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Miniatures Adventure => Age of the Big Battalions => Topic started by: Digits on June 07, 2015, 04:41:13 PM

Title: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Digits on June 07, 2015, 04:41:13 PM
Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French

I tried and failed to build myself a French Napoleonic army to face off against my regular gaming buddy Baron von Hardup and his army of fondue eating, goat chasers!

This as far as I got, one solitary regiment of Hussars!

(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/Napoleonics/image-1.jpg)

(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/Napoleonics/image-2.jpg)

(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/Napoleonics/image-3.jpg)

So......I have spent the last week deciding on how to kick start myself.   

I think with some help from you guys and a good wind, I should be able to slowly make my way through the box of unpainted plastic and lead of Perry miniatures just waiting to hit the battlefield!

With that in mind, I have flashed and primed 12 horses for a Chasseur regiment to complete my first light horse brigade.

And this week, I have also started painting the mounts for my second brigade of heavy Dragoons.  They are about 90% done and waiting for me to start painting the riders...
Title: Re: The escalating forces fof Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: OSHIROmodels on June 07, 2015, 04:44:21 PM
They look fine, if a bit lonely  :)

cheers

James
Title: Re: The escalating forces fof Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on June 07, 2015, 04:55:08 PM
Cheers Jim.

Yes I know, too damned lonely!

Still, this is the place to get inspiration from.....

So, this weeks progress as I said.....enough horse here for a full brigade of Dragoons. 

(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/DigitsDavid099/image.jpg2.jpg)
Title: Re: The escalating forces fof Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: OSHIROmodels on June 07, 2015, 05:03:46 PM
That's a lot of gee gees  :D

cheers

James
Title: Re: The escalating forces fof Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Phil Robinson on June 07, 2015, 06:04:47 PM
Great start there.
Title: Re: The escalating forces fof Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: janner on June 08, 2015, 05:53:26 AM
Agreed, a fine start.

Keep them coming, a few at a time  ;)
Title: Re: The escalating forces fof Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: PAULSPENCE on June 08, 2015, 07:13:41 AM
Nice work!

I find that after undercoating the whole unit that if I then paint a squadron at a time it becomes more do-able and as each one comes off the production line it inspires me to get on with the next one.

When I was painting a 32 figure Regiment of Prussian Kurassiers I even went so far as to schedule a squadron of 8 figures a week and it worked!

Cheers,

Paul
Title: Re: The escalating forces fof Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Tactalvanic on June 08, 2015, 07:48:13 AM
Well your getting there now, and already beat my painting tally for this year so far...

Keep going, your doing great, and they look good to.
Title: Re: The escalating forces fof Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Plutarch64 on June 08, 2015, 09:23:17 AM
Those hussars look great, and must have been fiddly with all that lace. Just think how much easier the dragoons will be to complete, especially as you look to have all but completed their mounts. Lovely work!
Title: Re: The escalating forces fof Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on June 08, 2015, 05:13:05 PM
Thanks for the encouragement chaps.   Now I shall crack on getting these horses finished.


I forgot to post what I'm aiming for.

3 Brigades of Foot.   Minimum three regiments per brigade. (2 line, 1 light)
1 Brigade light horse (Hussars / Chasseurs) 2 Regiments
1 brigade Heavy Horse (Dragoons) 2 regiments
1 Brigade lancers (1 regiment)
2 Line Artillery battery (8 guns)
1 Horse Artillery battery (3 guns)



I was going to stick to Perry only but having had a rethink, I will paint all my infantry in greatcoats for ease and speed and the Warlord set looks to be perfect so a mix of Perry and Warlord.

All cavalry will be Perry, as I really don't like the look of the Warlord horses.

So, that's the plan.....

Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: janner on June 09, 2015, 01:22:31 PM
I take you mean battalions instead of regiments, as at three to four battalions per regiment, they would be mighty brigades  lol
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on June 09, 2015, 02:25:15 PM
Yes you are of course right.  In my head they are simply "units"!
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on June 09, 2015, 10:20:39 PM
First step....the horses are painted!   Bad light but they look fine to me.  I will base them when I paint the riders.  This lot is two Dragoon units.  The "pinks" and the "Reds".  Pinks first me thinks.  I will do a test mini first.

(http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/DigitsDavid100/image.jpg1.jpg)
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: janner on June 10, 2015, 05:42:57 AM
Good going  :)
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: gustav on June 10, 2015, 09:15:10 AM
 :o

Have 12 1st Hussars just arrived and am currently girding my loins just for those.
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: warburton on June 10, 2015, 12:26:17 PM
Good stuff so far :)
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 21, 2019, 10:32:49 PM
Jump forward 4 years and I’ve managed.....absolutely nothing. 😔

My mate Brian managed a couple of Brigades of Austrian infantry and therefore shows me up.  I’m a loser! 😩

Meanwhile I have now moved house to south Warwickshire.  Without a regular gaming partner, I think the chances of me doing more 40k is very unlikely.  Hopefully he will come and stay at some point so I think I want to use the time I have getting back to these chaps.  It will be hard as I have an erratic  interest threshold.

Looking at Black Powder, it would seem I need to eventually paint a lot of foot regiments.  I want to field lots of artillery but it looks like I can only have one line foot artillery battery for every six foot battalions.  Not sure if that means I have to paint 12 battalions before I can field two batteries, seems excessive!  Still, I may adopt two models representing a battery...


Going to start small.

An army needs a commander, so I’ve just dug out three figures to pop on a command base.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/4D24592F-BEF2-4DD9-B81C-9B21248DFA60.jpeg)
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Arthur on July 22, 2019, 12:02:42 AM
Looking at Black Powder, it would seem I need to eventually paint a lot of foot regiments.  I want to field lots of artillery but it looks like I can only have one line foot artillery battery for every six foot battalions.  Not sure if that means I have to paint 12 battalions before I can field two batteries, seems excessive!

Not excessive, merely historical  ;)

And that's not just Black Powder : one foot battery of eight guns (six 8 or 6 pdrs and two howitzers) per infantry brigade of six battalions (and thus two batteries per division) was pretty much the standard artillery allotment in the French army.

There were variations of course : during the 1812 Russian campaign, the five infantry divisions of Davout's first corps each comprised fifteen infantry battalions divided into three brigades/regiments of five battalions. Each division was supported by one foot and one horse artillery battery in addition to the regimental guns attached to the infantry regiments (four 4 pdrs per regiment, organized in two sections of two guns each).

The army of Germany's divisions had a very similar structure during the 1809 Danube campaign, except that the 15 battalions in each division (organised into five 3-battalion regiments) were supported by two foot and one horse batteries, i.e a total of 22 guns (8 per foot battery and six for the horse battery). Allowing the infantry more than that would probably unbalance your games and turn them into gunfests that would feel more like WW1 than the napoleonic era..

If you really must have more guns, then add a 12 pdr reserve battery to your division : these heavier guns were normally corps assets but could be used to support a corps' components if circumstances called for it.
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 22, 2019, 08:06:52 AM
Thanks Arthur.  I think my main issue is, I bought eight line guns when I first started collecting the figures together and I do like the look of them!

I can use two per battery (therefore I can depict half batteries with one gun) but my specific question I suppose is, as it states I can have one battery for every 6 foot battalions, if I had say 8 battalions, could I field two batteries or do I have to keep going to 12 before I can put on my second battery?

I think.....as it is a game between mates, it doesn’t really matter. It I don’t want to. Icky it too much.
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Scrubber on July 22, 2019, 07:23:46 PM
I just need to post one painted regiment to win. 😉

PS I’m the Brian.
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 22, 2019, 08:14:46 PM
Arrrggghhhh!  The fondue eaters are here!

Well met Von Hardup!
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Scrubber on July 22, 2019, 08:33:06 PM
Baron Wilhelm Von Scrubber if you please.
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 23, 2019, 11:03:07 AM
Ok so I’ve made up my proposed army based loosely on that fielded at Albuera.  As you can see I may want to fight Austrians too so I may have a regiment or two of cuirassiers up my sleeve too!   I’m using a mixture of uniforms though so don’t crucify me please!  As most infantry will be in great coats it won’t be overly prominent.  I simply can’t afford to to paint two armies!

Nb. All infantry stands below are 6 figures and cavalry are two figures.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/A002662B-9B0E-471F-84A7-4CA34FAAB471.jpeg)
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Scrubber on July 23, 2019, 01:34:15 PM
You asked for picture. One of two brigades.
Question. If you are basing your regiments on 4 stand, are my Austrian to large now at 8 stands per regiment.
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 23, 2019, 02:32:51 PM
Not really.....they had BIG battalions!
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: gustav on July 24, 2019, 11:01:40 AM
Digits
you are so not the only one - to my horror I posted on this thread back in 2015 and my hussars are still on my painting desk - eeek !
 :o
 o_o
 lol
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 24, 2019, 02:41:38 PM
The I urge you to take up the challenge with me and paint those fellas!
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 25, 2019, 07:34:32 PM
This weekend will be solid painting.  I’ve dug out a few brigade commanders to paint at the same time.

I’m also doing a little gaming admin.  I put these infantry casualty markers together a while back.  I just ordered a set of Perry Dutch/ Belgian cavalry casualties which should give me another four markers.  I also have a few spare plastic horses, and a couple of dismounted dragoon left so I will tinker with those and a little green stuff to build a few more.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/F1C3D1ED-73FB-4AB1-964F-0872B4915B39.jpeg)

Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 27, 2019, 01:27:36 PM
I am painting!  Hopefully ready to post up tomorrow.....however, the postman distracted me.  I already have a dozen Chasseurs a Cheval in lead waiting to be painted....but when I saw the free Marbot figure if you buy three boxes of plastic Chasseurs, well, I decided he’d make an excellent Colonel leading his men into the charge.

Of course I now have enough unpainted Chasseurs for FOUR units!

Half an hour later I had cleaned him up and made up the first three plastic figures.  I will paint these as the 5th regiment and as I will make this a large unit I have decided to give them an eagle.  They don’t come in the box as the light cavalry were ordered to put them into safe keeping and not carry them on campaign. 

I figured with such a flamboyant chap leading the charge, he looks the type to flaunt the order and have his eagle close (some did apparently) I had a spare from my dragoon boxes so a quick swap was all that was needed.

Anyway, enough distraction......back to the painting..........

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/7AE5B8DB-9431-458F-8958-C00BC1C525F6.jpeg)
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 29, 2019, 12:53:34 AM
I ALMOST did it!

Just realised I missed the folded musket slings and of course I need to sand the bases.....but I decided not to do a Marshal, but a regiment of Dragoons.  Tbh I’d already painted the horses but I’m made up at having done the riders this weekend.  Better pictures once sanded.

Flag arriving later this week I think.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/52A417DA-3301-4D68-8608-75BE8D52082B.jpeg)


And I couldn’t help myself so I built the rest of the Chasseur regiment and the missing riders from the second dragoon regiment.  As this will also be a pink facing regiment, I need to paint over the red decoration on their sheepskins!    I want to paint the Chasseurs.....but my head says stick with the dragons, the horses are finished and the second batch of riders should get a little easier.  Plus I will have finished one division except for the attached horse battery.

The light division needs a second Chasseur regiment....

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/582DE0E1-4D9B-4FFD-A62E-196941E4A478.jpeg)
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Scrubber on July 30, 2019, 01:49:29 PM
Very nice, but your just putting off doing the infantry. Need to mix the things you don’t like painting with those you do. :D
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 30, 2019, 03:35:52 PM
Hmmmm.  By my thinking...I’m painting the HARDEST pieces first...then when I’ve finished them...I will look on them and think “ah what a shame I’ve put in all that effort if I don’t paint a few regiments of infantry and therefore shame myself into it!  That’s the theory anyway!
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Scrubber on July 30, 2019, 04:38:41 PM
At least your doing something. I’ve lost the will to wargame.
Lots going to eBay soon.
Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....
Post by: Digits on July 30, 2019, 05:41:29 PM
Chin up fella and don’t sell the Austrians!

Anyway, I just realised having stuck all the red fringed horse to their bases, I would struggle to repaint the pink fringes on all bar six.

So, I will paint in batches of six, and order another box of dragoons.  That will mean I’ve half jumped into my third regiment of dragoon, the red faced 4e.  I will paint this 6 pink ones first along with my Marshal and a suitable galloping ADC who will be used to represent Command Bonuses conferred by direct intervention from my Marshal to any one Brigade commander per turn.  Saves me moving the Marshal about...especially with his bad foot!




Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....painted Dragoons
Post by: Digits on July 31, 2019, 12:59:49 PM
My flags haven’t arrived yet but this will be the 14e Regiment of a Dragoons now it’s based.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/20A22FA2-5F52-42FF-8B10-9D1DC6B0304C.jpeg)

Title: Re: The escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....painted Dragoons
Post by: Digits on August 01, 2019, 01:47:44 PM
A selection of flags arrived today along with Chasseurs green paints from foundry so cracking on.

Adding a flag makes a lot of difference.

 (https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/0E000BEA-A9B4-44AF-AB49-0B90B15F3970.jpeg)
Title: Painting continues....Marshal Frederick
Post by: Digits on August 03, 2019, 11:43:22 AM
Marshal Frederick directs the battle with a wave of his hat as an ADC gallops up ready to relay any new orders to the front.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/4010C992-4085-411C-AE98-AD3843620389.jpeg)

I realise these aren’t the best paint jobs but for massed numbers, I’m sure they will work just fine for me.

Now, I’m on a roll.......what to paint next?
Title: Re: Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French Project
Post by: sundayhero on August 03, 2019, 11:46:44 AM
They are well painted, and I admire people painting 28mm massbattle forces, personaly.
Title: Re: Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French Project
Post by: Digits on August 03, 2019, 04:38:01 PM
Thank you for your kind words,  though I fear I have a LONG way to go before I can claim to have enough for a mass battle.....still, I seem to have hit a vein of mojo so onwards and upwards. 

I have started what will be two different cavalry divisions.  Whilst I’m keen to get at the chasseurs, I realise I have the horses already done so should really concentrate on the next Dragoon regiment.  I think though, seeing as the brigade will also need an attached horse artillery battery, I may do that next to mix things up....two guns coming up.
Title: Re: Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French - Horse Artillery
Post by: Digits on August 05, 2019, 11:10:28 AM
Really pleased with these canons.  I ran out of winter tuft but will add a few more bits when the new arrives.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/AD7DBB6F-5B61-4E92-B7B8-3C8EAD6DDB26.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/85F5F4AA-082B-4961-A099-327CAE235E0E.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/601CB8B8-AE17-4FF6-9523-3A6B08C22EB2.jpeg)


In all my other projects, I’m kind of used to posting how to’s as I’m often scratch building scenery, or converting minis.  This time no such luck as it’s all paintwork....the bit I usually find the most draining!

However, here’s hoping this turns out a useful tip....please don’t think I invented this, I’m sure lots of people have done it.....but the warlord set lends itself nicely to leaving them on the spruce for ease of quick (hopefully) painting.  It also helps with the distribution of heads and packs, ensuring far fewer duplications.

This lot only took me two hours to clean up and assemble.  Enough for TWO regiments......not saying I’m painting them immediately though as I’m tinkering.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/170623F4-AF63-4C9D-B9E9-127261132B4D.jpeg)
Title: Re: Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French - Horse Artillery
Post by: Warboss Nick on August 05, 2019, 07:06:17 PM
Good work so far and excellent progress! I know the feeling of staring down the 12pdr barrel of a french napoleonic army. But before you know it you will have a sizeable - and most importantly playable - force. Just a bit of infantry and you‘re ready to go. After that you can pick whatever you like without going wrong.
Title: Re: Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French - Horse Artillery
Post by: Digits on August 06, 2019, 08:13:06 AM
Thanks Nick.

