Top Ten Manufacturers Of 2023 - A "Fantorical" Viewpoint

Having purchased an "Elegoo" Mars 3 Pro 3D Printer just before 2023 began, I was utterly convinced that over the course of the year my usual source of miniature manufacturers were going to be wholly replaced by the various “Patreon” service memberships I subscribed to. Initially, that was the case too, as in my enthusiasm for the 'new technology' I both bought a veritable army of STL (Standard Triangle Language) files, and produced an almost endless array of grey, "Elegoo" Water Washable Resin models with which to litter my painting area.

Intriguingly though, despite this strong early showing, I increasingly found myself returning to the physical heft of metal miniatures, and even started buying from many of my mainstay manufacturers once again. Admittedly, this surprising development did not cause me to completely turn my back upon all the 3D sculpted science fiction oddities and the fantasy-based denizens of dungeons I owned. But it definitely lead to a noticeable slow down in my painting of the 'grey wave' I was creating, in favour of numerous metal and plastic models - with many being historically based...

No. 10 - "Steel Fist Miniatures" - "Italian Wars"

I must confess to this being one of my most disappointing projects of the year, considering just how much enthusiasm I had for it when I purchased my initial ten Foot Knights from "Steel Fist Miniatures". I had never had an interest in the Italian Wars before, but having watched a few "YouTube" videos on the subject, and bought "Fornovo 1495: France's bloody fighting retreat" by "Osprey Publishing", I was 'well in the mood'. Sadly, an incorrect order, an all-too easily broken figure, numerous assembly issues with the multi-piece metal models, a delayed second order, and then the website's temporary closure (admittedly due to illness), utterly sapped any drive I had to finish even two five-men strong forces.

No. 10 - "Crooked Dice Game Design Studio" - "7TV  Second Edition"

Perhaps one of the biggest shocks of 2023 was just how pitifully few figures I pigmented from Karl Perrotton's company. The wonderful mixture of spy-fi, science fiction and fantasy miniatures which the Lincolnshire-based business produces has made it my favourite model manufacturer for the past two years running. However, for the first nine months of this year, I clearly got my usual fix of "space exploration, time travel, parallel universes, and extraterrestrial life" from other avenues - predominantly 3D printed STL files based upon such classic franchises as "Doctor Who", "Alien", "Robo-Cop" and "Terminator".

No. 9 - "CoolMiniOrNot" - "Zombicide"

Despite owning more versions, expansion boxes and hard-backed scenario books of the cooperative boardgame "Zombicide" than I probably care to consider, I had never really settled down to purposely painting a batch of them until the arrival of Marvel Zombies. Spurred on by a deep-interest in comic book super-heroes, and an increasing disinterest in my once-popular range of "Heroclix" meta-humans, I suddenly found myself pigmenting a handful of plastic figures - in both their survivor and undead states.

No. 8 - "Battlefront Miniatures" - "Flames Of War"

Having previously painted quite a sizeable contingent of 15mm scale German Panzer-grenadiers, heavy machinegun teams and mortar units in the past, it seemed clear that my infantry would require some much needed armour/artillery if they were to succeed on the battlefields of World War Two. However, despite giving all of my Panzer tanks a rather basic dark grey palette, much of this initial enthusiasm was eventually watered-down by a lack of both games, and the time-consuming camouflage pattern I developed for my 7.5cm Tank-Hunter Platoon.

No. 7 - "Black Tree Design" - "Doctor Who"

Whilst the modern day interpretation of the "British science fiction television series broadcast by the BBC" caused me to lose all interest in the actual show, I did find myself (once again) seeking some comfort in this company's somewhat clunky sculpts of the programme's Classic era - most notably the early days of actor Jon Pertwee's tenure as the Third Doctor. Resultantly, I found myself pigmenting a Martian delegate from the Galactic Federation, a plethora of boiler-suit wearing Autons, and even a trio of long-forgotten Quarks which had been sat gathering dust on my hobby table for longer than I care to recall.

No. 6 - "Wargames Foundry" - "Napoleonic Range"

I have always wanted to own enough 28mm Napoleonic figures to be able to have a decent game of Black Powder or some-such rule-set, and this was the year I decided to finally try to make it happen. Of course, this is going to be a long-term project. But having made some decisions regarding just how much detail I was going to paint on my colourfully-costumed collection, I got a good handful of British, French and Russian infantrymen finished - plus even managed to visit the company's shop in Newark.

No. 5 - "Games Workshop" - "The Lord Of The Rings" & "The Horus Heresy"

Being one of my mainstay manufacturers over the years, I definitely didn't get anywhere near as many "Citadel" miniatures tabletop ready as I had anticipated for this twelve month period. Much of this unproductiveness was due to the sheer number of Sons of Horus traitor marines required for even a simple game of Warhammer 30,000 eventually grinding me down, and if not for a renewed interest in their Middle-Earth Strategy Battle Game (or at least painting the predominantly black Ring Wraiths) it's arguably doubtful that the studio would even feature on this list.

