tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75899534665813349562024-03-12T20:46:47.991-07:00The Lead DragonTopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.comBlogger266125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-20061271002090312342021-05-28T08:26:00.004-07:002021-05-28T08:26:37.094-07:00eBay: THE Citadel Giant, 2021 edition<p> Holy Deep Pockets, Batman! Someone shelled out $1,600 GBP ($2,270.64 USD) for <a href="https://www.ebay.com/itm/334003230189?nma=true&si=49SLRB7D8QYz%252FO21TerX1rHu%252FJs%253D&orig_cvip=true&nordt=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557" target="_blank">this complete in box copy</a> of THE Citadel Giant. I mean, just look at it. All the pieces, unpainted, unassembled and in the original box. Color me jealous, for sure. And since we're talking about a miniature (heh) that is nearly 40 years old, limited to 1,000 models, and originally sold for $25-30 GBP, this is just going to keep going up, up, up in price.</p><p>Congrats to the new owner, I'm sure this bad boy will be a centerpiece in your collection.<br /></p>TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-38837975501364291222020-11-19T16:16:00.004-08:002020-11-19T16:16:41.019-08:00I Forged a Hero! <p>OK, so I used <a href="https://www.heroforge.com/" target="_blank">Hero Forge</a> Custom Miniatures to create my own custom mini using their library of virtual bits and bobs. I know they've been around for a couple of years now, but I recently began shopping for a new mini to represent my human bard and had not had much luck finding what I was looking for.</p><p>I tried my go-to guys at Reaper, and while I did find a couple of options, I decided to keep shopping. I looked at more than a dozen manufacturer's websites and a LOT of minis. In the end, I didn't find anything that fit my needs. I went back to Reaper and narrowed my selection down to 2-3 models, and then weighed the pros and cons of picking one and customizing it. Still not entirely satisfied, it was at that point when I decided to check out Hero Forge.</p><p>The interface is intuitive and easy to use for a first time user. On the left side of the screen you have your main menu: Species, Head, Body, Clothing, Gear, Base, Mount, Pose, Color, Booth, and Buy. Most of the Species are currently geared towards fantasy races, but there are a few alien and robot options now. When you click on a menu choice like Body, a sub-menu appears that lists all the options for that category. There are a lot of options! You are only limited by your imagination and ability to mix and match.</p><p>The Color menu allows you to "paint" your mini so you can get a better idea of what it will look like with paint applied. Then, presumably, you will click on the Booth menu so you can create tokens and portraits of your hero (these are premium options).</p><p>And then it is time to Buy. And this is where you get hit in the wallet. A single hero in the base plastic is $20. Premium Plastic is $30, Color Plastic is $45, and Bronze minis are $100. If you have your own 3D printer, you can purchase the STL file for $8 (currently $4). I opted for the $20 base model, because it was my first time using the service and I had nothing to compare it to. By the time you add in tax and shipping, the total was closer to $30. But what the hell, I had recently sold a rare mini and made a tidy profit, so I decided to treat myself.</p><p>Here is Geddy, my human bard in my friend's 3.5 campaign. We have been playing on Roll20 since the outbreak of the pandemic, so he may not see use on the gaming table in our current campaign. But I still wanted to have a representation of him as I envisioned him. I chose a pose that has him doing what he does best: singing! I'm also trying to decide if I want to modify his spear and turn it into a longspear, which is what Geddy actually uses. He likes to stand behind the fighter types and stab away at the monsters.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MwocNGZOIJ4/X7cKPVv-MLI/AAAAAAAAKBg/w63Tnu21vNAQqeFtni7FFi9V1gAwwESVgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201113_160651_resized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MwocNGZOIJ4/X7cKPVv-MLI/AAAAAAAAKBg/w63Tnu21vNAQqeFtni7FFi9V1gAwwESVgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20201113_160651_resized.jpg" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>I wouldn't mind buying another Hero Forge model again, perhaps in the next higher grade of plastic for comparison. But first I need to paint up Geddy and see how he turns out before I cross that bridge.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-grOkbaXxtS8/X7cKbKGfWsI/AAAAAAAAKBo/OZrwO-h1N_AR9blL32dTaiEuaN58XY_2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201113_160539_resized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-grOkbaXxtS8/X7cKbKGfWsI/AAAAAAAAKBo/OZrwO-h1N_AR9blL32dTaiEuaN58XY_2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20201113_160539_resized.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ofeeYAc33k/X7cKa723bSI/AAAAAAAAKBk/Wz9UJB85MDIc5jvnaSdDpd3yEAEkyJ8rgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201113_160600_resized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ofeeYAc33k/X7cKa723bSI/AAAAAAAAKBk/Wz9UJB85MDIc5jvnaSdDpd3yEAEkyJ8rgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20201113_160600_resized.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UWVA1NzgqbQ/X7cKbNIp1qI/AAAAAAAAKBs/w0kD0SAbdAYAf0KVIzMePZDa3rN2NQviQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201113_160552_resized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UWVA1NzgqbQ/X7cKbNIp1qI/AAAAAAAAKBs/w0kD0SAbdAYAf0KVIzMePZDa3rN2NQviQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20201113_160552_resized.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-23194377745024844092019-10-04T16:29:00.000-07:002019-10-04T16:29:41.447-07:00Clear Acrylic Base Saves The Day (And The Mini)My fantasy miniatures have always been game pieces, to be handled and used from one campaign to the next. Some of my favorite minis are 30 to 40 years old, and have seen extensive use. And while it's true I've always been protective of my lead, and have given my friends truckloads of grief over the years whenever they dropped or knocked one over, I don't blame them for most of the damage. I blame the manufacturers! A lot of old school lead have ridiculously tiny bases. Citadel is one of the worst offenders, and a lot of their pre-slotta minis suffered from this issue. One of my favorite old elves is FA14v1 Elven Hero with Sword. But his base is so tiny, he might as well have been sculpted in the prone position. Another favorite, FA1v1 Fighter in Plate Mail with Sword, was constantly toppling over. In fact, he fell over so often that he was the first figure I ever attempted to re-base. All I did was glue a small washer to the bottom of his base, but it sure kept him from tipping over every time the table was bumped.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8TZh418ozzA/XZfQP-L9HgI/AAAAAAAAG20/fwl4-td-xeYmegSn-ATBLd52XmUKf53zQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20191004_154416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8TZh418ozzA/XZfQP-L9HgI/AAAAAAAAG20/fwl4-td-xeYmegSn-ATBLd52XmUKf53zQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20191004_154416.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
But what I didn't like about the washer solution is that in my eyes, it just didn't look right. Not aesthetically pleasing. In the mid to late 70s and early 80s, I wasn't educated at all about miniatures beyond the basics (paint with enamel paints, boom, done). Sure, later in life I finally learned intermediate and advanced painting techniques, how to customize a mini, and how to make cool bases.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lQm39NJ6sCk/XZfQQjC50kI/AAAAAAAAG24/ReBUOH1cfkw3tuSMfnNQTmTGn6sWoDbXgCEwYBhgL/s1600/20191004_154501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lQm39NJ6sCk/XZfQQjC50kI/AAAAAAAAG24/ReBUOH1cfkw3tuSMfnNQTmTGn6sWoDbXgCEwYBhgL/s320/20191004_154501.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
So my problem was what to do with my vintage lead that had been lovingly painted or re-painted in some cases. I want to use them in games, but I don't want to see my work slowly erased, one chip at a time. And that's where Green Stuff World's <a href="http://www.greenstuffworld.com/en/142-acrylic-bases" target="_blank">clear acrylic bases</a> enter the picture. They currently come in round, hex, and oval shapes, with sizes ranging from 25mm to 55mm in clear, blue, and red. I would like to see them in squares too, but for now these will do.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iDtcB-Lrqrg/XZfQPdUyqkI/AAAAAAAAG2s/F4bpcldfqs8VTOVbtR3hbU02wU9BrT40gCEwYBhgL/s1600/20190930_104157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iDtcB-Lrqrg/XZfQPdUyqkI/AAAAAAAAG2s/F4bpcldfqs8VTOVbtR3hbU02wU9BrT40gCEwYBhgL/s320/20190930_104157.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I glued a Grenadier wight and a couple of old Reaper skeletons to some round 25mm bases as a test. And let me tell you, they all passed the test! Just don't glue too close to the outside edges of the mini's base, at least if you are using glue that doesn't dry clear. I'm really looking forward to adding these clear bases to a bunch of minis that really need the support, especially my hordes of Heritage Dungeon Dwellers. I'll post more pics down the road as I make progress with this project.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rl6Lpyv3wfc/XZfQP7lYE0I/AAAAAAAAG28/fISWz5KFRqU2eWix4Ij4pODbtg5FHrFGwCEwYBhgL/s1600/20190930_104125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rl6Lpyv3wfc/XZfQP7lYE0I/AAAAAAAAG28/fISWz5KFRqU2eWix4Ij4pODbtg5FHrFGwCEwYBhgL/s320/20190930_104125.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
What do you think? I'm happy. My goal was to get more minis on the table, without causing unnecessary damage to them. And I also wanted to save time, because I really didn't want to spend the time gluing them into recessed bases, building up the voids with filler, and finishing them with sand, grass, rocks, etc. and painting the bases. These clear acrylic bases look great, and I only need to glue each mini to the base. A great solution, and in my opinion, great results.TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-68436074375818458822019-09-26T11:56:00.000-07:002019-09-26T13:07:08.744-07:00Grenadier Storm Giant (Lightning Master)A couple of days ago, I finally began to compile the master inventory list for my miniatures collection. It's a somewhat daunting task, considering we're looking at 40 years of minis both old and new. As always, I only have myself and my procrastinating ways to blame.<br />
<br />
Today I was going through my Shelf of Shame, consisting mostly of projects ranging from partially painted, primed, or prepped and awaiting primer. In particular, it was the shelf that holds my favorite subject---giants!<br />
<br />
