Thursday, March 12, 2015

Ancient Greek Light Troops

Here are the final figures for my classical Greek army.  These are all Old Glory 15mm figures on Litko bases.  (You can see the hoplites and the cavalry by clicking the links.)

First up are the archers.  There are twelve bases.  Greek armies usually did not make much use of bows, but Athens kept a force of mercenary archers on hand.





The majority of Greek light troops would have been javelin men.  The sculptor chose to portray these men with a bare right foot and shod left foot.  I thought it was a mistake until I read Head's Armies of the Macedonian and Punic Wars, where the only drawing of a Greek javelin man showed just this configuration.  Apparently there is ONE written reference to skirmishers wearing a sandal on their lead foot so they could kick the enemy.  I am skeptical, not least because I have tried walking with just one shoe.  It's not pleasant.  There are 32 bases of javelin men here.





Last are the peltasts.  I would usually consider these medium infantry, capable of skirmishing or fighting in close order in a pinch.  All rules I have ever seen, however, class them as light infantry.  There are twelve bases of peltasts in my army.





With these light bases finished, my Greek army is complete!  I may add to it in the future, but for now I am calling this project done!

6 comments:

  1. Wonderful additions to your impressive Greek army, Scott. What rules are these for?

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    Replies
    1. I'm not yet sure. I may try Impetus or Hoplomachia.

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  2. Most impressive troops, great paint job and basement....

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