased 10mm Napoleonics (early Prussians) to a buddy of mine... they had been sitting in the closet for several years, and since I got them at a good price, I thought I could sell them at one as well.

Well, they are getting their new life! On top you can find the first brigade with their basing done and their new flags... rather sharp, no? To the left is his first "test" artillery piece... I had no appropriate crew, so he had to make do, but I think they look fine!

10mm Napoleonic Objective - Coldstreamer Square

2011-09-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Just thought I would post some quick shots of the "objective" piece I did last night on a whim... namely, a unit of Coldstream Guard in square. There is a mounted officer in the center and a pair of flags... and if you look next to the Kings Colors you might even notice a rifle captain standing there... what can I say, I've been reading a lot of Sharpes books this summer!

A night of looking at toy soldiers and military stuff

2011-09-04T19:39:00.000-07:00

Howdy all!

A buddy of mine stopped by tonight for some toy soldier lookin' at and steak.

We finally put up the new pack, along with a kepi... looks pretty sharp on the top of the cabinet. Moved the print to the near one.

Also sold him the small army of toy soldiers to the right. A very fair price, I do think, especially since I got them at a fair price originally and they have frankly sat in a closet for three years untouched... better to have them out there and completed!

Finally, also put together some spare British bits to make a little "objective" marker of sorts of a British square... I figure it should be useful for some photos or something visually interesting!

Okay, why does Blogger suck for bigger pictures all of a sudden?

2011-09-04T09:18:00.001-07:00

Anyone else notice this? Why, when I upload large, hi-res photos, does this crap site make them smaller, even when you click on them to enlarge them?

Okay, if I cannot figure this out I am SO getting rid of Blogger... I'll move to six side or whatever that is.

10mm Napoleonics... the Battle of Edificio finished (finally!)

2011-08-31T13:32:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay, it has been a LONG time since I got any 10mm Napoleonics up here!

So, I decided to finally finish up this game from some time ago, especially because I need the table for another piece of that super secret and unique project I hinted at some months back!

Now... here is how things left off:

So! Here is another shot of where we left off..

The British seemed to be in a bit of trouble... it looked like it would be a very near thing if the British didn't use their one advantage; their large cavalry brigade. So... in went the cavalry!

The British cavalry attacked in an attempt to hit the French Guard in the orchard, but were quickly intercepted by the French cavalry. Because of the orchard on one side and the edge of the board on the other, the British couldn't engage with all their cavalry at once, thus making use of their superior numbers... could they beat the French cavalry back and support the infantry?

Meanwhile in the center the British Guard brigade, under Colonel Smith, continued to try to push between the French line, splitting their attention between the French in the orchard (to support Del Rio's Spaniards) and the main French line.

However the French fought valiantly, and with fire coming from the orchard on their flank the regiment of Scottish infantry were forced back.

The Scots, however, quickly regained their nerve and turned their attention to the orchard... however, many redcoats dropped under the withering fire from the French Old Guard battalion in cover behind the thick orchard walls.

Meanwhile on the far right of the British line the redcoats continued to fall under the fierce French fire coming from the woodline, and one battalion and then another broke under fire and fled, allowing a French battalion of converged Grenadiers to push out in an attempt to complete the rout!

And under that pressure the last British battalion on the right broke and fled.

Here is another view of the British rout on the right.

In the center the British Guards under Colonel Smith continued to fight, but all three battalions had been terribly battered... in game terms they had all taken maximum casualties, and it was only good rolling, their elite nature, and nearby commanders that kept them on the field.

Then the French grenadier battalion turned and, under the direct command of Colonel Vin, began to pour fire into the British Guards.

The cavalry combat dragged out, with first one and then another group breaking and routing, until it came down to one French cavalry unit versus one British unit. To the right you can see Colonel Del Rio's Spanish infantry, which were whittled down by an almost impossible fight against the French Guards in the orchard, and they eventually broke and ran.

The British Guard in the center continued to defy all expectations (how many sixs can one man roll?!) and stand and fight, but now the entire French center and left turned and began to pour fire into them from the rear. The Scots broke and ran first, followed by one of the Guard battalions, as the rest of the French in the orchard also began to redeploy, the Spanish to their front being beaten back.

Finally there was only one British Guard battalion left, which fought on, surrounded on all sides... but this last battalion finally broke and ran, the British finally routed from the field.

So that was it! The British were beaten! Above is a shot of the surviving French... in a bizarre circumstance, the only French battalions that survived the fight were elite battalions! Very strange, given that elites get only a few small bonuses, but still...

Here is a shot of one of the French division commanders.

And another shot of the other division commander!

