Figure reviews of any sort are, by nature, highly subjective regardless of the author's intent on fairness. My own reviews are likely to be no different as they are based on my tastes and what I like to see on the gaming table. I suggest that all readers send for sample figures from manufacturers so as to be able to judge for themselves what they will want to paint. Before I even begin my first review, it seems to be important to state what I look for in figures. My primary criteria includes: 1. The proportions of the entire figure. This includes whether the extremities are too long or short, if the head is too large or small compared to the body, are the figures too fat or skinny, etc. 2. The actual sculpting of the castings. Is there enough detailing? 3. The quality of poses. Do the castings LOOK LIKE they are in battle? 4. The variety of poses available and whether or not the figures can be placed in the same unit without looking awkward. 5. The amount of work needed before one can begin painting (amount of flashing). Having stated my biases, let me begin my review of Stone Mountain figures. Overall, I am quite pleased with the tremendous variety of figures available to the ACW enthusiast. Besides the basic figures that can be bought are I5mm or 22mm, there are packs of 20 castings in their "Ragged Rebs" and "Texans" which contain variant figures (some with beards, different hats, etc.). It is quite possible to mix and match different castings to paint up a regiment of 20 figures with no two alike exactly the way I like many of my units to look. My only beef with the Texans and Ragged Reb packs is that I would like to see them include figures firing in both standing arid kneeling positions. Almost all figures are extremely well proportioned. While there could be a few more wrinkles and detailing added to the uniforms for those of us who like to use dry brush or wash painting techniques, the faces are actually there, a rare feat for 15mm castings. I would also like to see more figures done in battle shirts (I like the Western theatre where this was more common). Having given a few knocks, highlights of the infantry include very well done soft hats arid kepis in various shapes, bayonets that do not break off when handled, and flag bearers that can be ordered with cast flags or with just the poles for use with La Legion decal flags. All of the figures paint up very nicely. The mounted generals packs contain really only two different figures. One is looking through binoculars while the other is pointing the way for his troops. I was impressed with both, but would like to see a general reading a map on horseback or with a sword in hand. However, the generals that are available are the best I've seen from any manufacturer.. Artillery is a different story. I have no complaints at all in that there are all of 11 types of guns, each well proportioned to go along with the troops. The Whitworth Rifle was especially nice and is my favorite artillery casting, especially when painted using shading techniques. The limbers and caissons are also quite good, as are the artillerists, which come in several poses, including an officer. I have not seen all of the cavalry figures that are available, but have been impressed with those that have been sent. The men and horses are separate, allowing for easy painting. The dismounted cavalry figures are also quite nice and are exact reproductions of their mounted brethren for the particular gamer. Stone Mountain comes out with so many new figures that by the time this review reaches you, it may be incomplete. I have not yet seen the negro troops, but understand that they are of the same quality as the other infantry. I have also not seen all of the gunboats, sailors, and naval guns, but have seen some impressive photos of them. Apparently, the gunboats are not to scale if used with land forces, but are well scaled for use in river battles. The "extras" supplies by this manufacturer are too numerous to mention. I love their Hovel buildings, earthworks, and fence kits (lead), which are very detailed and in the right scale. You should get a catalogue for a complete listing as they will make any nice war table a replica of an ACW battlefield. In conclusion, I rate Stone Mountain's releases very highly. There is little or no flashing on the figures, making preparation time prior to painting minimal. There is an incredible variety of figures to choose from and the figures are well proportioned. One could order exclusively from this company and be very satisfied with the army you field. My wish list would include more mounted generals, a figure or two reloading muskets, a couple of figures which have more action in the charging pose, some zouaves wearing soft hats (for Louisiana Tigers), and some zouaves in other poses to go with what you already make. Back to The Zouave Vol I No. 1 Table of Contents Back to The Zouave List of Issues Back to Master Magazine List © Copyright 1987 The American Civil War Society This article appears in MagWeb (Magazine Web) on the Internet World Wide Web. Other military history articles and gaming articles are available at http://www.magweb.com