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Miniatures Adventure => Medieval Adventures => Topic started by: Argonor on February 18, 2015, 11:09:23 AM

Title: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 18, 2015, 11:09:23 AM
I have started a Fantasy Viking D&D rpg project with my daughters, and given the nature of the matter, I was a bit in doubt, whether to put this in the Fantasy section.

As most of the stuff collected, built, and painted for the project, though, will be more or less historical, and because, as with everything else I do these days, it will also serve for historical wargaming, I went for this board, as I would like to keep it all in one place.


The girls creating characters:

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GiBnekrzMXI/VKcbTklKjAI/AAAAAAAAC4k/JEjHsA0miR8/s1600/2015_01_02-DD-RPG-01-600.JPG)

Minis purchased so far:

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6E_CXNfM6F0/VLucxZWTBWI/AAAAAAAAC_Q/BQF9PUdjPsY/s1600/2015_01_18-Red_Box_Characters-01-600.JPG)

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CrAprwVNdyc/VL1iKfbwoAI/AAAAAAAAC_w/jzW0hvbVCR4/s1600/2015_01_19-Hasslefree_Magic-Users-01-600.JPG)

The female magic-users are not Dark Age, strictly speaking, but at least the cloaked one will be playing a part in the rpg games.

Yesterday, I ordered the Gripping Beast plastic Viking Hirdmen, Anglo-Saxon Thegns, and Dark Age Warriors boxes.

Some esteemed members of this forum then helped me find the SoBaH 'Song og Longships and Ravens' list on the SBH Yahoo group, so I can start wargaming as soon as I have painted a few models, and, of course, I shall be aiming for full SAGA warbands over time, too.

I shall post pics and short descriptions of everything going on with these combined projects here, and detailed descriptions, and full AARs will be posted on my blog, as usual.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 25, 2015, 09:28:57 AM
Got these in the mail today (ignore the cube):

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lJ4xjXAu2zo/VO2RUgbiCaI/AAAAAAAADJA/34aedQNcCqs/s1600/2015_02_25-Wayland-600.JPG)

Soon, it is time to scratch-build some buildings...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: von Lucky on February 25, 2015, 09:52:31 AM
Looking forward to this develop.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Modhail on February 25, 2015, 10:03:42 AM
I always suspected the dark ages could make a nice setting for rpgs. I'm looking forward to seeing what you come up with.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 25, 2015, 10:52:10 AM
I expect the project to develop into building a lot of stuff, like some settlements, some modular cave and/or dungeon pieces, some ships (I'll probably purchase models to that end), and painting both warriors, civilians, and livestock.

I will be a slow process, though, as I have other pending projects to look to in between.

I shall, however, as soon as I finish my 'It's Alive' Pulp project, turn my attention towards building some Viking houses - it should prove a nice father-and-daughters project, as the girls are both keen on using scissors, knives, and glue for various ends.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on February 25, 2015, 10:55:54 AM
Watching this with interest.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 25, 2015, 02:03:56 PM
Had to wash and rinse everything right away  ;D

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mydZq6f3C_c/VO3RNIEg-DI/AAAAAAAADJg/98VPG_QC2yo/s1600/2015_02_25-Dark_Age_01-600.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 27, 2015, 06:48:20 PM
Started playing around with x-acto and poly cement.

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iw8FWsJivK8/VPC63j_6cCI/AAAAAAAADK0/wJnftXR1ajA/s1600/2015_02_27-Dark_Age_WIP_03-600.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Vermis on February 27, 2015, 07:30:16 PM
Sounds great and looks promising. :)

I always suspected the dark ages could make a nice setting for rpgs.

Definitely! After all, the progression was Dark Ages -> Poetic Edda/Beowulf -> LotR -> D&D. :D
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 28, 2015, 05:46:50 PM
Got the last two from that sprue assembled, too.

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NXHrk3U9xb4/VPH9__k_skI/AAAAAAAADLI/7-aQ5ioGdp8/s1600/2015_02_28-Dark_Age_WIP_04-600.JPG)

A few more WIP shots and musings on my blog, btw.

Sounds great and looks promising. :)

Definitely! After all, the progression was Dark Ages -> Poetic Edda/Beowulf -> LotR -> D&D. :D

 :D
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff / Character minis WIP
Post by: Argonor on March 07, 2015, 07:53:37 PM
Got these prepped and based:

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d-qsD_IgyzE/VPtSpkPwCII/AAAAAAAADPc/POWROs0RDMs/s1600/2015_03_07-RPG_Characters_WIP_01-600.JPG)

Yes, I put slotta-minis on washers instead. Slippery slope...  :o
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Captain Blood on March 07, 2015, 08:06:30 PM
You're making progress Niels!
:)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 07, 2015, 08:19:40 PM
You're making progress Niels!
:)

Are you referring to to the basing method, or the fact that I have finally actually assembled and based some minis?  :)

In case of the first, I don't think I am going to completely skip using (round) slottas (especially not on my hordes of Lord of the Rings minis), but these 2 somehow did not look right on slottas - and are going to be used with a lot of other stuff on washers.

On the subject of slottas/washers, I have been re-basing a lot of old GW skellies from square slottas onto 20mm washers to use in a God of Battles army, so more and more of my stuff go on steel these days.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Vindice on March 08, 2015, 07:35:12 AM
Lovely looking stuff. Looking forward to seeing my boys get old enough to play something similar so will be nicking all your ideas.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 09, 2015, 12:47:56 AM
Lovely looking stuff. Looking forward to seeing my boys get old enough to play something similar so will be nicking all your ideas.

I hope there will be a lot to nick  ;)

I am currently pondering about how to best make a hexagonal template for cutting out foam bases for cave-modules on my thermo-cutter (and what size I should go for), so any suggestions on the matter would be most welcome.  :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Modhail on March 13, 2015, 10:04:19 AM
What a coincidence, I've been thinking of doing hex-based cave modules as well. (After I start/finish some more regular dungeon terrain...)
What size hexes are you aiming for?
There are several online hex generators (for example: http://incompetech.com/graphpaper/hexagonal/ (http://incompetech.com/graphpaper/hexagonal/)), but they're limited by paper size.
Or draw your own: https://www.google.nl/?gfe_rd=cr&ei=o7QCVcyqNon5-gaYgIH4Bw&gws_rd=ssl#q=how+to+draw+a+hexagon (https://www.google.nl/?gfe_rd=cr&ei=o7QCVcyqNon5-gaYgIH4Bw&gws_rd=ssl#q=how+to+draw+a+hexagon)
An alternate is to get one laser cut?
I've been considering just getting a hex from Litko's terrain system (http://www.litko.net/products/ITS%2C-Hex-Tower-Baseplate-%28Industrial-Tower-System%29.html#.VQK1nXyG-YI), next time I order some markers.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 14, 2015, 09:31:20 PM
I need to make a template that won't be damaged from the hot wire, so I think the method will be printing a hex the desired size, then cutting it out and glue it to some wood or metal to saw/cut to shape.

First, I was thinking of using fairly small hexes (20 cm across would be about the largest possible size if I wanted to store them in printer paper boxes). Would mean a side of 10 cm, though, which is not quite enough for cave walls to be modelled, so I think I shall have to go larger.

That Litko plate may be just the right solution, thanks!

I shall have to make a template for cutting the walls the same shape at the joints, too, but that is a minor thing compared to the hex-problem (which is probably solved, now).

If you get on with hexes before I do, please report your results and experiences!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Modhail on March 15, 2015, 10:42:27 AM
You're welcome!
I'm not sure how soon I'll get to my own hex caves, like I said, I want to build a regular dungeon first (which will be this year's terrain project, hopefully) and I'm already juggling two projects at the moment...
But if I get there before you, I'll share my experiences!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 15, 2015, 09:44:09 PM
I know what you mean - my own progress is painstakingly slow atm, as real life projects/chores keep getting priority when I have some days off (although today's foray into Darkest Jutland to pick up a bunch of second hand LARP gear for the girls and me, plus a real longbow for my firstborn is kind of realted to the D&D project, as we are aiming for a similar outfit as the player characters').

AND that I'm working at both a new unit for my GoB undeads (although they shall probably make appearances in the RPG. too), and doing stuff for the It's Alive Painting Club does not leave a lot of time for the Fantasy Vikings project. Well, hopefully I can finish the skellies during this week, and get the Pulp stuff almost completed soonish, too...  ::)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 03, 2015, 08:31:38 PM
After almost finishing a skeleton warrior unit for a God of Battles army, I decided it was time to sart building a Viking army for that set of rules, too.

I am using the Blood Gorged list from GoB (further details on my blog).

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jdrferirf54/VR7U3BY4VnI/AAAAAAAADXE/BfRSfQw5pzU/s1600/2015_04_03-GoB_Vikings_WIP_01-600.JPG)

The first 24 pts will consist of 30 models, to be expanded on as soon as the Skirmish force is ready for battle.

Our RPG project will continue soon - me diving into the Viking plasics has already made my daughters ask if they can start painting their character models soon, and I just have to make space on a table for us to establish a common painting area where we can sit down together and the girls can put base coats on the models.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 04, 2015, 01:21:47 AM
Just ordered shield transfers and some Viking banners from Little Big Men.

Need to finish some units in a hurry, and with the Price on GB plastics, I think I can afford dishing out a bit to save on painting time (besides, I just received a subsantial tax refund  :D )
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 05, 2015, 01:47:06 AM
Aaaand, ordered the LITKO hex-thingy to use as template for the hex-caves.

Its expensive doing night-watches....  ::)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Modhail on April 05, 2015, 08:11:53 AM
Oh yes, the bane of late night shopping... A real budgetkiller.
Great to see this progressing!
Looking forward to seeing your daughters (and your) paintjobs.
(My son is nearing the age where he can be expected to start painting as well. Better step up his education on "proper wargaming" before he hears the siren call of a certain Evil Empire. Especially now they opened a store in our city...)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 05, 2015, 10:25:09 PM
He won't be able to afford their stuff on his allowance, anyway  lol

But shiny nights with colourful livery, and dark age warriors of various kinds with nice shields and savage faces should be more than sufficient to draw the attention of a wee lad!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 06, 2015, 02:29:53 AM
A bit of Progress from yesterday.

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C_IszdCjog0/VSGYhBFYlgI/AAAAAAAADXY/rqKCcS7ynxA/s1600/2015_04_05-GoB_Vikings_WIP_02-600.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Modhail on April 06, 2015, 08:08:08 AM
The warband looks to be shaping up nicely!

He won't be able to afford their stuff on his allowance, anyway  lol
Too true. Hell, I can't even afford most of their stuff on my "allowance"  lol

Hmmm, you've got me thinking though, I do have some old Foundry Vikings laying about. Some of them are lacking shields however, so I'd need to find replacements first.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 06, 2015, 08:14:40 PM
Hmmm, you've got me thinking though, I do have some old Foundry Vikings laying about. Some of them are lacking shields however, so I'd need to find replacements first.

If you get the GB Dark Age Warriors, and build some of them as a slinger unit, you'll have plenty of spare shields (those are IMO MUCH better than the 80's style custard pie shields supplied with a lot of dark age minis).

I used a bunch for a GoB unit of old GW plastic skellies, and I'm very pleased with the  less 'cartoony' look they provide.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Modhail on April 09, 2015, 04:48:15 PM
Thanks for the tip! I'll ask around of any of my buddies have some spare (don't really need even more Vikings myself).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 14, 2015, 03:53:47 PM
darn, got thet litko hex today, but it is WAY too small. It is 14 cm ACROSS from flat side to flat side, it is not the flat side that is 14 cm.