No. 4 - "Big Mr Tong" - "Dune"

With my 3D printing skills rapidly improving, I quickly found myself producing a seemingly never-ending conveyor belt of Mike Tongue's small-sized 28mm miniatures. Sadly many of these models went straight into a plastic container for a forthcoming 'rainy day'. But some, such as his marvellous Sardaukar sculpts, went straight onto my painting table, and enabled me to eventually field an impressive fifteen-figure strong unit of the Padishah Emperor's elite military force. Coupled with some (more) Sentry Robots inspired by "The Black Hole", as well as a giant automaton from "Laputa: Castle in the Sky", and I was extremely happy paying out for my Patreon membership with "Big Mr Tong".

No. 3 - "Warlord Games" - "American Civil War"

With hindsight, it is incredible that I managed to paint so many of this Nottingham-based company's 15mm scale plastic figures, as I absolutely hated putting a brush-tip to the seemingly never-ending, fiddly lines of infantrymen. Indeed, by the time I completed all the models found on the free sprue I received with Issue 397 of "Wargames Illustrated", I had almost had enough of the range - and that was despite playing a few games of Black Powder with them at my local wargaming club.

No. 2 - "Pendraken Miniatures" - "World War Two"

There can be no doubt in my mind that this was a bit of shocker, as before March I had little interest in resurrecting my long-forgotten 10mm Battle Of The Bulge project. A chance encounter with a bag containing half a dozen Sherman tanks completely changed all that, and before I knew it I was not only pigmenting the sizeable backlog of armoured vehicles I already owned, but buying numerous new ones from "Pendraken Miniatures" - both online and in person at shows. Furthermore, I started collecting and gaming the fictious Operation Sea Lion, which overall caused me to produce a whopping 42 armoured vehicles throughout the year.

No. 1 - "Papsikels Miniatures" - "Aliens" & "The Terminator"

Quite possibly, considering my love of both science fiction movie franchises and 3D printing, this particular creator was always going to be a tough act to beat. In fact, for a while, my utter infatuation with their STL files was close to stopping me buying any more physical figures ever again, and whilst I still visited a few wargaming shows, I was always offsetting the cost of metal/plastic models against the price of just one bottle of "Elegoo" Water Washable Resin and how many "Papsikels Miniatures" I could produce using it.

Miss Fantorical 2023 - An "Undercoat" Painting Pageant

Better late than never and hopefully a welcome break from elections, sport and hot sweltering days, here are my top picks from the "Fantorical" blog from 2023. Following on from my last set of choices, I have picked a miniature for each month and then picked an overall favourite. My selections are based on the miniature, the paint job, the rule of cool and other eclectic factors, such as nostalgia etc. This means some great models didn’t make the list as it is only one per month and I tried to avoid picking the same type of model if it appeared over multiple months. You may disagree, which is fine, as we all like different things and I encourage you to comment on what your favourite(s) were/are.

January - Cheetah Aliens by "Papsikels Miniatures" - January 18th

These 3D printed miniatures by "Papsikels Miniatures" really caught my eye. There have been a lot of "Alien/s" themed miniatures from this manufacturer's range of STLs. But these ones were different from the more traditional alien we know and love (to run away from!), and the poses were very dynamic too. The painting also captured the xenomorph look. Terrific stuff.

February - E-800 Exterminators by "Papsikels Miniatures" - February 27th

A second choice from this manufacturer - which I have allowed myself to do as it is a different range and we have moved from the organic to the robotic. These miniatures are just awesome and demonstrate that Simon has really mastered the painting of metals and metal work. They look utterly gorgeous and a squad of these on the tabletop would be glorious (and deadly I am sure!).

March - Pak 40 Anti-Tank Gun by "Battlefront Miniatures" - March 31st

This 15mm model is for the "Flames of War" game and, being a bit older, I seem to find myself drifting away from my usual love of sci-fi/fantasy more often towards historical miniatures these days. This model is basically a little diorama of soldiers working a gun on the battlefield and is full of character, life and has no right to be a tabletop miniature as it is so much more. There are ammunition boxes, camouflage and loads of little details that make this a must pick for me.

April - Failed Experimental Battledroid Series 1-B by "Papsikels Miniatures" - April 20th

I get it! I am in danger of being boring here by picking another miniature from this manufacturer. But that just shows how full of character these sculpts are. This model is unusual with some really fine and delicate details. However, it is the cracking painting that really got me here. The metals are amazing as usual. Plus, all the cyborg's wires and other little details have been are picked out too.

May - Groot Thor by "Wizkids" - May 22nd

I know that there are a vast number of Superhero comics, and that includes some weird/whacky stuff and what if scenarios. But I did not know that Groot had this character variant. When I saw it I was like Groot as Thor? What the heck is this!?! It immediately caught my imagination, mainly due to the excellent painting that brought it to life. The tree like details have been expertly painted and it just looks fabulous and full of character. So good!

