Thursday 5 March 2015

Perry Miniatures Converted Mounted Infantry at El Teb

So, there I was studying the Blood on the Nile lists for El Teb when I realised that Perry Miniatures did not do any Mounted Infantry that were, well, mounted. Converting what was available was to be the only answer.

After asking a few questions on the net I was just about ready to go. I ordered three packs of British Camel Corp in total, one of the command and two of the riflemen. That was the troopers covered. I ordered two packs of the 10th Hussars so they would be supplied with mounts. I used Mike Snooks excellent book and guide to the uniforms of the British, Egyptian and Mahdists from the appendix of Go Strong into the Desert  to gather all the information regarding the uniforms of the Mounted Infantry that fought at El Teb.

As to the conversions, it was really a matter of persuading the models that had been designed to fit onto camels to sit nicely on the horses. This was much more of a task than I had first envisaged. Some of the saddles had a little putty inserted but all in all, with the filing of the troopers and the saddles most of them fit quite snugly in the end.

The painting process was quite a long (but not laborious) one as it was new territory for me and I didn't want to get anything wrong on such a project. In the end I think that they're turned out quite nicely and I'm a little proud of my efforts.

And here they are, the light wasn't great so I may retake the pics and add a few of the individual bases whilst I'm at it- so, as they say, watch this space:







8 comments:

  1. Lovely! I have the same issue as regards mounted infantry and had come to the same solution. Interesting to hear of your issues as regards fit. I'll have to see how mine go when the time comes!

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    1. They'll be fine... just patience.... easy to say when you're not beavering away with a needle file!! :>)

      Darrell.

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  2. Top job, Darrell.

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    1. Thanks Roy.... not a shield in sight ;>)

      Darrell.

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  3. Great job Darrell. What colors did you use for the jackets?

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    1. Actually I got a great tip from Marl from Over Open Sights Blog fame. For the Serge Grey I used the Foundry Napoleonic Artillery British Gun Grey Triad with one or two extra highlights mixed with Vallejo Silver Grey. I think they've come out very well and I'm more than pleased with the results. :>)

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  4. Very nice job, paint brush and bases...

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    1. Thanks Phil.

      I'm waiting to get the rest of my lighting set up and I'll take some better pics. These have a yellow sheen to them that doesn't allow the hues to sing out.

      Darrell.

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