Truth be told, I’ve not really painted much for a year or so.  Moving jobs / house and living out of hotel rooms didn’t help.  Now I’m settled and more relaxed I’m able to do a bit.  A nap army is something I’ve aspired to over the years but the thought of all that paint has scared the life from me.

I usually paint more when I have a regular gaming partner (escalation will do that for you) but I now find myself somewhere new and my gaming buddies only able to visit once in a blue moon.  So in a sense, this could be harder than I hope!

I need to get a few units of foot sloggers painted as both you and Brian say because I’m a little phased by them.  Once I break that, I think I will be fine.

In that regard, if there is anyone in the South Warkshire / Stratford on Avon area that collects 28mm Naps and fancies a game, please let me know.
Title: Re: Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French - Horse Artillery
Post by: Digits on August 07, 2019, 12:56:06 PM
And so it begins.....

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/DC470A4B-DFF9-4129-B9CC-3BF024378092.jpeg)
Title: Re: Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French - Horse Artillery
Post by: Warboss Nick on August 07, 2019, 06:41:02 PM
Looking like a good start on your infantry! Those greatcoats certainly lend themselves to quick painting.

I might have missed it, but what rules and unit sizes are you going for? My local group uses Black Powder with 12-16 miniatures per small unit and 20-24 miniatures per regular unit. For French that means I can play a battalion without elites as small and with voltigeurs only as regular. That way units are ‘gaming ready’ quicker, and I can always add grenadiers later or use them for combined units. Getting units on the table is always a big motivation for me.

Just a thought what works for me...
Title: Re: Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French - Horse Artillery
Post by: Digits on August 07, 2019, 09:27:15 PM
I have Black Powder so that’s what I’m aiming for.

Regular infantry 24, large 36 (small 12 and tiny 6)
Regular Cavalry 12, large 16+

You can see the sizes I’m looking for based on my force .org.

You are hopefully right...great costs are much easier!  My plan is to get these two units plus another three or four done in coats just to make sure I can hit the table.  After that, I will do a few more colourful units as I love the “pomp”. 

I prefer the Perry minis but these Warlord ones really do look easier.  I’m not keen on their metals (command figures) hence I’m mixing in a few Perry’s.
Title: Re: Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.....Napoleonic French
Post by: Digits on August 16, 2019, 10:06:23 AM
So, I’ve had a break this week but as I have this weekend to myself, I should be able to get in a little painting.  With luck I may the the lions share of one foot regiment done....

Anyway, the reason for this post, I have been having a think.

I know I’ve loosely based my army plans around the French at Albuera, primarily as it gives me a focus and structure around which to build.  But as I’m starting to enjoy the painting, I’m realising I want to stretch it a little bit. 

I find myself fascinated by the Federation of the Rhine collection of minis by atheists Perry’s and I have been reading about them a little.  As such, and if for no other reason than to add colour to my army, I’ve ordered figures to paint the Anhalt battalion of the 5th Regiment.  In time I will also add the Lippe.  My idea being I’d like a “Foreign” Brigade to add a little interest.  I’m looking at other foreign units that fought for the French in the Peninsular, and though I have considered Vistula infantry, I’m conscious they never really fought in the same battles as their Lancers, a unit that will feature prominently in my army.  (Indeed it’s their starring role at Albuera that prompted me to use Albuera as my focus).

I have a great book I picked up at a 2nd hand book shop “Napoleons War in Spain” written from the French perspective and with great colour plates of French allies etc which I’m reading through so I will pick another foreign contingent to add once I’ve found another interesting and hopefully colourful unit.

Then their is the fact I am a gamer first, painter definitely last!  I love the idea of adding a regiment of Cuirassiers too my army.  Yes, I know they didn’t appear much in the Peninsular and certainly not at Albuera, but as a gamer, I would obviously welcome their addition as a hard hitting element that should my army come up against say an Austrian army on the tabletop, I would be sorely missing otherwise.

As such, and to try and keep some tenuous thread / reason for being, I have ordered the fascinating cuirassiers standing at ease, some arms folded as I shall be putting them into my reserve as a nod to their lack of participation.  I will also paint them as the 13th, the only regiment I am aware that fought in the Peninsular (Spain I think).

If I can find a reason to add in a little Guard Cavalry, I would love to add in a few other bits....but I may be stretching it 😌

I don’t really have a question as i’ve Decided that’s what I’m going to do, though I am interested to know what other gamers do?  Do they typically pick a given army at a point in time or Battle as their “focus”, if so, do they too try to find tenuous links in order to expand it, are they more rigid?  Or do they just go with the rule of cool and pick from a wider range of units available at the time?  Are there power gamers that just opt for the the best units or how do they go about picking their regiments to portray a more balanced army?
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on August 18, 2019, 05:11:15 PM
Must be talking drivel....oh well 😏

Anyway, I have come to realise that painting greatcoats is NO quicker than painting without!  May be something to do with my daft idea to paint two units at the same time however.....

Still, progress made, I shall persevere!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/EAB037B4-5406-4E04-984B-EB7C5F2E0672.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Warboss Nick on August 18, 2019, 07:39:43 PM
Don‘t despair! Napoleonics are never the quickest of paint jobs. Greatcoats are still quicker for me because (a) at least some will do with base colour + wash instead of a triad and (b) they don’t have all those details red trims etc.

No matter if greatcoat, full dress uniform or a mix of both, I will only paint one unit at a time to get Progress and a sense of success from finished units.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Warboss Nick on August 18, 2019, 07:55:26 PM
As for your thoughts on army building that’s certainly not drivel. For me it startet with Vandamme’s IIIème Corps at Ligny and will probably end up with 8th and 11th division. That suits the Perry range well, and I started out alone. Plus there is the Cent Yours website as excellent reference for uniforms. Since then others have picked up napoleonics, too, but we’re focussing on the Peninsular.

Since we’re flexible within reasonable bounds I can easily use the same units. With french you don’t see the difference between regiments anyway unless you start reading the number in the flag.

That did however mean I need some dragoons. So roughly on keeping with the 100 days I’m now also building the 9th cavalry division.

As for colour, I fully understand what you mean. I will add four Swiss bataillons even though there was just one at Ligny. Two of those will be wearing pre 1812 uniforms so I can have bearskins. And I will add two kingdom of Holland bataillons solely for the Peninsular - because I can and they were present somewhere. Those white uniforms will make for an nice change.

Apart from that I have decided to depict one brigade / two regiments with a total of four (maybe six) bataillons as ragged by mixing in some of the lovely Perry national guard conscripts. It helps to tell brigades apart and offers a chance to depict different training levels.

Just some thoughts...
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on August 20, 2019, 01:41:33 PM
Thanks for the reply Nick, much appreciated and I’m glad to see you have a similar thought process.

With that in mind I have re jigged my target army organisation to include a “German Division”  to give myself a little colour on the ground.  It has bumped my target figure count a fair whack though.....😩

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/E1E55BFA-0BE1-4B0F-B735-64CD46C0AE97.png)


Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: vodkafan on August 20, 2019, 05:20:29 PM
Definitely not drivel! I am way behind you but I am recreating the British/Portuguese 2nd Brigade of the Light Division for my British Peninsular force, but the French will be more of a "fantasy" brigade. As well as the French units in blue I intend to have a battalion each of the Legion Irlandes and a Saxony unit in the white uniforms...
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on August 20, 2019, 06:56:02 PM
Cheers Vodkadrinker.....yes I toyed with Irlandes but preferred the Anhalt figures so there is my green uniformed regiment...besides, needed a name so “German Division” sounded credible.

I’ve updated my post above to show my target.  The couple of bits done are worded in green....clearly, the start of a LONG journey.   Soon be able to add a pair of foot regiments......
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Roo on August 20, 2019, 07:27:59 PM
Good stuff.  Keep up the great work, trust me Greatcoats are way faster...but my Neapolitans are uniform coats only (March to May) in Italy being too hot...at least in my mind...for the wearing of greatcoats into battle 😂
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on August 20, 2019, 08:48:04 PM
I gather it rains in Spain....at least mainly on the plain 😏

I do want some colour so I don’t intend doing all in coats....I kinda gathered  it would get me half a dozen quick win units before I can start taking my time with coloured uniforms.  I’m not convinced the great coats are actually saving me much time though!

I think my planning is about done.  I actually have the following figures already bought and ready to build / paint

Vistula Lancers - metal
3 x Chasseurs a Cheval - plastic
Chasseurs a Cheval standing - metal
Cuirassiers Standing - metal
Dragoons x 2 - plastic, horses painted

Four boxes of plastic infantry 2 Perry, 2 warlord
Enough metal figures in greatcoats for another regiment
Anhalt regiment - metal
2 more horse guns
4 line guns


So...I think I need to crack on.  It may not be the most exciting thread to follow but I hope a little encouragement  will keep me motivated and I will look to post an ever expanding army roster of finished units.  If I find a new gaming partner or group along the way, even better...

Vive la France! Vive l'Empereur! Vive les soldats miniatures!

Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: FifteensAway on August 21, 2019, 04:02:26 AM
Painting miniatures, done right, is an act of meditation. 

Now, whoever told you meditation does not include the occasional profane moment, well they were out-and-out liars, honest they were.  Or, would that be profanity moments?  I get all confused about that.

It is a way to relax in a productive manner, surely.  Good music in the background helps.  The TV on hurts.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on August 22, 2019, 02:03:00 PM
Fully agree with that statement!

Those who know me from other forums
Know I’m a modeller first and reluctant painter second.  There is no point me trying to convert massed battalion minis as even I would loose them in the throng.  So this exercise in painting only is really a first for me.

Now back on topic.  I suspect the answer is a no but does anyone know of any Imperial Guard units detached from the guard and leant to other Marshals for their campaigns?

I’m trying to find a reason to add a guard/veteran / elite battalion, squadron or battery  to the army.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on August 23, 2019, 09:19:53 AM
Ok I found something.....in Ospreys Napoleons Guard Cavalry,  the war record shows Chasseurs a Cheval in Spain 1808...presumably with Napoleon.  But then it references “a detachment in Spain : Elione” 1811  - 12.

I can’t find any details about the Battle of Elione, but may have reason to include a little Guard.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: ARKOUDAKI on August 23, 2019, 11:46:45 AM
WOW!!!!!!!!! You are making excellent progress. Keep up the good work!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: vodkafan on August 23, 2019, 04:39:06 PM
Ok I found something.....in Ospreys Napoleons Guard Cavalry,  the war record shows Chasseurs a Cheval in Spain 1808...presumably with Napoleon.  But then it references “a detachment in Spain : Elione” 1811  - 12.

I can’t find any details about the Battle of Elione, but may have reason to include a little Guard.

You could have a small unit of Guard as an escort to an important personage, or on a special courier mission....war is a very fluid thing .
Just as an example from my own family history, My dad's WWII wartime records were declassified a few years back and my younger brother got hold of them. As far as we ever knew, dear dad spent most of his RAF service in North Africa finding and disposing of abandoned bomb dumps lost in the desert. But it turned out he had on his record a Top Secret classified mission to Italy for a time, which we know nothing about... :o
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Littlearmies on August 25, 2019, 11:02:37 PM
If I may make a couple of suggestions - I would take your two boxes of Perry plastic French Line and sort them into two groups - greatcoats and non-greatcoats - and use them to do two battalions; the decision to wear greatcoats or not was made by the Chef de Battalion rather than the individual. The Perry boxes also contain some very nice plastic heads that fit the  Warlord French infantry very well. I would then look for options to add some individuality to each battalion. Obviously you have the Perry metals but I've never been been wild about their metal figures due to the hit and miss casting quality - I'd take a look at Calpe - they fit very well with both Perry and Warlord plastics and they have oodles of different command sets. Another option would be the Front Rank re-enforcement packs - the command pack would do very nicely.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on August 26, 2019, 06:22:55 PM
Thanks for the heads up.

I thought I’d read that Calpe weren’t a great fit with Perry but on your advice I’ve just ordered two sets of command that both have a fair smattering of great coats.

I’ve also ordered some Offensive Miniatures figures too.

May do a side by side pic upon receipt.

Cheers
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on September 25, 2019, 02:52:21 PM
So a couple of weeks suffering a bad head cold and a good dose of real life has prevented me finishing the first infantry regiments BUT I am on the last few regimental command figures so pics soon!

In readiness, I decided I needed a quick and simple photo base board would be handy seeing as I take crappy pictures, so an hours work....

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/C80D3707-8A59-4EDC-BD41-149004B70974.jpeg)

With few of my earlier Hussars....

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/40A68992-7E4A-43DE-8860-3734ECE3A5F3.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: vodkafan on September 28, 2019, 05:56:47 PM
Digits I will be interested to know how you get on with the Calpe- I fancy a battalion of their Saxons and they look like they might fit with my Front Rank quite well (although I have never seen a side by side pic)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on September 28, 2019, 06:46:23 PM
I can’t say how they fit with Front rank but I am mixing their command figures in nicely with my Warlord / Perry minis and I suspect you can’t see any difference.  Having been given advice to try them, I’m particularly pleased there is such variety in their command figures, and quite a few in Great Coats too!

Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: vodkafan on September 28, 2019, 08:48:09 PM
I’m particularly pleased there is such variety in their command figures, and quite a few in Great Coats too!

Yes I suspect the sculptor/owner of Calpe has a Greatcoat fetish!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on September 28, 2019, 09:17:39 PM
Indeed but I wish he’d do a standard bearer or two in coats as well.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Littlearmies on September 30, 2019, 04:59:20 PM
I can’t say how they fit with Front rank but I am mixing their command figures in nicely with my Warlord / Perry minis and I suspect you can’t see any difference.  Having been given advice to try them, I’m particularly pleased there is such variety in their command figures, and quite a few in Great Coats too!

I'm pleased that you like them. The variety extends through the entire infantry range - I think that you could do an entire 1:20 regiment without duplicating figures. I'm looking forward to pictures!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army
Post by: Digits on September 30, 2019, 05:40:44 PM
Adding sand to the bases as I sit here.....
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 01, 2019, 07:48:13 PM
Only taken a few years but FINALLY!

First painted infantry.  This will be my regular sized infantry unit.  The second unit is being based right now...pics on that soon.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/95A5A99F-A03F-4B1D-AAB9-0B852ABF4CD5.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/A5091E61-6C17-43D5-BE5D-0002F2EF4812.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/AD65B807-CC36-40F4-AE62-BEDE3D5C2DE9.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Roo on October 01, 2019, 08:03:03 PM
Lovely, well worth the wait chap
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Littlearmies on October 01, 2019, 10:45:30 PM
Bravo, Sir!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 01, 2019, 10:46:34 PM
Thanks Chaps 🙂

So here’s the second line regiment, a large one at 36 figures (horse counts as 36th!)

These are both predominantly warlord troopers with a mixed bag of Calpe and Perry command.  My next regiment will be half and half Perry greatcoats and Warlord with mostly Calpe command.

So, not withstanding my cold and a dose of real life, I realised I made two fundamental mistakes.

1). Painting two regiments at once was STUPID!  It meant every time I tried to sit down to them, I got phased by how many figures were in front of me....loosing me days of inactivity.

2). I left the command until last......so even though I finally battled through the massed line troops....I had never really finished and this was disheartening.  Answer....always do your command base FIRST.

Anyway, I’m pleased to have gotten this monkey off my back.  I now realise I CAN do this.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/1FD4A34D-FD04-46E5-B8CA-30145D81CF90.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/FD0C6609-DC90-4047-89B1-7ED83131A9CE.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/7EF143A9-EC23-426E-A406-AFCD5BD4F244.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 02, 2019, 07:45:25 AM
And I’ve updated my target army roster to show my painting progress.  This list may change a little as I go along but it will hopefully keep me motivated to see progress.  Items in green writing denote painted units ( it ignore the one in the second division... slip of the keyboard).  These two units are from the first brigade of the second division.  The first light infantry unit I paint, a regular sized one, will be to finish that brigade.

