Essex

25mm Ancient Indians (India)

Reviewed by Lance McKenzie

The ancient Indians are one of the latest releases in "25mm" for Essex Miniatures, who must be commended as being one of the most prolific manufacturers of historical figures, and have shown no sign of lessening productivity. These Indian figures will make excellentallies for Alexander, or one of his successors, or as an army in their own right over twenty different figure types are available including Elephants and Chariots. The only noteworthy exceptions are the Extra Heavy Cav., Mercenary Light Cavalry, and the Bactrian Guardsmen.

These figures are typically Essex in that the casting quality is quite good, but not all are of the large size Essex is known for. The elephants, chariots, and cavalry are large, but the foot figures are fairly compatible with standard 25mm figures.

Anatomically, they are stocky, but well-proportioned. Most have separately cast weapons, and in-hand shields. There are three different archers available, thus allowing for some variety. The models are nice looking, but suffer from some problems with construction. The chariot body consists of 4 pieces (the floor, front, and the 2 sides), and has no grooves to facilitate fitting and enhance strength. The elephant body (consisting of a head, two halves, and separate tusks), has no pegs or grooves either, and a bit of filler will be necessary to fill gaps between the two body halves. This may be a bit of trouble, but the finished product is well worth it.

As usual for Essex, the figures are quite impressive. Some of the more noteworthy figures are the general, his umbrella standard carrier, and the maiden guard. A very nice figure, the maiden guard is bare-chested and holds a nasty looking sword, and with her face it is unlikely that her maidenhood will be challenged. These figures paint up beautifully and will look quite impressive whether alongside, or across from, Alexander. Essex figures are distributed exclusively through Wargames, 1410 Promenade Bank Center, Richardson, TX 75080.

The Reviewing Stand

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