I think I may have to ask Fenris Games if they can make me a bigger one. I need one that is precision cut, so that the resulting foamboard hexes will fit nicely together.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Modhail on April 14, 2015, 05:39:13 PM
Oh, darn! I  hadn't realized that... Sorry for giving you sub-optimal advice.   :(
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 14, 2015, 06:01:53 PM
Oh, well...  I'll find a use for it. Maybe a template for hexagonal hab-units for some remote colony... (aaarrrghhh.... yet another project  ::) )
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 07, 2015, 03:09:04 AM
Well, this is beginning to turn into another full-fledged SAGA/GoB-project.

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xsV9UTq2Dzs/VUomfD3N-DI/AAAAAAAADmc/iM2Odf_Wf-I/s1600/2015_05_06-Dark_Age_Warriors_WIP.JPG)

Painting will commence during the weekend, at the very latest.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 05, 2016, 10:56:28 PM
Got this in the mail today:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dS3NBeQSISI/VwQvSCNFFPI/AAAAAAAAEfs/VAJkLuy1WgwOScdz7ZB_-b0gZ-mM9Z3iQ/s640/2016_04_05-Blood_Eagle_and_Dragon_Rampant_01-02-600.JPG)

And, yes, this means that I'll probably have to divide my hobby-time between knights and vikings. But at least things seem about to begin moving, again...  ::)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 06, 2016, 10:35:51 PM
I'm absolutely thrilled after having my first read through of Blood Eagle!

The rules may be the ultimate catch-all for painting small groups of minis in almost any hand-weapon-and-shield setting (including fantasy), and being able to get them on the table right away - which is how I prefer painting, as I get easily bored...  ::)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 08, 2016, 02:13:57 PM
Here'a start to my (first) Blood Age Viking warband:

Sigurd Krage, Young Hersir (WIP)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vxCM3TZ88Z0/VwerNuXJPII/AAAAAAAAEgA/7XSeFEGXDnYJz7eCmV0yFuYKhwDQUz6og/s320/2016_04_08-Blood_Eagle_Hersir_01-01-400.JPG)

My blog contains stats and a couple more pictures
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 10, 2016, 12:05:02 PM
Next member of the warband:

Torstein, young warrior.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TgNDBbr4KRg/VwoqaAem_0I/AAAAAAAAEgw/Y_gfm4uc1pwA2W5GbuRDKcUPuiEGrNljQ/s320/2016_04_10-Blood_Age_Torstein_WIP_01-02-400.JPG)

Again, couple more pics + stats at my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Gracchus Armisurplus on April 11, 2016, 02:35:27 AM
Looking good, how are the Blood Eagle rules? How do they compare to SAGA?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Flakmonkey on April 11, 2016, 08:03:15 AM
Awesome project sir. looking forward to seeing the minis progress. I can't say I've ever seen blood eagle. will have to take a look see. I don't have enough games projects and different systems that i play already  ;D
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 11, 2016, 03:08:35 PM
Looking good, how are the Blood Eagle rules? How do they compare to SAGA?

Very different - focus on individual warriors, recommended starting force just a handful of figures. And you have 3 phases: Movement, Shooting, Fighting, in each of which players alternate activating individual figures.

OPEN POINTS SYSTEM:
You can create anything in about any setting I can think of, as long as it uses things that the combattants bash each other with (and/or throws at each other).

I intend to make some warbands for Blood Eagle, the later expand them to SAGA points, and maybe Lion/Dragon Rampant units, and over time finally to God of Battles units to play those massive encounters. But all in due time - right now my focus must be on the warbands.

Awesome project sir. looking forward to seeing the minis progress. I can't say I've ever seen blood eagle. will have to take a look see. I don't have enough games projects and different systems that i play already  ;D

If you like your games to have an RPG-flavour, with lots of individual character to your warriors, I would recommend it!

Craig Cartnell, one of the authors, is present here on LAF, btw, so it is easy to seek advice about the rules.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 11, 2016, 03:11:30 PM
Another raider almost ready for painting:

Halfdan

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YOXFG2xsGew/VwunrM5eCaI/AAAAAAAAEhA/gurcjv5KtVcuYIfNZ5Bbky-9l5hpxfBeA/s400/2016_04_11-Blood_Eagle_Halfdan_01-01-400.JPG)

Again, couple more pics + stats on my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 11, 2016, 08:30:26 PM
Second (almost) finished raider today:

Ulf

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--mrc5IePMGk/Vwv1z-8gmbI/AAAAAAAAEhc/RVMQ-W7wMVca1FeTWOLJcfZdAoEAjOKMg/s320/2016_04_11-Blood_Eagle_Ulf_01-01-400.JPG)

As always, more pics and details on the blog.  :P
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 12, 2016, 01:40:20 PM
Another member of Sigurdr Krage's crew

Rolf, Viking Veteran

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i4biJNgIK7g/Vwzl7pikzxI/AAAAAAAAEiE/XmNUpB6R1VY1w9OAKiWQfwWWrqu42vTkQCLcB/s320/2016_04_12-Blood_Eagle_Rolf_01-01-400.JPG)

More details on the blog, as usual.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on April 12, 2016, 02:00:55 PM
I like the rest of the warband but I think it looks a bit weird swinging a daneaxe one handed and holding a shield.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 12, 2016, 07:08:26 PM
I like the rest of the warband but I think it looks a bit weird swinging a daneaxe one handed and holding a shield.

I agree, but he can do that per the rules - he has the trait 'strong', and can wield a two-handed weapon with one hand without any penalties, and I wanted the mini to show it. And as plastics are dirt cheap, even if I am not going to field him for other than Blood Eagle games, it's not a terrible loss  :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 12, 2016, 09:40:46 PM
Well, it seems that I have crewmen for 174 points by now, which, for a 200 points warband, gives me 26 points to use on a warrior with a bow - which should be doable (haven't done the calculation, yet, but with light or no armour, no shield, the cost shoudn't go up that fast).

I shall get the Conquest Medieval Archers (as soon as I find a good source), and in the meantime, I'll get the existing crewmembers ready for painting.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 15, 2016, 07:26:57 PM
Got the SMER drakkar in the mail today.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ylm5V6GV0s/VxEqBNs7jgI/AAAAAAAAEis/dfxgJkxIEDcQpdI1b2R6bNshDcfUIg5nACLcB/s640/2016_04_15-SMER_Drakkar_01-01-600.JPG)

A little bit of converting (dragon prow and waterline), and it should  be ready for some paint and action!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 16, 2016, 06:55:25 PM
WIP

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ho3_Xp6a3Bc/VxJtU0OHP_I/AAAAAAAAEjA/NNAI2UxWA_ohwsolGlHG2vqG-YTFYwbRwCLcB/s640/2016_04_16-SMER_Drakkar_WIP_01-01-600.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 18, 2016, 08:00:47 AM
Another step towards an invasion of Britain is taken...

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aXj98_29NO4/VxSCZYFTLlI/AAAAAAAAEj0/2RxMpMwahjIv00O542Eh7UP5ccVBIdFZgCLcB/s640/2016_04_18-Blood_Eagle_Drakkar_01_WIP-03-600.JPG)

The water-line has to be grinded/sanded, and I may have to do it by hand, as I don't own a proper tool for that purpose...  :-[
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Poiter50 on April 18, 2016, 09:47:15 AM
Doesn't the Dremel have a grinding disc/piece?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 18, 2016, 02:14:09 PM
Doesn't the Dremel have a grinding disc/piece?

Yes, that's the one I used to cut the keel area away - but I want to get the waterline completely level, as I do not want to base the ship.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on April 18, 2016, 02:32:49 PM
Are you keeping the rather over the top dragon head?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 18, 2016, 02:43:46 PM
Are you keeping the rather over the top dragon head?

Nope. Definitely has to go. I consider making one that can be taken down, as suggested by Cornwell for signalling 'we come in peace' (yeah, right  ::)  ).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 18, 2016, 03:19:35 PM
Did manage to make the 'straps' or 'loops' for the axes on these two. Yes, the left one should have been done further down the axe handle. Will have to do as is, though, as I don't feel like pushing more putty today.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-moyt_HSuFfY/VxTm6BuBa5I/AAAAAAAAEkI/njrYr7xE820OMNIs_NtI5JK0i04AvxmNACLcB/s640/2016_04_18-Blood_Eagle_Sculpting-01-600.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 19, 2016, 11:12:59 AM
Some activity going on:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bdpWfItq9ds/VxX8eEcxblI/AAAAAAAAEko/pigfnt7dlp4D0cG7Mi8YViu7ROPI_n-HgCLcB/s640/2016_04_18-Blood_Eagle_Bases_WIP-01-600.JPG)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4fi39fPuKw/VxX5Mv7hjcI/AAAAAAAAEkc/TQBWN76Yqt4zqmGSWapKXgQQfS4HTpnEACLcB/s640/2016_04_18-Blood_Eagle_Buildings_WIP-01-600.JPG)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ol4m2or670/VxX_H9OBMuI/AAAAAAAAEk4/pZaJVVB56twN8tiHzF32-WkdKraeNXkRQCLcB/s640/2016_04_18-Blood_Eagle_Archers_Washed-01-600.JPG)

Details on my blog, as I am way too lazy to repeat myself excessively  lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 19, 2016, 10:36:05 PM
And another couple of warriors assembled. Had some parts leftover and nothing better to do...  ;)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-COs0gPpa8GM/VxaOmjGd6YI/AAAAAAAAElM/QDYuqihhUpgHmV-KoDV63cYPO13nStz3gCLcB/s400/2016_04_18-Blood_Eagle_Extra_Models-01-400.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 19, 2016, 11:44:03 PM
Nice idea!

What's the bigger one?

Shape-wise they could also be used as Knarrs or Byrdings.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 20, 2016, 08:12:29 PM
A bit more progress:

Ivar, the man with the bow

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I9yiKfYlj7U/VxeeZ1TNa3I/AAAAAAAAEmE/EB-qR321PqIbs5-cXNrcA9ZnZ8dNi68qwCLcB/s400/2016_04_20-Blood_Eagle_Ivar_WIP_01-01-500.JPG)

More pics and stats on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Gracchus Armisurplus on April 21, 2016, 01:20:14 PM
Looking good, I like the houses, where are they from?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 21, 2016, 04:44:56 PM
Looking good, I like the houses, where are they from?

Frontline:

25BLD17 Dark Age A-Frame Dwelling
25BLD18 Dark Age Hut
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Commander Carnage on April 22, 2016, 03:40:11 PM
I like the look of Ivar and I can't wait to see those minis painted!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 22, 2016, 04:04:19 PM
I like the look of Ivar and I can't wait to see those minis painted!

Neither can I (I may need to mock up some warbands from some LotR minis to get some games played soon, as I am very eager to try out the rules).

This weekend is all about family & friends, wife had birthday yesterday, and we are going to a confirmation party of some friends' daughter Sunday, while today, and probably tomorrow, we all work hard in the garden and around the house to tidy things up a bit, before the weeds take over the premises - SO, I don't think I'll be able to slap some paints on anything until Monday. But if I really work hard on the painting, I may be able to get almost 3 done, before I start my 5-nights work period (Wednesday night through Sunday night), during which I'll hardly get more than one or two minis painted.

So, with a little luck - and disciplined painting, I should have Sigurdr's warband ready for some test runs the following weekend (and, if I made some LotR warbands, they might actually have an opponent to fight - the Rohan Warriors are an obvious choice for a Saxon warband, while I shall have to fiddle a bit more with Minas Tirith warriors and Uruk-Hai (both half-plate armour).

Blood Eagle may also prove a good reason to paint up some more of those LotR factions for alternative warbands, and I am definitely going to use it for Crusaders/Normans/Feudals - only the imagination sets the limits.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 27, 2016, 08:16:27 PM
Finally got my very first Dark Ages warrior painted.