So... that was it! It was a very near thing for a while... but the French troops being in cover across their battle line really helped keep them alive and in the fight, and the Spanish troops failing that crucial command role and therefore rolling down the hill to attack was a huge problem. Still... a good time!

(In a note... for some reason, the pictures are all very small, even when you click them. I'll try to figure out why.)

An iPad version of Pirates of the Spanish Main

2011-08-19T10:43:00.000-07:00

Howdy all!

Well, a few months ago I got an iPad2 as a birthday gift (a rather generous one at that)!

I've been playing with it a bit, looking for great games as well as looking for anything related to wargaming. I have actually found some great games, and thought I would share a few (as well as take some suggestions!)

The first fun one is called "Age of Wind," and it is basically like a PC version of Pirates of the Spanish Main crossed with a roleplaying game.

You start with a small pirate ship in the Caribbean. You can sail between islands, either trading a small number of goods or attacking ship convoys. There is a basic story that is very cheesy (and clearly written by a non-native English speaker) but really it is just fun to sail around having battles. The controls are simple, and the game is simple, but it is definitely worth the 99 cents it costs.

The fact that the game opens with the classical piece from "Master and Commander" and has a wonderful version of the Pirates of the Carib. movie theme, doesn't hurt the atmosphere!

I wish I could get a hold of this game and modify it, but I have no one with any iPad programming skills:)

First game of Pirates of the Spanish Main

2011-08-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Got a game of Pirates of the Spanish Main in, so thought I'd share a few photos. I made one or two changes (didn't use crew for this game, and I also made a range ruler that increased the ranges by a bit... felt that the old white/red card sides were a little too short... but I kept the same ratio between them) but otherwise we used the regular rules.

I finished the islands just recently, and after placing them I do think they turned out basically fine... not great, but fine. In the first photo above you can see one of my pirate ships looming up on a docked enemy... I got close enough that my ship took fire, but in a horrific display of poor rolling the enemy didn't so much as put a hole in my hull.

I, in return, sheered the masts off in one massive volley, and in the next turn I simply sank the derelict ship with another broadside.

After some pretty spectacular fire my opponent and I pass each other in the ocean, each towing an enemy derelict!

My enemy proceeded to repair my own ship fully and sail it against me!

Here is one of my ships, collecting gold from an island guarded by a fort... this full shipment of gold won the game for me when I returned to my home island!

So... that's that! It was a fun little game. There are changes I'd make to the game to make it last a bit longer (for example, the cannon hit a little too easily...) but overall it is a fun game. Wish I could play it more often!

And in that spirit... well... nevermind, I'll save it for my next post;) Stick around!

Islands are done!

2011-08-15T08:08:00.000-07:00

Howdy all!

Okay, looks like the islands are done! I have six total, two of which are quite small, four of which are larger. I don't really have any sandy beaches, although I was hoping the entire shoreline would look sandy, but it doesn't really... I may have to more heavily paint some parts, I guess? I messed that up a bit.

Also the church needs work, as the roof is messed up, but for now I am leaving it.

Overall I think they turned out okay, although not amazing. A hot knife would have really helped, I think, so I could add more cliffs, as they look sharp. Still, they'll do for now!

Work on the last three islands

2011-08-11T21:40:00.000-07:00

Howdy all,

Well, I got some work done on my last three islands, which are my larger ones. I am still not thrilled with the trees from the first few, so I need to do a little thinking. I did settle on one change, which will be to mix in a flock with more texture... the flock I have on there is just too thin, it needs a little more body.

Oh... also, what do I do with the church? Should there be a flat top on the steeple? And what about the fort floor? Left sandy?

Anyway... thanks for the advice all!

Three islands done, three to go

2011-08-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay, I think I've finished up three islands... I did some drybrushing with browns, and then worked up to whites and yellows, although I am not sure if maybe I went a little too light on the whites...

I am still considering mounting all of these on some cut card... and then making a little sandy beach around them and painting on some waves crashing... we'll see.

Anyway... three more to go. If anyone has any suggestions at ALL I am happy to hear them... I think these three work, but I think there are things I am missing.

Making some islands for Pirates of the Spanish Main

2011-08-10T15:47:00.000-07:00

Howdy all!

Just back from a week in Seattle and a week in Los Angeles... and now that the nursery is painted I am getting back to other projects.

So... first up is a half dozen islands for the Pirates of the Spanish Main game.

Now, the islands aren't totally to scale, but I find that rarely matters as much as looking good. Clockwise from the top right there is one island with a fort, one with a dramatic cliff, one with a larger town (with a dock and church) a small one with a few fishing huts, a little sand-bar-looking one, and a large one with two hills.