I picked up this Grenadier storm giant and began to look him up on the <a href="http://www.miniatures-workshop.com/lostminiswiki/index.php?title=Main_Page" target="_blank">Lost Minis Wiki</a>. No luck. <a href="http://www.solegends.com/" target="_blank">The Stuff of Legends</a>? No dice. How hard can this be? I know my way around minis, know how to narrow down searches, who the various experts are on the various lines, etc. But WTF, here's a giant that I KNOW is Grenadier because it says "Grenadier @ 1992" and "SM13" on the base. Google shows a few pics of this fella, but still no conclusive ID. I FINALLY found his proper designation after about a half-hour of poking around.<br />
<br />
Turns out he's not a storm giant after all. He's a LIGHTNING MASTER. He belongs to Grenadier's Fantasy Legends line, <a href="http://www.miniatures-workshop.com/lostminiswiki/index.php?title=Image:G-FantasyLegends-3104x.jpg" target="_blank">product number 3104</a>. Hopefully if any other collectors stumble across him and want to know his particulars, they will find this blog post and not spend a bunch of time searching in vain like I did.<br />
<br />
I should note he can also be found in Terence Gunn's excellent book <i>The Fantastic Worlds of Grenadier</i>. The mini is pictured on page 96 and is listed in the Product Appendix on page 118.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6pk0V0FooEw/XY0IxIA97CI/AAAAAAAAGvw/JF-G0i1LadAWKqE14FQzNwz1bCw_dUZtACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190926_100059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6pk0V0FooEw/XY0IxIA97CI/AAAAAAAAGvw/JF-G0i1LadAWKqE14FQzNwz1bCw_dUZtACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20190926_100059.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vj4VAxRxifg/XY0IxgdUgUI/AAAAAAAAGv0/Uq92xRVsTF8WrF8XGAlxO6lLclYuZ_oVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190926_100109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vj4VAxRxifg/XY0IxgdUgUI/AAAAAAAAGv0/Uq92xRVsTF8WrF8XGAlxO6lLclYuZ_oVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20190926_100109.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzAw9hDiIgo/XY0Ix7RcgKI/AAAAAAAAGv4/Lfhqnvj3LUURgDnBqGwa7FfyQpbRFKUiwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190926_100122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SzAw9hDiIgo/XY0Ix7RcgKI/AAAAAAAAGv4/Lfhqnvj3LUURgDnBqGwa7FfyQpbRFKUiwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20190926_100122.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oAbxjsG2fb4/XY0Iyh10pjI/AAAAAAAAGwA/7Xv7KXHnvDwmJR6rTQCaP4_wuOAfFodWQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190926_100129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oAbxjsG2fb4/XY0Iyh10pjI/AAAAAAAAGwA/7Xv7KXHnvDwmJR6rTQCaP4_wuOAfFodWQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20190926_100129.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lyebG5GBf44/XY0IydKyJfI/AAAAAAAAGv8/Cwn6j5KLL-Qlc3xgKvl0yRSRbK9SmVRpwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Grenadier%2BLightning%2BMaster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="486" height="281" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lyebG5GBf44/XY0IydKyJfI/AAAAAAAAGv8/Cwn6j5KLL-Qlc3xgKvl0yRSRbK9SmVRpwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Grenadier%2BLightning%2BMaster.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture credit: The Lost Minis Wiki</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-37379123911799417012018-10-05T12:23:00.000-07:002018-10-05T12:23:51.778-07:00RIP Uncle Duke <br />
Bruce Seifried, better known as Uncle Duke to the miniature and wargaming community, has passed away. I never met the man, nor did I have the pleasure of participating in his legendary games. I did have two small personal interactions with him, however. The <a href="http://theleaddragon.blogspot.com/2011/11/thank-you-uncle-duke.html" target="_blank">first one was in 2011</a>, when I purchased a Heritage Panzertroops Humber armoured car from him via eBay. He was kind enough to sign the blister card, and also sent a business card. The <a href="http://theleaddragon.blogspot.com/2014/02/uncle-duke-seifried-in-25mm.html" target="_blank">second one was in 2014</a>, when I asked him several questions about the very rare 25mm Uncle Duke miniature. I was very appreciative of his time and answers.<br />
<br />
The Historical Miniatures Gaming Society <a href="https://www.hmgs.org/news/420494/BRUCE-DUKE-SEIFRIED-Obituary.htm" target="_blank">has posted an obituary here</a>.<br />
<br />
Godspeed and thank you for your massive contributions to miniatures and wargaming.<br />
<img alt="Image result for uncle duke seifried" class="irc_mi" height="344" src="https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.hmgs.org/resource/resmgr/images/duke_obit_picture.jpg" style="margin-top: 68px;" width="236" /> TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-77941005876168059302018-04-25T15:54:00.000-07:002018-04-25T15:54:41.732-07:00eBay: THE Citadel GiantDISCLAIMER: This is not my auction, I but thought it was worth noting.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.ebay.com/itm/RARE-The-Citadel-Giant-Alan-Perry-Games-Workshop-Factory-Sealed-Package/332624029403?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649" target="_blank">This auction</a> appears to be (and the reason I say <b><i>appears to be</i></b> is because I do not see any pics of the contents) for a complete, NIB Citadel Giant. You know, THE Citadel Giant. The starting bid is $850 USD and there is already a bid on this huge hunk of lead. Makes me wonder if any other deep-pocketed collectors are going to join the fray?<br />
<br />
<br />TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-67953038005121555792018-02-09T13:51:00.000-08:002018-02-09T13:51:18.735-08:00Ral & Partha's Excellent Adventure (or Guam and Back Again)I've mostly been buying single figures or small lots here and there for the past couple of years, trying to fill holes in the collection and generally avoiding large lots - the lead pile is already huge and I really don't need to make it bigger. But an eBay seller recently had a dozen or so lots of old-school goodness, and a few were just too tempting to take a pass on so I went ahead and bid on several, and ended up winning three.<br />
<br />
What caught my eye in two of the lots were some Citadel AD&D minis, specifically four bugbears and six norkers. The rest was a great assortment of Heritage, Citadel, Grenadier, and a smattering of Ral Partha, Superior, TSR, and others. I've long desired to replace my Heritage bugbears and ogre that our first DM absconded with decades ago. And now that <a href="http://theleaddragon.blogspot.com/2018/01/new-year-new-35-fr-campaign.html" target="_blank">our new 3.5 FR campaign</a> has kicked off and we are once again 1st and 2nd level, I decided my DM would benefit from a new batch of old low-level monsters to throw at us. I'm nice that way.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uRh8C4zvtZg/Wn4V2wk0-jI/AAAAAAAABqc/DtrbIHPpLzs67xzu8kgROzdVIoqBtH9pgCLcBGAs/s1600/20180209_123531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uRh8C4zvtZg/Wn4V2wk0-jI/AAAAAAAABqc/DtrbIHPpLzs67xzu8kgROzdVIoqBtH9pgCLcBGAs/s320/20180209_123531.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Citadel AD&D Bugbears</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ9Fnhy7CFM/Wn4V3ujzHcI/AAAAAAAABqg/ZFp4lzw-6BkNBQlc8XNQr0EolVyLCZPDACLcBGAs/s1600/20180209_123744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ9Fnhy7CFM/Wn4V3ujzHcI/AAAAAAAABqg/ZFp4lzw-6BkNBQlc8XNQr0EolVyLCZPDACLcBGAs/s320/20180209_123744.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Citadel AD&D Norkers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cV-2tcRgt9k/Wn4V4u_qOuI/AAAAAAAABqo/RdkzXnHEifgxJJv--eeCi8u-cBYWiDeYgCLcBGAs/s1600/20180209_123919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cV-2tcRgt9k/Wn4V4u_qOuI/AAAAAAAABqo/RdkzXnHEifgxJJv--eeCi8u-cBYWiDeYgCLcBGAs/s320/20180209_123919.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heritage ogres. Yellow one needs a medic.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-58QjRGBD880/Wn4V4XGQ-sI/AAAAAAAABqk/Gw0eBPSpW-EtTMrHy5wxJEJmhZdIbaTMQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180209_124044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-58QjRGBD880/Wn4V4XGQ-sI/AAAAAAAABqk/Gw0eBPSpW-EtTMrHy5wxJEJmhZdIbaTMQCLcBGAs/s320/20180209_124044.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heritage bugbears, how I've missed you so!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That's when the fun started. I won two lots on January 23rd, and the third on January 28th. The third lot was in my hands on January 31st, perfect condition, no worries. The first two lots, shipped together, should have been at my house by the 27th, but that did not happen. The USPS decided my minis needed a vacation, so they sent them to Guam and Hawaii. WTF??? I copied & pasted the tracking history at the end of the post. You can see that the package left Missouri on January 24th, and was en route to the west coast. The last "In Transit to Destination" was on the 27th, and then nothing until the 31st when it shows up in Guam. From there, it heads to Hawaii, and then finally to Washington.<br />
<br />
I was excited when the tracking info showed that the package was on my doorstep on February 5th. I opened the front door to find that there was no package after all. Are you f*cking kidding me? My guess is that it was delivered to a neighbor's house by mistake, as I have had items that weren't mine delivered to me by mistake in the past. Sure enough, today - two days later - the package shows up on my doorstep. Finally!<br />
<br />
The box was pretty beat up, not a surprise considering it traveled in the neighborhood of 13,000 miles instead of the expected 2,100 miles. I said a quick prayer to the lead gods and opened the package. The seller had very creatively packed the miniatures into four plastic ice cube trays, and wrapped each one in bubble wrap. This should have been good enough for the anticipated domestic trip, but alas did not hold up to the rigors of pan-Pacific travel. A handful of minis where rolling around loose in the box, having been dislodged from their ice cube tray nests.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UnT1oiLfFXw/Wn4V2VHkuKI/AAAAAAAABqY/MmaYtnEN2UcafCObX1o8BFM81vLAjZmFgCEwYBhgL/s1600/20180209_122730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UnT1oiLfFXw/Wn4V2VHkuKI/AAAAAAAABqY/MmaYtnEN2UcafCObX1o8BFM81vLAjZmFgCEwYBhgL/s320/20180209_122730.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JeRt2mKyeNs/Wn4V1b6OQZI/AAAAAAAABqQ/zK3mXyo1oLUxYun9EaAdRUu7ABGMis7NgCEwYBhgL/s1600/20180209_122720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JeRt2mKyeNs/Wn4V1b6OQZI/AAAAAAAABqQ/zK3mXyo1oLUxYun9EaAdRUu7ABGMis7NgCEwYBhgL/s320/20180209_122720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yj_GufgbbC0/Wn4V2BQoT-I/AAAAAAAABqw/7f9lzoGipec3Uf3qPEYjuMHHnNuqWbyrQCEwYBhgL/s1600/20180209_122547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yj_GufgbbC0/Wn4V2BQoT-I/AAAAAAAABqw/7f9lzoGipec3Uf3qPEYjuMHHnNuqWbyrQCEwYBhgL/s320/20180209_122547.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
After unpacking and taking inventory, the final tally was six broken minis and two missing minis. The broken minis can be repaired, but the missing pair (a couple of Baaz Draconian warriors from the TSR Dragonlance box set) are gone forever. I hope they ended up in Hawaii, so they can enjoy the sand, surf, and sun. I don't know how USPS managed to drop the ball on this one. It's not like the zip codes are close (98072 compared to 96913), so I guess we'll just chalk this one up to human error.<br />
