Although the Cape Frontier Wars remain largely unknown among wargamers (did I mention Noel Mostert's book Frontiers as the place to start?), there has been a slight and very desirable increase in available figures.

1st Corps

In the UK 1st Corps now offer quite a large range in 25mm. I'm not quite sure whether they have in fact fulfilled the promise of their early listings--which were pretty comprehensive--as they began well, and then seemed to run out of steam.

But, even so, they are well worth a look. Figures already released include a good selection of Xhosa warriors, armed with both spears and firearms, and including some wearing cast-off European clothing. There's also a nice Hottentot rebel figure, which adds a bit of variety. The British figures represent types from the 8th War (1850-53), and so far feature infantry and Rifles. One of the beauties of this period is that the British went to war in a wide range of improvised uniforms, abandoning the usual mid-Victorian formality in favour of something slightly more practical. Shell jackets or cut-down coatees were the order of the day, with improvised equipment belts, and headgear varying from forage caps to wide-brimmed hats. The 1st Corps range certainly reflects this fact, and the designers have gone to town to give their figures a very pleasing 'lived in' look.

There is also a nice transport wagon, though mine came without assembly instructions. Listed items include the Cape Mounted Rifles--a local unit who played a prominent part in the wars - 74th Highlanders, who went into battle in a unique hunting smock uniform. I haven't seen these figures on sale yet, but 1st Corps should definitely be encouraged to carry on with this range.

Cannon Fodder Miniatures

Also for the CFW, Cannon Fodder Miniatures in Australia have added a further figure to their existing Xhosa range-a warrior holding a flintlock musket at arm's length. I have to say I like this figure a lot--nice clean, simple lines, uncluttered by unnecessary detail, yet full of character. The figure is obviously meant to reflect the somewhat cavalier attitude many Africans had towards the use of firearms at this period, and in my view it succeeds.

Under the circumstances I feel a bit churlish pointing out it is almost physically impossible to hold a heavy flintlock like this, and fire it; but I like to think of him caught mid-motion instead, just as he's swinging the weapon round! It's still a great figure!