Now that they are undercoated I am going to do the drybrushing of the browns and beiges (should I do the cliff in that color palate too I assume?) and then I'll flock. Then, for forests, I'll use glued down clumps of flock... at this scale I am not going to bother with trunks or anything, I don't think they are needed. Still not sure what colors to do the buildings... I am probably going to do them a white, sort of like whitewashing... I think I need to do a little looking at some reference photos before I go too far.

Anyway... so that is that! Sorry for the long absence... I am sure that when the baby comes I'll post far more often... :)

Sorry, away on vacation!

2011-08-04T23:40:00.001-07:00

Howdy all!

Very sorry, but I've been away on vacation for the last two weeks, so there have been no updates. When I get back, I'll put up a few photos of some stuff I had wanted to share.

Hope everyone is doing well!

A whole different sort of painting...

2011-07-23T17:08:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Well, I've been "off" from painting miniatures for a little while, because I've been doing a different kind of painting.

The wife and I are expecting our first child! A little boy, hopefully in mid October:)

So... we needed to get the nursery all squared away. I was all for painting the whole thing as if you were standing in the center of the British lines at Waterloo. Unfortunately my stupid wife didn't like this idea. So, we went with the second idea... doing a ribbon of African animals around the top. And despite never doing it before, it turned out pretty swell!

The elephant family, early in the process.

The giraffe and zebras.

The gazelles and storks.

The rhino and his friends.

The croc.

Still to come? The monkeys, and then I am done!

Also, a question... do you guys (and gals) think it needs some big fluffy clouds?

So... what project should be next?

2011-07-11T13:35:00.000-07:00

So!

Finished up The Gem (except the plaque... still not sure what it should say) and now I face a problem; what do I tackle next?

I have a few possibilities... I've got a unit of 25mm Russian Nappy infantry who are sort of 1/3 finished. They've been sitting for a LONG time, and honestly the idea of tackling such a huge unit puts me off.

I could also finish up this unit of 25mm Vikings... these guys seem most likely, since there are fewer of them and they are half finished... one more group of these guys after this to go, and my Viking collection is done.

Or should I do something else? I have really been interested in making some islands for the Pirates of the Spanish Main game (I have a bunch of ships for it) and doing something with that... or I could do a few 10mm Napoleonic "objective" markers for my 10mm Napoleonic collection (that sounds like fun!) I have no idea!

One thing I DID do; we are cleaning the house in preparation for the baby that is coming (fingers crossed!) and I threw one of these Napoleonic prints into an unused frame. Wish I could get them ALL framed!

Anyway... suggestions?

Another Amazing New (or rather, "quite old") Gift!

2011-07-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

Howdy all!

First off, sorry it has been so long... work just ended up, and I'm hosting something like four BBQs in 12 days... plus, a LOT of housework getting ready for the baby. I'll have more coming at some point, of course... maybe Vikings, or maybe Napoleonics. Not sure:)

In the meantime, however, I thought I'd share a gift I just picked up. A friend of my in-laws, who has been RIDICULOUSLY kind in the past, sent this along my way! It is a northern backpack. Apparently they are fairly rare... a wooden frame with leather. The 22 on the back I am assuming refers to the 22nd New York State Militia, but I am not 100% sure about that.

Anyway... a really amazing gift! What kills me is that the gent who passed it along to me has a STUNNING single daughter... I am trying to convince my pregnant wife to leave me so that maybe I can marry his daughter, but I don't seem to be having much luck:)

So... now I need to figure out how to display it! I may switch it off with my other pack for a while... I particularly adore the company marking on the back.

The Gem Saloon... finished!

2011-06-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

Whelp, all done!

I started watching the HBO series "Deadwood" a few months ago, and was instantly hooked. A FANTASTIC series, right in line with some great HBO shows like Rome, The Sopranos, and of course Band of Brothers.

And of course, everyone's favorite character from Deadwood? None other than the great Al Swearengen. Just the right combo of charisma, danger, and charm, the proprietor of the Gem Saloon is a real classic.

So! After seeing that there was a company out there that made an Al Swearengen figure, I thought it might be nice to do a little scene of him!

So... did a scene of him in the Gem, cup in hand. Ended up using another figure with some green stuff work to stand in for Dan. Also gave Dan a knife, as well as a bowl of canned peaches. Grabbed some 25mm bottles, and combined them with a few casks and boxes. Did some of the signs from the show as well as the Lincoln portrait. And of course there is the usual blood-stain on the floor at Al's feet... you know he scrubbed at it!

Overall I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out. It took a few tries to get the colors right, and even now I feel they are a bit too grey... the Gem is mostly made of newer wood, so I should have gone a bit more "brown" but what can you do. The planking turned out just fine. The plaster could have been better, but what can you do... live and learn!

