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Miniatures Adventure => Age of Myths, Gods and Empires => Topic started by: Atheling on October 03, 2022, 09:47:49 PM

Title: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 03, 2022, 09:47:49 PM
Hi folks,

I'm wondering if anyone has any photo's of a size comparison between the A&A Miniatures and Crusader Miniatures (sold by North Star) Macedonian ranges please?

I realise that both ranges were sculpted by Mark Simms but they are years apart. Just wondering they would fit together nicely?

Any help appreciated :)
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: vodkafan on October 04, 2022, 12:13:50 AM
I have been buying bits of both ranges recently, what are you especially interested in?
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: SJWi on October 04, 2022, 05:20:08 AM
Hi, currently away on holiday so can't check. From memory the A&A figures are quite big, the Crusader a bit smaller. Would probably mix well in the same army but not possibly together in a unit. I have bought A&A and Crusader Samnites and they are OK together.
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: pws on October 04, 2022, 08:47:09 AM
http://pippoweb.blogspot.com/2021/03/magister-militum.html

In this project there some A&A mostly "sagittarii" on foot, but some in other groups. I think they all mix well, at least the infantry.

I got also some cavalry but I changed all the horses and used the calvarymen here: http://pippoweb.blogspot.com/2021/08/al-andalus-cavalry-23.html also the camels are A&A.

I realize now that I did not take a picture of Saldin's command group  :D
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 04, 2022, 09:45:01 AM
I have been buying bits of both ranges recently, what are you especially interested in?

Hi folks,

I'm wondering if anyone has any photo's of a size comparison between the A&A Miniatures and Crusader Miniatures (sold by North Star) Macedonian ranges please?


The Macedonian ranges from both A&A and Crusader Miniatures and their relative size please ;)  :)
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: jcspqr on October 04, 2022, 10:44:21 PM
They are best compared to the Foundry WOG range.  Both the A&A and the Crusader are more or less the same height as the WOG.  The A&A are bulkier (and in general not as nice sculpts), the crusader are slighter (and are closer in quality) than the WOG.   They can all be used in the same army, but for the foot not in the same units (other than mixing in a few command figures etc).  For the cavalry as long as you use one manufacturers horse, it wouldn't feel out of place mixing the cavalry figures together in the same unit, although you will need to watch arm positions as their posing is not always consistent.  Personally, if I was buying them all now, I would use Foundry or Aventine.
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: SJWi on October 05, 2022, 05:16:59 AM
By the way don't forget Gripping Beast's "Polemarch Range" sculpted by Steve Saleh. Expensive but contain some unique items like scythes chariots. My Successor army is 90% Aventine with GB scythes chariots and some Foundry skirmishers. I guess A&A are a good buy if you can get one of his deals covering infantry. I did this for a mate earlier this year.
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 05, 2022, 08:14:31 AM
They are best compared to the Foundry WOG range.  Both the A&A and the Crusader are more or less the same height as the WOG.  The A&A are bulkier (and in general not as nice sculpts), the crusader are slighter (and are closer in quality) than the WOG.   They can all be used in the same army, but for the foot not in the same units (other than mixing in a few command figures etc).  For the cavalry as long as you use one manufacturers horse, it wouldn't feel out of place mixing the cavalry figures together in the same unit, although you will need to watch arm positions as their posing is not always consistent.  Personally, if I was buying them all now, I would use Foundry or Aventine.

I thought most of the Aventine Phalangites to be of  a slightly later period than that of Alexander's Macedonian army?

Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: jcspqr on October 05, 2022, 06:23:36 PM
If you are aiming for the Alexandrian era (and not successor era) then the Foundry figures are what you are looking for.
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 05, 2022, 06:26:57 PM
If you are aiming for the Alexandrian era (and not successor era) then the Foundry figures are what you are looking for.

Thanks. I'm very familiar with the Foundry range.

What I was hoping for is an image or two of a comparison for size between the Alexandrian era A&A Miniatures and Crusader Miniatures :)
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Emperorbaz on October 05, 2022, 09:49:35 PM
I think they area perfect match, in fact I’m almost sure that some of the a&a range are by the same sculptor.
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 05, 2022, 09:54:11 PM
I realise that both ranges were sculpted by Mark Simms but they are years apart. Just wondering they would fit together nicely?

I think they area perfect match, in fact I’m almost sure that some of the a&a range are by the same sculptor.

Which is why I'm asking. :)

Mark Sims sculpted the A&A stuff at least a decade back and his style has become less chunky and more slender of late.

I'm interested in a comparison between his (old) A&A Macedonian sculpts and his (relatively new) Crusader Miniatures Macedonian sculpts.





Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: cadbren on October 06, 2022, 05:57:11 AM
Images found on web:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jiiZWPdpMbY/TMLfu_oCZQI/AAAAAAAACt4/PZ7W4Yqq58Y/s1600/DSCN1250.JPG)

Warlord Games metal horses are similar in size to the horses above.