June - Zombie Silver Surfer by "CoolMiniOrNot" - June 30th

I find the whole Marvel zombies thing weird and intriguing at the same time. It is also great to see heroes and villains as zombies, and this miniature is, quite frankly, awesome. I was wondering how the Silver Surfer could be “zombified” and this is how! I think it is just incredible how a being made of metal can be painted so you know it’s a zombie. Everything about this just screams quality.

July - Napoleonic British Riflemen by "Wargames Foundry" - July 31st

Last year there were an increasing number of Napoleonic miniatures appearing on this blog and they really caught my eye. This period of history looks great on the tabletop, but brings with it untold challenges in terms of the details and colours in those magnificent uniforms. This uniform, whilst not the most colourful, is arguably the most iconic - mainly due to a certain Richard Sharpe I would suggest. I love these. They just look great. I would so love to paint some Napoleonic troops. However, that is one deep rabbit hole to jump down. Hats off to you Sir, these are great.

August - Confederate Soldiers by "Warlord Games" - August 14th

Look at the picture. These are 15mm soldiers. You could be mistaken for believing they were 28mm. This unit is not only painted as a themed Florida unit, but they have different coloured trousers, hats, facial hair etc! The attention to detail is phenomenal and makes these a worthy choice in my opinion because of the effort and love that has been poured into these diminutive soldiers. Finished off by those excellent flags, this little unit looks stunning!

September - Renaissance Knight by "Steel Fist Miniatures" - September 25th

A few of these Italian Wars miniatures were painted in 2023, and were both unusual and full of character. I picked this gentleman as he isn’t sporting the usual steel armour, but a black lacquered set banded in gold. He looks great, as well different and memorable. A great little miniature.

October - Tiger II by "Pendraken Miniatures" - October 13th

This monstrous vehicle is from a 10mm range of miniatures and part of a frightening number of tiny tanks that have been painted on this blog. This one stands out because of its size, and I felt unable to not include a vehicle from this range due to the absolutely phenomenal time and effort that was put into them. A group shot of this army must look glorious!

November - Napoleonic French Fusiliers by "Wargames Foundry" - November 6th

Ooops! I broke a rule and repeated both a manufacturer and genre. I make no apologies as these miniatures look stunning and are so full of character. The Perry Twins are so good at sculpting aren’t they? And the painting has made me believe they are trudging away from Moscow bedraggled and defeated. I must stop myself from ordering a box of Perry Napoleonics…….

December - Orr’ugs Wolf by "Artisan Guild" - December 9th

This is a 3D print from a fantasy range of miniatures that has really stood out for me by giving off some serious World of Warcraft vibes. I also adore this sculpt. However, the painting really brings this to life with the fur looking absolutely amazing. I really love the transition from light to dark with the darker coloured facial features making this wolf look very nasty indeed. I adore the painting on this so much. It is stunning.

Well that is my top 12. My overall favourite is……

The Artisan Guild Wolf. I cannot tell you how well painted this miniature is. It is absolutely brilliant. Amazing. Glorious.

Hopefully I will be forgiven for my tardy submission of my review of 2023 as it brought back memories and hopefully inspired you to look at past entries for inspiration. Perhaps you might also now give some of these manufacturers a look too as they are well worth a peep. Goodbye and thanks for reading.

Top Ten Miniatures Of 2023 - A "Rantings From Under The Wargames Table" Viewpoint

Another year has been and gone, and so as we all look forward to 2024, sing “Auld Lang Syne” and drink far too much. But first I’d like you to indulge me as I take a retrospective peek back at Simon's wonderful output of 2023. Yes, it’s that time again when 'Blax Kleric' throws the keys (and keyboard) to "Fantorical" over to me so I can lower the usually high standard of writing here, and he simultaneously raises the standard over on my own blog. Anyway having pawed over the past twelve months' posts, I’ve dragged my “Top Ten” favourite finished figures kicking and screaming back into the spotlight for one last hooray before they are consigned to the annuals of Fantorical history. So in no particular order (except rising from ten to one, of course) I give you my ten best figures by Simon for 2023…

No. 10 - Colonist Marine Cyborg Hero E-900 Exterminator by "Papsikels Miniatures" - March 6th

Yes I admit it I did copy and paste the official name of this smashing figure off of Simon’s original post. Though we all know why they couldn’t just call him what he so obviously is for copywrite reasons, it’s a bit of a mouthful! But I digress, This is a truly iconic character and this 3D printed version has been painted to perfection in my opinion. His mainly black costume falls right into Simon’s wheelhouse as they say, as he does black so damned well it's sickening! The flesh along with all the other details have also been picked out superbly well. Top work!

No. 9 - Sauron by Wizkids - February 16th

It wouldn’t be a review of Simon’s stuff without at least one character of the comic book variety, and even though I think he has painted less than in previous years - Simon will now no doubt prove me wrong on this! - there was just something about this rendition of the “X-Men” baddie that made him stand out to me. He is of course very well painted and the colours are the usual perfect match for his “Savage Land” comic/cartoon source material. Perhaps therefore it’s his pose? I really don’t know. But there is something. Sometimes you can’t quite put your finger on it, yet something just appeals to you at a base level, and that’s what this chap does.

