Mike's Models

15mm Byzantines,
Han Dynasty Chinese

Reviewed by Robert Mosca

The popular 15mm range of Ancient figures from Mike's Models are now available in this country. Figures available for review were the Basilian Byzantine and Chinese (Han Dynasty) ranges. First let me state that this company's greatest strength lies in the fact that it is run by wargamers for wargamers. The obviousness of this statement belies the fact that for the first time in our hobby, there are good quality figures available for every troop-weapon type in the current Ancient/Medieval army lists.

The policy of separate horses further extends the usefulness of each range in allowing players enough variations to hand tailor specific historic units. For example, the Byzantine armored horse archer may be coupled with an unarmored horse to represent the rear ranks of a Kataphractoi Banden, or, alternately, on an armored horse for use with the Guard Klibanophoroi. Still further variations are available by putting the same bowman on an Asiatic horse (Chinese range) for use as Akritoi border nobles.

Rather than repeat the list of figures, let me say simply that whatever one finds on a particular army list, Mike's Models produces. (Yes, even a Byzantine flame-thrower.)

The figures themselves are nicely sculpted, possessing decent anatomical proportions and a consistency of height and weight throughout the ranges. Belying their 15mm size, the figures are well detailed, a fact which becomes more apparent as one paints them.

Facial detail is adequate, being nicely done on certain figures (notably the Varangian and Chinese convict spearmen) and bland on others. Overall quality and artistry remains high, the best figures being on par with Heritage's Napoleonettes, while others, notably the Byzantine Psiloi, betray a certain lack of enthusiasm in the sculpter. Horses and equipment are sculpted well, the parts of the Han four-horse chariot fitting together easily.

In conclusion, my initial impressions of this range are of immediate enthusiasm, especially after painting several figures. Armies which one contemplates but felt necessary to put off due to expense or difficulty can now be mustered on the gaming table. Highly recommended.

This issue concludes my term doing figure reviews, or, as I prefer, impressions. Beginning next issue, renowned painter Jay Hadley will assume review chores, introducing his unique figure review scale.

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