I started out wih one of my 'extras', as I needed some practice after about 6 months without touching a brush.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LHnPUi8OT84/VyEICr4rlgI/AAAAAAAAE0Q/G9V1toTpCL0lVXxm7MW8ZmAbDRQw19f7QCLcB/s400/2013_04_27-Saxon_Slinger_01-01-400.JPG)

Couple more pics, and colour-break-down on my blog!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on April 27, 2016, 09:40:31 PM
Looking good.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Hammers on April 27, 2016, 10:01:11 PM
Finally got my very first Dark Ages warrior painted.

I started out wih one of my 'extras', as I needed some practice after about 6 months without touching a brush.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LHnPUi8OT84/VyEICr4rlgI/AAAAAAAAE0Q/G9V1toTpCL0lVXxm7MW8ZmAbDRQw19f7QCLcB/s400/2013_04_27-Saxon_Slinger_01-01-400.JPG)

Couple more pics, and colour-break-down on my blog!

Nice paintwwork there, Niels.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 27, 2016, 10:22:49 PM
Thanks, guys!

I have started painting one of my vikings, but I just started my 5-day night Watch period, so much sleeping will be occurring during daytime.
I hope to be able to motivate myself for some short paint sessions after evening routines (one layer on one or two areas, or the likes).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 01, 2016, 12:53:12 AM
As my Progress with the vikings is a bit slow, I have decided to construct a couple of warbands from already painted LotR minis.

I don't want to post Pictures here, as they are more fit for the Fantasy board, but I have statted the leader for my first Rohan/Saxon warband on my blog, and the rest of the warriors will follow over the next days.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 04, 2016, 08:47:48 AM
I got some stuff from Gripping Beast yesterday to enhance the Dark Ages experience:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uhmeOs3vuu8/VykbR6bl1fI/AAAAAAAAE9o/En795Hq7UPAmG4Ot378ILGhMwM0UeO7wACLcB/s640/2016_05_03-GB_Dark_Age_Children_01-01-400.JPG)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WiUUVIXp4hc/VyjqlaIlBQI/AAAAAAAAE88/_vC--rDlPsIkr6xgqTywDDwHJSR5Y9DwACLcB/s640/2016_05_03-GB_Dark_Age_Women_01-02-400.JPG)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_XGmGXrL7Gw/Vyit_O37cZI/AAAAAAAAE8s/sHuguZSJaMQXG4WbDM_Za1bVImMRnpLjQCLcB/s400/2016_05_03-GB_Dark_Age_Dane_Axes_01-01-400.JPG)

More to come...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 04, 2016, 10:42:59 PM
OK, can't resist any longer...  ;)

Here's a Picture of a Rohan/Saxon Fyrd Spearman from my now almost completed Blood Eagle proxy warband:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nMMnQO7viCc/VyhpHc_aDzI/AAAAAAAAE8I/ArlFWg8OCowxCaOtuPVQuYSJub5o1WrAwCLcB/s1600/2015_05_05-Blood_Eagle_Rohan_Eadgar-04-400.JPG)

This pic has not been shared elsewhere here on LAF, so not a cross-post as such

Most of the warband is posted on my blog by now, with stats and several pics of each warrior.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 05, 2016, 09:10:27 PM
The rest of the loot from Gripping Beast

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nRnd5irvGas/Vyuj3YH2OWI/AAAAAAAAFBM/7oGMFwLWZ80q_kvh7oaZeIOCLKNB3e2bQCLcB/s320/2016_05_03-GB_Dark_Age_Manx_01-01-400.JPG)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kzsZx-eeKM8/VyujqlMPXBI/AAAAAAAAFAc/nqDKMlzdXOI4DdvtdeABL3whz2PayakxwCKgB/s320/2016_05_03-GB_Dark_Age_Peasant_Tools_01-01-400.JPG)

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hoIGZ5f4Kt4/VyoBA3bYkxI/AAAAAAAAE-c/iwtBF9vEZEsfxVoDXPcHkCGRf3O0Sn58ACLcB/s640/2016_05_03-GB_Dark_Age_Shepherds_01-01-400.JPG)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gn4ZgJiMojI/Vyuj3pWLDUI/AAAAAAAAFBQ/AzCOMUyjmxcEu8mZsryP-quHssR6tjk4wCLcB/s320/2016_05_03-GB_Wire_Spears_Long_01-01-400.JPG)

I have completed the Rohan/Saxon warband and am about to start constructing an Uruk-Hai Scouts warband to fight them (all the while I struggle to get my Vikings painted).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 13, 2016, 03:49:46 PM
Some stuff from Foundry arrived today (more to appear):

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1NulXHb4yTg/VzXiadTDsKI/AAAAAAAAFJg/RnGUIBgvcdwv3um4DAW7EiUu_XfY3p3TQCLcB/s400/2016_05_13-Foundry_Viking_Villagers-01-600.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Garanhir on May 15, 2016, 10:34:27 AM
That slinger looks just like my old geography teacher!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 15, 2016, 10:39:47 PM
That slinger looks just like my old geography teacher!

I just hope he didn't punish you for not doing your homework by slinging stones at you...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on May 16, 2016, 07:34:08 AM
 I had a teacher once who threw chalk and sometimes even his keys. With deadly accuracy.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 17, 2016, 10:47:15 AM
"Sir, we are taking heavy casualties from the enemy snipers in that thicket!"

"Well, send the Teachers to the front, then, what are you waiting for?"
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 19, 2016, 05:05:41 PM
Some civilians in the works

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wZPYFWvJxLg/Vz2ymLRnRVI/AAAAAAAAFPk/HtPx6TgJYr8HOg3NGycTZw9LMyFDDYd1gCLcB/s400/2016_05_19-Prepping_Gripping_Beast_Civilians-01-600.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on May 20, 2016, 01:41:16 AM
Argonor, it's a lovely project - specially for the family approach! Thank you very much for sharing, and please keep us posted on your progress!

I am looking forward to see how your village will develop...  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 20, 2016, 08:48:39 PM
Argonor, it's a lovely project - specially for the family approach! Thank you very much for sharing, and please keep us posted on your progress!

I am looking forward to see how your village will develop...  ;)

Thank you very much for the kind words!

Oh, yes, the village....  o_o Really should start building some longhouses....

In the meantime, I have added to the villagers paint queue:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oWQCSBTGaJk/Vz8R8e9P1eI/AAAAAAAAFP4/O3xL7Pjg7T8OzGq4RPNHfseZzjOYYU9DQCLcB/s320/2016_05_20-Gripping_Beast_Civilians-02-600.JPG)

Thoughts on the minis and much more on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Hupp n at em on May 20, 2016, 09:58:40 PM
Love the ships, I have a handful of those same small red Playmobil ships to convert up, I shall use your's as inspiration.  :D
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 20, 2016, 11:11:59 PM
Not mine, those are Bezzo's.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on May 21, 2016, 12:21:52 AM
Oh, yes, the village....  o_o Really should start building some longhouses....
In the meantime, I have added to the villagers paint queue:
Thoughts on the minis and much more on the blog.

Argonor, I have all the GB and Foundry Dark Ages civilians I could get my hands into, and will start working on them in a few days (weeks?), so THANK YOU VERY MUCH for that most valuable piece of advice from your blog: "I get happier every day about my decision to start with the Gripping Beast civilians, leaving the much nicer Foundry models for later, because, frankly, I might have given up cleaning these if I had done it in reverse order! Now I can look forward to working with the Foundry civilians as soon as I get through the Gripping Beast models."    ;)

Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 21, 2016, 07:26:40 PM
Well, you may feel otherwise about them, but my impression is, those GB women and kids are a left-hand job, just added to the ranges for completeness' sake.

I was rather surprised by it, expecting better quality after having assembled a lot of their plastic figures.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on May 21, 2016, 08:17:57 PM
Well, you may feel otherwise about them, but my impression is, those GB women and kids are a left-hand job, just added to the ranges for completeness' sake.

I was rather surprised by it, expecting better quality after having assembled a lot of their plastic figures.

Argonor, I totally agree with you! I have 4 GB metal peasants - models full of character, BTW - and two of them come with very big battle scars across their faces!  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 21, 2016, 08:33:49 PM
I have the peasants set, too, haven't looked closer, yet. I shall clean up and base all the women and kids, first, then move on to the males and their sheep...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Hupp n at em on May 22, 2016, 05:29:50 PM
Not mine, those are Bezzo's.

Whoops. lol  Nice painting on the slinger btw.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 22, 2016, 11:00:46 PM
Whoops. lol  Nice painting on the slinger btw.

Thanks! I hope to be showing some more painted Dark Ages models soonish, I have been working on rebasing some LotR figures for instant Blood Eagle warbands (which turned out to be not as instant after all) lately, because a grey tunic drove me nuts, but I only need to add some paint to the new bases, now, so I can get back to painting the Vikings later this week.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Harry Faversham on May 23, 2016, 09:14:20 AM
I like that Foundry bloke who's got his leg and arm chopped off. Always imagined myself as Ragnar Bigdik the Bold. Truth be told though, I'd probably have wound up as that little battered Foundry fellow, at the end of mi' days aviking!.

::)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on May 25, 2016, 12:54:22 AM
... the women and kids, first, then move on to the males and their sheep...

Last time I've said that my girlfriend almost had a heart attack!  lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 31, 2016, 03:26:30 PM
Finally, Úlf has been finished, and is now ready to go a'viking.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nCBxlhNQAxI/V01aa4iEu4I/AAAAAAAAFhE/SJEwHdFA_f4M4mjK9mRlqQ9ZYJs5EyT7QCLcB/s640/2016_05_31-Viking_Ulf-01-400.JPG)

More pics, and colour breakdown, at my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Malamute on May 31, 2016, 04:10:58 PM
Nice paint job :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 31, 2016, 05:19:41 PM
Nice paint job :)

Thanks!

I am not too keen on the tunic, but all in all for having to re-learn 3-4 layering technique for not having practised it for a long time (painting skellies for God of Battles doesn't really lend itself to that), I am just happy to get him finished.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Hu Rhu on May 31, 2016, 06:45:20 PM
Very nice.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Dr. The Viking on May 31, 2016, 07:06:44 PM
Bravo!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 31, 2016, 07:59:42 PM
Thanks, guys!

Today was, and tomorrow will be, spent on painting a pirate for the current PC, but then I'll start painting the next member of my first Blood Eagle  Viking warband.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Captain Blood on May 31, 2016, 08:22:19 PM
Well done Niels - nice paintwork. I think the GB generic Dark Age warrior plastics are a bit ropey to be honest. Poses are not quite right. They tend to look like they're suffering from some kind of contorting elbow/knock-kneed affliction. But that is a paintjob to show off to best effect. The face is great :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Age Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 31, 2016, 08:49:21 PM
Thanks!

Yes, the left arms of those are best concealed behind shields, but as I constructed a band of light raiders, only a couple actually carry shields, most do not (sacrificing protection for speed).

I hadn't really noticed the knees, as they all carry slightly baggy pants with all kinds of leg wrappings, but, yes, you may have a point there, too.

At least they are dirt cheap, making it possible to create the rank and file of many Dark Ages armies, and I think they look better in numbers, where the beholder sees a body of men, not focussing on the individual model. Never the less, I am going to use them for my skirmish warbands, too, as I like the price (I really need to start spending less silver on gaming, as the girls now are of an age where I want to show them Europe during our vacations, and travelling is not cheap!).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 02, 2016, 07:40:32 PM
Not my own stuff, I've put up some pics of a Dark Ages game I played/participated in at Horisont last year on my blog.