I do have one last bit to do, but I'm a bit torn about HOW to do it... I need to do a nameplate on the front of the whole scene! The thing is... how do I do it, with a plaque? And more importantly... what should it say? Any suggestions, folks?

So... that's it! Now... what project next?:)

The Gem is juuust about done...

2011-06-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Well, JUST about done... thankfully my good buddy came back from a vacation and was able to turn his attentive eye to the scene before I had finished. He noticed that the top of the walls around the Gem seem to be plastered over... I had missed that detail! So I had to go back and do a little work on plastering. So! The Gem will be done hopefully by tonight!

Okay... how do I paint THIS?

2011-06-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

Okay... so I got the light set... and I am going to paint the lamp on the LEFT hand side, center. But how on earth do I paint that thing? I don't even know what colors to use... is the main body glass? Is it metal? I have no idea what it even is. Anyone out there able to help?

The Gem gets some color

2011-06-23T04:10:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay, got the first few coats of paint down on the Gem Saloon... I did a brown/grey layer, followed by a grey layer, followed by a light tan layer. I then did a few spots of brown wash (they are more noticeable in the photo than in real life.) I am going to do a few more stains, and then another drybrush to tie it all together a bit, but so far, I am happy with it. Only one issue; on looking back at pictures of the Gem, the building is very new, so it is a lot more brown than the one I did. I might need to look at doing something about that.

Any suggestions MORE than welcome!!

Special Father's Day edition at the House of War

2011-06-19T17:23:00.000-07:00

Howdy all!

Well, it is Father's Day here in the United States, so I thought I'd do a special "Father's Day" post at the House of War... with two main bits involved.

First off... really, it was my father who got me started in the world of toy soldiers. When I was about seven or eight or so he worked as the head of photography and advertising (or some similar position) for a perfume company. Once in a long while, on his way home, he'd stop at a hobby shop, and *miracle of miracles!* buy me a box of soldiers!

The first one, if I recall correctly, was a box of Afrika Corps... I believe it was the box cover shown at the top, if memory serves, but I might be wrong... this would have been around 1982 or so... and holy cow I loved them. I loved the officer, I loved the two-man machine gun crew, I loved the buy with the STG 44... I just loved them all. And soon enough, not only had I picked out and named my "heroes," but I also gave them all a very rough paintjob, using some black, brown, and flesh colored Testors. And when I say rough, I mean ROUGH.

Many boxes of toy soldiers followed (the Vietnam Americans and the French Foreign Legion were among my favorites, as well as probably twenty boxes of Zulu) as well as an amazing fort, festooned with cowboys and indians left under the tree, which is pictured on the right. It is a bit beat up, the hinges are loose, and the flag pole is gone along with a few decorative pieces. Still, it is a GREAT toy (best Christmas ever, with the bought-at-that-authentic-Japanese-toy-store-in-New-York-City Voltron and the GI Joe Hovercraft being second and third) and I am holding onto it with the idea of passing it on someday (after some repairs, of course.)

Now... having started with my father getting me my first toy soldiers, I am happy to say that my wife and I are expecting our first kid... namely a son, in October. Exciting stuff, not the least because I will have a son to give toy soldiers to! So... I am sure I'll be planning toy soldier gifts! A painted plastic AWI set would be one... I am sure I'll do a teddy bear army too. Anyway... if anyone has any good ideas, let me know!:)

Al Swearengen

2011-06-18T19:35:00.000-07:00

Well, Al has got his paint. I touched him up and posted a new picture above... overall, I think he turned out just fine. At first his pinstripes were way too bright, but some black washes really toned them done nicely.

I also finished Dan's hat... I think it looks good, although seeing the picture it looks slightly uneven from that one angle... I'll give it another look. Found a great knife in a set of plastic Celts that will be stuck in the bar in front of Dan, too... what would Dan be without a knife for killing some coc... er... nevermind.

Dan Dority arrives at the Gem

2011-06-18T17:19:00.000-07:00

Hey hey!

Okay, used a figure I got in the set (Tom Nuddall) and chopped him down a bit... took off the bowler, midway through doing a cowboy hat, added some hair and a proper tie... I'll put a knife point-down in the top of the bar, finish the cowboy hat, and then paint him in some darker reds... he should pass for Dan Dority to stand behind the bar, especially as the apron won't be too noticeable.

I also framed out the front and sides of the scene properly. Next up... well.. finish Dan, I suppose, and stick the knife in the bar:)

The bar is installed in the Gem Saloon...

2011-06-18T11:58:00.000-07:00

Howdy partners!

