Crusades in 15mm

[HothJim]

Firstly, thanks to all who made suggestions for gaming in 15mm. I have ordered the Sword and Spear rulebook, already have Lion Rampant, and have been given Hail Caesar to study, so plenty to be getting on with. Now, time to order some troops.........

Having made some decisions there, after chatting with gaming buddies we have decided to go for the Crusades in 15mm. Despite having studied the early Crusades in a module at university, some years ago albeit, this is not an area of historical strength for me. I am keen to learn more though, and getting to grips with the period is important for me before hitting the table.

So, a couple of things I again turn to the forum for. Which miniatures would you recommend? A quick search pulls up these: http://www.legio-heroica.com/Crociati-en.html
Christendom versus Islam seems to big a banner, and I really need to understand a break down of the factions. For example Seljuk Turks, and/or Saracens? Spanish or Armenian?

Any pointers much appreciated.
Seasons Greetings,
Jim.

[NTM]

I quite like Essex miniatures

http://www.essexminiatures.co.uk/collections/15mm-crusades

[Atheling]

Try Khurasan, they make excellent mini's in 15mm:

http://khurasanminiatures.tripod.com/

A holiday break at present, the website seems closed just for now.

Darrell.

[rampantlion]

Also take a look at Outpost Minis, they have a great range too. 

[Mr.J]

I'd second Essex Miniatures but you could also look at Donnington New Line, Black Hat and Old Glory. They're all reasonably priced, have extensive ranges and should fit well with each other.

[TiberiusAugustus]

Legio Heroica make the best crusaders by far. Also a fan of Khurasan.

[HothJim]

Cheers guys.

Game on Tuesday using ACW minis, try out mechanics, then time to start building a force. Legio Heroica look smart, but plenty of options.

What about factions? The Crusaders themselves seem straightforward, but Islam appears much more divided (or United?) With Egyptians, Turks, Syrians etc. Any pointers as to who goes with who? Historical references appreciated.

[Osmoses]

I'd second Legio Heroica, they are nice figures and paint up well, and Giuseppe is a great guy to deal with.

The Perfect Captain does a set of Crusades rules called 'Ironbow,' which are really good, though we've also had good games of 'Sword and Spear' and 'To the Strongest.' Ironbow is a free download that includes the rules as well as a brief historical outline of each of the armies, and has lists and descriptions for all the various Turkish and Arab factions. It's a really good starting point for wargaming the crusades even if you don't use the rules.

Download here (just click on the Ironbow pic):
http://perfectcaptain.50megs.com/request.html