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sI7AciDkFvo/T-S_4UtvkNI/AAAAAAAABHs/UT3bx9I-5-A/s1600/warlord-games-celtic-cavalry-crusader-comparison.JPG)

The Crusader horse above is a standard one that appears in many sets including their various ancients. The Crusader horse is similar in size to Victrix plastic horses but much thinner.

So the A&A and Crusader horses are not compatible, I leave it to you to decide which size and style you prefer. The riders might be interchangeable but the Crusader riders will be somewhat larger and have a horse blanket moulded between their legs.

A&A and Crusader infantry match well. Crusader figs can be slightly bigger and the sculpts will be slightly better as they're later work from the same sculptor but definitely get infantry from both companies just don't expect the cavalry to match as well.
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 06, 2022, 07:53:22 AM
Images found on web:

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jiiZWPdpMbY/TMLfu_oCZQI/AAAAAAAACt4/PZ7W4Yqq58Y/s1600/DSCN1250.JPG)

Warlord Games metal horses are similar in size to the horses above.

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sI7AciDkFvo/T-S_4UtvkNI/AAAAAAAABHs/UT3bx9I-5-A/s1600/warlord-games-celtic-cavalry-crusader-comparison.JPG)

The Crusader horse above is a standard one that appears in many sets including their various ancients. The Crusader horse is similar in size to Victrix plastic horses but much thinner.

So the A&A and Crusader horses are not compatible, I leave it to you to decide which size and style you prefer. The riders might be interchangeable but the Crusader riders will be somewhat larger and have a horse blanket moulded between their legs.

A&A and Crusader infantry match well. Crusader figs can be slightly bigger and the sculpts will be slightly better as they're later work from the same sculptor but definitely get infantry from both companies just don't expect the cavalry to match as well.

Many thanks for putting in the effort cadbren but it's the Phalangites, Hypaspists's, Peltasts's etc that I'm looking to get a size comparison for.

I'll order a few packs of each and take a look myself. And, of course, I'll post up the images when I receive the miniatures.
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Major_Gilbear on October 06, 2022, 11:08:29 AM
I realise that you asked for Macedonians, but there is a comprehensive review (almost along identical lines to your query) for Carthaginians from those same lines (and same sculptor) here (http://etherdrakecave.blogspot.com/2016/11/carthaginians-compared-crusader-victrix.html).

It's worth noting that the same sculpting dollies appear to be those used by Mark Sims for the Macedonians too, so the review linked above may in fact be even more pertinent than first glance suggests... I hope, anyway! :)
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 06, 2022, 11:32:57 AM
I realise that you asked for Macedonians, but there is a comprehensive review (almost along identical lines to your query) for Carthaginians from those same lines (and same sculptor) here (http://etherdrakecave.blogspot.com/2016/11/carthaginians-compared-crusader-victrix.html).

It's worth noting that the same sculpting dollies appear to be those used by Mark Sims for the Macedonians too, so the review linked above may in fact be even more pertinent than first glance suggests... I hope, anyway! :)

OK, I don't think Mark has used the same dollies in both ranges for the Macedonians, which is why I was asking about a comparison. If I thought he had used the same dollies I would not be asking the question :)
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Major_Gilbear on October 06, 2022, 11:54:39 AM
Well, on the A&A webstore these (https://www.aandaminiatures.co.uk/view_product/?p=3) looked very similar to these (https://www.aandaminiatures.co.uk/view_product/?p=78), to the extent that it looks like the same dolly to me. And it's clear enough from the blog review that dollies look to have also been shared (at least in the Carthaginian ranges) between A&A and Crusader.

I think it's fair to say that even if there is a 1-2mm height discrepancy (well within the normal human range of variation even within a closed population group), the other parts like weapons, overall proportion, thickness of limbs, and other scale details are certainly very close/compatible.
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 06, 2022, 12:57:41 PM
Well, on the A&A webstore these (https://www.aandaminiatures.co.uk/view_product/?p=3) looked very similar to these (https://www.aandaminiatures.co.uk/view_product/?p=78), to the extent that it looks like the same dolly to me. And it's clear enough from the blog review that dollies look to have also been shared (at least in the Carthaginian ranges) between A&A and Crusader.

You might very well have a point. We will find out when I order a couple of packs from A&A and Crusader. [/quote]

Definitely not the same dollies. A&A Miniatures are bulkier and taller then the Crusader Mini's and it is very noticeable. I also ordered some A&A Miniatures are Crusader Mini's Cargthaginian Vets (which also look very similar- possible made from the same dollies) and same again; A&A Miniatures are bulkier and taller then the Crusader Mini's.

So, ended up costing me as I can't use the same miniatures in the same unit  >:(
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Major_Gilbear on October 06, 2022, 01:40:27 PM
I'm actually quite adept at putting units together from various manufacturers.
I am aware! :)

Also, when I searched myself for the comparisons you asked about, most of the first page of results were all links to this and similar questions you'd asked here and in other forums!  And to be fair, I often refer to your previous threads myself as I often have the exact same questions.  lol 

However, what's good for one army might not be good for another.