Well, I've continued work on the Gem... Al will get his paint tonight, but for now Tom Nuttall is standing in for the big boss.

The back bar was made out of various bits and pieces, with the underside left empty... I'll stick a few bottles, casks, and boxes down in there. The bar is solid, but I figure you'll rarely have the chance to see inside.

I am going to do some framing on the base itself... right now it is just rough. I haven't quite decided yet how I will do that, but we'll see.

Just so folks can see, here is one of the still shots I'm using as reference. Now, not everything will be exact, because some of it would be hard to do, but I should have the signs and all of that pretty well done.

Anyway... more when I have done it!:)

"Deadwood" scene started

2011-06-17T22:30:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks!

Well, now that I finally finished my Space Wolf project, I can move on to the next one... namely, my scene from the HBO show "Deadwood" of Al Swearengen at the bar of the Gem Saloon.

I did a wooden base for it. I then did the floor, wall, and front. I may do a little frame out as well. I put a large column in the back, and will do a few little simple decorative details. Then I've got to make the bar and the area behind it... I want to wait until I get the bottles to make them, however, so I know how wide to make it... I'd like to get at least two bottles deep in the back!

Anyway... more coming tomorrow. If you have any suggestions or comments, please do share!

Space Wolf Terminator Squad... DONE!

2011-06-15T17:08:00.000-07:00

Hey!

Well... my 40k Space Wolf Terminator squad is finally done!

I wanted to start this project a long time ago... when these minis first came out! However, after being lazy and not ordering them for a long, long time (the expense was also a bit much I thought, and continue to think...) I finally broke.

I knew sort of what I wanted... a squad of five Wolf Guard, mounted on cool bases, with the commander having a pet white wolf.

So! I got the set, picked up some bases, threw them together...

I wanted to do them all in grey tones, with the weapons being in a lighter beige/grey mix. I really wanted them to be simple, simple figures.

I also had to do a few beards out of greenstuff... I think they look fine, but I learned from the first one to the third one!:)

The wolf for the captain is from a pack from Ral Partha... there are a bunch of left-overs now, and I have nothing to do with them! I actually had to do a bit of sculpting around the wolf, as the base was impossible to cut off... so I had to make the stone precipice he is standing on out of green stuff.

I did two with close combat weapons and two with storm bolters... obviously I didn't go with a really powerful game setup (no Cyclone) but I liked the look... simple and mean.

Also, I didn't do any Space Wolf insignia... I like to think of them as more armored warriors of old.

I liked the back of the guy with the claws... I put the wolf tail talisman on him almost as if he attached it to represent an actual tale!:)

Anyway... I am happy with how they turned out.

Anyone have a guess what their approximate value would be? I don't think I'll sell them, but I would be curious to know!

Space Wolf Captain and his pet are dipped

2011-06-12T16:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, dipped.

So... I still need to do a white drybrush over the wolf and the white portions of the figure, and do eyes and teeth.

I'll also paint and grass the base.

Then I'll do the leash.

And then, after a spritz of matte varnish, the five man squad is done! I'll get some group shots then.

Okay, bottles purchased

2011-06-12T10:17:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Thanks to some recommendations from a few folks, I did manage to find some great bottles and other accessories for my Gem Saloon scene.

I bought a pack of the wine bottles, a pack of the spirit bottles, and one thing of glasses/wine bottles... I'll probably trim some of the glasses down to make shot glasses.

I also bought a pack of their mixed lights... I figure that I can use one of the lanterns, the candle in the jug, and the stand-alone candles in the scene.

All of this stuff was courtesy of Black Cat Bases.

There isn't a lot more I have to track down... gotta make a few little bowls for the peaches that Al likes so much... then make a little frame for the Abe Lincoln portrait that hangs over the bar... I already have, I think, some little barrels to serve as casks... then I just need to get a LOT of wood for planks! I do have to think about how the PAINT the whole thing, though... do I just stain it all? I think I'll have to actually paint the whole thing. I am nervous about being able to achieve the dusty look I want... this will be a good challenge.

The Space Wolf terminator is done, btw... just got dipped. Now I just have to wait for him to dry.

Last of the Space Wolf captain for tonight...

2011-06-11T22:08:00.000-07:00

Okay... should have the paint done tomorrow... can then dip, and then do the stand... then gotta wrap the leash on, and it's ready to go!

Space Wolf Terminator Captain gets more paint...

2011-06-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

A bit more paint on him... might be done for the night, but one more night will be enough to finish the two figures. Then dip, do the base, and varnish... then on to Al!

Work underway on the last Space Wolf terminator...