<br />
After I have a chance to sort through these beauties, I'll be selling the leftovers in much smaller lots on eBay or Facebook. They all deserve a good home, and not just sitting around my hobby room in a plastic bin with all my other lead orphans.<br />
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--15of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Delivered, Front Door/Porch</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-05-2018, 17:38 PM, WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Out for Delivery</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-05-2018, 08:20 AM, WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Sorting Complete</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-05-2018, 08:10 AM, WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Arrived at Post Office</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-05-2018, 05:30 AM, WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Arrived at USPS Regional Destination Facility</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-04-2018, 22:04 PM, SEATTLE WA NETWORK DISTRIBUTION CENTER</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>In Transit to Destination</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-04-2018, 12:57 PM, On its way to WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>In Transit to Destination</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-03-2018, 12:57 PM, On its way to WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Departed USPS Regional Facility</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-02-2018, 23:57 PM, HONOLULU HI DISTRIBUTION CENTER</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Arrived at USPS Regional Facility</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-02-2018, 18:21 PM, HONOLULU HI DISTRIBUTION CENTER</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>In Transit to Destination</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-02-2018, 12:45 PM, On its way to WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>In Transit to Destination</li>
<li><span class="description">Feb-01-2018, 12:45 PM, On its way to WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Departed USPS Regional Facility</li>
<li><span class="description">Jan-31-2018, 21:45 PM, BARRIGADA GU DISTRIBUTION CENTER</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Arrived at USPS Regional Facility</li>
<li><span class="description">Jan-31-2018, 00:38 AM, BARRIGADA GU DISTRIBUTION CENTER</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>In Transit to Destination</li>
<li><span class="description">Jan-27-2018, 12:07 PM, On its way to WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>In Transit to Destination</li>
<li><span class="description">Jan-26-2018, 12:07 PM, On its way to WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>In Transit to Destination</li>
<li><span class="description">Jan-25-2018, 12:07 PM, On its way to WOODINVILLE, WA 98072</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Arrived at USPS Regional Origin Facility</li>
<li><span class="description">Jan-24-2018, 20:07 PM, SAINT LOUIS MO DISTRIBUTION CENTER</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>Departed Post Office</li>
<li><span class="description">Jan-24-2018, 17:04 PM, BALLWIN, MO 63011</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="grid">
<div class="grid__group">
<div class="grid__cell grid__cell--16of16">
<div class="row-height">
<div>
<ul class="listNoBullets">
<li>USPS in possession of item</li>
<li><span class="description">Jan-24-2018, 12:20 PM, BALLWIN, MO 63011 </span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-20550358136813809722018-02-07T13:29:00.000-08:002018-02-07T13:29:23.219-08:00Reaper Resin vs Reaper BonesI love Reaper Miniatures. Great miniatures, great company, great customer service, and an outstanding community. For player characters, there is something for everyone. Our last party was all Reaper, and our new party is once again all Reaper. And the selection of creatures covers pretty much everything in the Monster Manual and then some, so the question is usually how much should I spend?<br />
<br />
Some folks don't like to mix scales, but that's not a problem for me. True, some of my venerable 25mm Ral Partha orcs look downright tiny compared to a Reaper DHL 28mm adventurer, and many of the old Heritage and Grenadier sculpts lack the same level of detail as contemporary minis, but I don't look at my collection like that. I buy what I need and I buy what I like, scale and sculpting differences be damned.<br />
<br />
To date, I have resisted the siren call of Reaper Bones. I didn't participate in any of the Bones Kickstarters, and did not consider buying any individual Bones minis. While I am a huge fan of how incredibly affordable Bones are, I still prefer the feel and heft of a solid chunk of metal. Another plus for Bones is the light weight. I'm sure I could haul around a lot more Bones than metal minis and still have to carry less overall weight. Finally, Bones get high marks for potential durability. How many weapons and limbs have snapped off a metal mini due to an unfortunate fall off the table or from the ham-fisted handling of my fellow gamers? A lot.<br />
<br />
Which brings me to the other day. I was looking for new giants, and I saw the Bones <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/bones%20frost%20giant/sku-down/77591" target="_blank">Frost Giant King</a>. That pretty much melted my resolve (no Will save allowed) so I went ahead and bought him. And while I was at it, why not buy another frost giant? Ned (my DM) knows my philosophy is "you can never have too many giants" so I also picked up <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/boerogg/sku-down/14599" target="_blank">Boerogg Blackrime</a> in all his resin glory. While both the eBay listing and the Reaper website state Boerogg is resin with metal accessories, my NIB copy is resin with resin accessories. Just an observation, not a criticism.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASjYNU6nLiU/WntrzyqyGeI/AAAAAAAABpg/_B413DEA14osrEl7o5ewYpLg8IwQo5krACEwYBhgL/s1600/20180112_190751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASjYNU6nLiU/WntrzyqyGeI/AAAAAAAABpg/_B413DEA14osrEl7o5ewYpLg8IwQo5krACEwYBhgL/s320/20180112_190751.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He followed me home, honest!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RVx4PEts-Tc/Wntr1EHCYsI/AAAAAAAABpk/QOBn_hzEmWsbefZ41Jhd2I4QcQ02fi_FQCEwYBhgL/s1600/20180112_190807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RVx4PEts-Tc/Wntr1EHCYsI/AAAAAAAABpk/QOBn_hzEmWsbefZ41Jhd2I4QcQ02fi_FQCEwYBhgL/s320/20180112_190807.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standard Reaper packaging vs Bones</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have been reading up on Bones over the years, mostly on the Reaper forums, but also on various blogs. The first-hand accounts of my fellow painters have been very enlightening with regards to Bones, from priming (to prime or not to prime? That is the question), hardening (some substances can cause Bones minis to stiffen up to varying degrees), and converting (easy, given the soft nature of the plastic). The reason I looked at ways to harden Bones is because I'm NOT a fan of how soft and bendy the king's sword is. If I cannot get it to retain a nice straight form, then I'll have to consider lopping it off and replacing it with a resin or metal blade.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IinTWaHWkw0/Wntr3frTgHI/AAAAAAAABpk/WE1mJTi3BNMkRrj2iQ9H_mk5f8JaNzX3wCEwYBhgL/s1600/20180113_162549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IinTWaHWkw0/Wntr3frTgHI/AAAAAAAABpk/WE1mJTi3BNMkRrj2iQ9H_mk5f8JaNzX3wCEwYBhgL/s320/20180113_162549.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The various bits, side-by-side.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VIIxZw_Hbto/Wntr32NvQ7I/AAAAAAAABpk/bQdK3NXXPKMJ3HLW2yFkfnz6VCStxVTsgCEwYBhgL/s1600/20180113_162615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VIIxZw_Hbto/Wntr32NvQ7I/AAAAAAAABpk/bQdK3NXXPKMJ3HLW2yFkfnz6VCStxVTsgCEwYBhgL/s320/20180113_162615.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boerogg Blackrime</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBq_EZc9JDM/WntsAKMo4fI/AAAAAAAABpo/hiq2TenQfdEnXee6mnOKjSSsvWoCqiX1QCEwYBhgL/s1600/20180113_162620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBq_EZc9JDM/WntsAKMo4fI/AAAAAAAABpo/hiq2TenQfdEnXee6mnOKjSSsvWoCqiX1QCEwYBhgL/s320/20180113_162620.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frost Giant King</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DGbxgBEghQA/Wntr5fXqOPI/AAAAAAAABpo/3Pfbiz6fBWoRwK2PNAUi7Jyr5iOjBCVtwCEwYBhgL/s1600/20180113_162641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DGbxgBEghQA/Wntr5fXqOPI/AAAAAAAABpo/3Pfbiz6fBWoRwK2PNAUi7Jyr5iOjBCVtwCEwYBhgL/s320/20180113_162641.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see how much bigger the King is.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So I have removed the giants from their packaging, cleaned them with dish soap, a toothbrush, and cold water, and let them dry. Next step will be to assemble them, clean up any imperfections, and get busy painting! I will leave that for next time, one article for the Bones giant and one for the resin giant. If any of you folks have advice you'd like to share, your input is much appreciated. Thanks!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-61159144481378477752018-01-09T17:33:00.001-08:002018-01-09T17:34:34.734-08:00New Year, New 3.5 FR CampaignOK, so we actually played on 12/30/17, but let's not split hairs, shall we?<br />
<br />
We wrapped up our long-running (2009-20017) <a href="http://theleaddragon.blogspot.com/2017/01/" target="_blank">3.5 FR campaign last year in New Orleans</a>. New characters were rolled up on 2/25/17, and then we took a long break to allow our DM time to decompress and regroup for another tilt. It seems only appropriate that we ended one campaign and started another to coincide with my birthdays, does it not? Here is our new party:<br />
<br />
Human fighter<br />
Half-drow cleric<br />
Human rogue/sorcerer<br />
Gnome rogue/wizard<br />
Aasimar druid<br />
<br />
The new campaign kicked off with our intrepid adventurers enslaved by drow in the Underdark! We were captured individually (at least my druid was alone when ensnared by a goblin trap and captured by some drow, so I'm just assuming the rest of us met similar fates). We slaves led predictably miserable lives as miners and laborers, doing our best to survive each day as we toiled for our harsh masters in Llurth Dreir.<br />
<br />
We escaped our captors when we were attacked by some mind flayers and their humanoid minions. While the slavers were busy fighting off the incursion, we broke our shackles with tools and sheer strength and fled down a tunnel. It was a small gaggle that fled, with the five of us plus three orcs, three dwarves, and a human. Our armament consisted of some light picks and clubs.<br />
<br />