Here's a teaser:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QvQKCj8C5_s/V1BmXm8GQfI/AAAAAAAAFio/IH4TsjYoz1M0Q2nIHRq6uv-728jybxS6QCLcB/s640/2015_11_15-Horisont_VII_Day_1-01-600.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 03, 2016, 08:26:30 AM
Weird I can't even remember playing!?

Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 03, 2016, 10:57:48 AM
It was that game where we slaughtered almost the entire opposition, but our 'avatars' died, and we still lost.
I think it was rather late Friday evening. Frede (I think he is called? - the guy with the beard who is an archaeologist or something like that?) was hosting the game.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 03, 2016, 10:59:44 AM
Yep that is me..
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 03, 2016, 11:24:02 AM
Yep that is me..

Oh, I've got you mixed up, then  lol

Corrected the post on my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on June 03, 2016, 11:50:02 AM
Maybe it was Daniel aka Fathernurgle you played with. A fellow great beard.

I am not sure if he is on LAF actually..
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 03, 2016, 04:55:52 PM
Maybe it was Daniel aka Fathernurgle you played with. A fellow great beard.

I am not sure if he is on LAF actually..


I think so, yes! I actually thought he was the one with your nick, which explains why I have been somewhat confused sometimes  lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on June 04, 2016, 01:45:30 AM
I love a table like that!  :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: archiduque on June 04, 2016, 12:22:36 PM
Nice work! ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 04, 2016, 08:08:45 PM
Nice work! ;)

I love a table like that!  :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*

The credit goes to Dr. Zombie, then  :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on June 08, 2016, 10:55:10 AM
The credit goes to Dr. Zombie, then  :)

Dr. Zombie, great scenery!  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 08, 2016, 07:57:16 PM
Not finished anything lately, but I have now cleaned up all my Gripping Beast civilians (and glued them onto washers).

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ZRK8RXogoA/V1hgO7JwjEI/AAAAAAAAFpg/coFjN_u0Cc47dUKGXZl9PUvFJJY1VtRJQCLcB/s640/2016_06_08-GB_Dark_Age_Civilians_Line-Up_WIP-01-600.JPG)

I still need to put some tools in the hands of the males.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 13, 2016, 08:25:47 PM
Painstakingly slow progress, as the UEFA Championship in France demands most of my attention  ;)

I have been painting a bit today, but not finishing anything.

Instead, I have cleaned up a Manx:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YXSu3jDgQ-w/V18GV91Xq0I/AAAAAAAAFqU/j4JcCrzYq0YUMTtN0Md4h2cWaHjq8f5dACLcB/s400/2016_06_13-Manx-01-600.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on June 17, 2016, 02:19:34 AM
Argonor, all you need now is a lost lamb, a pretty shepherd girl looking for it and the beast in the woods...  ;)

(http://i44.tinypic.com/2e22fi9.jpg)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Vermis on June 17, 2016, 07:53:02 PM
The noble ovine! Looking forward to progress. :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 21, 2016, 08:04:34 PM
I finally managed to get my second Viking done.

This was my first attempt on Little Big Men Studios shield stickers, and I am quite content with the result.

Thorstein adds some ranged combat potential to the warband:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N-K_gOxRlDw/V2lswmeP28I/AAAAAAAAFtM/RUejcVXUUL8t96cstsR8FUVkTGiCmRcVACLcB/s400/2016_06_21-Blood_Eagle_Thorstein-01-400.JPG)

More pics and colour break-down on my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Phil Robinson on June 21, 2016, 08:29:09 PM
Like him, nice gritty look to him.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on June 21, 2016, 11:43:11 PM
Great painting on the face and the shield is amazing!  :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 22, 2016, 11:27:42 AM
Great painting on the face and the shield is amazing!  :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*

Like him, nice gritty look to him.

Thanks, both!

The shield is a LBMS transfer/sticker, I only painted the rim on (it is one of the flat shields with no sculpted rim), and, of course, the boss.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 22, 2016, 05:24:49 PM
Another member of Sigurdr Krage's raiders ready to join the fray!

Halfdan:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vY74kxlxenk/V2qi_FW4GGI/AAAAAAAAFuQ/2b8S_ClkCPkkUmMdptZhVxvoyqCbXsOvQCLcB/s400/2016_06_22-Blood_Eagle_Halfdan-01-400.JPG)

More pics and colour break-down on my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: von Lucky on June 22, 2016, 10:09:52 PM
Nicely done - the basing also adds a good feel to the miniature.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 23, 2016, 01:09:29 AM
Nicely done - the basing also adds a good feel to the miniature.

Thanks!

Yes, I think individual models profit tremedously from a little extra effort on the basing. When basing minis for a unit, I mostvoften just do the soil and some patches of flock.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on June 30, 2016, 01:45:17 AM
And Ivar is ready to rain death on the opposition (or, almost - I noticed after taking the pics, that I forgot to paint the clasp on the 'baldric').

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZN71GzKNPAQ/V3QZcYe1IQI/AAAAAAAAFxI/9iJIwFznNLc6PONjJnldqWpLV1dQf8oMACLcB/s400/2016_06_29-Blood_Eagle_Ivar-01-400.JPG)

More pics and Ivar's profile on my blog (colour breakdown will follow later).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on July 10, 2016, 10:26:33 AM
Yep, Ivan looks very menacing in pink!  lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on July 10, 2016, 11:08:48 PM
Yep, Ivan looks very menacing in pink!  lol

Pink was a very common colour in the Dark Ages, as red was an expensive/difficult colour to obtain and thus favoured in order to show wealth/position/prowess - but it faded very quickly, as proper 'fixation' was not an option until High Medieval times.

Maybe not as vibrant at the one shown here, but definitely quite common.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on July 15, 2016, 10:29:02 PM
Pink was a very common colour in the Dark Ages, as red was an expensive/difficult colour to obtain and thus favoured in order to show wealth/position/prowess - but it faded very quickly, as proper 'fixation' was not an option until High Medieval times.

Maybe not as vibrant at the one shown here, but definitely quite common.

Argonor, I use pink in my dark age/medieval/fantasy miniatures as well, but usually a more subdued tone... I might try a more vibrant color like yours one day, I really liked the effect!  :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on July 16, 2016, 11:20:05 PM
Argonor, I use pink in my dark age/medieval/fantasy miniatures as well, but usually a more subdued tone... I might try a more vibrant color like yours one day, I really liked the effect!  :)

Yeah, I may want to mix some lighter shades for next time - It was the first time I tried that Foundry triad (and ended up mixing lighter tones already - it is quite rich and vibrant as is).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on July 18, 2016, 03:48:23 AM
Yeah, I may want to mix some lighter shades for next time - It was the first time I tried that Foundry triad (and ended up mixing lighter tones already - it is quite rich and vibrant as is).

Try using a very pale YELLOW to drybrush over pink, I know it sounds crazy, but I'm serious!  :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on October 26, 2016, 08:24:41 PM
After quite a break, I am now back into Dark Ages stuff, trying to get a table ready for Horisont 8 (November 18-20).

Here's Rolf, old huskarl, and sworn protector of Sigurdr Krage.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KS85tEb5bIE/WBD6ylVQGFI/AAAAAAAAGnU/rTuRawat9nk3A5bn_bR-TwBRI3eGSRrnQCLcB/s320/2016_10_26-Blood_Eagle_Rolf-01-400.JPG)

More photos on my blog, as usual.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 01, 2016, 09:42:44 PM
Sigurdr Krage completes the first 200 points for this Blood Eagle warband.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ejbkzidNHCU/WBj-B-vLBrI/AAAAAAAAGqs/HF1nMuuvhQYOlGYBqeBOfTIH_x_ZmfZKQCLcB/s400/2016_11_01-Blood_Eagle_Sigurdr-01-400.JPG)

More pics on my blog.

I shall now play some games to get an idea about how to best expand the warband to 250 or 300 points - although I have already decided to add this mini next:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t-gm4M4KPkw/WBep6T4AwQI/AAAAAAAAGqI/9b7PZSWV_aIodaEXv6yrePgORQapwriOwCLcB/s1600/2016_10_31-Hasslefree_Lagertha-01-800.JPG)

She will also mark the beginning of a spin-off warband/SAGA Warrior point consisting solely of Shieldmaidens - but that is plans for the future, as I am going to paint up at least 4 SAGA points of GB plastics before thinking of adding the Shieldmaiden warriors (that way I can also easily replace any Shieldmaidens added to Sigurdr's warband when they break off into their own Blood Eagle warband).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 01, 2016, 10:20:56 PM
Two posts, I know - but I had other stuff to attend to in between  ;)

My 200 points warband in all its glory:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9F2KQnjrTRg/WBkNccmukpI/AAAAAAAAGrU/MsdqmqRojawwQmzyBvGnTZUIFcPI8AYigCLcB/s1600/2016_11_01-Blood_Eagle_Vikings_Line-Up-01-800.JPG)

As some of you may have figured out, all the profiles for these can be found on my blog, should they be of interest.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on November 01, 2016, 10:32:33 PM
 :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 03, 2016, 01:59:27 AM
:-* :-* :-* :-* :-*

Thanks!

Now I need to get them on the table for some action.
I have an appointment Sunday for trying out the scenario I want to bring to Horisont VIII.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Engel on November 03, 2016, 01:07:21 PM
Excellent paintwork!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Jeff965 on November 03, 2016, 09:18:43 PM
Lovely painting :-*
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 03, 2016, 10:07:43 PM
Thanks, guys!

I expect to be able to post a couple of civilians tomorrow evening - I hope to have 6-8 ready for Horisont VIII (Nov 18-20).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Gracchus Armisurplus on November 03, 2016, 11:26:58 PM
Beautiful, really great colour choices :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 03, 2016, 11:30:28 PM
Thanks!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 04, 2016, 09:08:58 PM
Alas, only one finished mini to show - first painted civilian/objective marker:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IqrMDk45BRs/WBzzzzESNSI/AAAAAAAAGtA/JP-K7RASiOskgsEoYkF4nwFLWCP0140BQCLcB/s640/2016_11_04-Viking_Woman-01-400.JPG)

More pics, as usual, on my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on November 04, 2016, 09:52:50 PM
Alas, only one finished mini to show - first painted civilian/objective marker:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IqrMDk45BRs/WBzzzzESNSI/AAAAAAAAGtA/JP-K7RASiOskgsEoYkF4nwFLWCP0140BQCLcB/s640/2016_11_04-Viking_Woman-01-400.JPG)

More pics, as usual, on my blog.

Argonor, very nice as usual, but she is NOT an objective marker: she's a fierce combatant in defense of her village and family, ready to kick butt of any pink-fashioned raider!  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 05, 2016, 11:41:19 PM
Not strictly Dark Ages, but I am preparing a test run of the Blood Eagle scenario I want to bring to Horisont VIII.

We are playing tomorrow afternoon.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6fbVbJO4w6E/WB4241CvToI/AAAAAAAAGtg/zE8751wpmGoRoP1JeLOCHHp83zaB4HC9ACLcB/s1600/2016_11_05-Blood_Eagle_Test_Table_01-03-800.JPG)

The table needs more dressing, but I have put a couple more pics of the current state on my blog, never the less...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on November 06, 2016, 02:10:24 AM
Argonor, it looks promising!  ;)

I liked your ideas on the activation and arrival of the raiding forces! Please tell us how it worked out in the game!

Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Engel on November 06, 2016, 05:50:54 AM
Excellent work on the villager.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 06, 2016, 09:22:50 PM
Excellent work on the villager.

Thank you!

Argonor, it looks promising!  ;)

I liked your ideas on the activation and arrival of the raiding forces! Please tell us how it worked out in the game!

