Tin Soldier

25mm Samurai

Reviewed by Lance McKenzie

Tin Soldier has recently released an interesting line of 25mm Samurai figures apparently representing the Middle-Later Medieval periods. No listing was received, therefore I can only speculate as to how extensive the line is and what the figures actually represent. Sixteen different foot and four different mounted figures were received which indicates that a good variety does exist.

The foot figures consist of variously armed Samurai, ashigaru, peasants, warrior monks, and even a female warrior. One of the monk figures is unarmed, but is defending himself with a nicely sculpted karate side-kick. Incidentally, this particular and a standard carrier both sport long pointed beards and mustaches. I am no expert on the Medieval Japanese, but this amount of facial hair seems excessive, although it could be an advantage on the wargaming table if the player fielding a unit of these fellows could convince his opponent that troops facing them will take a minus 1 for facing long thrusting beards. The side-kicking monk, facial hair, and in some cases exotic (even for Samurai) headgear create the impression that these figures are intended for use in role-playing games as well as the wargaming table. They are well-suited for both.

Some of the figures are open-handed, while others are cast with weapon cast in-hand. For those open-handed figures a nice selection of assorted weapons are available. Detailing is adequate and rather stark, while paintability is a definite plus. Casting and metal quality appear to be quite good. Many figures exhibit active poses, but are still a bit stiff. A drawback exists with the mounted Samurai as the horses seem a bit too small (unless they are ponies captured during the ill-fated Mongol invasion of Japan). These figures have a good deal of character lacking in some other figures, and as a result should add color and variety to any Samurai army. Tin Soldier is an Australian company, and as of this writing I am not sure who will be carrying their Samurai in this country.

The Reviewing Stand

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