The tunnel led to an open cavern at the edge of an unknown Underdark sea. As we were scrounging for food and water, some sahaugin raiders emerged from the sea and set upon us. The sea devils probably thought we looked like easy prey, but we fought with the frenzied determination of slaves who had no wish to return to that life. We prevailed, although a few NPCs died during the melee. Some tridents and a net were added to our arsenal, although we cut up the net in order to fashion a crude rude so the chimney in the ceiling above could be explored by our sneaky type.<br />
<br />
Pressing on, we were attacked a second time by yet another band of sahaugin while crossing a narrow fjord. The fight whittled down our already meager resources, along with more dead NPCs. We added more tridents and another net to our equipment pool, and our fighter donned some seashell armor taken from a dead sea devil. It is the equivalent of banded armor. Perhaps our biggest score was the discovery of a spellbook looted from the dead sea devil wizard. It is waterproof, of course, and has a <i>read magic</i> spell that cycles through several languages on the page in real time! What this means for us is our rogue/wizard will now be able to cast his arcane spells that he was previously unable to use.<br />
As we continued to work our way through the endless tunnels of the Underdark, we caught a break when we discovered an illusory wall that concealed a small, worked crawlspace that led to some stairs going up. We rested and recovered on the stairs, and then made the 1/4 mile trek up them until we reached a landing that branched off and continued up.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Battle Armor Little Mermaid! 💜 Sans wig unfortunately. I got a lot of Aquaman but oh well, it was still fun to wear! #cosplay #cosplayer #dallasfandays #dallascomiccon #littlemermaid #mermaid #armor #disney #aquaman" height="200" src="https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/t51.2885-15/e35/12107538_904449319640302_470839540_n.jpg?ig_cache_key=MTA5ODgwNzI3NjIzNzAwODYxMA%3D%3D.2&se=7" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="159" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sahaugin shell armor?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At the top of the stairs, we found the remains of an ancient city that was buried below ground and mostly covered by a lake. The side passages at the landing led to areas that were sealed off, as they were obviously below water level. So we entered the lake, swimming to and from stalactite and stalagmite alike, until we reached the top of a tower that was poking up from near the middle of the lake.<br />
<br />
There wasn't much to see in the tower, as the lower levels were magically blocked (to keep the water out). In the one interesting room we found, the statues therein turned out to be very helpful! The warrior, rogue, and arcane caster statues are some sort of automated trainers, so the fighter and the hybrids were able to train up to level 2. The cleric and my druid were not so fortunate, but every little bit helps, so not to worry.<br />
<br />
We left the tower and found a passageway that led upwards. A tower rising up through the ground alongside a river was discovered and explored. A pitched battle with many, many goblins was fought and barely survived. Pretty much the only reason we didn't perish was due to the fact that everyone was carrying a dose of healing goo (I think it came from some fungus that one of the dwarves was able to identify and harvest). As we somewhat foolishly continued up, an encounter with a few drow was enough to exhaust our spells and give us reason to leave the structure.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for indiana jones nazis i hate these guys" class="irc_mi" height="112" src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/bOYY-wrDa_o/maxresdefault.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drow. I hate these guys.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our last encounter for the session nearly proved our undoing (again). We entered a cavern complex that was the lair for a tribe of goblinesque barbarians. Soon after we routed a small force of natives, reinforcements arrived from two directions, forcing us down a third passage. And OF COURSE that led to a dead end! Time to hold the narrowest part of the tunnel and make our last stand.<br />
<br />
But how did we escape? Well, tucked back at the far end of the room attached to the tunnel was a creature that resembled an earth elemental. The elemental was shacked to a circle of runes on the floor and held by bonds of energy, it appeared. With nothing to lose, we attacked the bonds with our weapons and freed the elemental. It summoned the six of us (one lone dwarf remained out of the original count of 7 NPCs) to its side and whisked us away from certain death, right through the very earth itself!<br />
<br />
Turns out the elemental was actually an earth genasi who was captured by the goblin things. He brought us to the hidden refuge of Earth's End, an enclave that is a haven for creatures of the earth and for a few friendly allies. There is no physical passage in or out of the area, so you need natural or magical abilities to move freely through the earth to come and go.<br />
<br />
Once we rested up, our host was able to get us directly to the dwarven city of Iltkazar, where we leave off until next time.<br />
<br />
We achieved our two main goals: escape captivity and survive the perils of the Underdark. I imagine we will be able to get portaled or safely escorted to the surface from here. There is a total of 66sp and 30gp in gems to share, along with the armor and weapons we liberated from drow, sahaugin, and goblin. Isn't it funny how a few simple upgrades make your 1st level characters feel almost invincible? Well, when you go from no armor to chain shirts and banded mail, and from light picks and clubs to tridents, a rapier, daggers, a shortbow and hand crossbows, you sure feel a lot more secure. There is also a magic cloak and three potions to identify.<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"></span>TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-42937126659801792442017-10-09T13:47:00.000-07:002017-10-09T13:47:01.314-07:00Superior Models 1/108th scale Tanks and AFVsAfter several years of searching, I finally secured a couple of WWII Russian tanks from Superior Models. They are 1/108th scale (1 inch = 9 feet) so pretty much 15mm (which is 1/107th scale). They go back a long way, originally created under the Comet brand during WWII as identification models for the U.S. military. Comet sold the molds to Superior in 1962, and then Superior sold them to Custom Cast sometime in the 1970s. Quality Castings picked them up in the 1980s, and sold them to 19th Century Miniatures in 2002. Whew! You can still buy them from 19th Century <a href="http://oldglory15s.com/Quality-Castings-15mm_c8.htm" target="_blank">here</a>, but they are newer, refined versions of the original castings. Plus you can also buy post-WWII AFVs if that's more your speed.<br />
<br />
First up is the KV-1b (5200). The T-34 usually gets all the attention when it comes to WWII Soviet tanks, due to many factors: ease of production, speed, armor, and firepower. Early on, the KV-1 was more than a match for the German light and medium tanks with their small caliber and short-barreled main guns. In the end, the T-34s advantages (half the weight, twice the speed, same or better main gun, lower cost) doomed the KV series. But they served their roles well, and should not be overlooked.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3e0L51GuCg/WdvX1JDs1CI/AAAAAAAABnI/vO0jBLzi1w4BfVGkKaPYBR4BD_D1raIEACLcBGAs/s1600/20170919_151317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3e0L51GuCg/WdvX1JDs1CI/AAAAAAAABnI/vO0jBLzi1w4BfVGkKaPYBR4BD_D1raIEACLcBGAs/s320/20170919_151317.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Next is the T-34/85 (5206), which was very poorly packed for mailing and did not arrive intact, with only a small piece of the main gun barrel rattling around in the box. I'm going to attempt field repairs in my depot and replace the missing barrel with small brass tubing. I'll post that as a follow-up once it happens. When the Soviets upgraded the main gun from 76mm to 85mm, the T-34s could now engage Tigers and Panthers from the front with an increased chance for success. The German tanks still had the advantage of range, but if you have the numbers, speed, and maneuverability of the T-34, you can close the gap and overwhelm your foe.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cEIhyQ95IAw/WdvX-_YxyzI/AAAAAAAABnM/nzl7gXU0Ck4jAXNFnlkVm9PHkukUXen0gCLcBGAs/s1600/20170919_151344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cEIhyQ95IAw/WdvX-_YxyzI/AAAAAAAABnM/nzl7gXU0Ck4jAXNFnlkVm9PHkukUXen0gCLcBGAs/s320/20170919_151344.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And this is what they look like side-by-side. I'll have to dig through the lead pile for some Heritage Panzertroops 15mm tanks and take a comparison shot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ltR9eczoEZ0/WdvYH_ZwQrI/AAAAAAAABnQ/9XxF8iwYElE9re4ge2g1UdNZ1FlRK_XNwCLcBGAs/s1600/20170919_151432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ltR9eczoEZ0/WdvYH_ZwQrI/AAAAAAAABnQ/9XxF8iwYElE9re4ge2g1UdNZ1FlRK_XNwCLcBGAs/s320/20170919_151432.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Background information was obtained from the following sources:<br />
<a href="http://www.alnavco.com/pdfs/history_of_superior_models.pdf" target="_blank">Alnavco's History of Superior Models</a> (PDF)<br />
<a href="http://www.87thscale.info/authenticast.htm" target="_blank">87thscaleinfo's Authenticast page</a> (has the Superior product list and codes)<br />
<a href="http://theminiaturespage.com/man/?id=cometmp" target="_blank">TMP's info pages</a> (Comet, Superior, Custom Cast, Quality Castings, 19th Century Miniatures)<br />
<a href="http://oldglory15s.com/Quality-Castings-15mm_c8.htm" target="_blank">19th Century Miniatures</a> (their Quality Castings 15mm AFVs)<br />