No. 8 - Mk IV Space Marine by "Games Workshop" - July 5th

Now the figure in at number eight is from one of those projects that has been around for well over a year now, though I won’t say exactly how long it’s been rumbling along for to save Simon’s blushes. Anyway, we all have them and this is one of his lovely “Sons of Horus” Space Marines. Now, he is also doing these in 15mm scale using Alternative Armies “Ion Age” miniatures and a couple of those have made my list in the past. But I think this is the first time one of the larger “official” figures has made the grade. This is not however a reflection of my lack of admiration as to the amount of work that has so obviously gone into these lovely plastic miniatures - the level of detail picked out (by a very small brush I imagine) is mind boggling, and coupled with the great teal and gold colouring of his armour, I can even forgive the “slotta” base he is mounted on (almost). This individual is simply my pick because his pose and helmet combination is reminiscent of one of my own “beaky marines” from my early days of gaming.

No. 7 - British 95th Rifleman by "Wargames Foundry" - July 31st

And now for something completely different - historicals! I have painted up a small unit of 28mm Napoleonic figures myself in the past, so am perfectly well aware of how time consuming and infuriating they can be. Resultantly, when these first started appearing on this esteemed blog I knew that if Simon stuck with it we were in for a treat. Suffice to say he did and we were! It might have taken some twenty plus years to get these miniatures painted (though we’ve all been there right!?). But the final results were worth the wait as these two (yes there are two) renditions of “Green Jacketed” Riflemen are lovely and convey all the hard bitten, no nonsense intent of these famous British chosen men perfectly.

No. 6 - Proto Keeler by "Papsikels Miniatures" - February 23rd

Now before I start “waxing lyrical” about how good this figure is I would just like to clear up a couple of points. First off, I have included figures from the "Alien" franchise before in my Top Ten listings, and they are usually of the black-hued variety because anyone who has read one of my lists before will no doubt be aware of my deep appreciation of how well Simon paints black! In fact I’ve already mentioned it above!. This however, is obviously not black and is also from one of the much weaker entries in the series too - based as it is upon the Xenomorph’s featured in “Alien Covenant”. Simon actually painted two of these wonderful renditions, and even though he admitted to problems with the “3D printing” of  the sculpts, it did nothing to distract me from turning my head with the truly excellent flesh and blood stained finished articles.  

No. 5 - Renaissance Knight by "Steel Fist Miniatures" - September 6th

Renaissance gaming is not a period I’ve ever been tempted by, though I don’t in all honestly know why as the figures available for it (my usual attraction to a new period) are quite lovely. Such a case in point is this model, along with the other “Steel Fist Miniatures” that have appeared on "Fantorical" over the past few months. It’s always nice to see bloggers I follow stepping outside of their normal frames of interest, especially when the results are as good as this, as the painting of said miniatures has been of the very top order. Indeed, frankly the only thing that has kept we away from the company's web-site has been the trials and tribulations Simon has endured with the fragility of some of the other miniatures in this range. Whether this is actually a sculpt of the Marquess of Mantua, Francesco II Gonzaga or not, I don’t know (or if I’m honest even know who he is!). But issues aside the colourful paint scheme and wonderfully accurate painting has been a joy to behold.

No. 4 - Aquaphibian by "Big Mr Tong" - May 29th

Now I’m a big fan of anything connected to Gerry Anderson - the man was a genius and of course anyone with an interest in modeling has to be in awe of the detailed models and sets used in most of his television series. So when this lovely 3D print of one of the main protagonists from his 1963 puppet series “Stingray” appeared, it was basically a done deal that he’d end up on here. This is one of those deceptively complicated paintjobs, at first glance he looks green right. However, when you look closer you can see all the wonderful work and subtle layering that has gone into his skin. Simon does this so well, it’s like a background in a movie, if you notice all the details then it’s been done wrong, but if it’s not all there it’s also wrong - getting it right is an art, and a masterclass on how to do it right is what this is.

No. 3 - Orr'ugs Wolf by "Artisan Guild" - December 9th

"Simon, you are a big fibber, sir!" Sorry for that outburst. But I felt it was justified as he wrote on my own “Top Ten Miniatures” last year and I quote - ”I tend to stick to using just one colour for their fur”. Then how exactly do you account for the exquisite blending on show on this gorgeous Orr'ugs wolf? Now this is a pretty large model, based as it is upon a 50mm base, so I wouldn’t want to be on the other end of his lead! And he’s a dead ringer for Gmork the Wolf from “The Never Ending Story” movie. So the blending from light grey to almost a dark blue grey is sublime, and add in the pin sharp detail work on his jaws and eyes and I don’t think you could find a better example anywhere! You are a dark horse, sir (actually it’s probably a Piebald!) as he went and did it again less than a week later with a second Orr'ugs Wolf.