Now to decide what I want to paint next...

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/4623D457-15AB-467B-8A5C-6CAF26F867F8.png)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: OSHIROmodels on October 02, 2019, 07:56:32 AM
Splendid looking figures  :)

I certainly don't envy you the amount you're doing though  lol
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on October 02, 2019, 08:20:16 AM
 Really nice work! Good tip about the command base and not painting two units at once.  I will take note.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 02, 2019, 05:19:16 PM
I agree Oshi....it does look a little daunting 😳

Cheers James.  If I learn anymore....I will let you know!

I think I’ve about decided what to do next.....I think I will set about the next dragoon regiment and close out one heavy horse brigade...
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: olicana on October 02, 2019, 05:48:26 PM
45 x 40, then? :D
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 02, 2019, 06:03:30 PM
Indeed on the 36 man unit but 40 x 40 on the 24 man. 😶
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Battle Brush Sigur on October 02, 2019, 09:21:20 PM
Very nice work. I really like those properly-sized battalions/squadrons, as well as all that proper planning you put into this massive project. Guess it's the best approach on a thing the size of this.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: olicana on October 03, 2019, 08:26:23 PM
They are very nicely painted, and the basing style complements them.

Congrats on the progress but, I think they should all be on 45 wide and you should swallow the bitter four base pill. The 45s look so much better.

I wonder if, like me, you'll end up re-basing the six 40s onto four 45s at some point. If you think you might, my advice is to do it ASAP, before the numbers increase. I waited too long and had to re-base 568 of 'em. It took two whole days, an entire weekend I'm not getting back!

my thoughts at the time are here, the blog post is called "When you're in a hole......":

http://olicanalad.blogspot.com/2018/10/when-youre-in-hole.html (http://olicanalad.blogspot.com/2018/10/when-youre-in-hole.html)

You will, I suspect, go your own way and all power to your elbow for that. However, I'll bet you a pound to a penny, if you still have the collection in five years, you will have gone all 45s or all 40s.

Note that this wasn't the last basing change I made. I later printed the name plate on brown paper and textured the 'pin plate' the same as the base. Name plates are common enough, the pin plates (for information beads) aren't so much. They are not to everyone's taste but we don't use roster sheets here.

Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 03, 2019, 09:20:28 PM
It’s quite possible you may be correct mate, but I’m happy with my choice.  Maybe  my years as a musket officer calling for close order, open order, closest order etc has numbed me against worrying if they should all look identical.  As you say, we all find what works for us.  You obviously have more experience playing this type of game than I do, and you’ve also found your ideal way to play / base that suits your style.

My style in any game is “rule of cool” (to my eye at least) and I have never confiormed to any one way of doing things without trying out my own individuality.  I would typically rather work with flawed or weakened units and learn to overcome those weaknesses in order to field something that looks good.  One or two guys on here know me from other forums and genres / game systems and would probably vouch for that.  To be fair though, none of those games involved ranking up figures in this manner so I could have bitten off a shit sandwich!

However, there is one thing I do know.....I have never paint stripped a figure, and VERY rarely recycled one, I’m a little anal that way and it takes me toooo long to paint figures....one they are based....I think they will stay based 😏

Thanks for the encouragement though and thanks for the debate, it has definitely helped me open my eyes to other ways of doing things.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: olicana on October 04, 2019, 08:05:20 AM
Quote
However, there is one thing I do know.....I have never paint stripped a figure,

Me neither, if I paint figures they stay painted. If I no longer need the figures, I sell them to buy more new clean ones.

Re-basing, on the other hand is something I have done. I've re-based my Italian Wars collection twice now (now all on 45 wides), re-based my SYW once (when I upgraded all of the 16 man infantry units to 24s - about 70 units of them - and shifted all 140+ units onto 45 wides) and sometimes think about re-basing my 2nd Punic War collection onto smaller bases (currently on 60 wides) to do To The Strongest games on a smaller grid - but, that's another big collection
(2000+ figures) and it feels like a very daunting undertaking.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 04, 2019, 11:08:43 AM
How do you base yours?  I cover mine in a layer of pva and sand.  A bit of a bugger to cut them out, especially with most being plastic.  Metal would be a little easier I feel.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: olicana on October 06, 2019, 01:52:24 PM
These days I base on 2mm MDF. PVA glue textured with a mixture of sand and various grits (including the marvellous man made pink cat litter from tescos, which looks like small rocks).

All done in a similar manner to this:

https://olicanalad.blogspot.com/2013/07/how-i-base-15mm-for-western-desert.html (https://olicanalad.blogspot.com/2013/07/how-i-base-15mm-for-western-desert.html)

All mine are metal. The thing that puts me off re-basing my Punic Wars stuff is that it's all based on 4 mm plywood and I can't remember how I glued the figures down. That, and there are this many -

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mwFfQDyGRDE/T2TshZOOsAI/AAAAAAAAEA0/ppmuIdS7lt0/s640/IMG_6205.JPG)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 06, 2019, 02:49:39 PM
Yup....that would give anyone pause for thought! 🤔
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 20, 2019, 03:19:20 PM
WOOOOHOOOOOO!

Happy as a pig in muck!  💩🐷💩

I thought I’d lost this model in the move but I just found it whilst combing boxes for something else!

At least I don’t have to pay nearly £359 to replace it......very disappointing to see Grand Manner ONLY selling painted models.....what the hell is that about?!!!   His painting may be ok, but I think it a little...arrogant.....not to let people paint their own? 

Anyway, my painting may not be to his standard but I’m glad not to have to bankrupt myself first!  Saying that, I won’t be able to afford to add to it 😕

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/4F5DAC9C-6B1A-416E-A9B1-06B91AE71D83.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: has.been on October 20, 2019, 07:21:40 PM
There are other Mediterranean buildings available, & that ignores scratch building.
Both well less than £359.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on October 20, 2019, 07:43:31 PM
It's a nice piece, if you paint that next it will give me a chance to catch up with some units....
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on October 20, 2019, 08:15:50 PM
Really?  You are better asking me to paint infantry......a building is only one maybe two nights work.....a unit of infantry nearly a month! Lol

I’m sure he knows his business model but he can’t be selling many....
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on December 25, 2019, 03:37:21 PM
Taking a little break as I work on my jungle, but Xmas brings me three boxes of the new Perry French Infantry.  Not sure if the mounted colonel is unique to buying three boxes or an earlier model, none the less a welcome addition.  First impression on the boxes....hugely detailed and varied painting / uniform plates....I owe one to Vodkafan....and lots of detailed prices. 

BUT....I wasn’t expecting so much flash!   It’s the annoying type...fine flash on fine pieces....difficult to scrape off.   Going to take an age to build them!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on December 26, 2019, 03:37:56 PM


BUT....I wasn’t expecting so much flash!   It’s the annoying type...fine flash on fine pieces....difficult to scrape off.   Going to take an age to build them!

That's Ok, take your time!  ;)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on April 06, 2020, 05:50:11 PM
So the big lockdown.......must be an opportunity to tackle something towards my army.....just what....?

I really am torn between a cavalry unit (I’d love to get my polish lancers done) vs some infantry....which I desperately need to get on with.

I have the summer to work on these and I have lots of other projects to tackle....but it would be nice to make some inroads here.....
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Sparrow on April 06, 2020, 06:04:22 PM
Go lancers... treat yourself!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: has.been on April 07, 2020, 09:14:06 AM
I'm with Sparrow on this. Lancers!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on April 07, 2020, 09:43:50 PM
Be scientific...flip a coin!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on April 07, 2020, 09:59:15 PM
Been thinking......yes I’d love to paint the lancers, indeed the main reason I based these on the forces at Albuera, however....I’m nervous that if I paint them now, I lose any impetus to keep going with the rest of the forces as the lancers will be the pinnacle.

I think I may be better off doing some infantry....
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Sparrow on April 08, 2020, 05:08:32 AM
But that’s sensible , pragmatic and logical! Call yourself a wargamer ?  lol

(Whatever you turn your hands to, I know they’ll be great  ;) )
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: has.been on April 08, 2020, 07:01:25 AM
Nice call Sparrow!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on April 08, 2020, 08:06:22 AM
Ok, infantry it is, what footsloggers do you have to choose from?
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on April 08, 2020, 08:22:34 AM
Well...if I do a block of light infantry, it will finish my first brigade......or I can do the command stands for two blocks.....then I have impetus to to the light infantry to do the first AND the command to start a fourth thereafter.  Maybe TOO sensible?
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on April 08, 2020, 11:37:56 PM
Command stands would be fun to do and as you say you would be starting into the second brigade. Less likely you would stop.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on April 09, 2020, 02:45:17 PM
Yup.  Spent the last couple of hours sorting and deciding what to do.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/AE40FF54-4968-4C51-8EFD-A90FF11492AB.jpeg)

Here we go then....in the foreground, command for the 103rd line.  To the left, command for the 28 light infantry.  Both units from the second brigade, 2nd division.

I realised I already had a quarter almost painted line infantry as you can see in the box.  These are Perry, which I intend mixing with the Warlord.

My thinking is thus.....hit and finish the 103rd quickly after doing the Command bases.   Easy win.  Whilst I’m starting, I can simply paint a couple of light infantry to finish the command stand.   I can then paint the balance of the largest light infantry unit in the division.

May take me a few months but there is no hurry now.

Then, all I will have is the small light infantry unit and a pair of guns to finish my first infantry division......


Whilst going through my minis.....I have two regiments of dragoon’s built readdy to paint and a large unit of Chasseurs.   Perhaps after this division, I should concentrate on those.....?

Anyway...at least I have a plan and right now, some intent.    Let’s see if I can muster a little mojo....
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on April 09, 2020, 04:33:45 PM
I had better get on with mine....first battalion of British has been started, but I got sidetracked...
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on April 10, 2020, 11:38:33 AM
Indeed...now would be a good time!

So, woke this am feeling industrious.  First thing I have done, is to finish basing my markers.   I will make a few more cavalry ones, but for now I’ve run out of 50mm renedra bases.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/9E516EFC-7D33-47B7-B6DC-02636F3069C9.jpeg)

I may even paint a few along side the next paint run.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on April 10, 2020, 01:45:04 PM
I like those a lot Digits!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on April 10, 2020, 02:27:36 PM
You have to hunt around to get variety.  But there are many British dead on some of my French sprues if you want a few?
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on April 10, 2020, 05:12:35 PM
 Ahead of you sir. I did a round up of what's out there only last week for British casualties and found quite a few, surprisingly. Front Rank, Perry's, Redoubt and Britannia. And I think Trent?
For the French, Old Glory do whole packs of casualties, but not British.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: vodkafan on April 10, 2020, 05:24:43 PM
I will take you up on that kind offer though if you have spares!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Roo on April 10, 2020, 05:37:33 PM
Offensive miniatures have some nice casualty options as well in their Nappies range
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on April 10, 2020, 06:35:02 PM
Yup, the cannon is offensive minis plus a few other bits. 

No worries James, will sort a few out.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - 1st painted Infantry!
Post by: Digits on April 11, 2020, 04:06:57 PM
Ok, two command stands painting underway...

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/D109212A-68CD-4537-B58F-07DD83CF50F4.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2020, 12:06:08 PM
Another dry sunny day in the garden....painting progresses!  At this rate I may even get these command bases finished today! Perhaps.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/76BAF484-A327-4A02-874C-87BB2A5BB544.jpeg)

To stop myself going completely potty, I have also decided I will get the missing horses for the 17th Dragoon’s finished and based.   After I’ve painted the infantry, I intend to paint the riders which will give me a completed 3rd Heavy cavalry Brigade.

I find painting horses themselves quite cathartic (not sure about the riders)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/F1BA3825-F579-4B7F-9D9A-D2362952760B.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Scrubber on April 12, 2020, 02:06:10 PM
What scatter are you using on your bases.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2020, 02:44:37 PM
Painted sand and winter tuft.  I need to re a quaint myself what colours I paint it....


Found it.


Sand, painted with Steel Legion, Dry brushed Ushabti bone.  The odd Winter tuft added.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2020, 03:26:25 PM
Need basing....but first stand is painted!  However....I just realised something....I was painting 82nd in my head, hence green cuffs.....but 103rd was crimson! Dimwit!  I will have to sort that out later.....I’m just happy to be painting! Lol

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/EC650EF8-5FFB-43A6-8D9E-9AC1AA41551F.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2020, 05:04:48 PM
And light infantry!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/DA9A3BDE-0FDE-4F45-9C4B-397EEE0C9FC2.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: vodkafan on April 12, 2020, 08:26:32 PM
As De Caprio's character says in "The Quick And The Dead": "Damn that was fast......"
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: has.been on April 13, 2020, 07:11:37 AM
When you & Vodkafan have your big Napoleonic battle, can I play?
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 13, 2020, 09:37:27 AM
Of course....may be a while yet mind!

I’m loving the fact I have two British armies converging on me, with Colonel’s Vodkafan and Scrubber (insert proper names and titles gents)  building arms against me.   Going to have to up my game.

I lost the war of escalation against Brian’s Austrians, I do not want a repeat against the Anglo / Portugese. 

Saying that, if I recall, the Austrians are all infantry.....mmmmm.....another Dragoon regiment and a pair of infantry units may be enough to give them a bloody nose....

Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: vodkafan on April 13, 2020, 10:09:57 AM
Which units is Colonel Scrubber doing?
 Mine is the 2nd Brigade of the Light Division

If I remember right:
 
2/95th Rifles
1/52nd Light Infantry
1/17th
2/17th Portuguese Line
1st Cazadores
16th Light Dragoons
Ross' Battery RHA

I picked that as the best mix of uniforms in one formation
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 13, 2020, 10:11:53 AM
Not sure, I’m fairly certain it will contain highlanders mind!

So, what is you force commanders name and rank please?  And will we see updates in a thread here?

Oh, and I suspect you may need more horse!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: vodkafan on April 13, 2020, 10:21:32 AM
I will certainly update with photos when I build up a head of steam. More horse you say? I will look into seeing what cavalry Wellington had in the Peninsular. Maybe some Spanish or Portuguese horse might be colourful.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 13, 2020, 10:23:20 AM
Certainly Spanish horse could be a little colourful and interesting to do I agree.

So currently working on the Dragoon horses.  Whilst at it, I realised I still need to paint four more for the 20th Dragoon’s which are also built.  A regular sized unit that will sit alongside my Lancers in good time.  May as well do those at the same time.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: has.been on April 13, 2020, 05:14:48 PM
I seem to recall that Wellington, (Still Wellesley at the time),
agreed to accept the Scots Greys for the Peninsular only
because they came with horses. He was very short of mounts.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 13, 2020, 05:27:29 PM
I didn’t think they were in the Peninsular at all....garrisoned in Ireland and Scotland I believe.  Though heavy cavalry played little or no part in the early peninsular campaign (I think there may have been some at Talavera 1809, heavy dragoon’s / dragoon guards arrived 1811/12 I think and were certainly in numbers at Salamanca.

So yes, Dragoon’s / life guards would be an option, though I like the idea of more colourful Spaniards.  A regiment of each then!
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: has.been on April 13, 2020, 05:44:31 PM
You are probably right Digits.
Some very nice 28mm Spanish Cavalry figures out there.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 13, 2020, 05:58:25 PM
The 5th Dragoon Guards...under Le  Marchant would be a fine unit to collect.
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - More horses
Post by: Digits on April 14, 2020, 03:16:07 PM
Just got to paint the bases (and riders!).  Half of these were already painted earlier in the thread, but I butchered the units and had to do as many again to get back to the two regiments here.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/DA515BD5-83B7-42BF-9B19-EFBBFF0E0790.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Ray Rivers on April 14, 2020, 04:39:38 PM
Need basing....but first stand is painted!