<br />TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-86141310360992593162017-06-17T15:31:00.001-07:002017-06-17T15:31:45.635-07:00New FR Campaign = New Characters to Paint!In my last post, we wrapped up our long-running FR campaign. A brand-new FR campaign is spooling up, which means I get to pick and paint a new batch of characters for us to field against the DM's never-ending hordes of monsters. Once again, I'm going with Reaper minis to represent our band of intrepid explorers. Our new adventuring party consists of a druid, fighter, cleric, sorcerer, and a rogue. Here's some WIP pics, and my apologies for the quality. They are quick snaps from my phone.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H9NxDXpDRaM/WUWq6w5LyAI/AAAAAAAABmI/a0U0eC6fnoYEhuEV6MXsPA-MZnOGyGE-wCEwYBhgL/s1600/20170615_153041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H9NxDXpDRaM/WUWq6w5LyAI/AAAAAAAABmI/a0U0eC6fnoYEhuEV6MXsPA-MZnOGyGE-wCEwYBhgL/s200/20170615_153041.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">with flash</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9mYk9pyIwHk/WUWq6I1QwJI/AAAAAAAABmI/Eqg9nP7Cs2A06CfBmw_f4TAPRlAwcAuHQCEwYBhgL/s1600/20170615_153012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9mYk9pyIwHk/WUWq6I1QwJI/AAAAAAAABmI/Eqg9nP7Cs2A06CfBmw_f4TAPRlAwcAuHQCEwYBhgL/s200/20170615_153012.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">no flash</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My druid is the first 3E/3.5 tree-hugger since we started playing this ruleset. I can't recall the last time anyone played a druid, so I'm pretty sure we're talking way back in our 2E days. I'm really looking forward to this! At first I was going with <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/karlov/latest/03484" target="_blank">03484 Karlov Diedrich, Wizard</a> because he just looks like a druid to me. I ended up choosing <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/damian/sku-down/03201" target="_blank">03201 Damian Helthorne</a>, Bandit because my druid serves Mielikki, and her druids are allowed to use the same weapons and armor available to rangers. So yeah, he looks more like a ranger than a druid, but that's my aim. Oh, and he's Aasimar, just to be different.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lLfHqTOQjac/WUWq5wRcPjI/AAAAAAAABls/hRbilF_LidEZXG3PaE5nPdsn-lH9wWyKACLcBGAs/s1600/20170615_153139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lLfHqTOQjac/WUWq5wRcPjI/AAAAAAAABls/hRbilF_LidEZXG3PaE5nPdsn-lH9wWyKACLcBGAs/s320/20170615_153139.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Dino is playing a human fighter, so I picked <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/kale/sku-down/03317" target="_blank">03317 Kale Nolan, Heroic Warrior</a> for him. He's been sitting on the lead pile, based and primed, because I knew I would use him sooner or later. His skin is too yellowish right now, but I'll work on that. Don't want him to look like a pirate with scurvy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--AaFtJXuGjE/WUWq8EUJqAI/AAAAAAAABl8/QSlBPpDTdpw4OlDAi668fG2SZnY_1fK-ACEwYBhgL/s1600/20170615_153214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--AaFtJXuGjE/WUWq8EUJqAI/AAAAAAAABl8/QSlBPpDTdpw4OlDAi668fG2SZnY_1fK-ACEwYBhgL/s320/20170615_153214.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Matt is the medic this time, and <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/argonnite/sku-down/03365" target="_blank">03365 Argonnite, Elf Cleric</a> will be his half-drow cleric. I love the fact that Argonnite came with a weapons sprue so you could choose from a sword, mace, or bow. Maybe I'll stick a small spider on the base, just to remind him Lolth is not happy about a male half-drow cleric running around.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HavA5SajaNg/WUWq7n4_VpI/AAAAAAAABl4/v9i4vN0LpU4OrZ3lhFxUuCKzwa9GL9n-QCEwYBhgL/s1600/20170615_153234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HavA5SajaNg/WUWq7n4_VpI/AAAAAAAABl4/v9i4vN0LpU4OrZ3lhFxUuCKzwa9GL9n-QCEwYBhgL/s320/20170615_153234.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Steve wins the Best Prepared Dude Award for this campaign. Not only did he pick out and purchase <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/satheras/sku-down/03381" target="_blank">03381 Satheras, Elf Warlock</a> on his own, he even told me he wants me to paint his sorcerer in a more neutral palette. That foiled my plans to paint him up in lovely shades of lavender and salmon.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--QwLuEDsHt4/WUWq8Q4xhLI/AAAAAAAABmA/oAfi-_4bla4iDeUG34Ll42pmJ47S-tB1wCEwYBhgL/s1600/20170615_153304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--QwLuEDsHt4/WUWq8Q4xhLI/AAAAAAAABmA/oAfi-_4bla4iDeUG34Ll42pmJ47S-tB1wCEwYBhgL/s320/20170615_153304.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The rogue pictured is <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/darnath/sku-down/03062" target="_blank">03062 Darnath, Male Elf Thief</a>. That was before Craig decided his rogue is going to be a gnome, so I narrowed my choices down to <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/marius/sku-down/02959" target="_blank">02959 Marius Burrowell, Gnome Thief</a> or <a href="http://www.reapermini.com/OnlineStore/klaus/sku-down/03099" target="_blank">03099 Klaus Copperthumb, Dwarf Thief</a>. Klaus just arrived in the mail yesterday, so he'll be getting based and primed this weekend.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r621L1xJy70/WUWq8zacuVI/AAAAAAAABmE/SbE1cGil77QvPzczIgcHP1cE1vkUxiu1wCEwYBhgL/s1600/20170615_153325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r621L1xJy70/WUWq8zacuVI/AAAAAAAABmE/SbE1cGil77QvPzczIgcHP1cE1vkUxiu1wCEwYBhgL/s320/20170615_153325.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Oh, and I'm also working on some critters for Ned! Don't want the DM to feel left out. I'll post those WIPs next time.TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-3966817668560236292017-01-27T16:45:00.000-08:002017-01-27T16:45:02.841-08:00Forgotten Realms Campaign - End of An EraA couple of weeks ago, The Dudes traveled to New Orleans to celebrate my 50th birthday in grand fashion. We lodged in a house that was the definition of character (<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/619368?guests=1&adults=1&children=0&infants=0&s=G6EUb9Bm" target="_blank">see it here on airbnb</a>) and was within walking distance of the French Quarter, although Uber rides were cheap and convenient. For touristy stuff, we did the airboat ride (<a href="http://www.airboatadventures.com/" target="_blank">Airboat Adventures</a>) and visited the <a href="http://www.nationalww2museum.org/" target="_blank">National WWII Museum</a>. Thursday night was our big bar-hopping night, where we started off with a great dinner at <a href="http://www.cafeamelie.com/" target="_blank">Cafe Amelie</a> and then hit 3-4 bars to listen to live music and partake of adult beverages. Best venue of the evening had to be <a href="http://www.maisonfrenchmen.com/" target="_blank">The Maison</a>, where we were treated to a rollicking set by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DysfunktionalBone/" target="_blank">Dysfunktional Bone</a>.<br />
<br />
We had a slow start to our Friday, but hey, we were on vacation. We decided to get started on our adventure, which involved us traveling to the Astral Plane to seek out and destroy the Lich Queen of the Githyanki. Real ho-hum stuff, right? OK, so let me back up and do some 'splaining. We rolled these characters up back in 2009. Yep, you read that right, 2009 - this party has been rolling for eight years! Of course, we only play a handful of times each year due to the fact four of us live here in Washington and the other two down the coast in California.<br />
<br />
Between levels 1 and 20, we managed to end up quite high on the Red Wizards of Thay shit list. Oh, there were others too, but we had a full-blown Hatfields vs McCoys going on with the Thayans. They would stalk us, ambush and harass us, and we would repay the favor with forays into Thay, raid their caravans, and finally end up part of a massive drow raid that descended upon Thaymount and did major damage to the leadership caste. I think they might be holding a grudge for that escapade.<br />
<br />
And then strangely enough, an emissary from the Red Wizards reached out to us because they wanted our help. Wait, what? Faster than you can channel your inner Adm. Ackbar (It's a trap!), we learned that Szass Tam, the Grand High Poobah of the Red Wizards, was scheming with the Lich Queen of the Githyanki to launch some sort of coordinated strike against Faerun. The other zulkirs weren't too keen on this solo endeavour by Tam, so they thought enlisting us (and the Red Sword) would put a stop to the plans without betraying themselves to Tam.<br />
<br />
So that's how we ended up on the Astral Plane inside the Lich Queen's palace, fighting powerful Githyanki, gith/dragon hybrids, a legless Githyanki warlock, a two-headed red dragon (!), the Lich Queen herself, and some guy named Szass Tam. I'm pleased to report we were able to vanquish our foes in what was some of our best gaming to date. At least it was great, right up until the point where Szass appeared. We failed to destroy him (and yes, we had his phylactery) and my wizard/archmage Garrity was snuffed out by a Sphere of Annihilation. Luckily, our resourceful son of Moradin was able to do some of that cleric shit and bring me back. So Tam escapes and lives to scheme another day, but we did destroy the Lich Queen (permanently) and thwart Tam's plans of conquest.<br />
<br />
What next? Well, for all intents and purposes, our high-level campaign is over. Ned reserves the right to continue this campaign down the road, but for now we are already looking ahead to starting over. I've compiled a small stack of character templates so once we determine our ability scores and hash out who plays what this time around, I'll be good to go. And I have a pretty good idea of what I'm going to play this time around - a class I've never played before! Should be fun.<br />
<br />
I'm sure Ned could write a dissertation on running high/epic level campaigns, but we would all agree that 20th level encounters take much, much longer. Buffs, immunities, SR, dispells, counterspells, the list goes on and on. I'll write my own thesis on the archmage sometime, but his high arcana abilities were very flexible and a lot of fun to use. Huge thanks to Ned for all the time and sweat he expended on the campaign, and for putting up with all the shit and shenanigans we put him through.<br />
<br />
Of course the best part of the campaign is simply spending time with my best friends. We've rolled a lot of bones, drank a lot of beers, gave each other copious amounts of shit, and I love them like brothers. Wouldn't have it any other way.<br />
<br />
PS - phylactery is apparently a hard word to pronounce for most of my party. And since they know me all too well, even if they wanted to pronounce it correctly, they butchered it just to stick it to me. Dickheads.TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-22380981652186009122016-12-19T01:31:00.000-08:002016-12-19T01:31:26.888-08:00Grenadier's TSR Lizardman Logo Mini - SOLD!!!$2,605.00 (USD). Two thousand six hundred and five dollars. That's what some deep-pocketed collector <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Lizard-Man-Logo-by-Grenadier-1977-/311759728168?nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557" target="_blank">shelled out tonight to own this miniature</a>:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10qR15TdRR0/WFehz2-LNqI/AAAAAAAABkc/dD9OcfliOZQOz0MsDEU8xvVovtfIJI_wgCLcB/s1600/Grenadier%2BTSR%2BLogo%2BLizardman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10qR15TdRR0/WFehz2-LNqI/AAAAAAAABkc/dD9OcfliOZQOz0MsDEU8xvVovtfIJI_wgCLcB/s320/Grenadier%2BTSR%2BLogo%2BLizardman.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(photo credit: Paul Stormberg)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Grenadier produced a small handful of these lizardman minis in 1977 and gave them to some TSR employees when they were attempting to secure the rights to produce official AD&D minis. This is what Paul Stormberg of The Collector's Trove has to say about it:<br />
<br />
"According
to Jeff Leason this miniature was a promotional figure given to the
very few employees at TSR in 1977 to curry favor with the company and
get the lucrative miniatures license from TSR. The rest is history, as
Grenadier went on to create some of the most memorable miniatures as
part of their Official Advanced Dungeons & Dragons line.