AAR from the playtest is up on the blog.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pbGLoyi86Pc/WB-EocfktOI/AAAAAAAAGvM/bFLAWT_kVAUIFNE3w1AAWGbO8OMYf0mYACEw/s1600/2016_11_06-BE_Scenario_Test_01-11-800.JPG)

The random arrival worked nicely - but I may have to bolster the ranks of the village defenders a bit, as the relief force is slow, and if the attackers roll a lot of 6s and 5s on the first 2 turns, the defence may be overwhelmed very fast, as they will have to fight on at least 2 fronts.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 07, 2016, 07:10:35 PM
Finished this little bugger earlier today:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzcg6YPCzss/WCDO7tELanI/AAAAAAAAGvc/QgT-H0Mwqsoeb7QKTbm5sgCMaieojbmlgCLcB/s320/2016_11_07-Blood_Eagle_Fat_Peasant_Boy-01-300.JPG)

More pics on my blog - and I may have one more to show later tonight!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 07, 2016, 09:18:42 PM
And the second mini finished today!

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xnvw7D15fnM/WCDguiRfzYI/AAAAAAAAGv8/683eJqjDCeojGHNYX_TqODW-poNPAAzTgCLcB/s320/2016_11_07-Blood_Eagle_Running_Boy_Thrall-01-300.JPG)

Couple more pics on my blog, as always.

I expect to finish one more tomorrow, and then I hope to paint an entire mini on Wednesday. I'm on fire!  lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: von Lucky on November 07, 2016, 10:39:05 PM
I thought it was a conversion for Ivar the Boneless at first. with that angle.

(A good way to get people to click to go to your blog ;) )
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 07, 2016, 11:13:58 PM
I thought it was a conversion for Ivar the Boneless at first. with that angle.

(A good way to get people to click to go to your blog ;) )

The angle is just how the front view happened when I shot the usual 4 photos of a newly painted mini, I didn't really look at the camera display before pressing the button, but he does look a bit disabled, now that you mention it  lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: rumacara on November 07, 2016, 11:30:03 PM
Nice painting on the kids. :-* :-*
Can i ask where the first one is? (grey tunic)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 08, 2016, 07:03:06 PM
Nice painting on the kids. :-* :-*
Can i ask where the first one is? (grey tunic)

Thank you!

They are all Gripping Beast metals.

Here is another civilian, the farmer's daughter:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p-eW7qVjm1o/WCIVrqpFQYI/AAAAAAAAGwg/gICqojJrGoIxj2anGVI0pMr2WABwLBmYQCEw/s400/2016_11_08-Blood_Eagle_Young_Woman-01-300.JPG)

You know the drill by now  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 08, 2016, 09:02:10 PM
And just a small status pic:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-01Yvm3QWUXo/WCIppWtqAhI/AAAAAAAAGws/G6nLAys0YHgk0flKfncpx160Sq1dYh0swCLcB/s1600/2016_11_08-Blood_Eagle_Civilians_Status-01-500.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: rumacara on November 08, 2016, 10:55:12 PM
Thanks for the info. :)
Really nice civilians. :-* :-*
I have both women but i dont have those kids.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 08, 2016, 11:11:23 PM
Thanks for the info. :)
Really nice civilians. :-* :-*
I have both women but i dont have those kids.

They are from this set:

http://www.grippingbeast.co.uk/CIV05_Children_4--product--2794.html
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: rumacara on November 08, 2016, 11:20:22 PM
Straight to my wanted list. :)
Thanks.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 08, 2016, 11:39:14 PM
Straight to my wanted list. :)
Thanks.

No probs - can be difficult to find the civilian sets on their site if you don't know exactly where to look  :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 11, 2016, 05:03:06 PM
Another civilian finished.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ErCP_c0xTjg/WCX2LIxw-KI/AAAAAAAAGxc/Nr1UDqfsFRQpGsoFuPmKGu_uzqdeT5ZJQCLcB/s400/2016_11_11-Blood_Eagle_Woman_03-01-400.JPG)

More pics on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Gracchus Armisurplus on November 12, 2016, 04:54:42 AM
These look great! What's the plan for them in-game?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 12, 2016, 04:59:55 AM
These look great! What's the plan for them in-game?

Thanks!

They are the most important part of the scenario I am preparing - the defenders (Rohirrim)/relief force (Dwarves) need to get them off the table unscathed, while the Uruk-Hai wants to slay them, and the Dunlendings (Vikings) want to enthrall them. The defenders will be hard-pressed until the relief force arrives, and the civilians refuse to leave the hamlet until either the relief force arrives OR the first civilian is killed by an attacker.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on November 12, 2016, 06:18:00 AM
Sounds good!  :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Gracchus Armisurplus on November 12, 2016, 06:22:59 PM
That sounds fantastic! LotR rules?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 13, 2016, 12:14:47 AM
That sounds fantastic! LotR rules?

Nope, I use Blood Eagle for this - the open points system means that you can create profiles for anything.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 13, 2016, 12:39:30 AM
Family photo, as I didn't get much done today, save rebasing a few Rohirrim and Dwarves I want to use for the scenario.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ChkqTC3rxIY/WCYxkn418MI/AAAAAAAAGx0/0ZTCHNb7cvkdmVVKnpbsN1ymF-_wLf6hQCLcB/s1600/2016_11_11-Blood_Eagle_Civilians_Status-01-800.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Gracchus Armisurplus on November 13, 2016, 07:01:13 AM
Very cool, make sure you take lots of pictures of the game in progress!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 14, 2016, 09:42:55 PM
Very cool, make sure you take lots of pictures of the game in progress!

Sure will - if I don't forget to in the heat of the action.

Here's the next one - another kid.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yEx7q_MbmF4/WCon163xYAI/AAAAAAAAGyU/CEhTOv0ngZYvUdRwcyZIraQt4itpdwQSACLcB/s320/2016_11_14-Blood_Eagle_Kneeling_Boy-01-400.JPG)

Not a great mini, and not my greatest success, but he'll do as an objective  lol

Couple more pics on my blog, as usual.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 25, 2016, 03:42:20 AM
Lots of pics in action here:

http://argonor-wargames.blogspot.dk/search/label/Blood%20Eagle
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: redzed on November 25, 2016, 08:30:18 AM
nice fleshtones on those villagers.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Gracchus Armisurplus on November 25, 2016, 10:35:25 AM
Lots of pics in action here:

http://argonor-wargames.blogspot.dk/search/label/Blood%20Eagle

Great looking terrain you've got there, and the game looked like a blast as well!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 25, 2016, 10:25:02 PM
nice fleshtones on those villagers.

Thanks - the last couple were rushed a bit, put they are passable.

Great looking terrain you've got there, and the game looked like a blast as well!

Thanks - the game went down really well with the players, actually. Sadly, I did not get to run more than one session, for different reasons.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: affun on November 25, 2016, 10:33:12 PM
What colours do you use for your bases? I liked the way they looked on the table quite a lot, so I've been trying to replicate it on a late roman, but am not quite happy with how it looks.

I went with Vallejo Model Colour Khaki with a VMC Pale Sand drybrush, but yours look somewhat richer.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 26, 2016, 04:46:38 AM
What colours do you use for your bases? I liked the way they looked on the table quite a lot, so I've been trying to replicate it on a late roman, but am not quite happy with how it looks.

I went with Vallejo Model Colour Khaki with a VMC Pale Sand drybrush, but yours look somewhat richer.

It is Warzone Trench Brown, drybrushed with same colour mixed with some white. Afraid that you may find it hard to find.

Try Foundry Drab shade (12A, very close, I think: http://www.wargamesfoundry.com/paints/foundry-painting-system/big-paint-list/), or Vallejo Khaki Grey (which is actually more brown than Khaki (Gris/Grey)) or maybe Game Colour Kommando Khaki, and mix in some white.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: affun on November 26, 2016, 12:12:35 PM
I think I have the Khaki Grey around, though the bottle is a bit busted.
I'll give it a try. Otherwise, it might just be an excuse to make an order from Foundry  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on November 26, 2016, 10:17:51 PM
I think I have the Khaki Grey around, though the bottle is a bit busted.
I'll give it a try. Otherwise, it might just be an excuse to make an order from Foundry  ;)

I just realized, I that I labelled the other khaki (which is khaki or khaki marron/brown) gris/grey, too. Khaki Grey is the one I recommended, though.

Not sure it is quite as dark as the WZ Trench Brown, though.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on December 13, 2016, 09:30:39 PM
I opened a padded envelope from Fenris Games today, and found that Geronimo had included a 5th set of runestones in additition to the 4 I ordered!

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VSMexSznvoE/WFBf04PSLjI/AAAAAAAAG-w/NDnu108k5KUPgoBCNq-Shg_umWSBPwr2wCLcB/s1600/2016_12_13-Fenris_Runestones-01-800.JPG)

It's been a while since I last ordered from Fenris, but I must say that the quality of the resin castings has not waned the slightest - everything looks crisp and sharp, just like I have come to expect.

Great products, great service!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on December 28, 2016, 02:24:25 PM
I've got the Dark Ages bug right now, and I have joined the dung arms race  ;)

This is very much a WIP - and suggestions on how to proceed from here are welcome (I think I need to add more different materials, but am not sure which...)

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QNlT7uJDoww/WGPJtn06EmI/AAAAAAAAHJo/B8BZP_Bqn_sOINUBI_-RoidQ18O4ZdKXwCLcB/s1600/2016_12_28-Dungheap_WIP-01-600.JPG)

My daughter and I have also started construction of a rather large longhouse, but you'll have to visit my blog to learn more of that  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: gamer Mac on December 28, 2016, 04:33:41 PM
Lovely work on all that stuff :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Vagabond on December 28, 2016, 05:04:38 PM
Dung Heaps Rule - OK   lol lol



Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Codsticker on December 28, 2016, 08:14:23 PM
(I think I need to add more different materials, but am not sure which...)
I have a little bag of bark bits fro ma garden centre. I grind it up to the right degree of coarse/fine in an old chep coffe grinder and use that for all sorts of debris.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on December 28, 2016, 10:51:16 PM
Lovely work on all that stuff :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*

That's very kind, thank you!  :)

Dung Heaps Rule - OK   lol lol

 lol  I hope to it justice - as I wrote, I think I need to add some more materials and layers, maybe mix some gloop to apply. Impossible to know how it's going to end up until it is all done and painted.

I have a little bag of bark bits fro ma garden centre. I grind it up to the right degree of coarse/fine in an old chep coffe grinder and use that for all sorts of debris.

I think I should get myself a coffee grinder - I have seen it used for chopping up foam for foliage, too. Could have used it to chop up the foam scourer I have used for building up some of the heap.

I found some steel wool in the back of a kitchen drawer earlier today - tomorrow I am going to see if I can make it look like some hay/straw mixed into the dung.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on December 29, 2016, 08:29:04 AM
I use some coconut fibers for my dungheaps. To look like straw or old floor rushes.
You can get it at any pet shop.

But I think the one you have will paint up just fine.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Codsticker on December 29, 2016, 05:03:27 PM
I use some coconut fibers for my dungheaps. To look like straw or old floor rushes.
You can get it at any pet shop.
That's another good one; also available at garden shops as hanging basket liner.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on December 29, 2016, 10:10:27 PM
I use some coconut fibers for my dungheaps. To look like straw or old floor rushes.
You can get it at any pet shop.

Good idea - I did not get any time for hobby progress, today - we went to Odense to buy some fireworks, then returned home for a nice lunch, after which I took the dog for a long walk. Upon returning, I readied some batter for 'Danish Doughnuts' (ćbleskiver), took a shower, and then baked 2 deep plates full of that delicious winter snack. After 'tea-time'. I took the car to the local car wash, then walked the dog, after which we dined (my wife cooked today) - and the evening was spent watching The Return of the King Extended Version, Part 1 with the rest of the family.  ;D

Not a typical day off, but in spite of no hobby time, it has felt very rewarding in regards of quality time with the family.