You do realize this thread started June 07, 2015?  :o  lol

Anyway, its a good read and am happy you are making progress.

... I love those pink Dragoons!  :-*

And the infantry are turning out a treat!  ;D
Title: Re: Digits builds Napoleonic French Army - painting two more infantry units...
Post by: Digits on April 14, 2020, 05:45:18 PM
You do realize this thread started June 07, 2015?  :o  lol


It’s a little hare and tortoise I will give you that!  :?  Ok, I've changed the name.....that may help..lol

It’s taken a major illness to kickstart me again...bizarrely I’ve more Nappy mojo than I’ve ever had right now!  Expect a few finished units in the next month or so.

Thanks however, glad you like them.  Especially the pink Dragoon’s......exactly what the next cavalry unit is too!  That will finish a heavy cavalry brigade.
Title: Re: The slowly escalating Napoleonic forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux.
Post by: Digits on April 15, 2020, 11:33:45 AM
So easily distracted!  Rest assured, infantry unit straight after theses fellows.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/4406F6C1-7369-4CA7-8E82-063D6BC9F2C3.jpeg)

So, I’d already painted the 14th, a nice pink regiment (in background for reference).  Having finished the bases (tufts to finish after varnishing) and chatting about the painted guys, I decided to paint the 17th next.  I had decided on brigading these two units, both having served in the Peninsular in my time frame before realising they both had pink facings.  With the exception of the pockets, one vertical, one horizontal (which I can’t see on the model anyway!), they seem to have had identical cuffs, turn backs and collars!

Don’t get me wrong, I think together they would look good on the table, but I need something to distinguish them.  I can’t find any reference but I think I will reverse the buglers jacket on this one.  For the previous unit, I used green with pink piping, for this, I think pink with green piping.

Plus, if I get these done, having also painted the horse battery, I will have my first finished Brigade!

Anyway, let’s see how long these take me before I can get back to the infantry.  I’m aiming for the end of the weekend......with luck!

Title: Re: Escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux - Dragoons
Post by: Digits on April 17, 2020, 12:06:33 PM
Arrrrgggghhhh!

So, I’ve actually gone at a pace unheard of for me and all I’m left with is the white straps to do on these fellas.  Hell, I’ve even managed to paint a third infantry command stand (light infantry from the first brigade so that will be the command for every unit in that division).  I should have everything finished today.  Three days, I thought it would take five.

However, having just sat in the garden painting the slung muskets and swords.....my wife has just handed me a mangled figure that must have dropped off my figure tray last night when I went to bed.  Someone must have stood on it because the scabbard is damaged and the sword snapped.  Not sure how I missed it when painting.    So, I have to cut off the broken sword arm and replace it, (the scabbard will hide between two horses so won’t me visible) and then paint all the bits I did this am.

Don’t you just hate it when something stupid like that happens?!


Anyway, should be aiming for a finish later today....dog willing.
Title: Re: Escalating forces of Marshal Frederick du Pied Douteux - Dragoons
Post by: Digits on April 17, 2020, 05:34:49 PM
Et voila!

My second regiment of Dragoon’s, finishing the third heavy Brigade! 

Don’t know WHERE my mojo of the last three days has come from but I wish I could harness it!  Tufts will have to wait as I’ve run out.   Really chuffed with these...better than the first regiment I painted.  I may need to revisit them....

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/D0DC9839-CABF-4DD1-9F5D-52CACC0DA769.jpeg)


And the third command stand as described above.  Regular sized regiment hence the 40 x 40 stand.  Will base with the troops.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/5F4C9C44-F5BC-4A34-9D2E-D9929A1F4D8B.jpeg)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Dragoons Finished!
Post by: valleyboy on April 17, 2020, 08:22:08 PM
Those are lovely -Very well done indeed
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Dragoons Finished!
Post by: Ray Rivers on April 17, 2020, 09:02:15 PM
Love the Dragoons!

Quick story: When I was around 16 I was going through the library's history section and pulled out this book about the Napoleonic Wars. On the front cover was a wonderful painting of a mounted French Dragoon. The book was very well illustrated with color paintings and I could hardly believe that these folks wore such beautiful uniforms into battle.

The next thing I know, I had stopped model making and was painting 54mm Historex miniatures. And so started a hobby I have continued till today...

Keep up the great work, Digits.
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Dragoons Finished!
Post by: Sparrow on April 18, 2020, 04:55:56 AM
Well done Digits
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Dragoons Finished!
Post by: Digits on April 18, 2020, 09:53:36 AM
Aww cheers fellas!

Ray, similar experience, I was fascinated by the pomp of the French Army.  Always wanted to collect one, but I don’t normally have the patience to sit and paint...I prefer to model.  However, I’m not that active on Ammobunker anymore, where I did 95% of my modelling and conversion.  Having a large army is something I can now concentrate on.  This thread has been going a while I know....but reflects where I was and where I am now I think.  It will be great to get a game in soon.....even a small one.

Ok, so now to concentrate on infantry for a bit.   First up, I got up this am and made this progress.  These will be a regular sized light infantry unit to go with that last command stand......I have sped up a little, and may even try to get these done by tomorrow night!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/46BB40E8-4FFA-471A-83EA-44CF97971FAD.jpeg)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Dragoons AND Infantry Finished!
Post by: Digits on April 18, 2020, 06:21:15 PM
OK....something hinky happened.....apparently I was abducted by aliens in my sleep, injected with super human painting hormones and put back to bed.....

Five years it has taken me to get this little far....five years.

And yes, I painted the command stand whilst painting the Dragoons ( which only took me three days) but I have effectively just painted a regiment in ONE DAY!    Woohoo! WTF?!
They need basing but I am stoked!  And it finishes my first infantry brigade!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/C371B40A-7292-4F29-8DA2-21126DEB88EE.jpeg)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Dragoons AND Infantry Finished!
Post by: vodkafan on April 18, 2020, 06:49:43 PM
Holy Moley  :o
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Dragoons AND Infantry Finished!
Post by: Ray Rivers on April 18, 2020, 07:22:15 PM
OK....something hinky happened.....apparently I was abducted by aliens in my sleep, injected with super human painting hormones and put back to bed.....

Ahhh... that would explain it!  :D

Well done, they look great.  :-*

And they will look even more so when you have finished the basing. Your basing style is really very compatible with massed troops!
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Dragoons AND Infantry Finished!
Post by: Digits on April 18, 2020, 11:33:32 PM
Cheers for saying so!

So....I’m going for gold!  I’m back to work....be it from home on Monday.  Work have been good to me, giving me time to recover from Covid but I need to get back to it.  However, I’m on a roll and it’s a shame not to capitalise on this otherworldly gift I have been given.

As such, I’m going to try for ANOTHER regiment by tomorrow night!

I have just spent the last three hours getting a head start on a bunch of figures.   I will be using up about 10 minis that are about 60% done (have been for about 5 years  :-X )
But that still leaves another 20 from scratch plus the command stand I painted earlier in the week.  This is a larger unit of 36 than the one I did today.

I kind of feel that if I don’t do this....it may be a while before I ever have this mojo again.

I can definitely recommend painting your command bases first....way less stress.  Saying that, I do have to paint a sapper for this lot.



Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Dragoons AND Infantry Finished!
Post by: vodkafan on April 19, 2020, 12:51:42 AM
Go for it! You are a machine  :o
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Suddenly MOJO!
Post by: Warboss Nick on April 19, 2020, 08:33:43 AM
Good to hear you have recovered from Covid and see your excellent painting progress! Sometimes it just all comes together. 5 years on 60% and boom! you finish miniatures and units fast. Keep em coming!
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Suddenly MOJO!
Post by: Digits on April 19, 2020, 07:41:25 PM
Cheers bud.

Well....had to get this pick before the light failed altogether.......just about there!

All that’s left is to fill that gap on the Grenadier base....I’m going to paint the Sapper now.

I will take better pics in the daylight tomorrow.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/8DE8B4E3-824D-4367-A225-7A4F1413E7B2.jpeg)

I’m completely stumped.  When I painted my first two battalions, it took me two months.  I have painted the next two in two days!  Go figure....

Ok, my painting is a reasonable tabletop standard and won’t win prizes, but I love them!

I’m sad now that I’m back to work tomorrow, I really want to crack on with another unit.

Not sure what to do next.   I had a fish about and scrambled together enough unpainted figures to paint two more regiments of foot before I need to buy more.  One more unit would finish my first division (bar the attached battery)

I have horses painted for another Dragoon unit.

I have my first Chasseurs a cheval unit built and primed.

And I want to paint some artillery.

Too many choices.
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Progress.
Post by: vodkafan on April 19, 2020, 08:09:01 PM
Digits well done that's fantastic work. I would paint the artillery unit as it would be a quick one but as you seem to be in an infantry phase if you feel you can steamroller into another foot unit maybe you should just carry on....at any rate I am very impressed.
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Progress.
Post by: Digits on April 19, 2020, 08:16:30 PM
Cheers mate.  How is yours coming on?  Did you get any painting done today?

Not sure about the arty.....4 guns plus 16 crew....maybe.....

Anyway...time for a progress update.....5 years, last update 13%

Last five days.....pushed to 23%!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/6B8294A6-FAE5-4025-ADC3-60DAA947EE43.png)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Suddenly MOJO!
Post by: Ray Rivers on April 19, 2020, 08:28:00 PM
Ok, my painting is a reasonable tabletop standard and won’t win prizes, but I love them!

Nothing wrong with that!

You know when you have 6 minis on a tabletop those minis are going to get close scrutiny. Now... if you have 600 on a tabletop, that is a whole different ballgame. When I was much younger I was heavily into mass battles (ACW, Napoleonic and Ancients) and when you set up 3 Corps per side (15mm) on a ping pong table the first thing you do is step back and breath the atmosphere!  ;D

You're doing great, mate. And your troops look superb and eager to be commanded!  :-*
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Progress.
Post by: Digits on April 19, 2020, 08:31:38 PM
Thanks for the encouragement Ray, much appreciated.
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Progress.
Post by: vodkafan on April 19, 2020, 09:33:31 PM
Cheers mate.  How is yours coming on?  Did you get any painting done today?

Not sure about the arty.....4 guns plus 16 crew....maybe.....

Anyway...time for a progress update.....5 years, last update 13%

Last five days.....pushed to 23%!



Was ill last night (existing chronic condition, not the virus) and had hardly any sleep. Attempted a bit of painting this morning but no good. Hopefully couple of hours in tomorrow.
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Progress.
Post by: Digits on April 20, 2020, 01:15:27 PM
Hope you feel better mate.

So, I decided as I’m in infantry mode and I’d like to get this division done and the command stand is painted, I will crack on and paint one more foot regiment before moving to something else.

Progress will slow now I’m back working so I’m sure won’t be finished until the weekend.  That’s still an improvement on where I was before!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/AE0626C4-92AA-42DD-84BA-BF6F2EED706E.jpeg)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: Digits on April 21, 2020, 11:11:06 AM
Yup...definitely slower now!

Did get the great coats painted last night but that’s it.

However, as I’m now determined to finish my first infantry division, I will need to do a battery of artillery too.....so sat last night and flashed / prepped crew for a couple of batteries.  They will be painted after this regiment.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/EA61DCB9-4565-4854-8F76-1CC8D65E4ED7.jpeg)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: Ray Rivers on April 21, 2020, 04:02:46 PM
Cmon get the lead out!

You're going to need at least 3 divisions to form a Corps!  ;)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: has.been on April 21, 2020, 04:39:27 PM
Well then I have a Corp!    (With an awful lot of deserters)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: Digits on April 21, 2020, 04:52:36 PM
Give us a chance! Lol

Actually, I am so stoked right now, I have just added a Swiss Regiment into my order of battle, placing them in the “German Division”.  Just pushed my target out a little.

I’m also tempted to add in some Gendarmes as I may be facing a few Spanish guerrillas....but I REALLY like the the Perry Gendarmes Elite in Bearskins.....maybe not authentic for the Penindular....but I want a few....maybe small unit of six....

Meanwhile just been correcting a detail on the first regiment so here are the two units together.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/69102586-C447-4014-B3BA-5D877685C96C.jpeg)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: vodkafan on April 21, 2020, 06:40:57 PM
A wonderful sight Digits....such a shame they will all have to die on the field of battle  lol
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: Digits on April 21, 2020, 06:50:17 PM
Does this mean there is an approaching British army?  ;)
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: vodkafan on April 21, 2020, 08:16:36 PM
It's approaching from very very far away and will take a while to get there  lol
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: Digits on April 22, 2020, 03:52:55 PM
Received the “Clash of Eagles” today, Black Powder supplement.  I bought it principally for the stats regarding Austrians for when I meet the fondue eating fellas but of a quick glance through the book, I have to say I am blown away by the gorgeous photographs of exquisitely painted and colourful miniatures pictures.....WOW!  I could be in serious danger of getting distracted into collecting numerous other armies if I’m not careful.

Will enjoy looking at it in more depth.
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: has.been on April 22, 2020, 04:02:02 PM
Dave, you mean distracted from:-
The Peninsular, Ultra Modern, Large trees, 3D Printing, Western Gunfights, Pirates ...
Need I go on?
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: Digits on April 22, 2020, 05:04:36 PM
I don’t get your point....?

Variety IS the spice of life.   You forgot a few projects there too.

Yes, I jump about a bit, then I spend a fair amount of time on one or two projects to get them playable.

Right now....I can actually see myself finally playing with a Napoleonic army.  I’m not actually far off a small engagement now, certainly not once I paint the next few infantry units.  Took me five years to get here mind but right now, I’m in the zone.

Oh, and probably your fault....but I have a few pirates sat on my paint tray alongside the naps....


Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: has.been on April 22, 2020, 06:23:46 PM
Enjoy.
Dave & I will provide opposition to your French, as long as...
it is a thinly disguised 'Thermopylae' scenario but with no hidden pass.
It would be our only chance, some might say. 'One in three hundred'.
Title: Re: An escalating Peninsular French Army - Finishing my first division!
Post by: Digits on April 25, 2020, 05:28:44 PM
So, I’m about 60% though the next unit...36 light infantry and I’m hoping they will be finished tomorrow.

Whilst at it, I decided to paint a few screening voltigeurs.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/AA9D9D2F-19F3-442C-967C-2B1A3EF66D23.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Screening Voltigeurs
Post by: Warboss Nick on April 26, 2020, 09:01:19 AM
Always good to see you making progress, monsieur.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Screening Voltigeurs
Post by: DintheDin on April 26, 2020, 09:17:17 AM
Coming out very nice!
And I like the pink of your French Dragoons!
Keep up the good job(s)!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Screening Voltigeurs
Post by: SABOT on April 26, 2020, 11:41:25 AM
Smartly turned out.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: Digits on April 26, 2020, 03:17:59 PM
Cheers guys, appreciate any feedback!

Well...another one done!

This 36 figure light infantry unit is the last in this division.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/54208E09-1295-4989-8C34-C21629164FF5.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/AEE10209-CBC5-4752-801D-EFD9B868BE1D.jpeg)

I have a bit of basing to get through now though!

If you tot these up, add in the Dragoons and a pair of pirate minis....I have painted a grand total of 120 miniatures in the last fortnight!  To put that into perspective, though there are MANY quick and excellent painters on here saying “so what?”, that’s more minis than I’ve painted in the last two years!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/A475CB41-4C6B-4E9A-B824-1D8F1105003F.jpeg)

Artillery next......
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: DintheDin on April 26, 2020, 03:32:58 PM
They already look great, when properly based they will be a superb unit! Cheers!
Being prolific in this period of confinement is an asset!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: has.been on April 26, 2020, 03:48:45 PM
Are they now six figures a base? I thought you were doing four figures on 40 x 40mm.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: Digits on April 26, 2020, 04:03:34 PM
You didn’t read my message last night about basing then?  ;)

Regular units are as you say 24 figures on 40 x 40 bases (the unit at the back) I have tackled two larger units at 36 minis in the foreground, bases of 6mins on 40 x 45 base.