No. 2 - Failed Experimental Battledroid Series 1 by "Papsikiels Miniatures" March 20th

Simon has painted lots of lovely miniatures from various film series this year, including several from the “Robocop” franchise. However, the one that really stood out to me was this figure that whilst only appearing in the second Robocop movie for a few seconds, proved so iconic that it’s been stuck in my head ever since. Resultantly, when this cracking sculpt of the failed experimental second Robocop turned up on "Fantorical" there was always going to be a damned good chance he’d make it into this year’s Top Ten. Posed with him pulling the helmet from his head to reveal the bloody screaming skull underneath, this is just such a cool miniature and one that I never in a million years thought would ever be produced. Albeit these days we live in a world where just about everything can get sourced if you know where to look. The painting is sublime of course and he looks like he’s just walked out of the screen. As I said just so damn cool!    

No. 1 - Zombie Hulk by "CoolMiniOrNot" - November 27th

So what’s edged out all these wonderful miniatures and has taken the top spot this year..?Well I have to admit I’ve gone back and forth over this list so many times, with both the second and third-placed figures having been at the top. However, I always leave at least one space free when I start this list as Simon keeps producing figures right up until the end of the year, so I like to have a little wiggle room in case his last figure is a contender. Luckily, it was a "Nu [Doctor] Who" model, so that wasn’t an issue this time round (sorry Simon). I did though, spot this figure of a “Zombie” version of the Hulk on my last look through, and even though he hadn’t even made my original short list, on perusing his post I was struck by just what a superb job Simon has done on him. Everything is right, the colours, the shading, the details, the gore, even the base is a joy of little details. Everything meshes so well and is done to perfection, so yes, from out of nowhere this has leapt to the top of the pile, I give you my favourite miniature of 2023.

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And so that’s it! My ten favourite figures from this year’s "Fantorical" - the home of well painted miniatures and stuff you never even knew existed, let alone knew yow wanted so much! As always I’ll end by first thanking Simon for letting me run free and easy over his baby. I mean honestly will the man never learn! Secondly thanks to you dear reader, without whom there would simply be no point to blogging in the first place.

Now I could list a few of the things that didn’t quite make the cut this year. But frankly they were all good, so my advice is nip out to the kitchen, make yourself a big cup of tea (or something stronger if you’re so inclined), settle back and work your way back through all of Simon’s posts of 2023. In fact, don’t stop there keep heading back towards the sunset. I promise you a damned fine read! All the best to you all for the New Year, may your dice roll true and your paintbrush bristles never splay. I now return you to our regular program...

Cheers Roger.

N.B. You can visit Roger's excellent wargaming blog and see both his excellent output, as well as my own Top Ten of his 'best in show' here:

"Rantings From Under The Wargames Table"

"The Tiger II Is A German Heavy Tank Of The Second World War."

"The final official German designation was Panzerkampfwagen Tiger Ausf. B, often shortened to Tiger B."

These two 10mm metal German Königstiger tanks were bought together as a pair within a single clamshell from “Pendraken Miniatures” at Salute 50, and were simply labelled as Tiger II (armoured vehicles). Destined for my Battle of the Bulge campaign, the weighty models each consisted of a separate Henschel hull, turret, gun and pair of tracks.

First used in combat by the 503rd Heavy Panzer Battalion during the Allied invasion of Normandy, the King Tigers were treated to a double coat of "Citadel" Adeptus Battlegrey, a generous dousing in "Citadel" Nuln Oil, and an enthusiastic dry-brush of (more) Adeptus Battlegrey. The models' tracks were 'picked out' with "Citadel" Abaddon Black, base-coated using "Vallejo" Gunmetal, and shaded in "Citadel" Nuln Oil.

"Games Workshop" WIPS - A very roughly layered MK IV Space Marine Sergeant

Due to the sheer size of the sculpts, I also felt able to easily 'pick out' the odd visible shovel and tow cable using a combination of "Vallejo" Gunmetal and "Citadel" Nuln Oil, or "Vallejo Heavy Sienna and "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade as appropriate. The large tanks were finished courtesy of some transfers taken from both "Decal Details" DEC-GR-100 WWII German Insignia and Swastika, and RU-108 Russian 10/12mm armour numbers sheets.

Along with my two Königstiger tanks I have also made some progress on the first of my ten MK IV Space Marines by "Games Workshop". This 28mm hard plastic figure will be the sergeant of my third Sons of Horus tactical squad for "The Horus Heresy", and is being used as a test piece to pilot a change in my painting technique where I don't apply a shade to their armour until I've finished 'picking out' all their detail.

"Steel Fist Miniatures" WIPs - Three Foot Knights awaiting their details to be 'picked out'

Ordinarily, I perform this phase straight after base-coating the "towering, transhuman warrior" and then follow it up with a rough dry-brush. However, with such highly-detailed sculpts I repeatedly find myself having to later tidy up the armour because my brush-tip has inadvertently strayed - or in the case of "Vallejo" Gold, tiny metallic flakes have attached themselves to other areas of the model despite me being super-careful whenever I use the acrylic colour.