I hope to spend a bit of time on one of these projects tomorrow.

Quote
But I think the one you have will paint up just fine.

I think it has a few too many indents/holes that needs some filling - they do not show as much in the photo as IRL. I'll get the hang of it, though - yours and Dr The Viking's are nice references  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on January 05, 2017, 06:27:33 PM
Got some of this just the other day - kinda cheapish, compared to many hobby supplies

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AANl2ohiLeU/WG4-vYbfjtI/AAAAAAAAHNk/MEE1Q02rn48Cb5APql9_FQhzq3tRwZBzgCLcB/s400/2017_01_05-Coconut_Fibres-02-400.JPG)

I'll scavenge some wood/bark debris from the firewood shed or one of the firewood baskets, too
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Vagabond on January 06, 2017, 10:01:01 PM
That should work well, you could get a cockrel to go on the top of the dung heap.

I have seen that done and it looked very effective.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on January 06, 2017, 10:13:46 PM
That should work well, you could get a cockrel to go on the top of the dung heap.

I have seen that done and it looked very effective.

Hmmm, yeah, but I think I would prefer it to be based and removable, so that raiders can carry it off (if they can catch it). Should be doable.

I am currently immersing myself in getting a couple of skeleton units ready for the table, as fast as I can keep my focus on them for, so the dung heap is on hold for a few days more - but as it is fully usable for fantasy games, too, I would like to get it ready before too long... too darn few hours per day...  lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Vagabond on January 07, 2017, 07:04:45 PM
Hmmm, yeah, but I think I would prefer it to be based and removable, so that raiders can carry it off (if they can catch it).

You vikings, if it isn't chained down. lol lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on January 07, 2017, 07:57:49 PM
You vikings, if it isn't chained down. lol lol

Absolutely!  >:D
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on January 20, 2017, 02:41:20 PM
With my GoB Skeleton Hordes almost done, it is time to plan something else.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zt5RrLPMKK0/WIISicrdRQI/AAAAAAAAHck/3xbDa0aPMmk6PmagsWljiq7ud9kAN4UwQCLcB/s320/2017_01_20-Viking_Warriors_WIP_02-400.JPG)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4tWRlUiSS7M/WIISiSISZrI/AAAAAAAAHco/qdr5XphblbopoWOyXRM4T5ukQFhFK4LgwCLcB/s1600/2017_01_20-Viking_Warriors_WIP_01-800.JPG)

Not feeling all that well today, so you can read more about it on the blog, where I have already recorded my thoughts on these.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on January 23, 2017, 03:06:57 PM
Some progress...

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4RhKSCaJ6_I/WIYVUd-OkzI/AAAAAAAAHhg/wlny1pxRqqEbqlNW9wxn-8H_JEy6pdQfACLcB/s400/2017_01_23-Viking_Warriors_01_WIP-01-800.JPG)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VKxEPB4jB2o/WIYVUfFqfEI/AAAAAAAAHhc/skXX0fHnrkAYne3lM-D2Z2xx7WneBl0aACLcB/s1600/2017_01_23-Viking_Warriors_02_WIP-01-800.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: gamer Mac on January 23, 2017, 04:02:14 PM
Are these Gripping beast dark age warriors?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Codsticker on January 23, 2017, 04:51:12 PM
Are these Gripping beast dark age warriors?
Yes they are.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on January 23, 2017, 05:20:37 PM
Yes they are.

Correct!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on January 31, 2017, 04:22:56 PM
Speed-painted 1 point (SAGA/AFS) of warriors.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pXckB0THqIQ/WJCzRa-jFNI/AAAAAAAAHqQ/VLJuQ9oeAXwUAA4W775ahKijgnyudEgZwCLcB/s1600/2017_01_31-Viking_Warriors_01-01-800.JPG)

I have noticed the sleeve - shall attend to it in due course!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on January 31, 2017, 06:40:43 PM
Very nice work!  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: gamer Mac on January 31, 2017, 07:16:20 PM
Very effective for speed painting
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on January 31, 2017, 07:55:43 PM
Thanks - most of it is just block'n'wash, exceptions are the spear shafts, and the shield bosses.

Shields are, of course, LBMS.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Khurasan Miniatures on February 01, 2017, 12:24:50 PM
Just spent about an hour reading this -- what a fantastic thread.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on February 01, 2017, 12:27:31 PM
You should do more of your so called speed paintig. It looks great!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 01, 2017, 09:01:50 PM
Just spent about an hour reading this -- what a fantastic thread.

Thanks - it has been put together over a long time!

You should do more of your so called speed paintig. It looks great!

Thanks, it is definitely the way to go for painting larger warbands/army units, to get a sizeable force ready for the table within a sane time frame.
I expect to paint 2˝ points more of warriors this way (I have ˝ point's value in my Blood Eagle warband), then, depending on how long it took me to get the warriors done, either layer-paint some hearthguards, or use a similar approach (I am trying to get 6 points ready before March 11th, and then maybe participate in a little gathering/tournament at Rogue Trader Copenhagen (if I can get in on some car-pooling). Lots of maybes, but on all accounts I am determined to get a 6 points warband ready for SAGA and AFS, then, if I can still stand the sight of Dark Ages minis, maybe expand the force into a 24 points skirmish level army for God of Battles (Blood Gorged Vikings and/or Thousand Tribes).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 02, 2017, 12:42:28 PM
Two more done:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RMSU09Izrss/WJMiVlKziNI/AAAAAAAAHs8/migPgjqrEQQvfPZ_osoPOSGhha95RaWiACLcB/s1600/2017_02_02-Dark_Ages_Warriors_02_01-01-400.JPG)

Couple more pics on my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Vagabond on February 02, 2017, 12:54:59 PM
The wash has worked really well especially on the faces where it is defining the beards and hair excellently. Are you using the army painter gloss varnish wash and if so which tone.

Did you finish the dung heap?

Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on February 02, 2017, 12:57:52 PM
Once painted up these dark age warriors really do log rather good. They are just so tedious and boring to assemble.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 02, 2017, 01:17:08 PM
The wash has worked really well especially on the faces where it is defining the beards and hair excellently. Are you using the army painter gloss varnish wash and if so which tone.

Did you finish the dung heap?

I used GW Agrax Earthshade for these (just like the skeletons). Dries up matt.

Dungheap, no, I have been focusing on painting minis, lately - I may revisit it when I need a break from the Vikings (I hope to finish 6 points for SAGA, before doing anything else, but that is probably too far stretched).

Once painted up these dark age warriors really do log rather good. They are just so tedious and boring to assemble.

Well, I assembled quite a lot of GB plastics in one go quite a while ago, then got side-tracked by something else, but it means that I can paint most of a SAGA warband almost without building minis (I shall have to finish assembly of 6 mail-wearing Hearthguards, but that is all).

I agree that the DAW are somewhat uninspiring, as the limited poses and one-piece bodies don't give much variation - but the next time around I shall use more helmeted heads from the Hirdmen and Thegns sets (yes, I intend to end up with at least 2 warbands for SAGA at some point, and maybe more - would like to add both Late Saxons and Anglo-Danes to the collection, and they can all be used for the same army in A Fantastic SAGA and God of Battles.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Hupp n at em on February 03, 2017, 06:12:08 PM
Couple more pics on my blog.

Would you mind linking your blog in your forum signature?  I know I've found it by google-ing before, but it would nice to just be able to click on the bottom of your posts here to find it.  :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Steve F on February 03, 2017, 06:18:42 PM
Would you mind linking your blog in your forum signature? 

It is linked - it's the globe symbol under the user icon.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 03, 2017, 07:43:54 PM
It is linked - it's the globe symbol under the user icon.

Yup, the little globe in the sidebar.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 04, 2017, 01:01:23 PM
2 more ready to pillage and plunder.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fyebdYzatrU/WJWojatW2UI/AAAAAAAAHuM/YIzZ_xp6wu4ZF1-CjFM8YAnkC9B-pGFogCLcB/s1600/2017_02_04-Warriors_02_02-01-400.JPG)

Again, more pics and line-up on my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Vagabond on February 04, 2017, 11:15:23 PM
I used GW Agrax Earthshade for these (just like the skeletons). Dries up matt.

Went to buy this but they had closed the shop  :?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 05, 2017, 02:58:39 PM
Two more done

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aIMZT2RPMTc/WJcSfGEKVtI/AAAAAAAAHu8/wnnPqdaK534Fd0Hly3_Rvc75weSW0BjrQCLcB/s1600/2017_02_05-Warriors_02_03-01-400.JPG)

More pics and family photo on my blog.

Went to buy this but they had closed the shop  :?

As in 'for good', or just for the weekend?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Vagabond on February 05, 2017, 11:16:03 PM
Looked like for good. Maybe business not so good!! Don't know 1st time I went there.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 07, 2017, 04:34:40 PM
Finished 2 full points of warriors for SAGA.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FCjPthET2wQ/WJnsahd_pPI/AAAAAAAAHwg/TZDfTtvoqyMHUIELwL6ddea2R_4zb-2QwCLcB/s1600/2017_02_07-Warriors_2_Points-01-800.JPG)

More pics of the last couple painted on the blog (as well as a lot of the others).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Gracchus Armisurplus on February 07, 2017, 09:51:40 PM
Really great stuff, and an extremely impressive pace! It takes me WEEKS to pump out that many models!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Codsticker on February 08, 2017, 03:58:07 PM
It is linked - it's the globe symbol under the user icon.
That's useful to know- I was wondering what that was.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Madhouse Workshop on February 08, 2017, 04:22:19 PM
Nicely done.  I'm finishing up my next big batch of these as well, except with square/rectangular bases.  Good stuff.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 08, 2017, 08:04:22 PM
Really great stuff, and an extremely impressive pace! It takes me WEEKS to pump out that many models!

Well, I'm on my third week with these  lol
Thanks!

Nicely done.  I'm finishing up my next big batch of these as well, except with square/rectangular bases.  Good stuff.

Thanks. I understand the reasons for 'flat-sided' bases, but I have come to the conclusion that for me the best choice for multiple purposes is as small as possible round bases (plus, I use the magnetic properties of the steel washers for my storage solution).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on February 08, 2017, 11:58:20 PM
I understand the reasons for 'flat-sided' bases, but I have come to the conclusion that for me the best choice for multiple purposes is as small as possible round bases (plus, I use the magnetic properties of the steel washers for my storage solution).

The wise Major General Tremorden Reddering gave me many years ago a sound and priceless advice on using the smallest round bases as possible, in order to fit the miniatures inside vehicles, buildings and around scenery in general.

IMHO, magnetic 20mm CLEAR round bases is the way to go!!! :)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: aircav on February 09, 2017, 07:45:17 PM
Loving these  8) 8) 8)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 09, 2017, 08:21:11 PM
Thanks - have had a bit of a slow day, today. Finished a single Viking, flock drying at the moment.
Going to post it - and hopefully one more - tomorrow.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 11, 2017, 12:34:56 PM
Well, my youngest was ill yesterday, so we ended up watching movies all day.

But today I finished the hornblower, and another two warriors are ready for leding.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g2IiI3eXiDU/WJ79Z0qPPGI/AAAAAAAAHxs/kmu3pH76QgI9lJ8ZN9-XOp1D5yt354_iACLcB/s1600/2017_02_11-Warriors_03_01-01-400.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 12, 2017, 07:24:15 PM
Not a lot of progress today, but I finished assembling these

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-drDKdZmis1k/WKCOVNwVDMI/AAAAAAAAHyU/vIITDHxuvFInULGJfJz_pnj6R6mvhr53gCLcB/s1600/2017_02_12-Warriors_Armour_01_WIP-01-800.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Tordenkuglen on February 15, 2017, 01:05:17 PM
"not yet,,not yet,,,,allmost there,,,,aaalllllmoost there NOW!"