Cheers Din...yes it’s a shame I’m working again otherwise I reckon I could have done at least one more regiment!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: Bloggard on April 26, 2020, 04:10:35 PM
fantastic output and quality. well done.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: Warboss Nick on April 26, 2020, 05:39:50 PM
Excellent progress! A lot of people struggle to paint 120 miniatures in one year, let alone in a fortnight.

So you have a whole infantry division painted? Any chance of a parade shot once the basing is done?
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: Ray Rivers on April 26, 2020, 05:45:29 PM
2 more divisions for a Corp.

Think of all that extra Cavalry you get?  ;)
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: vodkafan on April 26, 2020, 06:04:55 PM
Digits that is an outstanding achievement  :o
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: Digits on April 27, 2020, 10:38:07 AM
Cheers guys.  My division as you can see from my force org is only two brigades.

Realised right now I have enough warlord French in great coats for another three units.  I will most likely add another couple of boxes but I am thinking it’s time to paint something more colourful.  I have some of the new Perry boxes.  I may do a Swiss unit out of greatcoat sometime soon.

As I said though, probably artillery next.  After that, I have the horses painted for my red Dragoons......I may go at those to get them done.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: has.been on April 27, 2020, 12:47:12 PM
You is a painting MACHINE!!!!!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - 120 minis in under two weeks!
Post by: SABOT on April 27, 2020, 01:42:22 PM
They are looking terrific. 👍👍
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: Digits on April 28, 2020, 12:38:42 PM
Thank you.

I have been rethinking the organisation of my target force just a tad.

I’m not hung up on correct battalion numbers as this is a fantasy force, with the French loosely based on that of Albuera.  However, I realised my divisions were a little light weight and needed at leat another unit adding.  By unit, until now I meant regiment but I want to add a little variation into the flags.  I decided therefore to add a second battalion to a few regiments (typically those at Albuera that fielded three battalions as opposed two) so I can add a few fanions.  Now I have six “battalions” per division.  Looks more realistic. 

Ok, I’ve stupidly increased my figure target and it means I still need one more unit to finish my first division (as well as guns)!   Whilst reading, I also realise I can add a few Grenadier a Cheval during my timeframe.....so a unit has been added to my reserve and I have moved the Chasseurs out of reserve and into the first Brigade of the cavalry division.

Anyway, a brief update then....

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/FE27CEDC-0ED9-4226-B5D4-66A499674579.png)
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: Ray Rivers on April 28, 2020, 03:12:27 PM
Whilst reading, I also realise I can add a few Grenadier a Cheval during my timeframe

Ah! The Greadiners à Cheval!

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f0/Guard_Grenadier_at_Eylau.jpg/600px-Guard_Grenadier_at_Eylau.jpg)

Love that painting... They can be a bit tricky though as they are suppose to ride black war horses.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: Digits on April 28, 2020, 04:56:28 PM
Luckily “black” when it comes to horses for me can mean very dark brown though jet black.  Never mind that they may have struggled to source replacement mounts of a suitable colour in Spain.    I will certainly put them on dark mounts.

But they are a little way off yet.  Going to spend the next few hours starting the coats on the new battalion (luckily only a regular sized unit) and the blue on the artillery crews.   

After that....paint the red Dragoons and build the Swiss 4th.....be good to pop some colour on the table!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: Digits on April 29, 2020, 02:18:20 PM
Last nights progress!

New battalion coated

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/2BC9F612-E937-44F7-B4F1-05ACC3E5778F.jpeg)

Artillery crew feeling blue

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/01874C3D-6139-44A0-B2A4-6DB9929DF7ED.jpeg)

Not sure why I’m doing them both together, but striking whilst the mojo is still flowing!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: DintheDin on April 29, 2020, 03:18:45 PM
I'm following your project with great interest!
Keep up the good job!!!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: Digits on April 29, 2020, 05:57:17 PM
Going to have to mate! Cheers for the support.

It now looks as though I have three emerging adversaries.  The Spaniards have thrown their hat into the ring, joining up with the British / Portuguese.  May soon actually get to play a game!

Nothing like a little escalation.

(Saying that, I lost it big time against the fast growing Austrians at the start of this campaign....I need to make up for it now.... )



*Edit*


Also, digging through my garage, I found some boxes of Perry infantry at the charge in great coats! 

I could do a large regiment with them but I decided a regular would look fine, plus, it means I have four elites spare minis which can be add to my box of skirmishers to be painted (now 16 figures) , they will mix nicely to bolster them.  Should make a change to paint a more animated great coat unit.




*Double Edit*

Plus, I found I only had six remaining unbuilt Dragoons for what will be the fourth and final unit of Dragoons...the yellow ones.   What I did notice was I had a lot of spare bearskin heads so I decided to build this unit as the elite company...for no other reason than they will add a dash of variation to the cavalry.   I could upgrade them to elite if I pay the points too.  I put these six minis together.

I will however need to buy a couple of sprues to make the unit up to twelve.

Also, I will need to green stuff the shoulder epaulettes onto a lot of the minis.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: vodkafan on May 01, 2020, 09:47:35 AM
Not that I have done it a lot yet myself, but there is a lot of satisfaction from putting together units from left over scraps, I tend to get attached to those and enjoy playing them more in a game.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: Digits on May 01, 2020, 09:55:47 AM
Very true...though tbh I’m getting immense pleasure working through the pile of minis I bought five years or so back!  Actually seeing them painted is great.

I have to watch I don’t over phase myself though.....I’m thinking ahead two / three regiments as to what to paint next!

On my paint tray right now.....5 gun crews, 5 guns, 6 voltigeurs screening, 24 man battalion, divisional commander and aide....and 24 metals to tidy up for the NEXT battalion.

Hmmm.....best not get too carried away!

Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: vodkafan on May 01, 2020, 11:10:11 AM
....best not get too carried away!

 Aux Contraires Mon Ami, Enjoy while it lasts!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - reworking the Order of Battle
Post by: Digits on May 02, 2020, 04:11:22 PM
Not getting carried away lasted ten minutes!

I have now prepped another battalion for painting, only this time Perry Charging in great coats.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/B8130B4C-407C-4CCE-9746-95751C5584CA.jpeg)

Was amused to see on one of the Grenadiers, a squirrel climbing into his back pack having undone the buckles!  I like the humour.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - completed line artillery!
Post by: Digits on May 04, 2020, 08:32:19 PM
That was a slog!  I thought they would be a nice distraction from infantry.....but I can’t WAIT to get back to infantry! Lol

Nearly all different poses means much slower painting.

Still, done now and found enough tufts to base them.

Two and a half batteries for my force org.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/21033C5E-B7E8-4D04-99E4-C9A5DA60AC0E.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/B6539285-BBF7-4492-9254-BE1F85ACBCEB.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/929C9248-59E4-4405-99C5-953D77FD851C.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/814FD210-97DA-433D-9EE0-6BEDECCA2151.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - completed line artillery!
Post by: Digits on May 05, 2020, 01:00:38 PM
So...onwards.   Just received note to tell me my Fanions have been posted so I need to get this battalion done, the last unit in the revised Division.  After that, I have a couple of staff officers to paint. 

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/7A03CF59-2B19-469E-B8EA-FEFAB516AB4E.jpeg)
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - completed line artillery!
Post by: schoey on May 05, 2020, 01:18:04 PM
Very nice artillery.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - completed line artillery!
Post by: has.been on May 05, 2020, 05:11:06 PM
I, and my (when I get it done) tiny Anglo-Spanish 'army' hate you!!!!
Great work by the way.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - completed line artillery!
Post by: Digits on May 06, 2020, 09:43:49 PM
Cheers guys.  Yes, quite chuffed how they turned out tbh.   

As for ze Spaniards....let’s be seeing them!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Division “done”
Post by: Digits on May 08, 2020, 03:29:42 PM
Another unit finished  (lurking at the back without the promised fanion!).  Along with the first two units I painted which are based...that’s the last unit  of this division painted!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/6D4A3E44-D6FB-4000-88EC-5220001ED04A.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/ED21780A-DCDB-4E4D-B74A-D395D59FE1F1.jpeg)

The problem with being this productive during this period of lockdown is that I have knackered my last detail brush, half my paints are either empty or dried up and I can’t finish the varnish as I have run out of dullcote.  I also don’t have many tufts left...especially since doing the artillery bases.

Still, I do have sand and pva....so I need to start basing them now.

Oh, and I have two brigade commanders and a divisional commander now on my paint tray.  If I can find any materials or if by some miracle, the postman delivers what I ordered a couple of weeks back, they should get done this weekend.

With luck, I will pop us a progress group shot in the next week or so.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Division “done”
Post by: DintheDin on May 08, 2020, 04:06:14 PM
It is already an impressive batch of work!!!
Hoping that the postman will knock the door soon!  :)
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Division “done”
Post by: Littlearmies on May 08, 2020, 07:29:08 PM
They look great - the Calpe figures that you have slipped in there look good. The only comment I'd make is that using 15mm per figure frontage for 36 figure battalions, and 20mm for 24 figure battalions kind of screws up your frontages. Having been raised on Charles Grant's rules books this slightly irks me - obviously they are your toys but I'd have thought that a consistent frontage per figure would be better whatever rules you use.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Division “done”
Post by: Digits on May 08, 2020, 08:04:09 PM
Cheers Guys...yes I debated for a long time.  I don’t believe they will screw me up.  Indeed my thinking was simple in the end....limited gaming space and I still get six stands per unit making detaching flanking companies easy.  As I read black powder, it’s not going to be an issue for me.

Cheers for the comment though, much appreciated.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Division “done”
Post by: vodkafan on May 08, 2020, 08:23:48 PM
Hi Digits what size are your artillery bases?
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Division “done”
Post by: Digits on May 08, 2020, 08:46:08 PM
100 x 50 mate.
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Division “done”
Post by: Warboss Nick on May 09, 2020, 07:37:12 AM
Those are some lovely artillery pieces and excellent progress on the infantry. Keep ‘em coming!
Title: Re: Digits’s Peninsular French Army - Division “done”
Post by: olicana on May 09, 2020, 03:52:21 PM
Nice artillery, there.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 11, 2020, 10:40:46 PM
I thank you!

So, why the thread name change?

There will be three (maybe four if my Northern nemesis joins in) of us fighting around the South of Spain.  Looking for a funny sounding Spanish place, I settled on “Venta de Pantalones”, a small town / village in the South.  It also has a river running through it called “Rio Viboras” which translates as “Viper River”!

A shot of the river and land to be fought over....

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/C4B7C5B9-D4AD-4B69-9FDC-F2819C1A5FE1.jpeg)



So, we will fictionalise the area for our battles.  I will write up a proper intro with some atmospheric back story in due course.....

Meanwhile, I have been painting some command figures.  First up, GD. Reynard de Champignon, Divisional commander of the Cavalry Division.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/06385C60-FF0E-4E24-857B-1CEAD7ECA6A6.jpeg)



Also, GD. Bouquet Garni, commander of the Second Division.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/83722592-91B9-4E96-BFFF-8ED2F41C98A3.jpeg)



Still to come....Brigade Commanders...
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: DintheDin on May 12, 2020, 05:34:32 AM
You chose a so picturesque place for battlefield!
Eager to see it in battle!
And the Brigadier's names, exotic  lol
Cheers!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: joroas on May 12, 2020, 07:59:34 AM
Very inspiring! I think the Perrys I bought 5 or 6 years' ago may get painted some time.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: schoey on May 12, 2020, 10:10:21 AM
Lovely pictures, look forward to seeing the battle. Perries do some really nice command figures.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 13, 2020, 12:37:16 AM
Cheers fellas!

A couple more Brigade commanders, “Confit de Canard” and  “Patrice Millefeuilles”

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/1E5F8D1A-F4D6-4FE0-BA5F-6FBE81AF75CB.jpeg)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: DintheDin on May 13, 2020, 07:53:36 AM
Hey! They look great!
Sorry for the intervention, but they really deserve a gros plan!
Cheers!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 13, 2020, 08:16:29 AM
Cheers for that mate!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: vodkafan on May 13, 2020, 10:19:22 AM
I will soon have those strutting Gallic peacocks running for France Monsieur!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Ray Rivers on May 13, 2020, 12:06:42 PM
Nice additions, Digits!

I, and my (when I get it done) tiny Anglo-Spanish 'army' hate you!!!!
Great work by the way.

Remember if you are playing an Anglo-Spanish army versus the French in the Peninsula, you get +2 to every die roll!  ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: DintheDin on May 13, 2020, 12:48:49 PM
Nice additions, Digits!

Remember if you are playing an Anglo-Spanish army versus the French in the Peninsula, you get +2 to every die roll!  ;)

Yes!
You may even ask all the French to be put in a huge 1-man width column and kill all of them at once with one single cannonball  lol
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 13, 2020, 03:04:42 PM
Funny...but I don’t recall seeing either of these Hard and fast  rules when reading the book......maybe someone tore out the pages?
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: has.been on May 13, 2020, 03:31:14 PM
Funny, it is in my copy, that is will be if I buy a copy.
Mind you it might be in a different font, may even look like
crayon, well they don't let me have anything sharp.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 14, 2020, 05:02:13 PM
I shall be watching out for any dodgy looking print!

So, another 6 voltigeurs painted bringing me up to 12.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/805E41B6-A4E4-4A2C-AB99-DB2F77A5E691.jpeg)

An update and a few tweaks. 31% Complete!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/439BE93A-0AC4-4D0F-87CE-DD3B9802AEA6.png)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: DintheDin on May 14, 2020, 05:46:17 PM
An arduous job and a great task!
But I see that you are focused and you progress methodically!
My best wishes for the continuation of your project! Cheers!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 14, 2020, 05:54:35 PM
Cheers fella.   About to finish a regiment of Dragoons ( horses await them) then start on the First division.  Have to strike whilst I have the mojo......
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: DintheDin on May 14, 2020, 06:09:28 PM
You are doing a great job, keep alternating infantry and cavalry units so that you do not possibly get bored!
And keep some elite units towards the end  ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 14, 2020, 08:36:13 PM
Funny but I now quite enjoy the infantry!  I may start mixing between the German Division and the First....I enjoy the great coat French...but I fear the Federation of the Rhine and Germanic units, simply Because of 1) Lots of detail and 2) some of them are white!

I have the lancers and Cuirassiers models, Perry metals, already and waiting....as you say, saving these until I have at least two divisions of infantry painted me thinks.

I also have enough Chasseurs a Cheval for three regiments.  I’d like to tackle one of those, maybe after the next foot regiment.

I have enough plastic great coats, along with a good handful of characterful metal ones to mix in for another three, maybe four units, plus I have three boxes of the new French Perry infantry without coats.  They look a pain to me to put together as there is very fine flash on many of the spruces, but I am determined to build at least two regiments, one probably to be painted as the Swiss.

Of course I need to explain away WHY the French are wearing great coats whilst their foreign allies are without!

It was suggested to me that “The rain in Spain falls mostly on the French”!  But I fear that’s really not a credible reason.  I suppose I shall have to start every battle with the German Division approaching from whatever direction their soaked French allies haven’t!

I am tempted to paint a regiment of maybe Portuguese or one of my other opponents, for no other reason than I would like to learn the rules, and it would be good for my visualisation if nothing else to have opponents for my chaps.  Or I may just paint the Nassau and practice on them as if they had already turned coat!

However, it looks like my first proper British opponents have been given their colours (painted  ;) ) so with luck, and a fair wind, we may see action after this enforced lockdown.  Perhaps I may even have time to build and fortify the town.....
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: DintheDin on May 14, 2020, 08:41:03 PM
“The rain in Spain falls mostly on the French”!  lol
This is a variation of the motto I was not aware of!!!

