Figures for the War of the Roses?

[Arlequín]

You're very kind, but believe me there are very considerable gaps in my knowledge too and in addition my comments are merely my interpretation of what I've read. There are a number of alternate theories and views, none of them concrete, mine included. The most problematic thing is that there isn't an actual account of a battle to draw on, we have a few asides and comments from contemporaries, but the bulk is largely guesswork.

The biggest frustration for me was trying to work out how a contingent was deployed, something I was never able to determine to my satisfaction. A lot of the options offered either smack too much of ECW type deployments or seem to be very complicated for the largely unprofessional/semi-professional troops used. While the Burgundians went for some quite innovative ideas with their archers and bills, these were drilled professionals, although most were English. The Burgundian Army had the luxury of extended 'shake-down' periods and drill sessions, something the often hastily raised and largely part-time troops of the WotR didn't have.

The only caveat I can offer regarding casualties/army strengths is that big numbers can be taken as just meaning it was a big army. The land couldn't support a massive force, even if it was passing through. As both sides were keen not to alienate the population, looting and taking what they needed (as in the HYW) was out. Most armies wouldn't be likely to top the 10k mark and split up to take different routes so as to ensure the men could be fed. Towton was undoubtedly a big battle and may have certainly topped 30k men a side, but very unlikely to be more. The Yorkists staggered the march from the south because of the sheer size of its army and several lords veered off the route to raise men as they marched, Norfolk being a late arrival at the battle as a result of this. A figure of 28k casualties is no doubt exaggerated by contemporaries, but as most men were lost in the Lancastrian rout and their escape was restricted by the stream, the weather and the sheer mass of their comrades trying to escape, it is likely to earn its title of 'bloodiest battle on Britain's soil'.

[joroas]

Today's WI has an advert from the Perry's announcing the release of the mercenaries, 40 figures that can be made up as pikes, crossbow or arquebus in varying quantities.  Box art and 3 ups are on show. There are also 3 metal packs of scurrers.

[Sangennaru]

where where? didn't found anything on perry's site!!

[commissarmoody]

Yeah! Were did you see the add? Post a link please.

[Calimero]

Today's WI has an advert...

I’m guessing that WI stand for Wargames Illustrated…

[commissarmoody]

D'uh! I missed that

[joroas]

Sorry, page 77 of the new Wargames Illustrated:

Mercenaries: European Infantry 1450-1500.

40 figures to make up to 18 pikes, 12 handgunners and 12 crossbows, with separate pavisses, targes and sword arms.  No price or date, just Coming Soon.

Metal has 3 packs of scurrers, command, lance upright and skirmishing.