Lastly, I have managed to advance a few more of my Foot Knights by "Steel Fist Miniatures" for my meagre-sized Italian Wars project. I must confess my drive for this Fifteenth-Century endeavour has been badly knocked by Simon Chick's decision to (temporarily) close the company, as I did have some plans to extend my forces beyond the heavily armoured infantrymen I currently own, and tend to find a constant stream of new releases/purchases a cracking motivator to main my hobby momentum...

Fornovo Was The First Major Pitched Battle Of The Italian Wars."

"The French won the engagement and Charles VIII was able to march his army out of Italy."

This 28mm metal model of a Renaissance Knight is produced by "Steel Fist Miniatures" and was bought as part of the ten-figure Code REN 20 - Foot Knights Deal from their Italian Wars 1494-1538 range. The sculpt can also be purchased as part of a pair under Code REN 04 - Foot Knights, and has been painted up to represent one of the soldiers fighting on behalf of the grand coalition assembled against the King of France.

Apparently based upon "a very interesting [set of] armour now in the Wallace Collection in London", I primed the model with a combination of "Citadel" Abaddon Black and "Vallejo" Surface Primer Black, before treating it to a layer of Doom Death Black from Duncan Rhodes' "Two Thin Coats" range. I then began patiently 'picking out' all the armour's trim using a little "Vallejo" Heavy Sienna and subsequently followed this up with some Gold.

"The Panther is often believed to be the best German tank of the Second World War."

Once this somewhat time-consuming process was completed, I gave all the ornate decoration a splash of "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade, and tidied up any errant brushstrokes with either (more) "Two Thin Coats" Doom Death Black or "Citadel" Abbadon Black. I also repeatedly pondered whether the face bars down the front of the Knight's burgonet closed helmet would be so lavishly embellished. But having sought inspiration looking at some photographs of Sir Richard Wallace's "extensive collection" I decided that it may well have been.

Lastly, I picked out the majority of the figure's large, two-handed Zweihander sword with some "Two Thin Coats" Sir Coates Silver and Oblivion Black Wash. Part of the blade was then dry-brushed with (more) Sir Coates Silver, before I rather simply (and probably historically inaccurately) marked the man out as being part of the Holy League by pigmenting his feather plumes with "Vallejo" Heavy Red and "Citadel" Carroburg Crimson.

"Wargames Foundry" WIPs - Some French Fusiliers at various stages of completion

Along with this latest addition to my burgeoning Italian Wars project, I have also finished two more 10mm metal German Panzerkampfwagen V Panther tanks by “Pendraken Miniatures”. I picked this particular pair up at Colours 2023, and predominantly painted them using an old OOP pot of "Citadel" Adeptus Battlegrey, some "Vallejo" Gunmetal, and plenty of "Citadel" Nuln Oil.

In addition, I've been slowly working my way along a line of eight Napoleonic Frenchmen by "Wargames Foundry". I'm still getting acquainted with these old Perry-crafted Fusiliers in Greatcoat Marching, so resultantly have been pottering about with all their leather straps as part of a batch painting process. However, now these have been roughly layered, I'll probably focus upon just one or two of the infantrymen as 'test pieces' for my colour scheme.

"Bears Are Typically Peaceful Creatures."

"But they can become unstoppable behemoths if aggravated or threatened."

This 28mm scale resin model of a Bear is produced by "Crooked Dice Game Design Studio" and can be purchased as SKU: MINI 1062 from their Fantasy range. The animal, which was painted in just a single hobby session, is actually an impressive 55mm in length, and resultantly was super-glued onto a plastic "Citadel" 50mm circular base.

The miniature was initially undercoated using a mixture of "Vallejo" Surface Primer Black and "Citadel" Abaddon Black, before being heartily dry-brushed with "Vallejo" Heavy Charcoal. It was then drowned in plenty of "Citadel" Nuln Oil, and treated to a second, much more delicate, dry-brush of "Vallejo" Heavy Charcoal. Lastly, I finished the  beast's basics off by applying some "Two Thin Coats" White Star to its claws and dirtied them up with a splash of "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade.

"The war began when Ludovico Sforza, then Regent of Milan, encouraged Charles VIII of France to invade Italy,"

The model's snout and eyebrows were given a careful lick of "Vallejo" Heavy Brown and dash of "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade. These areas were then 'feathered-in' alongside the surrounding darker fur with a little bit of "Citadel" Abaddon Black being stippled along their edges. The bear's mouth and tongue were 'picked out' using "Vallejo" Heavy Warmgrey and Heavy Red respectively. Both of these areas were later sploshed with plenty of "Citadel" Carroburg Crimson. Finally, the figure's teeth were dotted in "Two Thin Coats" White Star and shaded with "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade.

Alongside my first completed "Crooked Dice Game Design Studio" model of the year, I have also got another 28mm metal Foot Knight by "Steel Fist Miniatures" tabletop ready. As with my other combatants of the Italian Wars 1494-1538, the armoured warrior can be purchased from either the company's Code REN 20 - Foot Knights Deal, or as Code REN 03 - Foot Knights, and is by far my least favourite of Oliver James' sculpts due to its bare helmet, and oddly posed gigantic sword.

