Minifig Quick-Start Sets

15mm Seven Years War

Reviewed by Ken Bunger

The extensive "Tricorne" range of 15mm Seven Years War figures from Miniature Figurines has been reviewed in these pages earlier. Now the wargamer can obtain completearmies at somewhat ofa discountwith the introduction of Minifigs Quick-Start (Q-S) Sets. They are available for Britain, France, Prussia, Austria and Russia. Each set contains nine"blister" packs with a total of 72 line infantry, 24 grenadiers, 24 cavalry, 4 cannon and 16 artillerymen (plus a few extra figures).

In addition to the figures, each Set includes Grand Tactical Fast Rules, "Fritz-Krieg" Tactical Rules, Introductory Scenarios, Basic Painting Information and a short source guide. I'd also notethatthe recommended unit organization and stand sizes of their tactical rules are the same as my own TRICORNE Rules.

Both the Grand Tactical Rules by Bill Abrams and "Fritz-Krieg" by Biuce Kimball are each written on two typewritten pages. Both are very simple, but I've seen them used at conventions and everyone seemed to have a great time.

The basic painting guide is a really good idea and is very well done. The only error is that I'd give the British artillerymen a red waistcoat and breeches. The one major omission from the bibliography is mention of the series of booklets by R.D. Pengel (available from Athena Books in the U.K., orThe Reiter or ASP in the U.S.). The most comprehensive source for British uniforms is volume two of A History of the Uniforms of the British Army by C.C.P. Lawson, now out-of-print. The Prussians are comprehensively covered in the paperback version of Die friderizianischen Uniformen 1753-1786 by Hans Bleckwenn.

Each set also contains a short specific painting guide for that particular army. The Austrian guide that I've seen is an accurate description ofthree foot and three dragoon regiments. My only comment is that the Bathyany Dragoons can wear dark blue breeches and waistcoats. There is also a flag that one only has to photocopy, paint and fold. The Austrian set's cavalry consists of 24 dragoons.

I recommend these sets at $43.00 each (plus $2.00 post). The new Minifig catalog is available for $2.00. They are available from Miniature Figurines Ltd., Box P, Pine Plains, N.Y. 12567,(518) 398-5166.

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