Occasionally, spare copies would show up in The Dungeon! Hobby Shop.<br />
<br />
The Lizardman Logo miniature for TSR was copied from an illustration
inside the front cover of D&D Supplement I: Greyhawk by Greg Bell.
The miniature is very exacting in detail and is a virtual copy of the
original drawing. Clearly an effort by the Grenadier sculptor to show
off his talent and win the license for his company. Amazing!<br />
<br />
The Lizard Man is 70mm tall to the top of the weapon and 55mm from head to toe! The bottom is engraved, "TSR Lizzard Man ©1977".<br />
<br />
The only other times I have seen this miniature at auction was in
2004, when The Collector's Trove ran it's first auction for Dave
Sutherland III, and then again in 2007 when The Collector's Trove ran an
auction for TSR employee Kevin Hendryx. However, this is the first time
I have ever seen this miniature for auction where it is still in it's
original packaging!<br />
<br />
A piece of gaming history! Don't let this one slip away this
miniature is a true crown jewel for the serious TSR and miniature
collector!<br />
<br />
This item comes from personal collection of Jeff Leason!"<br />
<br />
So there you have it, a miniature that actually deserves to be tagged as rare. This makes three copies that have been sold by Paul (all from former TSR employees), and I have seen three more owned by Acaeum members (two collectors, and one former TSR employee). I wonder how many others might be sitting around gathering dust or hidden away in a box somewhere?TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-21455761597290800992016-12-13T00:44:00.000-08:002016-12-13T00:44:02.245-08:00Something old and something new!It's been forever and a day since I last posted (August, if you're keeping track). But I've been busy in the past couple of weeks, painting some Christmas miniatures and assembling a piece of movie heavy metal (I'll go into those topics in the near future).<br />
<br />
First, something old: Today I received my 54mm Wandering Shaman by Broadsword Miniatures. I was eyeing some Broadsword giants that had been on eBay, but ended up with the Shaman. It was only $22.46, which is about the same as an Otherworld giant (the 28mm ones, not THE Otherworld Giant).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rjml2pgGBEg/WE-zgs-6J5I/AAAAAAAABkA/NQ4cta3Df-4EadhH4LaWbFNbFHJk5pG0ACEw/s1600/Broadsword%2BShaman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rjml2pgGBEg/WE-zgs-6J5I/AAAAAAAABkA/NQ4cta3Df-4EadhH4LaWbFNbFHJk5pG0ACEw/s320/Broadsword%2BShaman.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The first thing I thought of when I saw the Shaman was Allanon the druid from the <i>Shannara </i>books. I think it would be too easy to paint up the Shaman as a wizard or necromancer, but I'm thinking dark and subdued earthy tones would look great. And if I'm feeling really ambitious (ha!) I could even take a stab at a monochromatic scheme.<br />
<br />
Moving on to something new: I finally have some Otherworld giants! These have been on my wish list pretty much since they were released, but the prices have kept me at bay. But the good people over at <a href="http://ntseshop.co.uk/" target="_blank"><b>Northumbrian Tin Soldier</b></a> are clearing out their Otherworld stock at 50% off, so how could I NOT finally buy some giants? I picked up the Giant Alliance (Hill, Stone, Frost, Fire), a Cloud Giant, and a Carcass Scavenger (carrion crawler) for $76.11 USD including shipping from the UK.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rQ-H4YGBV8Q/WE-zO0Vl-1I/AAAAAAAABj8/b4wnhDgW8lctiWPXNf-a72Tpw700kbiQACEw/s1600/Othwreworld%2Bhaul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rQ-H4YGBV8Q/WE-zO0Vl-1I/AAAAAAAABj8/b4wnhDgW8lctiWPXNf-a72Tpw700kbiQACEw/s320/Othwreworld%2Bhaul.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It looks like the giants are all gone, but there are still some Otherworld bargains to be had at NTS. Oh, and if you are a fan of the movie <i>Time Bandits</i>, check out the <a href="http://ntseshop.co.uk/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=185" target="_blank">Time Robbers</a> line of minis. "Mom, dad, don't touch it! It's evil!!!"<br />
<br />
This haul brings my Otherworld collection up to 8 now. 5 giants, a carcass scavenger, a gelatinous cube, and a purple worm.TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-77270822907648361912016-08-20T01:29:00.000-07:002016-08-20T01:31:38.618-07:00Wingnut Wings 1/32 Scale WWI Aircraft from Weta WorkshopIf you like large-scale (1/32nd) World War I military aircraft models, you might want to check out Weta Workshop's lineup under the <a href="https://www.wetanz.com/shop/model-kits" target="_blank">Wingnut Wings brand</a> (yes, it is owned by Peter Jackson, who is a scale modeler and fan of WWI aircraft, go figure).<br />
<br />
I built more than a few WWI fighters when I was young, all in 1/72 scale. They all met glorious pyrotechnic ends, crashing and burning (with gasoline-fueled assistance) and sometimes exploding (thanks to firecrackers) when I deemed them at the end of their shelf life (missing pieces or otherwise broken beyond salvaging).<br />
<br />
The Fokker D VII was always a favorite of mine, especially in the crazy lozenge camo scheme:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZW_lUdwaXA/V7gS_yXGRjI/AAAAAAAABgQ/qsZGxLx_IbExLmJyac1MvK9UzF5rlDDKwCLcB/s1600/Fokker%2BD7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZW_lUdwaXA/V7gS_yXGRjI/AAAAAAAABgQ/qsZGxLx_IbExLmJyac1MvK9UzF5rlDDKwCLcB/s320/Fokker%2BD7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
But I thought the Albatros D.Va was even sexier, with the graceful flowing lines:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twLom2b2Pjs/V7gS9HdBjJI/AAAAAAAABgM/8oFuioaJkNUfCmcNmBWpW5VglVGR16pfwCEw/s1600/alb-40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twLom2b2Pjs/V7gS9HdBjJI/AAAAAAAABgM/8oFuioaJkNUfCmcNmBWpW5VglVGR16pfwCEw/s320/alb-40.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So if I was going to drop some bills on a Wingnut Wings kit, it would no doubt be their D.Va:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ghUeUh0rOj8/V7gS59xljgI/AAAAAAAABgI/9xKchh1MQXUwiRy6rCqIXYZts8N6IcxwgCEw/s1600/WW%2BAlbatros%2BDVa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ghUeUh0rOj8/V7gS59xljgI/AAAAAAAABgI/9xKchh1MQXUwiRy6rCqIXYZts8N6IcxwgCEw/s320/WW%2BAlbatros%2BDVa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I currently have way too many unbuilt kits sitting around to justify picking up one of these, but who knows, one day I may cave in to temptation if the price is right.<br />
<br />TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-89728125605066204382016-06-23T17:03:00.001-07:002016-06-23T17:03:33.360-07:00The Fantastic Worlds of Grenadier is back!A Kickstarter for the revised print edition of <i>The Fantastic Worlds of Grenadier</i> by Terence Gunn has gone live!<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="420" scrolling="no" src="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1155053944/the-fantastic-worlds-of-grenadier/widget/card.html?v=2" width="220"></iframe><br />
<br />
If you are a Grenadier collector and missed out on the original print edition, now is your chance to pick up a copy for only $35 (USD). And even if Grenadier isn't you focus, I'm pretty sure most miniature enthusiasts would be happy to own this book.<br />
<br />
Best wishes to Terence for a successful KS campaign!TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-49566898719370505002016-05-27T10:52:00.001-07:002016-05-27T10:52:43.450-07:00Reaper Marsh Troll (2609) by Bob OlleyThis Reaper Marsh Troll is another great example of why I love painting Reaper minis. There are always a couple of details that reach out and grab you, even if at first glance it looks somewhat pedestrian. Let me explain: OK, we have a troll moving through a swamp. He's not running, attacking, roaring, or anything dynamic. He looks like he's moving with a purpose, looking ahead, and not necessarily looking for trouble.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IcxChktMurk/V0iCP72XVqI/AAAAAAAAA9o/08OD8FALa2IaRiGjdSwu2lwIESXO-YWEQCLcB/s1600/DSCN2473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IcxChktMurk/V0iCP72XVqI/AAAAAAAAA9o/08OD8FALa2IaRiGjdSwu2lwIESXO-YWEQCLcB/s320/DSCN2473.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Luzp7oqsZY0/V0iCP-NlN_I/AAAAAAAAA9s/PSX5plNhdgsm1EdfMQecQmFJHnOJ4lbsACLcB/s1600/DSCN2474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Luzp7oqsZY0/V0iCP-NlN_I/AAAAAAAAA9s/PSX5plNhdgsm1EdfMQecQmFJHnOJ4lbsACLcB/s320/DSCN2474.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1hCFW2EMj9k/V0iCPAcma7I/AAAAAAAAA9k/wruGVVFccRUm9TDS8Fjb3fv_JVOIa2MNQCLcB/s1600/DSCN2475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1hCFW2EMj9k/V0iCPAcma7I/AAAAAAAAA9k/wruGVVFccRUm9TDS8Fjb3fv_JVOIa2MNQCLcB/s320/DSCN2475.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
