Frontage and basing for Ansar and Beja

[Rob Herrick]

Basically how tight were the Mahdist infantry "formations?" Were they comparable to the British in close order (IE, shoulder to shoulder), or were they looser? I can't seem to find an answer on that.

Following that, if my British are on a 15mm-20mm frontage and 20mm-25mm depth (depending on figure manufacturer) per figure, what would be a good basing size for the Mahdists? 20mm front, 25mm front or 30mm front?

Should sword and spear wielding troops be based tighter than their riflemen?

Thanks!

[H.M.Stanley]

What rules are you planning on using chap?

[Rob Herrick]

I haven't decided yet. I have The Sword and the Flame, Triumph and Tragedy, In the Heart of Africa, General Glen's Western Showdown and Science versus Pluck. I like bits and pieces of all of them, so will eventually end up changing things to suit myself (like any good gamer).

Basically, I plan to mount my figures individually. So I'm seeking something that looks right and has roughly the right men per space ratio. Should the Mahdists be able to put as many men in the same space as a shoulder to shoulder line, or did they need more room?

That way, when it comes to hand to hand combat, the Mahdists will have roughly the same number of opponents as they would have historically, and things will work out. Plus, they'll look good in photos.

[H.M.Stanley]

I agree with basing individually & then just add movement trays [i use Warbases - Martin will knock up whatever you want] - i use my Colonial types for S&tF, DitDC, ItHoA, Black Powder etc.

From there it depends on the rules themselves ie in DitDC Ansar, for example, would be Warriors and three figs to a base

Personally i'd do Ansar and Beja spearmen as a "mob" with skirmishing riflemen

Cheers, James

[Volleyfire!]

I agree with basing individually & then just add movement trays [i use Warbases - Martin will knock up whatever you want] - i use my Colonial types for S&tF, DitDC, ItHoA, Black Powder etc.

From there it depends on the rules themselves ie in DitDC Ansar, for example, would be Warriors and three figs to a base

Personally i'd do Ansar and Beja spearmen as a "mob" with skirmishing riflemen

Cheers, James

Have to say I go along similar lines using warbases with figures on pennies 6 to a base with the holes scattered randomly.