Perhaps I may even have time to build and fortify the town.....
VERY VERY INTERESTING!

Mixing dull routine with some fewer fancy uniforms may be the best procedure to final glory, methinks.
Cheers!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Zingara on May 14, 2020, 08:44:07 PM
Frenchies have been there longer so the uniforms have fallen apart.  The French ended up heavily into browns (the local cloth) due to attrition on their clothes. Keep up the good work - very impressive. Now all you need is the house big enough to fit the table to fit them all on!! (or do you have that already:-) )
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 14, 2020, 08:55:08 PM
Sadly, having moved to a smaller house than before, no.

But, I have a kitchen island that I am planning a frame to fit over...giving me a reasonable space....but my other plans are an outdoor (admittedly fair weather) arrangement with trestles etc and perhaps gazebo.   I will overcome the problem...

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: vodkafan on May 14, 2020, 10:37:35 PM
I have Regt HQ with a permanent 6 x 4 table, good for our learning games at least, a set up could be left on it...
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: has.been on May 15, 2020, 12:57:11 PM
If I ever clear my table it is 8' x 4' & I have two boards in the garage
which, when placed on top, increase that to 4' 6" x 9' .
Should be big enough for your masses Digits, might even leave a
six inch square for my Spanish.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 15, 2020, 01:07:30 PM
As long as they have an exit point  ;)

Good to know we can play at Both yours and James’s.

I have been looking at my kitchen island.  I reckons a couple of pieces of MDT, and some 2” timber to frame out under it (plus a little felt to stop it damaging said island) and I can create a decent 7‘x 4’ Board.  At a pinch widen it  To 4’ 6” but that will restrict our sitting /standing to three sides, not ideal.  Still, 7x4 shouldn’t be too bad.

I’m tempted too to make specific terrain boards for this as a future modelling project but not getting carried away just yet.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: vodkafan on May 15, 2020, 10:57:59 PM

I’m tempted too to make specific terrain boards for this as a future modelling project but not getting carried away just yet.

Just letting you know I have a 4" thick  8ft x 4ft  block of hard foam I plan to carve into a Peninsular mountain sometime....
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 15, 2020, 11:14:26 PM
Nice!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: has.been on May 16, 2020, 07:27:20 AM
Vodkafan, that is a mountainous task you have set yourself,
by the way I baggsy any off-cuts.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: LazyStudent on May 16, 2020, 09:46:45 PM
Digits, I'd like stop commend you on your protect. It's truly inspirational! The quality and speed you can turn out your latest units is amazing!

But one question on your orbat chart above (sorry if it's mentioned before, I couldn't find the answer) but are the coloured in units the completed ones, or still to do??

Thanks!
LS :)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Digits on May 17, 2020, 08:07:54 AM
Thanks LS!

The colours are more of a “facings guide”.  However, if the name underneath is in red, then that’s painted.  So as you can see, the only infantry painted so far is the second division.

Hopefully, just finishing off a third Dragoon unit today...
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Dragoons
Post by: Digits on May 17, 2020, 03:33:15 PM
4th Dragoons ready for trampling on the British!

GMB flag in the post.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/CB377134-C1D2-4720-9A79-62824AAB8813.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/4B48445D-BA9C-4C1A-8BD7-2015794CA76D.jpeg)

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Dragoons
Post by: DintheDin on May 17, 2020, 03:39:59 PM
Gorgeous as they gallop!
Striking green-red contrast!
Well done!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Dragoons
Post by: Scrubber on May 18, 2020, 02:18:19 PM
Have you looked for gaming mat yet.

Make sense if we get the same. 8x6 game then.

Also what was the name of the company for grass tufts.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Dragoons
Post by: Digits on May 18, 2020, 02:37:29 PM
Army painter, and I use Green Stuff Workd.

As for mats.  Not chosen one yet tbh.  We can discuss.

Also may look as longer term project to build bespoke boards....
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Dragoons
Post by: LazyStudent on May 19, 2020, 11:56:09 AM
Nice looking Dragoons!

And thank you for the hint on how to read your diagram. Not sure how I had managed to miss it before that the names were two different colours!

Have you settled on a way of painting your white uniforms yet?

LS  :)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Dragoons
Post by: Digits on May 20, 2020, 07:53:44 AM
Cheers

Think I am going the gw paints, warmer start (over black, all mine start black) and watered down washes. 

I have ordered from Perry, my Lippe Detmold fellows, part of the 5th Regiment, Confederation of the Rhine to practice on.

I was reading my 1811 Campaign, Bloody Albuera Book and it has a plate for a voltigeur for the 88th in Spain.  I think I will mix in a few regiments into the first division out of coat.  He is in white (and brown pants).
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Dragoons
Post by: vodkafan on May 20, 2020, 07:59:54 AM
Digits I do my white uniforms the following way: Black undercoat - GW Celestra Grey overall - paint highlights GW white (is better than any other white IMO) No washes necessary
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Dragoons
Post by: Digits on May 20, 2020, 08:51:14 AM
Think I will do two or three different schemes on the figures when they arrive, then choose best.  Cheers
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Command Staff
Post by: Littlearmies on May 20, 2020, 03:22:51 PM

Of course I need to explain away WHY the French are wearing great coats whilst their foreign allies are without!


It was quite common for French troops to wear "greatcoats" to keep the dust off their uniforms - I've read that these should be considered more akin to the "dusters" worn by American cowboys than the heavy greatcoat we think of today. Although I'll be honest and admit I can't think of exactly where I read it...
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - moving into the first division!
Post by: Digits on May 24, 2020, 06:08:51 PM
Now I like that reason, thanks!

Time to kick on...first battalion of the next (actually first) division.  A bit more animated this time. 

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/5CC20CA8-AB0E-4506-89C2-DA459AABCB67.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/2CE0846D-A5FB-429E-9EF5-9076F15175B7.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/52E75350-85A2-42B6-96DC-3C6F0437BCBF.jpeg)

As you can see, this time fully based.  Actually, having spent all day sanding five battalions, I will NOT be leaving them to accumulate again!!

On the paint table next, a larger line unit, and I’m also going to paint the first half dozen Chasseurs a cheval to see how they look.

Having sanded the others, I will finish the bases on them too, so I can then put up a proper progress shot.

Now that I have enemies closing in, I need to start knuckling down!  lol
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - moving into the first division!
Post by: DintheDin on May 24, 2020, 06:48:08 PM
Very well chosen action poses! Cheers!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - moving into the first division!
Post by: Digits on May 25, 2020, 04:59:01 PM
Thanks, glad you think so.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - moving into the first division!
Post by: Warboss Nick on May 25, 2020, 09:58:39 PM
Always good to see your progress. Good idea to mix it up with different poses.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on May 26, 2020, 10:21:19 AM
Cheers Nick.  Yes, a little frustrating trying to find great coats in firing line.  I must order another unit like this.

Spent last night painting the horses for the six Chasseurs.  Learned all sorts of words I didn’t know such as valise, manteau and shabraque.....which when thinking about, got me interested.  Nearly all the French horses I come across use the sheepskin shabraque for comfort presumably (and makes for a a comfortable pillow / ground rest no doubt) but surely, if it got rained on, it would hold a lot of water and be particularly uncomfortable to sit on?!  Must have made for a lot of cavalry with soggy breeches!

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: has.been on May 26, 2020, 10:37:49 AM
It is official! Digits admits French Cavalry wet their pants!!!!!
Is it the thought of taking on the Highlanders?
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on May 26, 2020, 10:46:39 AM
Somehow I just KNEW you’d turn this to your advantage....I’m surprised in your set of crayon marked rules there isn’t a -1 on movement for French Cavalry suffering from wet pants in the saddle!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: has.been on May 26, 2020, 01:31:20 PM
Oooooh, great idea Digits. Now where did I leave that crayon?
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on May 28, 2020, 08:22:31 AM
I painted these, my first Chasseurs by way of a test.  There are another ten horses to bring this unit to strength do be done in the near future.  Getting the command out of the way early will make that less arduous!

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/89D9EE6D-927C-4296-A1B2-DD8CA23645CE.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/5F43640D-7D0F-4E67-BFB0-E5FF987852F5.jpeg)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: vodkafan on May 28, 2020, 11:31:43 AM
I like them
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Ray Rivers on May 28, 2020, 11:36:33 AM
Yep... very nice!  :-*
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: LazyStudent on May 28, 2020, 01:09:04 PM
Very nice! Liking the yellow. The trumpeter uniform is particularly nice :D
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: has.been on May 28, 2020, 02:18:41 PM
Yes they are 'nice', but remember... They are French!
(& the more Digits paints the more I have to paint).
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Warboss Nick on May 28, 2020, 04:50:19 PM
Another good work! A bit glossy for my taste, but that might be the lighting.

Always a difficult decision to decide between flag and realism when it comes to (light) cavalry since they usually did not carry them in the fields (or were not supposed to). Looking very flashy with that flag and inverted trumpeter‘s jacket!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on May 28, 2020, 05:06:12 PM
Indeed, I decided to give these guys a flag as I’m using the rather nice officer provided for buying three boxes.  One or two regiments chose to ignore the order to leave it at home apparently.  My other Chasseurs will not have them.  There isn’t a standard in the kit, I had to pinch it from elsewhere.

I avoid using gloss.  All I have on these is testers dullcote.  Must be the sun light and my poor photography skills.

Thanks guys, pleased you like them.

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 10, 2020, 01:42:19 PM
Painted these last week, only just got round to basing last night.

Large battalion from the first Division.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/106E8727-2F61-495F-88CE-33F7D85BA000.jpeg)

Now let’s get the rest of those Chasseurs painted...
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: DintheDin on June 10, 2020, 06:22:23 PM
This big battalion is really impressive! Very well done!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Digits on June 11, 2020, 08:52:29 AM
Glad you like them mate and thanks for commenting.

So, where am I up to?

I know this, had I stuck to the original target I’d be nearly 60% there, but something keeps niggling me to push the target out a bit!

Anyway, just about 40% there, or will be once I paint the rest of the Chasseurs regiment.

Infantry wise, I’m going to finish this current brigade (2nd of the 1st division) before having a go at one of the German Regiments.  I just painted a Scots highland regiment (see my “scenics” thread) to prove to myself I could, and that’s given me a little confidence to have a go at some more colourful metal minis.

https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=124898.0

Not sure where my mojo is coming from, but I have never painted this much before.  I think I’m finding it a little therapeutic, and the more I paint, the MORE I want to paint.  Maybe not the most accurate portrayal of a peninsular army, and certainly not the best brushwork you will come across, but I’m pretty damned happy with what I’ve done so far.  And yes, there are MANY larger armies / collections out there, I’m not trying to match those, but this is an army I have wanted to paint for years....I think I was just scared of it.  It will be nice to get a game or three in with them eventually.

I just got round to basing five unbased  regiments (I was painting them so fast, I didn’t want to stop painting!)  when the sun comes out (bit ropy at the moment) I will take a progress picture.

So, any units with red names are painted.



(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/B0A11D13-B8D2-4082-AB99-72133E6F332C.png)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Bloggard on June 11, 2020, 10:38:14 AM
really great looking units; so much character.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Digits on June 11, 2020, 04:06:58 PM
Thanks mate!

Time to strike a little fear into my opponents!

My solution to Vistula lancers.  Not keen on the idea of the Victrex generics, Perry Dutch /  Red Lancer on plastic light cav horse.  I don’t see enough wrong with the figure to worry me.  The aiguillette on the left shoulder was worn by the elite company I believe so that’s who they are.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/8A35A2F9-2370-424A-879C-A2E7EEBE42B3.jpeg)

Will paint one up as a test....
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: syrinx0 on June 11, 2020, 04:45:24 PM
Quite a few lovely looking units in this thread plus a rather impressive painting force chart.  An impressive output these last few months!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Digits on June 12, 2020, 12:13:33 PM
Thanks for saying so mate.

Ok, a few of the casualty markers painted up.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/37E16A57-0854-42FE-AAA0-D23E425DE9BF.jpeg)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Bloggard on June 13, 2020, 11:24:23 AM
'don't go near the yellow ... dice' !
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: DintheDin on June 13, 2020, 12:37:39 PM
Excellent jobs and blending so well with the table! Congrats!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Digits on June 20, 2020, 05:12:48 PM
I thank you chaps.

Looking at comments in the “dress” thread, it seems great coats are boring! 

Well, even though I’m aiming for a “lived in” campaign dressed army, I do intend to do a few more colourful units.  I am getting to the end of my supply of great coated plastic minis, so there are only two maybe three coated regiments to go.  After that, I intend to have some pre 1812 French units.  I had intended to use the new Perry boxed sets (I bought three) but they are too fine and there is hairline flash on them that is putting me off.  So when funds are freed up, I will be buying a few metals.

Meanwhile, I do have a couple of my German units in boxes.

So, I think I’m going to make a start on the first, my Anhalt battalion, which when paired with the Lippe Infantry battalion, will make up the 5th Rhinebund regiment.  I’m very upset I can’t find a supplier making their flag (big fan of GMB and Warflag) and I don’t have access to the right software or printer to sort my own, so they will remain flagless for a while ☹️ But should add a little pomp you the table, even though I bought them in campaign dress!

So I will start flashing them ready for paint.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/16361E56-F13D-4FA7-85D8-543690D35E85.jpeg)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Ray Rivers on June 20, 2020, 06:38:19 PM
Looking at comments in the “dress” thread, it seems great coats are boring! 

It's your army. The only important person that needs to like it is you.

Painting a battalion of 28mm minis in full dress uniform is a lot of work. When you think about all the piping and buttons, and stuff. It is not an easy task.

That is why all my Napoleonic gaming has been in 15mm.  ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Digits on June 20, 2020, 06:46:44 PM
Oh don’t worry a Ray, I’m aware of that, and anything I paint out of great coat will still be in campaign dress.

I think I’m just surprised so many like to field armies in full dress....counter intuitive to me I think.

And 15mm is too small for these old eyes! Lol
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Ray Rivers on June 20, 2020, 07:53:00 PM
The Old Guard looks really cool with their blue coats!  :)

Ya an old man are ya?

I'm 66 and painting my first 10mm minis.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Digits on June 20, 2020, 08:39:53 PM
Maybe not as old as you...but weathered badly! 😥
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: has.been on June 21, 2020, 10:14:02 AM
Digits, don't let Vodkafan hear you say you are badly weathered.
He will put you in a bucket of Dettol for a week, scrub you &
give you a new paint job!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 21, 2020, 06:50:50 PM
 :D

Meanwhile, I have painted the rest of the Chasseurs I started.  The next regiment is already built and thanks to Roo, I can do a third too now.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/A4845D0F-0048-43B7-9D3D-9AEAB84B9278.jpeg)

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/7C32DAF0-3088-4A8D-987A-964ECB71C329.jpeg)
(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/2E5C5804-6470-4CB0-874D-C7072430A766.jpeg)

And another marker

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/D89044F3-B1F5-4265-912F-C853ABE409B3.jpeg)



Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Wellington Bonaparte on June 21, 2020, 07:29:14 PM
My God they are brave taking on that giant cat!  8)

For someone who professes to not like painting and not being good at it,  your output and painting skills are phenomenal!! Loving this thread :-*
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: DintheDin on June 21, 2020, 08:25:11 PM
My God they are brave taking on that giant cat!  8)

For someone who professes to not like painting and not being good at it,  your output and painting skills are phenomenal!! Loving this thread :-*

 lol
I like both!
Cat and Chasseurs!
Cheers!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 21, 2020, 08:51:59 PM
Ha!  You know, I didn’t even register her in the picture!  That’s Suki, getting on a bit, bit in her day...the ultimate killer!  So yes, my brave little soldiers are indeed staring into the jaws of death!

