In an earlier article, I addressed the question "How do I get started in smallscale modern miniatures?" for the WWII period. Here, I will do the same for the modern (postwar) period... note that I am merely addressing the question - whether or not I have adequately answered it remains to be seen!
As stated in the previous article, there are two basic types of miniatures rules used for this type of gaming. One is the 1:1 rule set, in which a model or stand of infantry represents a vehicle or section of infantry, and a player controls one or more companies of troops. The other is the 1:platoon/troop rule set, in which the model or stand represents approximately 5 vehicles or sections, and a player controls one or more battalions of troops. The games played with each are enjoyable. The contrast lies in the types of decisions made by the players in the play of each - in the former type of game, the player is concerned with individual vehicle facings, specific armor thicknesses, and the rates of fire of individual guns; in the latter type, the player is more concerned with command control, morale, and the maneuver of large bodies of troops.
In any event, the two types of rules have slightly different requirements for miniatures, and I will address both here. What follows is a series of lists of modern equipment with which the beginner could start gaming. The range of the lists is limited - I included only those major combatants that might be invited if a conventional war broke out in Europe in the near future.
Missing are all of the Middle East Denizens, the South and Central Americans, Rapid Deployment Forces of all types, and my personal favorites, the Chinese. They're not 100% complete, and the better read of you out there May find them not 100% accurate. These lists will, however, get a reasonable mix of equipment ontable for a game! As noted before, I have mixed brands of models - as nobody makes everything that a player might need, this is unavoidable. The models that I selected were based on my preferences - I have provided separate cost totals based on alternate mixes of models for those with different preferences than mine. Realize also that the cost totals that I give are estimates based on the lowest-cost mix of equipment containing only one set of options from each of the lists, exclusive of taxes, sale prices, and price changes!
After the lists I've included a basic glossary of terms used in the lists, as the meanings of a number of them aren't obvious. Following the glossary are manufacturer addresses. As usual, always check your local game shop first - the proprietor is ready and willing to help you get the toys/models you need!
More Let's Make a Modern Army
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