Essex

15mm Seven Years War

by Ken Bunger

Essex has released a comprehensive range of 15 mm Seven Years War figures. The range includes Prussian (117 Foot, 9 Cavalry pks), Austrian (114 Foot, 8 Cavalry pks), Russian (9 Foot, 10 Cavalry pks), French (9 Foot, 14 Cavalry pks), British (11 Foot, 9 Cavalry pks) and 21 packs of North American types (including provincials, militia, and Indians). There is also an adequate selection of guns, limbers, and wagons. I did not receive any of their equipment for review. I have had the opportunity to see a good cross-section of their range. I'll see at the rest at Historicon.

The figures' Barret Measure is 16M and are bigger than MiniFigs. They are much "stockier" than Editions Brokaw. The castings are exceptionally clean. Anatomically the foot figures are very good, while the cavalry are exceptional. Since this is such an extensive range, I'll mention just a few of the figures with regard to "poses" and historical accuracy.

Generally, all of the hussars are truly exceptional figures. They are all very "lively" and accurate. The Russian hussar is wearing the mirliton of the Moldavian regiment, so one will have to use Austrians or Prussians for the other four "busby" regiments. Most of the cavalry are on separate horses. The mounted officers are also excellent and can be converted into many nationalities. The one mounted standard bearer I received was very disappointing. Instead of an "open" standard, the Austrian had a large flag molded on the figure. The Russian cossack has a long caftan and tall fur hat (useful for lots of periods).

The foot figures are generally in an "on guard" or standing position. I would have preferred march attack. The standard bearers have the colors molded on the figure and beautifully draped over the figure; thereby putting the flag sheet companies out of business. These folded colors look very difficult to paint. 1 only noted a few uniform inaccuracies.

The Russian grenadier has a Prussian mitre cap rather than the distinctive Russian headgear, although this can be cured with a file. The figure also makes a passable Saxon.. The Prussian artilleryman needs his lapels filed off and could use some equipment. The French fusilier has an open coat with the sword belt inside the coat. The best figures that I received are the superb French Foot Guards complete with the bowing officer doffing hat.

Each pack includes 8 infantry, 6 command, 4 cavalry or 3 mounted command for $2.89 each. Army packs are available at $58.99 having 22 packs or about 160 pieces. This range is available in the U.S. from Wargames, Box 278, Rte. 40 East, Tridelphia, WV 26059. One can use a credit card. Their order hotline is toll free at 800-221-2011. Shipping on orders are $3.50 or free for orders over a $35.00 in the continental U.S. I recommend this line.

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