2011-06-11T12:45:00.000-07:00

Well, the first couple of colors are on... the termie isn't glued onto the base, as I want to finish both him and the wolf and then dip them... then I'll do the base, and then glue everyone together. I really want to finish this guy so I can get on to my Deadwood scene!:)

I do have to figure out what color I want in the inside lining of the cloak... any suggestions? They are VERY grey figures right now... should I go with something TOTALLY different, like an orange, to really make the boss stand out? Or something somewhere in the same palette... like a grey-blue?

25mm bottles and jugs?

2011-06-11T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Well, in anticipation of my Deadwood scene (which will be set at the Gem Saloon) I find myself in dire need to bottles. 25mm bottles and jugs, to be exact, to put behind the bar. I could make them out of green stuff, I suppose, but I was wondering if anyone knew of any place that sold them?

I've GOT to finish my last Space Wolf termie so I can get cracking on this! Can't wait to paint ol'Al...

Thanks!

Last Space Wolf Termie ready for paint

2011-06-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

Well, the captain of the squad is done... wolf is mounted on the base, where he will get painted... the figure will get paint too, and then be attached. I just wonder about what order to do the leash in... but I'll figure it out when the time comes:)

Anyway, when I start painting I'll take a few more shots from different angles.

10mm Napoleonic Spanish buildings

2011-05-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

I just found these photos on my camera, and realized that I never posted them.

These are my Spanish compounds done for my 10mm Napoleonics.

Pretty happy with the way they turned out... there is one left to finish, but overall they turned out very nice!

Here are some photos of them on the table:)

Food

2011-05-24T15:14:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

So I do have a few things to post, some toy soldier, some not... so here is the first!

First up... food! Above you can see the first of my homemade pizza. Now, the dough was bought at Whole Foods, but the tossing and all of that took some learning... but almightly Lord it turned out DELICIOUS. Just great:) Five cheeses, tomato sauce, onions and peppers and artichokes and ham... yum!

Then to the right you can see some burnt BBQ ends that my future brother-in-law bought for me... just threw them on the grill with some BBQ sauce for five minutes, and serve! Delicious meaty goodness.

Anyway... more coming up soon, including a new miniature that just arrived today!

Oh, I've GOT to buy this miniature!

2011-05-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

First off, so sorry for it being so quiet around here... haven't been hit by the muse recently! I do have a few things to post (the chain for my wolf, a piece about painters thumb) but there hasn't been a lot recently.

HOWEVER! I HAVE had a wonderful time watching old HBO shows courtesy of their new HBOGo service... and I've FINALLY gotten around to watching Deadwood. Holy CRAP what a show... just fantastic!

And of course, now I want to paint some miniatures! Namely... I want to get my hands on one of the Al Swearengen seen in the photo above in the center! I'd love to pick him up and maybe do a little bar diorama of him in the Gem... what fun! The figures are from Brigade games, and I did find them!

Here they are for sale!

So... do I go for it? Ahh decisions decisions!!

(Oh, and picture courtesy of Sgt. Perry's Heroes!)

Fourth Wolf Guard is finished... one left...

2011-05-10T18:19:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Well, Wolf Guard #4 is finished! I think he came out pretty well, all things considered. I may touch up his hair a bit, because right now the beard lining is dark but the head hair isn't at all... so I want to get them to match up a bit more.

This guy is armed with a thunder hammer, and again I went with a greyish/beigish (woof spelling) color for the weapons, much like the storm bolters and lightning claws.

One more to go... the captain. Hm. Still going to be tough to figure out the wolf...

A GREAT (and cheap!) WWI toy soldier video game!

2011-05-08T11:08:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

So, I recently gave the game "Toy Soldiers" for the XBOX a try... and I'm so glad I did!

Fantastic! I can't recommend it enough:) It is a tower defense game, so you build defenses and guard your base from wave after wave of attack. However, it is not only set in WWI, but it ALSO uses toy soldiers! Yep; miniatures come to life!

I have to say, it is a LOT of fun. You build your defenses, using machine guns, mortars, AA guns, howitzers, and a few other weapon teams, as well as laying down barbed wire. You can upgrade them, of course... and then you hear the whistle blow, and out of the far trenches the enemies emerge! Enemy infantry, stormtroopers, cavalry, biplanes, bombers, tanks, armored cars... and there are a LOT of them!

There are a number of other neat little touches... for example, you can personally take control of ANY of your weapon teams, turning the game into a first person shooter. You also can jump into biplanes, bombers, and a few different tanks and rumble across the field (or fly above it) slaughtering the enemy. The biplanes in particular are a lot of fun... not only is it WWI dogfighting, it is WWI dogfighting in a miniature airplane over a richly detailed wargames table!