[...]

At the end of the day it's all down to what one wants in their army and I want my Macedonians to be the same size and TBH, nothing you can say is going to make me change my mind :)

I wouldn't dream of trying to change your mind! :P I was only trying to help you in finding the answer to your original question:

Hi folks,

I'm wondering if anyone has any photo's of a size comparison between the A&A Miniatures and Crusader Miniatures (sold by North Star) Macedonian ranges please?

I realise that both ranges were sculpted by Mark Simms but they are years apart. Just wondering they would fit together nicely?

Any help appreciated :)

Of course, if you've bought packs of each anyway, then I won't trouble you further. :)
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 06, 2022, 02:29:20 PM
I am aware! :)

Also, when I searched myself for the comparisons you asked about, most of the first page of results were all links to this and similar questions you'd asked here and in other forums!  And to be fair, I often refer to your previous threads myself as I often have the exact same questions.  lol

As have I  lol lol lol 

I wouldn't dream of trying to change your mind! :P I was only trying to help you in finding the answer to your original question

Yeah, sorry about that. I think I was way to blunt and could have phrased that in a more liberal manner.

Of course, if you've bought packs of each anyway, then I won't trouble you further. :)

I'll be sure to post them up.

Though, (he says in whispered tones!!) I am beginning to look at a Later Carthaginian army now so your comments re: relative sizes might be spot on! Oops! :)
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Major_Gilbear on October 06, 2022, 02:47:19 PM
Though, (he says in whispered tones!!) I am beginning to look at a Later Carthaginian army now so your comments re: relative sizes might be spot on! Oops! :)

 lol lol lol
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 06, 2022, 04:11:11 PM
lol lol lol

I know  lol lol lol
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Codsticker on October 07, 2022, 08:08:09 PM
I know  lol lol lol
lol lol lol
Lol you guys are awesome entertainment. lol
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 07, 2022, 08:36:29 PM
Lol you guys are awesome entertainment. lol

We aim to please  lol
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: vodkafan on October 08, 2022, 01:43:36 PM
(https://i.postimg.cc/DfM4zVyb/20221008-133526.jpg)

Here is a Crusader Macedonian Pikeman with A&A Bowman and Javelin fellow
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 08, 2022, 02:37:21 PM
(https://i.postimg.cc/DfM4zVyb/20221008-133526.jpg)

Here is a Crusader Macedonian Pikeman with A&A Bowman and Javelin fellow

Thanks.

Is it the perspective of the camera or is the javelin guy smaller than the archer?
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: vodkafan on October 08, 2022, 07:17:02 PM
Fractionally smaller. I just went and looked at the figures. But not all of them are. There are 4 bowmen poses and 4 javelin poses, 4 slinger poses and by the leg positions you can tell some share the same dollies.
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on October 09, 2022, 06:42:54 PM
Fractionally smaller. I just went and looked at the figures. But not all of them are. There are 4 bowmen poses and 4 javelin poses, 4 slinger poses and by the leg positions you can tell some share the same dollies.

Thanks Vodkafan. They should match very well. :)
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: VonAkers on November 15, 2022, 11:44:25 AM
Atheling
Mate it doesnt matter what size the figures you paint are .. you make them look Bloody Sublime ..
what a paint job and units you have made ..so sooooooooooooooo Jealous .. lol lol
 Bravo old boy .. :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
Fyi
The crusader Horses are enormous .. and fit no other range .. ever .. even the Numidian "Ponies "look like draft horses ..
Cheers
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on November 15, 2022, 12:08:50 PM
Atheling
Mate it doesnt matter what size the figures you paint are .. you make them look Bloody Sublime ..
what a paint job and units you have made ..so sooooooooooooooo Jealous .. lol lol
 Bravo old boy .. :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
Fyi
The crusader Horses are enormous .. and fit no other range .. ever .. even the Numidian "Ponies "look like draft horses ..
Cheers

Thanks  lol
Title: Re: A&A Miniatures- Crusader Miniatures *Macedonia* Size Comparison
Post by: Atheling on April 04, 2023, 02:04:46 PM
Well, on the A&A webstore these (https://www.aandaminiatures.co.uk/view_product/?p=3) looked very similar to these (https://www.aandaminiatures.co.uk/view_product/?p=78), to the extent that it looks like the same dolly to me. And it's clear enough from the blog review that dollies look to have also been shared (at least in the Carthaginian ranges) between A&A and Crusader.

You might very well have a point. We will find out when I order a couple of packs from A&A and Crusader. [/quote]

Definitely not the same dollies. A&A Miniatures are bulkier and taller then the Crusader Mini's and it is very noticeable. I also ordered some A&A Miniatures are Crusader Mini's Carthaginian Vets (which also look very similar- possible made from the same dollies) and same again; A&A Miniatures are bulkier and taller then the Crusader Mini's.

So, ended up costing me more money than I can afford as I can't use the same miniatures in the same unit  >:(