But check out the fish he's carrying! When I first saw it, I pictured a large, <a href="https://www.123rf.com/photo_39343706_asian-carp-painting.html" target="_blank">colorful Asian-style carp</a>, and pretty much knew that would be my chance to add some color to a mini that has a decidedly monochrome look about it. The troll's claws/nails are brighter than the rest of his body, pretty much the only contrast on the troll. So I went with vibrant reds, oranges, and purple on the carp. There's even a bit of gold on it that doesn't really show up in the pictures, but it's there. And I used some nice light greens on the base to add a bit more color as well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bFoS_J4QAOA/V0iCRFooniI/AAAAAAAAA9w/KPOQJwCHALck7-p3Cnvh-kOQFh1_wF7HQCKgB/s1600/DSCN2476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bFoS_J4QAOA/V0iCRFooniI/AAAAAAAAA9w/KPOQJwCHALck7-p3Cnvh-kOQFh1_wF7HQCKgB/s320/DSCN2476.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's a closeup of his face. I thought about giving him some black hair, or even bright green, but in the end decided against it, if only to stay consistent with his overall look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NVm1u4fIG_Y/V0iCSOw2M4I/AAAAAAAAA90/7RXkaRAlpVsUvGmr_hreW-r_h651bq98gCKgB/s1600/DSCN2477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NVm1u4fIG_Y/V0iCSOw2M4I/AAAAAAAAA90/7RXkaRAlpVsUvGmr_hreW-r_h651bq98gCKgB/s320/DSCN2477.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Have a great weekend!TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-48116569074918503262016-05-23T21:16:00.000-07:002016-05-23T21:16:26.129-07:00Grenadier Giant's Club Fire Giant (3501)This is the third fire giant I painted a few months ago, and also happens to be the third Giant's Club giant I have finished in my ongoing project of painting all the GC giants. Not very pleased with some of the color choices in hindsight, specifically the green and blue patches on the pants, as well as the green trim on the shield. Probably should have gone with some more neutral colors on the pants, and maybe red or yellow on the shield trim. Ah well, he's done and I'm happy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A5PbauQ-Wkk/V0PS6imICjI/AAAAAAAAA9E/2FBZGh5rC1MQFizDSekNT09ou-Eg0kjmwCLcB/s1600/DSCN2487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A5PbauQ-Wkk/V0PS6imICjI/AAAAAAAAA9E/2FBZGh5rC1MQFizDSekNT09ou-Eg0kjmwCLcB/s320/DSCN2487.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1CalnBiBfI/V0PS7VwJfJI/AAAAAAAAA9I/qBdB7CjT0_0j0oyK5uoFHocXmZY8Ffw8ACLcB/s1600/DSCN2488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1CalnBiBfI/V0PS7VwJfJI/AAAAAAAAA9I/qBdB7CjT0_0j0oyK5uoFHocXmZY8Ffw8ACLcB/s320/DSCN2488.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvqNP6kqh20/V0PS6JIjVnI/AAAAAAAAA9A/e9kerjY10loKcfYJl4LbplMpOKah16lUQCLcB/s1600/DSCN2489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvqNP6kqh20/V0PS6JIjVnI/AAAAAAAAA9A/e9kerjY10loKcfYJl4LbplMpOKah16lUQCLcB/s320/DSCN2489.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And here is the group shot of my completed Giant's Club giants to date:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SZGKSduHHog/V0PS8S8nc7I/AAAAAAAAA9Q/9bw1xXHlvroI7LKzeMwOGhauWKg19R_CACKgB/s1600/DSCN2490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SZGKSduHHog/V0PS8S8nc7I/AAAAAAAAA9Q/9bw1xXHlvroI7LKzeMwOGhauWKg19R_CACKgB/s320/DSCN2490.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I can't say that I'm too crazy about the fire giant's pose. It's like he's taking a leisurely stroll through <i>The Hall of the Fire Giant King</i> or something, sword casually resting on his shoulder. Oh well, I guess even giants get a day off every now and then.TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-20011784152162652822016-05-19T17:27:00.000-07:002016-05-19T17:27:54.203-07:00Grenadier Fire Giant (713) by Julie GuthrieI picked up this guy <a href="http://theleaddragon.blogspot.com/2012/04/in-praise-of-trading-new-additions-to.html" target="_blank">back in 2012</a>, and it only took me what, four years to tackle him? I painted a trio of fire giants at the end of 2015 or beginning of 2016, and <a href="http://www.miniatures-workshop.com/lostminiswiki/index.php?title=Julie_Guthrie_700_Series#713" target="_blank">this Julie Guthrie model</a> is the second of the three I am presenting today.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_QqJFRiq-V0/Vz5YwqhqYvI/AAAAAAAAA8c/YZVR1eJIWAk9Tg_7kBm5QoYAxI7_9JSPQCLcB/s1600/DSCN2484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_QqJFRiq-V0/Vz5YwqhqYvI/AAAAAAAAA8c/YZVR1eJIWAk9Tg_7kBm5QoYAxI7_9JSPQCLcB/s320/DSCN2484.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3oK4o-AlaAM/Vz5YxWTlPYI/AAAAAAAAA8k/M_YqArG5_isSOY6OyybNuprVdnEyUdApgCKgB/s1600/DSCN2485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3oK4o-AlaAM/Vz5YxWTlPYI/AAAAAAAAA8k/M_YqArG5_isSOY6OyybNuprVdnEyUdApgCKgB/s320/DSCN2485.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is just an outstanding example of Julie Guthrie's work. To me, it captures the look and feel of <a href="http://forgottenrealms.wikia.com/wiki/File:Monster_Manual_1e_-_Fire_Giant_-_p44.png" target="_blank">the illustration</a> from the first Monster Manual, except this brute is hefting an axe instead of a sword. The mix of plate and dragon hide armor is perfect, and I'm pretty happy with the results.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ILSU3PElmQ0/Vz5Yw5SvSrI/AAAAAAAAA8o/L00kP8wrdnwSIm0AGgX86uwETzWhzgJBACKgB/s1600/DSCN2486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ILSU3PElmQ0/Vz5Yw5SvSrI/AAAAAAAAA8o/L00kP8wrdnwSIm0AGgX86uwETzWhzgJBACKgB/s320/DSCN2486.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The axe is pretty plain, but if that's my only gripe about this mini, I think I can let it slide.<br />
<br />TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-39109127793071018882016-05-18T11:29:00.000-07:002016-05-18T11:29:54.232-07:00Citadel C28 Fire Giant aka Darth MaulI do love the Citadel C28 line of giants. There are 9 different bodies, 10 heads, and 8 weapons <a href="http://www.collecting-citadel-miniatures.com/wiki/index.php/Giants_-_C28_%28solid_base%29" target="_blank">according to the CCM wiki</a>, so it offers the discerning collector a chance to mix and match to their heart's content. As soon as I had this particular C28 giant in my hands, I knew exactly what it was going to be: I give you Darth Maul, fire giant.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hyMMgUL-h2Y/Vzyz1V-YTzI/AAAAAAAAA74/W1w6SjMDb1s3WNqJZSRhZ28eSBNz-miWwCLcB/s1600/DSCN2480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hyMMgUL-h2Y/Vzyz1V-YTzI/AAAAAAAAA74/W1w6SjMDb1s3WNqJZSRhZ28eSBNz-miWwCLcB/s320/DSCN2480.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6j6alDB0bg/Vzyz24VPeHI/AAAAAAAAA78/KFAgyMvQMl8Lqwe_f8vubFJ0L8q_A8FxgCLcB/s1600/DSCN2481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6j6alDB0bg/Vzyz24VPeHI/AAAAAAAAA78/KFAgyMvQMl8Lqwe_f8vubFJ0L8q_A8FxgCLcB/s320/DSCN2481.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3GyxkygilM/Vzyz4GTR5QI/AAAAAAAAA8A/yx_f6uNU4VwIMA8R4ZkkbpW8TDV8bkKMACLcB/s1600/DSCN2482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3GyxkygilM/Vzyz4GTR5QI/AAAAAAAAA8A/yx_f6uNU4VwIMA8R4ZkkbpW8TDV8bkKMACLcB/s320/DSCN2482.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I mean, come on, how could I NOT paint this guy up as a fire giant with red head spikes? I briefly toyed with the notion of giving him some red face paint, but quickly decided against it. It's OK to use Darth Maul as a creative inspiration, but I didn't need to go all the way.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vXgr3senDTU/Vzyz0I9TWNI/AAAAAAAAA7w/m656zVOrMGYVXltugPEj-fBbVOEpmxXaACKgB/s1600/DSCN2478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vXgr3senDTU/Vzyz0I9TWNI/AAAAAAAAA7w/m656zVOrMGYVXltugPEj-fBbVOEpmxXaACKgB/s320/DSCN2478.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KDAXuNLLBiY/Vzyz08hNpeI/AAAAAAAAA70/DaNHvpsGEhoqEeZfJ87erS_1zNCqhWMvwCKgB/s1600/DSCN2479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KDAXuNLLBiY/Vzyz08hNpeI/AAAAAAAAA70/DaNHvpsGEhoqEeZfJ87erS_1zNCqhWMvwCKgB/s320/DSCN2479.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Darth didn't come with a weapon, so I made him a placeholder axe out of various bits. The haft is way too long, so the proportions are out of whack. But it will do for now until I am able to replace it with something more suitable (I think the C28 sword or mace would do just fine).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IrJfbSzEEb0/Vzyz5Djc6lI/AAAAAAAAA8E/eE7NCukkg1gBEEclrai0LPuS3qjXQx2KQCKgB/s1600/DSCN2483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IrJfbSzEEb0/Vzyz5Djc6lI/AAAAAAAAA8E/eE7NCukkg1gBEEclrai0LPuS3qjXQx2KQCKgB/s320/DSCN2483.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You can see <a href="http://www.sodemons.com/rhgiants2/cseries1/index.htm" target="_blank">some nicely painted C28 giants</a> on <a href="http://www.sodemons.com/rhgallery/index.htm" target="_blank">Orclord's SOL page</a> (along with a veritable treasure trove of giants and many, many other creatures).TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-77605053471391466282016-05-13T11:43:00.001-07:002016-05-13T11:43:58.768-07:00Ral Partha 11-488 Cyclops repaintI've always loved this particular sculpt from the AD&D 11-series. He's big, muscular, looks pissed off, and is about to ruin some adventurer's day with the rock in his hand. I wish I had taken a "before" pic so I had something to compare it to now, but I'll remember that down the road. I know it saw a lot of use on the gaming table, but time and a smallish base took their toll. The paint was chipped in strategic locations (the parts that made contact with the table every time it fell over) and he was starting to look quite ragged. So into the stripper he went, and then a new base was crafted to keep him stable. Look ma, no more tipovers!