Of course, the toy soldier lover wants to know more about that part of the game!

Well, first off, the battles actually take place on a wargames table. You can actually see lamps hanging over it, the painted edges around it, shelves of toy soldiers in the room beyond... when sweeping over the battlefield to start, you can even see boxes of toy soldiers stacked around the table, and even the paints and paintbrushes stacked up (as you can see in my blurry photo to the left!)

And it doesn't hurt that, as you move on through the game, you unlock your toy soldier cabinet, where you can go take a look at the minis on their display bases:)

Even the load screens are great, showing old-school boxes of toy soldiers from fictional toy soldier companies.

So... I can HIGHLY recommend the game. You can download it on XBOX Live... it costs maybe 5 or 10 bucks (can't remember) but it is definitely worth it. A LOT of fun!

Newest Terminator painted, and a set-back

2011-05-07T19:27:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Okay, Terminator #4 is done. Another blond beard, this time with a thunder hammer and storm shield. The hammer is done in the same style as the storm bolters, a lighter, flesh-highlighted color that I think looks good, and it is close enough to the armor colors in some ways to keep that single-color scheme consistent. Good stuff! Going to go dip him now.

One note... I got the wolves, and they seem good... a few potentials. However, I can't get the bases cut off! They looked thing and doable, but holy COW it is the strongest metal I've ever seen on a miniature! Tried cutting and sanding, and neither works. Not sure what to do with them:(

Terminator varnished... done working 'till the wolves arrive

2011-05-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

Well, here are the first three, done. Did a little more work on the bases. Not sure what I'll work on while I wait for the wolves to get here... I suppose I can start the next one.

A repainted beard... and another photo

2011-04-30T20:23:00.000-07:00

Well, I repainted the one guys beard to white... I think I like it better.

Also took a lower-angle shot of the guy I am almost done with... I'll varnish him tomorrow.

Another Terminator almost done... and time to make a call on the wolf!

2011-04-30T16:28:00.000-07:00

Okay!

Another Space Wolf terminator is almost done... the chap with the blond hair on the right. He needs his dullcote (it is AMAZING how weird it looks when they are shiny!) but otherwise, he is about done! I think he looks pretty sharp. I want to add or two straw straw-ish tufts to a base, but otherwise, they look pretty good.

I actually just decided I am redoing the beard of the first figure... I don't like the way it came out. Might go pure white. We'll see.

Here is a shot of the guy with the twin claws... I think he turned out pretty good, and I like his beard for the most part.

Two more to go, including the commander... I had actually forgotten my play to put a wolf with a leash on his stand, and assembled him! Thankfully the pose will still work. I've got to cut the sword out of his hand, but otherwise I think it will look fine. Strange; I wasn't looking at the box of the figures, but he came out almost IDENTICAL to the sergeant on the box! Same head, same pose, same weapons... great minds, I suppose!

I actually just ordered the wolves... went with the Ral Partha pack of wolves, which is FAR more wolves than I need, but what can you do... at least this way I can make sure I have the best post... here is a shot of them. I think maybe the guy on the back left corner is the one. If the middle one was facing to his left instead of his right, he'd be perfect, but he isn't. I guess it really depends... do I want him looking in the same direction that the sergeant is shooting? Or off to the figures left, at the flank? Ahhh decisions. Once the wolves come, I can pick one and then pick which of the two remaining bases works best.

RISK night!

2011-04-30T07:36:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Had a good night last night... went over to a friend's house, and after a good dinner of pasta with some GREAT homemade tomato sauce and garlic bread, we played some Risk! Now, three of the five people had never played before, so it took a while to get up to speed, but still... a very good time! One player ended up taking Australia and working on Asia... another took Africa and worked on Europe... another took South America and got a bit stuck... the fourth got stuck in Europe, assailed from all sides... and I took North America and buffed up my borders! We never got a winner, but... we also didn't get to use my cards that I made for the game (you get one per turn and save them up, and they give all sorts of bonuses!) but it was a good time.

Also on the subject of RISK, check out this AWESOME project I found on Coolminiornot. A guy named James Travers made, for his fathers 50th birthday, a Zulu-themed Risk game. It is METICULOUS... he made sure that the "continents" had the same number of territories, and even that they have the same number of connections to other lands... really detailed work. The forces are made using miniatures, and he used photoshop to make a lot of great pieces. Go on over to Coolmini and give it a look!

Another Space Wolf done, and a third started

2011-04-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

Howdy all,

Well, another guy done!