Great work, your allmost ready for the Saga tounament in Copenhagen in March :D
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 15, 2017, 10:55:44 PM
I've been delayed by my kids' Winter Break from school (and my wife is also taking vacation this week), no painting progress at the moment.

Often happens when all Family is home at the same time, so not all that surprising.
I am also slowly starting up at Work Again, so fewer full days for painting from now on. I sincerely doubt that I shall have a full 6 points ready in time for March 11th.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 19, 2017, 07:03:42 PM
So, after almost a week of idleness, I am going to paint again, tomorrow. The kids will be in school, and the wife at work, and I have the first half of the week off, so I should probably be able to finish the two command models I have WIP, and start painting the fourth point of warriors, before going to work Wednesday night.

Then, Friday or so, I should be able to get a bit more hobby-time, but I shall probably not be able to finish a full point of warriors until after next weekend, but we shall see...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Madhouse Workshop on February 20, 2017, 03:24:33 AM
I really like the GB plastic Vikings, fun models.  I do find it much easier to paint them without the shields on, but that's me.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 20, 2017, 09:36:11 PM
Yes, it can be a bit fiddly with the shields on, for sure.

Regarding shields - I may have found the solution to LBMS transfers going 'stale': Heat!

I used a hair-dryer on two transfers from which at first I could not remove the protective film, add it actually worked!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 20, 2017, 10:46:43 PM
Regarding the Agrax Earthshade wash: Be aware that it comes in a matt, as well as a gloss version (as do a few other of GW's washes). The gloss versions apparently are for shading metals. The matt version is the 'normal' one, while the gloss version has the word 'Gloss' on the pot.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Duncan McDane on February 20, 2017, 11:01:32 PM
Now he tells me... Thank goodness I picked the right one...  lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 21, 2017, 07:56:06 PM
Now he tells me... Thank goodness I picked the right one...  lol

Same here - I picked one of the newer 'tall' pots in the store without thought, and after seeing there are two versions was delighted to find that I had picked the 'normal' one!  lol
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 21, 2017, 08:05:10 PM
And, before I forget: Finished these two today:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVZDn9_xKxc/WKyXJIFf5iI/AAAAAAAAH3k/B8pk9L76cT4u_pRotNOaB3ATMx0s-1qcwCLcB/s1600/2017_02_21-Warriors_03_02-01-400.JPG)

More pics on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Vagabond on February 21, 2017, 11:30:16 PM
Looking good, the lines in the horn have come out well, is a nice detail.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 22, 2017, 07:34:19 PM
Looking good, the lines in the horn have come out well, is a nice detail.

Thanks, I have experimented a bit with that - takes a bit extra time, but I also like the effect.

Here's a line-up of the 3 points of warriors:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2rn2ZbU9ljw/WK2umjxp0rI/AAAAAAAAH4g/OxKrSKzZy-wIWnKZgHXQ_OoLfjzwsu1xwCLcB/s1600/2017_02_22-Warriors_3_Points_Line-up-01-800.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: von Lucky on February 22, 2017, 08:20:54 PM
They're looking pretty good.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 22, 2017, 08:25:19 PM
Thanks!

I'm quite pleased with them, reasonably well looking for the time put into the pjs.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on February 22, 2017, 09:43:01 PM
Very nice work, Argonor! I like very much your simple yet highly effective painting style and the attention to details that make the figures come to life!  ;)

Looking forward to see your village! :D
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 23, 2017, 12:49:58 AM
Thanks - when I finish this 6-points SAGA warband (and maybe a couple of extra Hearthguard points - I have some LBMS transfers that I need to use, before they go completely stale), I am going to switch my attention to some jungle terrain for a while, and possibly a new 2x3 painters' felt gaming mat, as I have several smaller projects in mind that need some dense tropical vegetation.

I shall work on some Dark Ages pieces now and then in between, when I feel like scratching that itch.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: gamer Mac on February 23, 2017, 07:15:25 PM
Lovely. Group shot :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 23, 2017, 07:35:25 PM
Thank you!

As with the skellies in January, these plastics are beginning to take their toll om my resolve - but I am determined to stick in there, until the project has been brought to a satisfying level!

I expect to finish the fourth point of warriors by Wednesday next week, and then I only have to paint eight mail-clad Hearthguards to field a reasonable six-points warband.

Then it is probably time to add a few models in order to be able to construct some God of Battles units, but I shall have to do a count of the shield transfers I then have left - I may have to go for another point or two of Hearthguards to get the last of the oldest transfers used.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 24, 2017, 03:10:35 PM
The first two warriors for the fourth point are done:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FdPkvqmLSs0/WLAYjtfAL_I/AAAAAAAAH5c/152myGC1gMMtZsRz_S-unQiYwjAR7Yh-QCLcB/s1600/2017_02_24-Warriors_04_01-01-400.JPG)

More pics and a new line-up on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 26, 2017, 04:56:45 PM
And two more  o_o

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-itdkzFVxO1I/WLL-pIhDyGI/AAAAAAAAH6c/6Z3GsKQzd1ooEHuNqBUfB-hHTH5VngBkwCLcB/s1600/2017_02_26-Warriors_04_02-01-400.JPG)

Couple more pics on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Madhouse Workshop on February 26, 2017, 05:43:47 PM
Those are coming along nice.  Well done.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 27, 2017, 03:20:04 PM
Thanks!

Another couple finished:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-knjE066C77Q/WLQlv1omigI/AAAAAAAAH7c/lkKsGzv0z8UQuwQIASLZeMmdwKJSTfHJgCLcB/s1600/2017_02_27-Warriors_04_03-01-500.JPG)

A few more pics on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Duncan McDane on February 27, 2017, 04:24:51 PM
Now I know where my Mojo went  lol.
Coming around nicely, your Saga warband...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 27, 2017, 06:00:58 PM
Thanks - yes I can actually begin to see the outline of the finished warband at the horizon - it has been quite a concentrated task, except for last week, but it seems to pay off in the end!
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on February 28, 2017, 08:17:46 PM
The last two models for the fourth point of warriors.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8nYwQjqYMCg/WLXRveP6wjI/AAAAAAAAH8Q/GtQ9mI6IGbEPIsr76ZhJMoQWglELAqmYQCLcB/s1600/2017_02_28-Warriors_04_04-01-400.JPG)

Couple more pics on my blog.

Took me a bit longer to finish them off than expected, so I am doing the line-up tomorrow.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 03, 2017, 07:01:25 PM
Couple of days with ill kids, but here's the line-up:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tBs8osVdzlg/WLlomA_ppLI/AAAAAAAAH8w/tN__udNMTz8dmc4IuXh7oE09YsC9vH7YgCLcB/s1600/2017_03_03-Warriors_4_Points_Line-up-01-800.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Mad Lord Snapcase on March 03, 2017, 07:37:46 PM
Miniatures looking great.   :-*

I hope your kids get better soon.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 03, 2017, 08:21:29 PM
Miniatures looking great.   :-*

I hope your kids get better soon.

Thanks

Kids were back at school today, so nothing serious. Made my hobbying stall a bit, though - luckily I am only eight models short of a fully functioning SAGA warband, so it should not be too hard to build up motivation for resuming work (although I have some practical stuff that needs tending to this weekend).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 06, 2017, 06:39:17 PM
Something ailed me this weekend, but now I am back painting again.

First Hirdman/Huskarl/Hearthguard finished.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XQohhYVeEAk/WL2jx78K7WI/AAAAAAAAH9o/Eug_L26x-XQoG81U8E4huMxeLxAKaucNQCLcB/s1600/2017_03_06-Hearthguard_01_01-04-500.JPG)

More pics on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 09, 2017, 10:17:23 PM
Slugging along; another hirdman done:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ysDvDbLV3U8/WMGdtbUyS-I/AAAAAAAAH-g/qgD6SbcX91sMclJmsaHlUj7UT63XFOlqQCLcB/s1600/2017_03_09-Hearthguard_01_02-02-400.JPG)

Couple more pics on my blog, as usual.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: rumacara on March 09, 2017, 10:31:49 PM
Coming up nicelly. :-* :-*
A respectable force and nice aditions.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 10, 2017, 12:07:53 AM
Thanks, I (optimistically) hope to get two points of Hearthguard ready by the middle of next week - then I have to assemble and paint another dozen or so to get the shield transfers I have used up (I don't want them to go bad).

I kinda like painting these GB minis, so I expect to be able to stick to the plan, unless I suddenly stumble over something really shiny...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 15, 2017, 07:01:10 PM
Well, the weather permits gardening at the moment, so I spend more time outside than at the pain(t) station, but here is armoured warrior number four, completing my first point of Hearthguard for SAGA (for now).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mg85TEc4vCk/WMlb1_FPF0I/AAAAAAAAIEA/6gQsOqBEfE4DsglRfqd6TYVEd6U4l1RkQCLcB/s1600/2017_03_15-Hearthguard_01_04-01-400.JPG)

More pics and a line-up of my Hearthguard so far on my blog.

I begin my 5-night work period tonight, and I don't expect to do much progress until Monday, as the veggie garden still needs some work done to make it read for planting potatoes around April 1st, but we shall see about that...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Madhouse Workshop on March 15, 2017, 10:41:56 PM
I had purchased shield transfers prior to having brain surgery back over 2 years ago, then eye had eye issues because of the facial nerve damage from the tumor and on a steroid regimen and healing.  And finally got around to using my transfers this year.  Most or LBMS and are probably 3-4 years old or older.

The warband is looking really good.  I too really enjoy these plastic Gripping Beasts, building them and painting them.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 15, 2017, 10:55:16 PM
I think most problems with the transfers occur if they are not stored completely dry - if the White backing paper becomes the least damp, the transfer is ruined.

I have had a few where the clear film would not come off, but when I started heating those with issues (with a hair dryer), it seemed to do the trick.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Madhouse Workshop on March 15, 2017, 11:34:17 PM
You definitely must keep them dry.  I also find a very sharp xacto #11 helps me with peeling that clear plastic off.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 15, 2017, 11:38:24 PM
You definitely must keep them dry.  I also find a very sharp xacto #11 helps me with peeling that clear plastic off.

I also use my x-acto for that, but sometimes the plastic sticks.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 21, 2017, 06:58:28 PM
Been a while, but I am working on my 6th point...

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qF5UDFwGZYs/WNF0e-7sAFI/AAAAAAAAIFc/z0i2l8-ggxYXjyO0dDK3hB37_1kZCbaggCLcB/s1600/2017_03_21-Hearthguard_02_01-01-400.JPG)

More pics on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: tancrede on March 21, 2017, 08:06:58 PM
As always, nice painting here !
Clean, crisp and full of colors, just as I like...   :-*
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 21, 2017, 09:34:50 PM
Thanks, most of it is still just block'n'wash (except spear, base, and shield transfer), but it seems to work fine with these minis.

The wash is probably a bit too heavy on the beard/face, but at an arm's length (and on the table) it'll be OK.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Dr. Zombie on March 22, 2017, 08:06:43 AM
They look very nice.

But I have to ask. Do you only paint one guy at a time!? I would completely loose my mind if I only painted one plastic figure at a time.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 22, 2017, 08:33:33 PM
They look very nice.

But I have to ask. Do you only paint one guy at a time!? I would completely loose my mind if I only painted one plastic figure at a time.

