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Front Rank
Netherlanders and Nassau Napoleonics
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Pressed into my grasping mitts at Partizan a mouthwatering selection of new releases from Front Rank, surely one of the premier figure producers in the U.K. I suppose that the trademark of this companies figures is the sturdy, fine detailed yet clearly defined quality of the models, and these Napoleonic Netherlanders and Nassauers are no exception. Someone once described these models as the sort that paint themselves, and it has been my own experience, that even I can produce a really nicely painted model when using Front Rank products.
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All the models were cleanly cast, with no mould marks or flash, even on the bases (and remember these models were taken direct from stock, not especially prepared for review). and all are impressive. My personal favourite though is NNA10, Dutch Belgian Artillery Officer. This proud moustachioed character, stands left hand defiantly on hip, sword drawn and chest thrust forward. The very epitomy of the Napoleonic warrior, excellent.
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NN64, is another superb example of the model designers art, this Nassau Grenadier in finely detailed fur colpack, complete with tall plume and decorative cords. The other models seen representing a pair of Flanquers, a fusilier, and a carabinier, are of the same remarkably high quality and are equally highly recommended.
The range now available is complete and covers all arms and personalities. NNP1, the Prince Of Orange, portrays the man himself shouting encouragement to his troops and raising his plumed bicorne above his head, and would make a superb addition to any Waterloo Army, or centrepiece for a collectors vignette. Individual figures retail at 80p each with horses at £1.15, but savings can be made by purchasing battalion packs at £17.95 for 24 infantry, £21.95 for 12 cavalry, and £13.50 for two guns and crews.
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The Netherland and Nassau troops of the Allied army of 1815 have received scant attention from some gamers, being dismissed as poor fighters, poorly led. Nothing could be further than the truth, their courage saved the Allied army early in the Waterloo campaign, and they stood their place in the line well enough in face of a horrendous cannonade. If you don't already have a brigade available in your army, then this is your chance to obtain some first class reinforcements.
JOS 3/9/02