Wellington, thanks for saying so and Din, I will pass along your regards to Suki!  ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Bloggard on June 22, 2020, 08:19:39 AM
they're looking truly splendid.

and a (bit of) cat in a pic always helps  :)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: DintheDin on June 22, 2020, 08:30:25 AM
Ha!  You know, I didn’t even register her in the picture!  That’s Suki, getting on a bit, bit in her day...the ultimate killer!  So yes, my brave little soldiers are indeed staring into the jaws of death!

Wellington, thanks for saying so and Din, I will pass along your regards to Suki!  ;)

I have a great love for cats and especially wargaming cats  :) I have a picture collection.
Also my (late  :'() cat was showing a great interest for my wargaming table and my paint bottles, stealing them in my absence and rolling over the corridor  lol
-Where is the brown? Ah! It must be under the sofa! 
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 22, 2020, 10:02:07 AM
I will be sure to get more of the cat in another update!  ;)

Quick update on progress chart.  I have slightly reorganised it, tidying up a little and concentrated the “German” units into one brigade.  Looks a bit more balanced to me now and I’ve based everything on units of figures I currently own unpainted, with the exception of a few French line regiments which will be out of coat and the Nassau, which will be from Front Rank.

I have enough painted now (broke 40% - yay!) to start putting some minis on the table to work through the rules but I will need a few more allied troops first so going to do a bit of work in the other thread and add to my lone Scots battalion.

I will in the meantime I will be cleaning up the Anhalt battalion ready for painting.

(https://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/DigitsDavid/1%20Napoleon/A333A44B-D1C5-488E-AA7C-72638E7A1AD0.png)

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Warboss Nick on June 22, 2020, 05:35:59 PM
Good work on those chasseurs! And looking at your updated stat sheet I once more what an astonishing amount of output you have had so far.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: DintheDin on June 22, 2020, 06:04:28 PM
The way you are working so methodically is exceptional!
and I like the names of your generals  ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 25, 2020, 08:47:25 AM
Nick, cheers.  Yes, I’m quite pleased what I’ve achieved since recovering from Covid but going to get a little slower now work is ramping up.  I was at it until 10pm last night so absolutely no “me”time!  :(  Hopefully will get some done this weekend.

Din....don’t know if you remember it, but Val Kilmer did a spoof movie called “Top Secret” many moons ago that has been influencing my take on French names ever since!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Plynkes on June 25, 2020, 09:06:32 AM
The way you are working so methodically is exceptional!
and I like the names of your generals  ;)

You learn something new here everyday. I thought Tarte Tatin was named after the Tatin sisters who invented it. I never realised it was named in honour of an illustrious Napoleonic forbear of theirs.   ;)


(I love Tarte Tatin, me. I have even been to Lamotte-Beuvron, but I never got to go in the Hotel Tatin and try the tarte in its birthplace. My cheapskate friend said it was too expensive in there. I should not have listened to him, I'll probably never get to go there again. Grrr!!! Thumbs up for that reference alone!)

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: caveadsum1471 on June 27, 2020, 11:36:57 AM
Splendid 5 year odyssey! Gives me some hope with my 3 battalions of French line infantry painted 5 years ago and only a unit of dragoons added since (lots primed and ready to go of course!) The general thrust seems to be jump in and get on with it, I will endeavour to do so, thanks for the inspiration!
Best Iain
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 27, 2020, 02:45:54 PM
I wish I could tell you what works.   I certainly don’t advocate contracting Covid before finding your feet!

Only thing I can say is this, build yourself a target force org, like the one above.  Spend a little time researching if that’s your thing, or put a little of yourself into it, add a touch of humour or something that grabs your interest.

You say you have three battalions!  Great, your first brigade is done......do it another brigade at a time....
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Ray Rivers on June 27, 2020, 03:01:15 PM
887 minis done and you are only 41% finished.  :o

Keep up the great work!

I enjoy the hell out of this thread.  :D
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 27, 2020, 04:45:55 PM
Thanks for saying so Ray, but only 367 minis painted so far...887 is my current target!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Ray Rivers on June 27, 2020, 07:07:53 PM
Okay...

Obviously I was confused. Happens to me quite often now a days.  :D

For a minute I thought you had gone crazy but it appears you are quite sane!  ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: has.been on June 28, 2020, 10:07:45 AM
There is nothing I would rather do than paint 887 Napoleonic figures...
So, at the moment, I am... doing nothing. Even when I do get ALL
of my planned Spanish/British done it will only be a fraction of your French.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 28, 2020, 11:08:00 AM
To be honest Peter, I’ve never painted so many figures for an army....EVER.

Even my Drogan 22/23rd Voltigeurs Imperial Guard (40k) took years and I only ended up with about 250 minis (ok, and a lot of tanks I agree)   That was probably my largest project to date before this one.

https://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/398194.page

With that army, I was to be fair, kitbashing every mini Because I wanted something unique but most importantly, it grew organically and gaming escalation played a huge factor in that every game we played, I always wanted to put something new on the table.  My limited experience has been that’s how most people grow their armies.

So, what I’m saying is, building an army BEFORE even playing a few small games is a bit alien (to me anyway) so I can appreciate how daunting it may look trying to build something to compete with.  That’s why I don’t really mind building a few allied units (my second Scots regiment is underway right now) to help get something on the table, and I’m hoping that once we start playing, if it’s fun, you may then start “escalating” your armies to broaden their tactical use and ability to compete unaided, plugging any obvious holes etc...

Don’t allow yourself to be phased by what I’m doing (which is not a lot compared to some of the armies I’ve seen on here!).

Start modestly, let’s get a few small games underway when we can and see where the journey takes us....


Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Ray Rivers on June 28, 2020, 01:58:28 PM
With that army, I was to be fair, kitbashing every mini Because I wanted something unique but most importantly, it grew organically and gaming escalation played a huge factor in that every game we played, I always wanted to put something new on the table.  My limited experience has been that’s how most people grow their armies.

That was my experience. I joined a group of gamers with 0 troops. By the time I left (joined the military) I had a Corps of Yanks and Rebs and a Carthaginian army (all 15mm). I remember how during the week I worked like mad to make a new unit to bring to our Sunday games. With the ACW I was doing both armies; so one week blue bellies and one week Confederates. A number of our members did that and in the end you had both sides. Nothing wrong with that, especially if you recruit a new member to your group. Someone or two needs to have the basic armies and then the task of growing the group and the armies becomes vastly easier.

BTW... Once you have a group of say 4 people you will find that those folks with lots of troops will start to branch out to other eras. In my case, one of our members started building a Republican Roman army and that is how I ended up with a Carthaginian army. By the time I had to leave, we were alternating each week between ACW, Napoleonics and Ancients.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 03, 2021, 01:38:22 PM
Well, about a year since I last visited the Frenchies!

This time last year, getting over Covid was a very productive time, weather was great and sitting painting in the garden convalescing, I don’t think I have ever painted so furiously!

Since then, work, combined with the slow and grinding pace of lockdown, meant my attention span has been pulled in too many silly directions.   I have started more projects, lost interest and started yet more projects than at just about any time in my gaming past!

To be fair, I have done a lot on my WW2 stuff, especially having someone to game it with nearby, but I guess, not so much gaming butterfly as people call it....more gaming moth.....attracted to the next shiny and bright project then singing myself on it!   :'(

Anyway, enough with the silly wound licking.

A brief exchange of texts with Vodkafan about cavalry, and I decided at least to put together and clean up the two regiments (29e Dragoons and Polish Lancers) to complete another heavy brigade.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/486E5939-D16F-42F4-9152-20581F8E2D86.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I won’t get them done quickly I know, but I usually paint the Neddies first anyway as I find them easy / cathartic.  You just never know...I may even get them done this side of Christmas!  ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: vodkafan on June 03, 2021, 10:08:08 PM
O wow nice!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: DintheDin on June 04, 2021, 06:00:51 AM
Very nice sculpts, I believe they will be a great addition to your collection!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 04, 2021, 09:03:19 AM
Cheers.  Talking of sculpts though...i still need to green stuff some epaulettes to the shoulders of some of the Dragoons.  For variety if for no other reason, I decided to make these look like an elite squadron in bearskins.  Doubtful it would have been worn in Spain, but they look fine to me.

Yes there are cheaper ways to represent polish lancers than the way I’ve gone, but I like them.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 04, 2021, 03:17:48 PM
So, think I will start with the Vistula lancers.   This was THE regiment that really swung the Peninsular war as a project for me.   Certain I’ve mentioned it somewhere but I was fascinated with the history of the East Kent Buffs when I was schooled in Canterbury.  There was a museum dedicated partly to them there and I spent a good number of hours visiting.   In doing so, I was intrigued to read further and the Vistula lancers at Albuera both horrified and fascinated me. 

Before I paint the chaos, I will do the horses, but I also need lances.   Trying to make a reasonable representation without using plastic ones.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/0B9481A4-5854-437D-B918-95057776E2F8.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Warboss Nick on June 04, 2021, 08:58:10 PM
Yes there are cheaper ways to represent polish lancers than the way I’ve gone, but I like them.

Good to see you’re back to working on Napoleonics (and French at that)!

What I exactly did you use for the Vistula lancers? I was al age under the impression you couldn’t do them with Perrys.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: has.been on June 04, 2021, 09:32:24 PM
Quote
under the impression you couldn’t do them with Perrys.

Digits doesn't know the meaning of 'couldn't'...
He also doesn't know the meaning of 'is the safety catch on your RPG?'
In fact a whole lot of meanings he just don't get,
we must buy him a dictionary some time. lol lol lol
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Digits on June 04, 2021, 09:39:44 PM
Ha!  Where there’s a will, there’s a way.....


I used Perry Dutch /  Red Lancer on Perry plastic light cav horse.  As I mentioned last year (lol) I don’t see an awful lot on the model that looks out of place to worry me.  The aiguillette on the left shoulder was worn by the elite squadron so that’s who they are.  Their metal horse was not suitably kitted out.   
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Lancers
Post by: DintheDin on June 05, 2021, 07:22:31 AM
You are working with great care and love for historical accuracy, cudos!
This is why I'm following this thread! Cheers!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Lancers
Post by: Digits on June 05, 2021, 07:44:51 AM
Thanks fella!   Interesting one...I’ve read that the pennant on the Lance is red over white, and seen many pics depicting so, but equally, including some artist renditions, I’ve seen white over red?  These must be wrong I think?
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Lancers
Post by: DintheDin on June 05, 2021, 08:08:38 AM
Thanks fella!   Interesting one...I’ve read that the pennant on the Lance is red over white, and seen many pics depicting so, but equally, including some artist renditions, I’ve seen white over red?  These must be wrong I think?

Osprey Men-at-Arms series, Napoleon's Guard Cavalry, p22:
"The steel-bladed lance introduced in December of 1809 had a blackened wood staff and steel ferrule. The wrist-strap was of Hungarian leather. The overall length was 2.75m. The pennant which attached at the top was crimson over white and measured 487mm in depth, 487mm in length from V-cut to the staff and 73cm in overall length"
This is the way I painted my 1/72 ESCI Polish Lancers 30 years ago.
The Dutch lancers had pennants with the white over crimson, so this may give an explanation for the mixed representations.
Some more sources:
https://www.napoleon-series.org/military-info/organization/frenchguard/c_polishlancers1.html#:~:text=%20Napoleon%27s%20Polish%20Lancers%20%201%20By%20.,Decree%20of%206%20April%201807%2C%20which...%20More%20
The classic film charge
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMAB7Xkyl7E

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Chasseurs
Post by: Warboss Nick on June 06, 2021, 08:13:43 AM
Ha!  Where there’s a will, there’s a way.....


I used Perry Dutch /  Red Lancer on Perry plastic light cav horse.  As I mentioned last year (lol) I don’t see an awful lot on the model that looks out of place to worry me.  The aiguillette on the left shoulder was worn by the elite squadron so that’s who they are.  Their metal horse was not suitably kitted out.

Thanks! I‘m still hoping Perry or Murawski will make dedicated Vistula lancers some day (and the Perrys a lancers plastic boxes set).
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Lancers
Post by: Digits on August 24, 2021, 05:14:39 PM
So finally back to painting a few Naps!  To be fair, I did paint a Germanic war tribe and an SS platoon since I last visited, so been busy.  However, I am longing to

I sat and added the horse flesh last night so I need to do the tack and get the Neddie’s finished. Before moving onto the riders.   

I’m also on holiday for a week or so so going to take my Anhalt regiment away with me to add paint, sing as I often find myself with a few spare hours and I enjoy sitting outside to paint…let’s hope the weather is kind!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Lancers
Post by: has.been on August 24, 2021, 06:06:19 PM
Good grief even more Frenchies!
Vodkafan & My poor Anglo-Spanish (small)
army tremble.
I did see some painted Spanish Napoleonic Artillery
on e-bay. I showed interest at £30 for the 3,
but lost interest at over £100 !!!
Ah well just going to have to paint my own,
much cheaper, but a LOT slower.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Lancers
Post by: Digits on August 25, 2021, 04:53:19 PM
Frustrated I vacant buy an Anhalt flag anywhere, I have cobbled one together myself.

Before I use it however, what can I paint on it to lift it!  At least make it a bit shinier?

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/DB1C7142-48A2-4E26-BD5E-51E8103E263D.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Lancers
Post by: has.been on August 25, 2021, 05:56:44 PM
Spray it with matt white,
then surrender to Jamie & me. lol lol lol
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - Lancers
Post by: Digits on August 25, 2021, 06:44:54 PM
Very droll!  ::)

Edit:

Don’t want to worry you Pete but I’ve just been tinkering and added another battalion to my wish list!   Now I feel a little happier about painting white minis, I thought I’d add a couple of Kingdom of Holland units to the list, (I lost one French one at least!).  So my “German” brigade will now have the Anhalt-Lippe, Nassau and Kingdom of Holland.  Colourful looking contrast to the sea of Frenchies in their over coats!  Adding another unit has pushed my progress back to 40% though….so I need to lift it with some progress.  If I can get the Anhalt and the Lancers done over this next few weeks, it will lift it somewhat!

My only real dilemma is whether to go Perry or Front Rank for my Nassau.  If I’m honest, I prefer the look of the Perry ones, but there are some nuances regarding bags and water bottles that identify them as later…..but I may just have to overlook that.  I don’t need to worry just yet, I have plenty of minis already that need painting!

As mentioned, I want to paint the first of the German units, but whilst I’m about it, there are two more great coated units that are begging to be be painted to finish off the 1st Division’s 2nd Brigade.  Hopefully, after they are done, the balance of Frenchies will not be wearing coats……at least, that’s the plan.

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Digits on September 02, 2021, 09:19:45 PM
Prepping Frenchies for painting along with another already prepped Warlord Great Coat unit.  Managed to make the Perry on the sprue to make it easy.

Not overly struck with the Perry……too tricky to get the arms aligned, and very fine flash that is annoying.  They are also pretty tall.  Still, should make for interesting unit, but I think I prefer the Warlord minis, and metals.  Think I might just paint these as Swiss.  The two great coat units will finish a French brigade (edit:  actually I missed they will still need a light battalion  :? ).

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/3B424A64-1C86-4B4D-B086-B1FA0E2068FB.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: has.been on September 02, 2021, 09:42:53 PM
And do you still believe your own propaganda,
that you don't produce much? lol lol lol
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Digits on September 02, 2021, 10:09:06 PM
They ain’t painted yet!  :?
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: has.been on September 03, 2021, 06:28:39 AM
Quote
They ain’t painted yet!  :?