No, I sort of paint in batches of 4-8, but after doing most of the basecoating, I then focus on getting one (or two, as in the case of the unarmoured warriors) at a time finished (while dividing drying time among the rest of the batch), that's why they come dripping. I find that being able to finish something often motivates me to keep going.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 27, 2017, 09:58:02 PM
Well, 'often' seems to be the wrong term, as it happens. Gardening has taken up a lot of my spare time lately (spring demands its share), but here is another Viking finished.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZdSq2fchh0/WNlPla6--UI/AAAAAAAAIG0/E6Hv8nbO_AYgzkCe58DQqS6nW0M8rZMJQCLcB/s1600/2017_03_27-Hearthguard_02_02-01-400.JPG)

As always, a couple more pics on my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: horridperson on March 28, 2017, 08:07:30 AM
Gardening?  Don't be a Fyrd  lol !  You should be painting more nice looking Vikings instead :) .  Love these models.  I need some too.  How did you manage the shields?  I'm trying to figure out shield designs and common colours for dress during the period;  What are you using for you painting references?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 28, 2017, 10:28:17 PM
Gardening?  Don't be a Fyrd  lol !  You should be painting more nice looking Vikings instead :) .  Love these models.  I need some too.  How did you manage the shields?  I'm trying to figure out shield designs and common colours for dress during the period;  What are you using for you painting references?

Most Vikings were farmers, you know  :)

Shields are LBMS transfers, I really like those!

Colour references... well, I attend a lot of Medieval and Dark Ages re-enactment events, often with the girls and myself clad in historical garb, so i see a lot of naturally dyed clothes. You'll never go completely wrong with drab or brownish colours, but trade and plunder would bring all kinds of non-domestic fabrics into play, and the Vikings LOVED bright colours, so the wealthier/luckier warriors could easily have some clothes in brighter hues. And remember that woad was quite common, and could yield a very rich and vibrant blue.

Red is probably the most problematic colour for this period - the natural dyes could not be 'fixated', and red is very prone to fading/getting washed out, thus leaving pinkish and/or light terracotta shades behind - which is why pink is often seen. I have used richer reds on a couple of my vikings, too, because really red fabrics were probably quite expensive, and would thus be considered status symbols (I don't think it is a coincidence that kings, elector princes, and cardinals used red for their official dress), and any such fabrics acquired would surely be paraded and not kept under lock and key.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: horridperson on March 29, 2017, 04:52:39 AM
Thanks for the suggestions on dyes and clothing; Very helpful.  I'm bothering you on two fronts so I am get my transfer answers here and on Facebook :) .
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 29, 2017, 02:02:36 PM
Thanks for the suggestions on dyes and clothing; Very helpful.  I'm bothering you on two fronts so I am get my transfer answers here and on Facebook :) .

No problem, I find a lot of help by asking questions myself, so I am always happy to give some advice back to the community.

Re: Colours, I just did a search for 'plant dyed yarn' (in Danish, that is)

https://www.google.dk/search?q=plantefarvet+garn&rlz=1C1AVNA_enDK578DK579&espv=2&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiZvO333_vSAhUmDJoKHcbPDhcQ_AUIBigB&biw=1366&bih=638

Just remember that these are newly dyed, and that wear, sunlight (+ salt from travelling the North Sea, at least for the raiders), and dirt would tone down the brightness somewhat. We have a very broad palette to choose from, and then add to that the possibility of traded/plundered exotic fabrics like cotton, silk, brocade, and what ever you can think of.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 30, 2017, 06:07:47 PM
Almost there...

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xeJyPIJ0-to/WN0jrdm3NLI/AAAAAAAAIHs/5hiTMkyqyg0BGm-h_5hy2n6PUWRlT3pbgCLcB/s1600/2017_03_30-Hearthguard_02_03-02-500.JPG)

Couple more pics on the blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 31, 2017, 06:14:27 PM
The 8th armoured warrior completes my six points SAGA warband

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kT8bfm-DyOQ/WN5znKC6RFI/AAAAAAAAIIk/I-TmnQEBCQc9UrQE_LUfQa_jgirPKsatQCEw/s1600/2017_03_31-Hearthguard_02_04-02-400.JPG)

More pics, and a group shot, on the blog.

Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on March 31, 2017, 11:49:46 PM

Great brushwork and IMPRESSIVE choice of colors! Argonor, your Dark Age Warriors look very authentic to me, CONGRATULATIONS!

Looking forward to see the village!  ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 31, 2017, 11:58:51 PM
Great brushwork and IMPRESSIVE choice of colors! Argonor, your Dark Age Warriors look very authentic to me, CONGRATULATIONS!

Looking forward to see the village!  ;)

Thanks. I have about a dozen more Vikings to do before I move on, and then I want to re-base and build/paint a Rohan warband as proxies for Anglo-Saxons so I can field two forces.

I hate building stuff... :(  I'm not sure if I ever shall get a scratch-built Dark Ages settlement up and running, but I have not completely given up - I surely shall make some fields and the dung heap I've started, and put some wattle fences on bases to be used modular.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: dinohunterpoa on April 02, 2017, 02:22:45 AM

I hate building stuff... :(  I'm not sure if I ever shall get a scratch-built Dark Ages settlement up and running, but I have not completely given up - I surely shall make some fields and the dung heap I've started, and put some wattle fences on bases to be used modular.

Argonor, for your inspiration: http://www.battlebrushstudios.com/2015/06/tutorial-my-kind-of-town-make-of-dark.html (http://www.battlebrushstudios.com/2015/06/tutorial-my-kind-of-town-make-of-dark.html)

 ;)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 02, 2017, 05:39:57 PM
The full warband so far:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1M6D1txOKLg/WOEes__VlgI/AAAAAAAAIJM/CgW2MIGWyLYRVOfqkgO1vvDWGImk4s-kQCLcB/s1600/2017_04_02_Viking_Warband_Line-up-01-800.JPG)

Thoughts on the next steps I'll take to expand on it on my blog.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 11, 2017, 04:47:11 PM
Project not dead, yet - am focusing on building the last Vikings I need to get done for the army to reach 24 points Main Force for God of Battles.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oY5fUxMM5-M/WOz0Ah3BFlI/AAAAAAAAIJ8/53lZftjWhKY3KX-Vw9BfId07NR3v1dl3QCLcB/s1600/2017_04_11-Vikings_WIP-01-800.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: horridperson on April 11, 2017, 05:01:36 PM
The painted host looks awesome!  I'm going to have to visit your blog and get a better look at where you are going with the new additions.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 11, 2017, 06:23:12 PM
The painted host looks awesome!  I'm going to have to visit your blog and get a better look at where you are going with the new additions.

It is basically just expanding the 8 'Hearthguard'/armoured warriors into two units of 10 each.

Then, I intend to make a six-point Rohan SAGA warband which can stand in for Anglo-Saxons - I have a nice bunch of minis already painted, that I shall re-base, and then I shall have to paint up some Royal Guard for the Hearthguard section, a Warlord, and maybe some warriors, I don't know the exact number of painted minis I have.

After that, who knows...  ;D
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 25, 2017, 05:31:24 PM
As my newest gaming buddy has expressed interest in SAGA, I have moved the Rohan/Anglo-Saxon project forward.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-46aqcrbnDms/WP9bOCTd-mI/AAAAAAAAIK8/tOEBS0mvV6oUoNcrLBRPh2aAQU4hu0OngCLcB/s1600/2017_04_25-Rohan_Royal_Guard_WIP-01-800.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Codsticker on April 27, 2017, 03:41:43 PM
Should be a very nice looking group: GW's LoTR Rohirrim minis are some of my favourite.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 27, 2017, 07:16:21 PM
Should be a very nice looking group: GW's LoTR Rohirrim minis are some of my favourite.

I have most of the warband painted already, just need to paint some hearthguards and archers (and rebase about half the models, but that is a minor detail that can be postponed).
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: horridperson on April 28, 2017, 07:44:24 AM
I'd be very interested to see what you do with the Rohirrim as I have a bunch of them lying around and would like some Saxons of my own.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on April 30, 2017, 02:19:01 AM
My mojo is low at the moment - very cold spring around here, combined with lots of work and confirmation party preparations right now, leaves Little energy for the hobby.

I expect to get a bit done NeXT week, as I have only two workdays - but the garden (especially the grass) needs some attention, soon.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Breazer on May 07, 2017, 01:52:05 PM
Great blog... just now found the time to go through the whole thing and you really make these models come to life. Keep up the good work
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Codsticker on May 07, 2017, 04:38:59 PM
My mojo is low at the moment - very cold spring around here, combined with lots of work and confirmation party preparations right now, leaves Little energy for the hobby.

I expect to get a bit done NeXT week, as I have only two workdays - but the garden (especially the grass) needs some attention, soon.
Sounds very familia on every account... :-I
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Battle Brush Sigur on May 07, 2017, 06:12:28 PM
Argonor, for your inspiration: http://www.battlebrushstudios.com/2015/06/tutorial-my-kind-of-town-make-of-dark.html (http://www.battlebrushstudios.com/2015/06/tutorial-my-kind-of-town-make-of-dark.html)

 ;)

Hey, that's mine! :D Thanks very much for spreading the word, dinohunterpoa. :D


Also: O hai thar, Codsticker. ;)


@Argonor: That's a very cool project you got going here. One question (out of curiosity) based on your latest WIP shots: Do you glue the shields to the minis before painting?
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 08, 2017, 11:24:07 AM
Thanks, guys. On top of the low mojo, I have been down with a nasty stomach-flu the last 1˝ week, so I have even less energy at the moment (and the grass just keeps growing).

@Argonor: That's a very cool project you got going here. One question (out of curiosity) based on your latest WIP shots: Do you glue the shields to the minis before painting?

Yes, I assemble everything before priming. It creates some 'blind spots' on some minis, but the shading wash masks any mistakes made on that behalf, and when block'n'wash speed painting, it saves some time.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on March 29, 2018, 06:07:15 PM
A lot of real life entanglements widely kept me away from the hobby for most of the last year.
However, I am slowly turning up the heat again, and expect to see some SAGA gaming quite soonish (at least within the next month), and that should motivate me to do some more work on the Rohan/Anglo-Saxon warband.

For now, I just dug out this thread and moved it forward, so I can find it more easily when I have updates - which, as stated, should happen in a not so distant future...
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Codsticker on April 02, 2018, 05:32:27 PM
yay! :D
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 10, 2018, 10:15:45 PM
SAGA is delayed, but I have begun cleaning and assembling this pop-culture icon:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-goCCFa-LIO8/WvR6vXdvh-I/AAAAAAAAJgA/EZXa4DjJDkUSahY3ibbR6dYVPDDscAR-ACLcBGAs/s1600/2018_05_10-Dynamic_Haleth_WIP-01-750.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 11, 2018, 05:08:31 PM
A bit of progress today

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hLRMEDVBhQs/WvW3qI-i8xI/AAAAAAAAJgs/uHQsaPTiSFk9He8Y5o4F0sxAoj0M9gUtQCLcBGAs/s1600/2018_05_11-Lagertha_WIP-02-350.JPG)
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Ethelred the Almost Ready on May 12, 2018, 06:51:22 AM
Those metal Rohirrim look much better than the plastic ones that came out later.  They should look great once you are finished with them.
Title: Re: Argonor's Dark Ages Stuff
Post by: Argonor on May 12, 2018, 06:36:17 PM
Those metal Rohirrim look much better than the plastic ones that came out later.  They should look great once you are finished with them.

Those are 'Royal Guard', and I am going to use them as such (Hearthguard), the rest of the warband is plastic, though.

I finished assembling Ladgerda today, but she still has some flash/moldlines I have missed  >:(

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hiobUZ8hgyA/WvcZqq1P9zI/AAAAAAAAJhg/HumHpiGfujckeyNdXNnGBU4sbAcvZl2dQCLcBGAs/s1600/2018_05_12-Ladgerd_WIP-01-350.JPG)