Xyston

15mm Ancient Greeks

by John M. Boehm

When I first saw pictures of these painted figures on a web site, the scale was not listed, and because of the number of poses, animation of the figures and their diorama like quality, I assumed that they were 25mm or larger. Much to my surprise, I later discovered that they were 15mm. The range presently covers the Peloponnesian War and consists of a number of different Hoplites, light infantry and cavalry. The figures are approximately 16M on the Barrett scale and are very animated with exceptional facial detail. Shields are cast separately and purchasers will have to supply their own wire spears. The hands do have precast holes and/or open hands for the spears so there is no need for drilling. The infantry come eight to a pack which includes from four to six different variations for each pack.

Received for review were 18201 unarmored Hoplites, 18202 Hoplites in linen cuirass and 18203 Hoplites in metal armor. The figures are generally cleanly cast with minimal flash. The unarmored Hoplites included individuals with a variety of helmets and poses, and even one balding headed figure. The other packs also contain an interesting assortment. The figures are manufactured by i-Kore and can be viewed on their web site, www.i-kore.com which lists over 40 different packs of figures. They are available at $3.95 for a package of eight infantry in the United States from Brookhurst Hobbies, www.brookhursthobbies.com.

Also made by i-Kore is a range of 1/600th scale ships beginning the same period through the first century B.C. Included for review was a Greek Trireme 18101. It is cast in several pieces, including separate oar banks and outriggers as well as a main mast with rolled sail and the bow mast and sail. The pieces fit together well and the ship is 55M on the Barrett scale from the stern water line to the eyeball on the prow of the ship! The ships come one to a pack for $7.95 each and there are approximately 16 different items available in this line. This is an exceptional range of figures and ships and I was as impressed with the figures as I was with the original photos.

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