"Pendraken Miniatures" WIPs - This Tiger II tank has been assembled, primed and shaded

As with some of my other Renaissance Frenchmen, the miniature was primed using "Citadel" Abaddon Black and subsequently layered in Sir Coates Silver by "Two Thin Coats". It was then treated to a dousing in Duncan Rhodes' Oblivion Black, before the armour and blade were given a thorough dry-brush of (more) Sir Coates Silver. To mark the Knight out as being one of the King of France's fighters, I carefully applied a combination of "Vallejo" Heavy Blue and Drakenhof Nightshade to his pants (which are partially visible from the rear).

Lastly, understandably inspired by the bag full of 10mm World War Two tanks I bought from "Pendraken Miniatures" at the recent Colours 2023 wargaming show, I have assembled, base-coated and washed a pair of metal Tiger II armoured vehicles for my Battle of the Bulge campaign. I actually purchased these rather heavy models at Salute 2023, and are just one of several of the Middlesbrough-based manufacturer's blisters I currently have simultaneously being progressed on my painting table...

"Napoleonic Russia Was To The Rest Of Europe..."

"...A military and geographical puzzle."

This trio of 28mm scale metal models are sold by “Wargames Foundry", and can be purchased as part of their RN023 Infantry in Oilskin Covered 1812 Shako Marching set. The blister consists of eight similar-looking Napoleonic Russian soldiers sculpted by Alan Perry, with all of the miniatures depicted wearing heavy clothing to protect them from the Patriotic War's deadly winter. 

Due to my previous decision to paint the infantrymen using the 'official' palette shown on the Nottingham-based company's website, I primed them all using a double-helping of "Vallejo" Heavy Brown, before predominantly using a little "Citadel" Abaddon Black on their shoes and leggings, as well as their knapsacks, sabres and cartridge belts. One of the figures did have their coat open at the waist, so I decided to pigment him with white leggings (using White Star by "Two Thin Coats") and a "Vallejo" Heavy Green jacket. Both of these areas were later splashed with some heavily watered down "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade and Biel-Tan Green respectively.

"Pendraken Miniatures" WIPs - This Panther G tank has been primed, shaded and dry-brushed

I must confess that the ordinarily off-putting white leather straps of the Napoleonic era were surprisingly quick to 'pick out' using "Two Thin Coats" White Star and a dash "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade. Indeed, I even managed to complete the Russians' fiddly sword tassels with the same colour combination at the same time, before applying a little "Vallejo" Gold to all the scabbards' tips, and shako straps. I also gave all the models' greatcoats a positive drowning with "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade and then carefully dry-brushed them with (more) "Vallejo" Heavy Brown.

As part of my final sweep I applied a combination of "Vallejo" Gunmetal and "Citadel" Nuln Oil to each model's tin water bottle and musket barrel, and subsequently used "Vallejo" Heavy Sienna and "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade on the rest of their rifles. Unlike my 'pilot' Russian piece, all of these sculpts didn't appear to be wearing gloves. But they did have scarfs, so I treated these knitted garments with a coat of "Vallejo" Sombre Grey and wash of "Citadel" Nuln Oil.

"Steel Fist Miniatures" WIPs - These Foot Knights have primed, base coated and washed

Sticking with winter warfare, albeit two hundred plus years in the future, I have managed to assemble, base, prime, shade and dry-brush a pair of 10mm metal Panther G tanks by "Pendraken Miniatures", which I recently picked up from their stall at Colours 2023. These impressively hefty and detailed armoured vehicles are destined for my Battle of the Bulge campaign, and should provide the Axis forces with some additional firepower when they confront the three Canadian Sherman Fireflies I'm also currently progressing.

I've also managed to get my paint-brush on some more of the 28mm metal Foot Knights I recently received from "Steel Fist Miniatures". I'm hoping to start using a handful of these figures from the company's Italian Wars range next month, in some basic skirmishes using "Lion Rampant" by "Osprey Publishing", so am presently plenty enthused to get half a dozen more of the heavily-protected combatants completed in short order...

"Pierre De Rohan..."

"...Came from a famous French family who had fought their king's wars for many years."

This 28mm metal model of a Renaissance Knight is produced by "Steel Fist Miniatures" and was bought as part of the ten-figure Code REN 20 - Foot Knights Deal from their Italian Wars 1494-1538 range. The sculpt can also be purchased as part of a pair under Code REN 01 - Foot Knights, and whilst not specifically named as the "close advisor of Kings Louis XI , Charles VIII and Louis XII" was painted with Pierre de Rohan in mind.

The "Marshal of France since at least 1475", the multi-part model proved slightly cumbersome to assemble before painting, due to the caster's belief that the figure's massive number of helmet plumes would apparently stay attached with just the smallest of nodules fixing it in place. Considering just how heavy the panaches were I decided a much safer option was to file down the 'underwhelming peg' and pin the collection of feathers in place with wire.