The beard on this fellow is a greenstuff addition. I think the long beard is a good look for the Wolves. I like the addition of the cross and tail on the back... it sort of makes it look like the Termie himelf has a wolf tail, which I like. I have also decided generally against any insignia or anything, although I may change my mind... I sort of like the way they look just in grey armor. It is a bit less fancy and fluffy.

I had wanted to do some chipping on the armor, but tried it a touch and couldn't pull it off, so I am not going to take the chance. Oh well.

Another guy is underway... hopefully get him done in the near future!

First Space Wolf Terminator done!

2011-04-20T13:20:00.000-07:00

The first Wolfguard is done!

This guy was my "test figure" to make sure that the color scheme worked, and I had a basing method down... and I think I do. Unfortunately he is my LEAST favorite of the five Termies, but what can you do:)

Overall very happy with the way he turned out... I dipped the figure to create a sense of cohesion with the armor colors, but NOT the base... don't think it needs it, and want it to have a different "finish" than the figures. The base turned out pretty cool; thank you for finding them, readers!:)

So! That is one down... the next is half done... he is a chap with dual Lightning Claws and a flowing red beard. I think he looks sharp.

BTW, anyone else finding Blogger.com a bit messed up with their photo/text formatting? Been a MESS recently... some change in code is NOT doing what they think it should be doing.

Some paint on the first Wolf Guard Terminator

2011-04-17T08:56:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Well, I got a little paint on the first termie... MAN, they are INTRICATE to paint! What a pain in the ass. I guess I hadn't really thought about it, and there is a lot of careful painting that needs doing if you want to retain ANY type of black line. Yikes.

So far staying VERY gray... not sure I will add any more color to this guy, but he might need a spot of yellow or something. I sort of like the idea of all gray, however... more "armor" like. We'll see.

After looking at them the next morning, I am afraid that the highlight is too light, compared to the main of the plates. Uh oh. Will I have to repaint the whole damn thing? Hm. Maybe a dip would help tie it together? Man. Do I have to repaint all of the plates? Man.

So. More detail to go!

WOW! LOTS of Perry plastics on the way!

2011-04-16T17:04:00.000-07:00

Holy cow!

Just checked out the latest Perry plastics that are in the pipe... and WOW!

My favorite of the bunch is that we are FINALLY getting some AWI plastics! Oh BOY... I can't wait for these! I will definitely have to put together a few units:)

They also have a TON of plastic Napoleonics, including Austrians, Rusians, and Prussians... CRAZY! You can actually do a HUGE number of Napoleonics armies out of primarily Perry plastics. Awesome.

And of course they have some ACW on the way in the form of some charging Rebs.

Overall, an AWESOME set of plastics on the way.

Final Two Terminators Assembled

2011-04-16T08:09:00.000-07:00

Well, the last two Terminators are done!

I went with a guy with a pair of lightning claws, and then a guy with a storm bolter and a power fist. This makes two guys with close combat weapons (thunder hammer and storm shield, and pair of claws) and two guys with storm bolters and power fists. No one posted any suggestions for possible load outs, so I went basically simple and with what I thought looked good.

I added some stuff to each guy, including a cross and wolf tail to the claw guy on his back, almost to give the impression of HIM having a tail... you can see that in the photo to the right.

As before, two long beards on these guys... I think they'll look nice when all undercoated up!

Two more Wolf Guard Terminators Rough Assembled

2011-04-15T18:15:00.000-07:00

Well, two more guys done!

The guy at the top is armed with a storm bolter and a power fist. He is clearly whipping around and putting fire on a new target that appeared to his left.

This is the Sergeant for the squad. I put him together, and then afterwards realized he looks IDENTICAL to the guy from the box cover! Same head, same arms, same weapons... maybe even the same legs? Pretty crazy... great minds, I suppose!

Anyway, here are the three finished guys. I am holding off a bit on finishing the other two until I get some feedback about what weapons are most desirable!

First Space Wolf Termie assembled (w/out base)

2011-04-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

Well, here is the first Space Wolf termie, basically assembled!

I wanted to do a Thunder Hammer/Storm Shield combo because obviously the hammer is an icon of the nordic tradition... so here is this fellow! I put a tilt plate on the joint of his weapon arm, which would be the more exposed arm, and tried to position him as if he just followed through on a huge shot with Mjolnir there.

I gave him a bit more beard with some green stuff, as I plan to do with a few of the guys... one more guy with a smaller, tighter, square beard, and maybe another flowing one, we'll see.

Anyway... a little more to go on this guy (namely a dagger and a cross on a chain) and, of course, his actual base (please be here soon!) I am going to angle this guy down a little, and elevate his foot (tried to simulate that in the pose) on some stone.

Please don't miss the last post also, where I solicit advice about the load out for the rest of these boys!