Oh well, if we are playing the 'ain't painted yet' game,
I do believe I win, hands down! :D
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: flatpack on September 03, 2021, 07:23:06 AM
And the gold medal for ‘ain’t painted yet’ goes to Has.been.  lol
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French
Post by: Digits on September 03, 2021, 09:50:44 AM
I will give you that one for sure!   If I had as much of a lead mountain as you, my wife would have cut my balls off years ago!  :'(

Saying that, it must be bloody marvellous coming across a great mini you forgot about years since!  Proper Aladdin's cave you have there!

Ok, I have made a slight tweak to the force org and balanced the German Division.  The French unit shown in the second brigade may change out yet if I can find another unit I like….maybe Baden, however I like the balance of it now.  If I do add a Baden unit, I may simply put the French unit in the second Division (thereby adding to the target again!)

Meanwhile, realising I am still missing the 12e Legere from the 1st Division, second Brigade, I have had to order one “last” box of greatcoats.  I have also ordered a flag as I must have missed it in my reckoning!


I have also pretty much finished naming all the command characters.  Please don’t heckle me, what can I say….dieting at the moment so thinking about food made it pretty easy! Lol

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/4B4FE44A-D499-4CA6-9BB2-C42A43A9C6C0.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)



Now to do some painting….
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - a few more battalions
Post by: Digits on September 13, 2021, 03:07:31 PM
Huzzah!

A little progress at last!

Sat in a field in Cornwall, weather mixed and at times a bit misty and playing havoc with my paints, but I have managed to paint two battalions from the same regiment.  I will base and flag them when I get home.

A bit worried seeing as numbers are my livelihood, but I over estimated the number of minis I needed for them, as such I’ve gone and painted another half dozen more!  Ah well, I may need to simply add another unit to the force list, and paint the balance of it quickly for an easy win!  :D

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/B714F972-1960-461F-8F60-6A2D0102975E.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I was over thinking what I’d get done, but as I said, weather has effected my progress.  I had hoped to paint the Anhalt battalion too….but it looks like I may just simply start it now….
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - a few more battalions
Post by: Roo on September 13, 2021, 05:50:02 PM
Looking good and painted in Gods county even better even for Frenchies!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - a few more battalions
Post by: Digits on September 14, 2021, 09:33:58 AM
It’s certainly a gorgeous county!

Frenchies done for now, adding a little german flavour with the start of the Anhalt, Confederation of the Rhine soldiers.

I may get a bit done before going home, but it will be good to get them under way.

Getting a bit bored of greatcoats now, so good to get to proper uniforms…. ::)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/8D6A182B-6D88-4D62-8252-E4736F43ED14.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - a few more battalions
Post by: LazyStudent on September 14, 2021, 11:05:49 AM
Looking good!! Very impressed with your holiday painting. Could you share your holiday painting set up?
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - a few more battalions
Post by: Digits on September 14, 2021, 01:48:08 PM
All I can say is take ONLY what you want to achieve.  Don’t take too many alternate bits as you won’t achieve anything!

I work out what paints I will need and a tray to keep it all on. 

Find a nice spot to park up, be prepared to answer the inevitable questions passers by will ask you and paint betweeen trips out, dog walks and good food!

Simples.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - a few more battalions
Post by: Digits on September 30, 2021, 01:52:58 PM
Finished another battalion last night meaning I have finished another brigade!  Huzzah!

The bases are sanded and at some point I will paint and tuft the bases, but for now I consider these painted!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/D9909469-AF3A-403D-A254-38401949ED97.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

So now I’m very nearly at the midway point with 47% of the army painted despite me tinkering and adding units.    Saying that, I’m tempted to add a fourth battalion to each of the two brigades in the second division yet! 😫

I have the minis…mostly in metal, to paint another 8 battalions and a lots of horses so no need to rush out to buy anything just yet….

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/86F27599-83A6-4344-9EE9-1FBAABFDEEA0.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)

Now…to help out the allies, I need to go and paint a few Scots…..
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: has.been on September 30, 2021, 02:36:27 PM
To para-phrase from the film Jaws,
'We're gunna need a biggerboat wargames table'

David you do know we are only doing skirmish don't you?
 lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Digits on September 30, 2021, 03:24:46 PM
I’m not sure you are taking this Spring Offensive seriously enough monsieur !
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: has.been on September 30, 2021, 06:56:25 PM
That's 'Senor' to you Froggy! lol lol
I take very little seriously.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Bloggard on October 01, 2021, 11:38:29 AM
my, they look fab.

and the discipline to paint while you're on holiday - impressive.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Bearwoodman on October 01, 2021, 12:55:30 PM
Digits they look excellent!

I have never played or painted Napoleonics, partly because the effort required to produce the units needed for a proper game looks so intimidating, but they do look good once they are done. I am tempted to buy a couple of figures just to have a go at the fancy uniforms and maybe a big colourful flag.

I am considering getting the coming Silver Bayonet fantasy Napoleonic rules as I understand you only need 8 figures per player. Not proper Napoleonic warfare of course, but it might persuade me and a few friends to dip a toe, and who knows what might happen after that.

and the discipline to paint while you're on holiday - impressive.

That reminds me of when I was speaking to a friend of mine over this summer - he rather gloomily said he was not going to get a chance to do any figure painting over the coming week as he was on holiday with his family!

Personally, painting is one of my leisure activities and when I am off work I would generally hope to do a little bit more of it than I can normally fit into a working week. We were away in the UK this summer and I brought a few figures and a selection of paints with me so I could poke some paint around on a couple of evenings once family activities and responsibilities were done.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Bloggard on October 01, 2021, 01:07:03 PM
I took a toolbox full of figures and glues / tools etc, when we went away for 2 weeks. And of course didn't touch them!

sold the unmade figs in Sept. so probably just as well  :D
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Digits on October 01, 2021, 03:05:31 PM
Cheers guys….yup, holiday painting is ok if you are disciplined enough to get up, brave the morning air and leave your partner in bed!   Natural daylight is the main bonus.  The downside is people constantly wanting to know what you are painting…..but it does start a few interesting conversations!



I have never played or painted Napoleonics, partly because the effort required to produce the units needed for a proper game looks so intimidating, but they do look good once they are done. I am tempted to buy a couple of figures just to have a go at the fancy uniforms and maybe a big colourful flag.

I am considering getting the coming Silver Bayonet fantasy Napoleonic rules as I understand you only need 8 figures per player. Not proper Napoleonic warfare of course, but it might persuade me and a few friends to dip a toe, and who knows what might happen after that.



Go for it!   Not heard of those rules but sound interesting!  Before you know it, you will have a brigade of minis to play with!  ;)

It’s definitely been a slow burner at times as projects go……but I am nearing the ability to pop things on the table now.   I am just painting a few more British so I can start playing out the rules.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: has.been on October 01, 2021, 07:00:55 PM
Quote
I have never played or painted Napoleonics, partly because the effort required to produce the units needed for a proper game looks so intimidating, but they do look good once they are done. I am tempted to buy a couple of figures just to have a go at the fancy uniforms and maybe a big colourful flag.

I am considering getting the coming Silver Bayonet fantasy Napoleonic rules as I understand you only need 8 figures per player. Not proper Napoleonic warfare of course, but it might persuade me and a few friends to dip a toe, and who knows what might happen after that.


Digits is right. Start skirmish, lots of rules out there.
As well as the upcoming Silver Bayonet (Napoleonics against Vampires, werewolves etc)
You might look at:-
Fist Full of Lead (Black Powder)  which is a fun game.
Sharpe Practice (Too Fat Lardies) another nice game.
Muskets & Tomahawks would also work.
Then fairly quickly you'll find you can (Sabot) base up several units (of 12 figures) and
try sets like Rebles & Patriots. (That is as far as I have gone. ;))
Then you can move on to join the likes of Digits & field brigades.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Bearwoodman on October 03, 2021, 10:14:58 AM
Thanks @Digits and @has.been, I am persuaded to have a first taste of the period.

I want to start very small, and I like the flexibility and convertability of multiparty plastics, so I plan to buy a single sprue of figures initially. To narrow down the dizzying array of choices I have decided on Perry, as they have a wide range and I have used their Medieval figures before and like the proportions. I have also read that it makes sense to start Napoleonic with some French (as most battles apparently involved them!). My final criteria is that I want figures that can be put into a variety of individual skirmishing poses (I am not at this stage looking to create an entire column of men with shouldered muskets).

So I am thinking the French Elite Companies frame would be a place to start (possibly with some dismounted French Dragoons as they have shiny helmets!). Any reason not to go for these as a starter and any other sets you have been particularly impressed with?

And apologies for the thread hijack!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: vodkafan on October 03, 2021, 11:09:39 AM
Thanks @Digits and @has.been, I am persuaded to have a first taste of the period.

I want to start very small, and I like the flexibility and convertability of multiparty plastics, so I plan to buy a single sprue of figures initially. To narrow down the dizzying array of choices I have decided on Perry, as they have a wide range and I have used their Medieval figures before and like the proportions. I have also read that it makes sense to start Napoleonic with some French (as most battles apparently involved them!). My final criteria is that I want figures that can be put into a variety of individual skirmishing poses (I am not at this stage looking to create an entire column of men with shouldered muskets).

So I am thinking the French Elite Companies frame would be a place to start (possibly with some dismounted French Dragoons as they have shiny helmets!). Any reason not to go for these as a starter and any other sets you have been particularly impressed with?

And apologies for the thread hijack!

I am sure Digits will not mind your hijack at all.
Elite French (ie Grenadiers and Voltigeurs) is an excellent choice to start off and makes the most sense for a skirmish force anyway.
Welcome to the wonderful world of Napoleonics! 
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Digits on October 03, 2021, 12:58:52 PM
Yup, fret not…if you are inspired to start Naps I’m happy to oblige!

Good choice of frame.

Skirmish gaming is a fun way to start.

Indeed, I have been individually basing a few minis and horse for doing just that!

I look forward to seeing your minis!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Digits on July 30, 2022, 03:58:33 PM
Ha…..been  a while, but I’m back again monsieurs!

I feel I’ve painted too much WW2 of late, and burned myself out a bit, so time tomdpread a little love onto a few of my other ongoing projects, this being my favourite thread.

It’s time to start trying to finish off a few brigades and get a game in.  I want to get past that 50% mark and not dip under it again…..ie stop adding new units into the target for a good while at least.  Whilst I’m at it, I do need to paint a few British opponents and their allies too.

So, I will make a start by painting a little horse flesh……in fact I think I’m going to start three units at once!   I have a British light dragoon regiment, and two French light horse regiments on the go here (the second Of which is out of sight) along with a few French commanders.

If I can get the horses done, in one big batch, I can then finish the regiments in turn as that’s the trickier bit.    I’m hoping the two French regiments should tip me over the 50%…..🤞

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/7F761AFA-B726-4417-97AF-99290462D4E7.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: DintheDin on July 30, 2022, 04:05:24 PM
Your coming back is greeted with joy!
Good luck for the continuation of your project!
Cheers!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: has.been on July 30, 2022, 06:56:20 PM
Aw shucks, & there were we Anglo-Spanish hoping you'd forgotten. :D
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Digits on July 30, 2022, 09:17:03 PM
Your coming back is greeted with joy!
Good luck for the continuation of your project!
Cheers!

Thanks fella!   Yes, I do cycle back every now and then.     Hopefully we can get a little progress done.    I also have a few weeks in the van scheduled later in the season, always a great time to work on the Naps too….😉

Pete, fear not, for as you can plainly see, there is a British regiment in there!




Edit:

Acutually, I’m probably biting off more than I can chew, but I’ve just built and added another Chasseurs regiment.   With the exception of the dragoon regiment, this would represent the balance of my cavalry division!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/76648EA8-96BB-4CE6-929F-7097BCB0F0E5.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Ok, let’s get them horses painted!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: MaleGriffin on July 31, 2022, 08:49:23 PM
Brunswickers?  ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Digits on August 01, 2022, 02:21:35 PM
Not for this army, no!

So…tried and failed!   I got all the flesh tones and hooves on the horses…but I’d over phased myself….yet again!

So, calming it down, I’m now just concentrating on one regiment at a time, like I should have done in the first place!

Let’s see if I can manage a regiment over the next few days perhaps….

Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: CapnJim on August 01, 2022, 04:03:02 PM
Hmm.  Seems I missed this thread somehow.  My bad...you stuff here looks great, Digits!  Just like the rest of your stuff in the other boards, so no surprise there... ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Digits on August 01, 2022, 07:09:04 PM
Nice of you to say fella.  However, I keep struggling to keep on top of it.   
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: CapnJim on August 02, 2022, 12:50:55 AM
Join the club, buddy.  Join the club.... ;)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - the French - 47% complete!
Post by: Bloggard on August 10, 2022, 06:51:33 AM
BBQ hula hoops - I never knew
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Digits on August 11, 2022, 09:32:17 AM
They’ve been around a while, pretty nice.


Ok, so finally, something to strike fear into the hearts of the British!  Vistula Uhlans….or my take on them at least. 

At Albuera, these fellas, along with a Hussar regiment, did great and awful damage, routing Colborne’s brigade and taking five colours.   

I’ve seen too many pictures and references both ways on which way up the pennant should be….in the end, red over white appealed more!

Anyway, glad to have this monkey off my back!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/D5C3161F-E617-46D6-8D74-461E72AF5B8E.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/88D6E356-8571-458F-BE3A-514A06258496.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: DintheDin on August 11, 2022, 10:13:07 AM
An elite and glorious unit! Well done!!!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Digits on August 11, 2022, 01:32:52 PM
Thank you sir !
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: CapnJim on August 11, 2022, 02:47:00 PM
I now see why it took you so long to do this Napoleonic unit!  But it was worth the wait.  They look marvelous!  Well done, lad!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: MaleGriffin on August 11, 2022, 05:06:50 PM
Beautifully done! Masterful brushwork! A unit to be proud of!
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Digits on August 12, 2022, 01:02:16 AM
Cheers fellas.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Zingara on August 13, 2022, 08:51:11 PM
Great stuff Digits - and now you have enough to fill 3 tables - when are we going to see them in action ?
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Digits on August 14, 2022, 07:38:12 AM
Not quite there yet fella.   Besides, waiting for my opponents to gather their forces.  I inyend to help in that with a few allies of my own.

First however, I want to at least finish two more brigades.  Next up, some dragoons to finish the second cavalry brigade and get me over half way….
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: has.been on August 14, 2022, 09:55:56 AM
Quote
Not quite there yet fella. 
Remind me just how BIG is your table David?

I do warn you we will pile up high all the copies of unused Napoleonic rules,
declare them the Lines of Torres Vedras, & hide behind them. :D
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Digits on August 14, 2022, 10:07:19 AM
Yes I saw you guys are now doing 10mm too…….what happened, your guys just shrunk in their boots quivering in fear?
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: has.been on August 14, 2022, 10:13:44 AM
Quote
Yes I saw you guys are now doing 10mm too…….what happened, your guys just shrunk in their boots quivering in fear?

10mm means we can fit a reasonable  Napoleonic game onto my table & still have
room to do some maneuvering. ;)

You know how impoverished our armies are David. We don't have ANY boots
to shrink into. lol lol lol
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Warboss Nick on August 16, 2022, 08:08:20 PM
Spiffy looking unit there! Which miniatures did you use for the Vistula Legion?
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Digits on August 16, 2022, 08:43:42 PM
Perry red lancers but switched for their light plastic horses.   I think they work myself but some purists may disagree. 🧐

Cheers fella.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Zingara on March 17, 2023, 07:44:43 PM
Not heard about this in a while. Thought of using Valour and Fortitude - can cope with large numbers of troops - maybe even your collection. Would be good to see this lot in action.
Title: Re: Venta de Pantalones - Vistula Lancers
Post by: Digits on March 17, 2023, 08:45:47 PM
Well my buddy Brian looks like he might be dusting off his Brits so maybe sooner than later.  I will give the rules a look see though…cheers.