"Steel Fist Miniatures" WIPs - Three more Foot Knights currently on the painting table

Only once this ensemble had been super-glued together and given an appropriately long time to harden, did I dare apply a couple of coats of "Citadel" Abaddon Black to "the youngest of the Rohan-Guéméné family." This was then followed up by a combination of Sir Coates Silver from "Duncan Rhodes Two Thin Coats" and "Citadel" Nuln Oil, before the armour and blade were given a thorough dry-brush of (more) Sir Coates Silver .

I did initially consider colouring de Rohan's plumes in an elaborate mixture of white and blues. However, having perused the marvellously sculpted feathers, the headdress appeared a little too fiddly for me to easily 'pick out' the odd area with a brush-tip, so I ultimately decided to go with an all "Vallejo" Heavy Blue palette. This was subsequently shaded with "Citadel" Drakenhof Nightshade and later carefully dry-brushed with (more) "Vallejo" Heavy Blue.

"Pendraken Miniatures" WIPs - This 10mm Sherman Firefly tank has been primed and shaded

With the recent arrival of eight Foot Knights Attacking from "Steel Fist Miniatures", along with my two missing models from my first order, I've found my mojo for this skirmish-sized Italian Wars project to have bounded back with great aplomb. So perhaps unsurprisingly, I have made some steady progress on some more combatants in the Battle of Fornovo, with several other figures impatiently waiting in the wings.

In addition, spurned on by my recent purchases at the "Pendraken Miniatures" stall at Colours 2023, most notably some Canadian armoured decals, I have also been busy putting a brush to some of the last 10mm Allied World War Two tanks I previously picked up off of Leon whilst visiting Salute 2023. These three M4A4 Sherman Fireflies still have some work to go. But with a dedicated session or two should soon be busy representing the Second Canadian Armoured Brigade for Late War (Winter) campaign.

"Francesco Had A Career As A Condottiero..."

 "...Acting as Venice's commander from 1489 to 1498."

This 28mm metal model of a Renaissance Knight is produced by "Steel Fist Miniatures" and was bought as part of the ten-figure Code REN 20 - Foot Knights Deal from their Italian Wars 1494-1538 range. The sculpt can also be purchased as part of a pair under Code REN 05 - Foot Knights, and whilst not specifically named as the Marquess of Mantua, was painted with Francesco II Gonzaga in mind.

"Regarded as the finest knight in Italy", the multi-part model was super-glued together and given a couple of coats of "Citadel" Abaddon Black, followed by a combination of Sir Coates Silver from "Duncan Rhodes Two Thin Coats" and "Citadel" Nuln Oil. The armour and blade were then given a dry-brush of (more) Sir Coates Silver before receiving two more 'drownings' of "Citadel" Nuln Oil. This was because Francesco appeared to always be wearing black armour in his portrait pictures, and whilst I didn't want to go that way with this particular sculpt, I did want to make his suit appear a little darker than normal.

"Wargames Foundry" WIPs - These Russians are slowly having their details 'picked out'

Due to selecting this particular miniature to represent "the commander-in-chief of the army of the Italian League in the Battle of Fornovo", I 'picked out' his barely visible moustache with a dab of "Vallejo" Heavy Sienna and splosh of "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade, before applying plenty of "Vallejo" Heavy Red and "Citadel" Carroburg Crimson to his skirt - a colour which would starkly contrast with the predominantly blue palette I am planning for their French opposition. In addition, I did a little research on the Marquess of Mantua's flag for this historical period, and decided to represent its red cross with four black dragons on a white background with his helmet's plumes.

Resultantly, the various feathered hackles were painted using White Star and some heavily watered-down Carcharodon Grey by "Duncan Rhodes' Two Thin Coats", pure "Citadel" Abaddon Black, and "Vallejo" Heavy Red with plenty of the "Citadel" Shade Carroburg Crimson. As a final touch I dabbed a little "Vallejo" Gold" and "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade over the pommel of Francesco's sword.

"Warlord Games" WIPs - Three Yeti from "Doctor Who" which have been based and primed

With the second of my Battle of Fornovo combatants completed, I have focused much more of my hobby time upon some more of the 28mm Russian Infantry in Oilskin Covered 1812 Shako Marching by "Wargames Foundry" I want to field as part of my Third Coalition force. These soldiers will initially form up alongside a pair of already finished British 95th Riflemen for some skirmish games of "Xenos Rampant". At least they will once I complete the handful of Napoleon's French Fusiliers I intend to field as their early opposition.

To help me have a break from all the white straps of the early Nineteenth Century uniforms, I've also assembled and primed (using a mixture of "Vallejo" Primer Leather Brown and Heavy Sienna) three large metal Yeti by "Warlord Games". These 28mm scale classic monsters from the "Doctor Who" science fiction television series are now sadly OOP (out of production) since the Nottingham-based company lost the licence. But I was recently lucky enough to snag a trio of the models second-hand, so have wasted no time in getting them ready for my brush-tip...