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lic3zx9zoTQ/VzYc7ygoc2I/AAAAAAAAA7c/Xf8ZD3M39qYmmXxCrox5sqv7RrJc9JtPQCKgB/s1600/DSCN2456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lic3zx9zoTQ/VzYc7ygoc2I/AAAAAAAAA7c/Xf8ZD3M39qYmmXxCrox5sqv7RrJc9JtPQCKgB/s320/DSCN2456.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bVGcuSaOEKY/VzYc6ZJIXcI/AAAAAAAAA7c/DOPodNYWceU38M00vzffE596CHmjTE9qACKgB/s1600/DSCN2457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bVGcuSaOEKY/VzYc6ZJIXcI/AAAAAAAAA7c/DOPodNYWceU38M00vzffE596CHmjTE9qACKgB/s320/DSCN2457.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lzNK1GfLArk/VzYc8HiO0ZI/AAAAAAAAA7c/6xGxqyfRcMgRslt8L-547TsFnW6zDTZQQCKgB/s1600/DSCN2460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lzNK1GfLArk/VzYc8HiO0ZI/AAAAAAAAA7c/6xGxqyfRcMgRslt8L-547TsFnW6zDTZQQCKgB/s320/DSCN2460.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1M8Z3qyEmiw/VzYc9Mt72uI/AAAAAAAAA7c/-5Pzq46RDL4fSwFxZSDVrHq5AJTKR8koQCKgB/s1600/DSCN2462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1M8Z3qyEmiw/VzYc9Mt72uI/AAAAAAAAA7c/-5Pzq46RDL4fSwFxZSDVrHq5AJTKR8koQCKgB/s320/DSCN2462.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I anticipate this newly refurbished cyclops will once again see a lot of use on the gaming table, terrorizing the PCs and causing mayhem, as giants are wont to do. Only this time, he won't be constantly tipping over!TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-91876839000624795902016-05-08T20:27:00.000-07:002016-05-08T20:27:06.679-07:00DragonTooth GI-6, Big Meg and Her StewpotIt's been way too long since I finished a project, much less one of my favorite subjects - DragonTooth giants. Last time I finished a DT giant was <a href="http://theleaddragon.blogspot.com/2012/11/dragontooth-giant-finished.html" target="_blank">back in 2012</a>, so I'm a bit overdue. Big Meg has been sitting on the workbench since 2010, when I picked her up in <a href="http://theleaddragon.blogspot.com/2010/11/captain-there-be-dragontooth-giants.html" target="_blank">a nice lot of giants</a>. I was working on her and a repaint of my Ral Partha 11-488 Cyclops over the past several weeks, so it was nice to finish not just one but two (two!) projects. I know that's peanuts compared to some of you more dedicated painters, but it's progress for me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ulQPq6t4cQI/Vy_-pfjOFvI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/zc7kYu4a8QobVdJr6HAqZCr2eCHazZaJQCLcB/s1600/DSCN2463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ulQPq6t4cQI/Vy_-pfjOFvI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/zc7kYu4a8QobVdJr6HAqZCr2eCHazZaJQCLcB/s320/DSCN2463.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
What can I say about Meg? How about she's so ugly she's beautiful. Her face is kinda flat and broad, with one bug eye and a single snaggly tooth. Her limbs are thick and beefy, and Sir Mix-A-Lot would be a fan of her rear end and then some. Tom Loback was such a wonderful artist, so good at adding life and character to inanimate bits of lead. Big Meg has that "it factor" in spades, at least in my opinion. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxLiF63QUjY/Vy_-qApR6KI/AAAAAAAAA64/jU7iTOvspjMostDLlWBrqSZh3Yxox2P1ACKgB/s1600/DSCN2464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxLiF63QUjY/Vy_-qApR6KI/AAAAAAAAA64/jU7iTOvspjMostDLlWBrqSZh3Yxox2P1ACKgB/s320/DSCN2464.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-adRo_3UhDhg/Vy_-qwRwDVI/AAAAAAAAA64/vYnrawl7JrwWA0560Ne5yahA5ruFNpyVgCKgB/s1600/DSCN2465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-adRo_3UhDhg/Vy_-qwRwDVI/AAAAAAAAA64/vYnrawl7JrwWA0560Ne5yahA5ruFNpyVgCKgB/s320/DSCN2465.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--t78gGiEL9I/Vy_-smRRHbI/AAAAAAAAA64/AqUvOr3IP1ArQcwBgSe3GBAh1xR9qQ9wgCKgB/s1600/DSCN2466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--t78gGiEL9I/Vy_-smRRHbI/AAAAAAAAA64/AqUvOr3IP1ArQcwBgSe3GBAh1xR9qQ9wgCKgB/s320/DSCN2466.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jAF2r7lmseI/Vy_-te-P2II/AAAAAAAAA64/tKAeFp5zTy0vY823lAfeZvX8_yfd6obbQCKgB/s1600/DSCN2467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jAF2r7lmseI/Vy_-te-P2II/AAAAAAAAA64/tKAeFp5zTy0vY823lAfeZvX8_yfd6obbQCKgB/s320/DSCN2467.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mMjJRv1sE5c/Vy_-u-JkS9I/AAAAAAAAA64/NLoj2bBxQeEiQhG_QcZomhh-tEXeqYYDQCKgB/s1600/DSCN2468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mMjJRv1sE5c/Vy_-u-JkS9I/AAAAAAAAA64/NLoj2bBxQeEiQhG_QcZomhh-tEXeqYYDQCKgB/s320/DSCN2468.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3TQi0bvVgiI/Vy_-wISRn3I/AAAAAAAAA64/SFgsDVcScbAJznx17mDsAATG1WsOQzk0ACKgB/s1600/DSCN2469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3TQi0bvVgiI/Vy_-wISRn3I/AAAAAAAAA64/SFgsDVcScbAJznx17mDsAATG1WsOQzk0ACKgB/s320/DSCN2469.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Painting her presented a new challenge for me, as she is of course nearly naked. I don't think I've ever painted this much bare flesh on any miniature, much less one this large. Lots of creases, folds, and random dimples to deal with. I was trying to achieve a pale, pasty complexion, with dirt and grime in the appropriate areas, as I picture Meg hanging out in a cave lair. That explains why her feet are dirty, from scuffling around her cave, hunched over a cooking fire, tending her stew.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EmZljSche68/Vy_-xEFKk7I/AAAAAAAAA6s/Vllyl6UFR-AyGGUM29hmMrAwfghP1QS_QCKgB/s1600/DSCN2470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EmZljSche68/Vy_-xEFKk7I/AAAAAAAAA6s/Vllyl6UFR-AyGGUM29hmMrAwfghP1QS_QCKgB/s320/DSCN2470.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBs7Sgm0n90/Vy_-ygZEXFI/AAAAAAAAA6w/pzocGa1XelcMNgWQWp5QjhJv9oUZK7cmwCKgB/s1600/DSCN2471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBs7Sgm0n90/Vy_-ygZEXFI/AAAAAAAAA6w/pzocGa1XelcMNgWQWp5QjhJv9oUZK7cmwCKgB/s320/DSCN2471.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She has a unibrow. Hawt!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Why did I paint her stew green? I don't know, isn't all giant stew green? Actually, it was purely for aesthetic reasons. It was the only place I thought a pop of color would look appropriate, and the stew in <i>Conan the Barbarian</i> (remember the orgy scene where they kidnap the princess?) was kind of a sickly whitish-greenish glop, so that was my inspiration. The only non-OEM part on Meg is the stewpot handle. I fashioned mine out of wire, as the ones I made out of Green Stuff and Milliput both proved to be too brittle and broke.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c8XFUiErYnY/Vy_-zdwNghI/AAAAAAAAA60/JqzZ8btqZikEyRlcmf0JgK7I3y4LYVuXQCKgB/s1600/DSCN2472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c8XFUiErYnY/Vy_-zdwNghI/AAAAAAAAA60/JqzZ8btqZikEyRlcmf0JgK7I3y4LYVuXQCKgB/s320/DSCN2472.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And here's a picture with both of my completed DT giants side-by-side. I would hate to run into these two, although I could totally picture them in The Steading of the Hill Giant Chief. Such a cute couple!TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-61029501393414881562016-05-02T15:55:00.000-07:002016-05-02T15:55:21.245-07:00The Impossible DreamI have been a footballer (translated into 'Merican: soccer player) since I was 11. It's a wonderful sport to play and watch, and I love it so much I still play at least twice a week, sometimes more. I will play as long as my body can keep pace with my desire.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r42ByTWLXYc/VyfNiKPVnkI/AAAAAAAAA54/DpPQDitaHY8uM1wAlU2DhzsLL2uyG2xPgCLcB/s1600/LCFC%2Bchampions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r42ByTWLXYc/VyfNiKPVnkI/AAAAAAAAA54/DpPQDitaHY8uM1wAlU2DhzsLL2uyG2xPgCLcB/s1600/LCFC%2Bchampions.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Moments ago, Leicester City Football Club became the champions of the Barclays Premier League, England's top professional league. They were 5001-to-1 odds to accomplish this feat at the beginning of the season. Last season, they had just been promoted into the Premier League, and spent most of the season at the bottom of the table (standings), and would have been relegated (demoted) if they had not gone on an improbable late season run that kept them out of the relegation zone and in the league.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RaDCFT-Yd_U/VyfNh_tWSKI/AAAAAAAAA6A/qpniNmSwYt8tsrpAYDY0TYR-H_eGGubGQCKgB/s1600/LCFC%2BKeep%2BCalm.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RaDCFT-Yd_U/VyfNh_tWSKI/AAAAAAAAA6A/qpniNmSwYt8tsrpAYDY0TYR-H_eGGubGQCKgB/s1600/LCFC%2BKeep%2BCalm.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Imagine if MLB demoted the 3 or 4 worst teams each season, and promoted an equal number of AAA teams to take their place. That's the best comparison I can make to paint a fairly accurate picture of the relegation/promotion system. So take my beloved and beleaguered Seattle Mariners for example. They've had some lean seasons before. Imagine them being demoted to AAA, playing well enough to claw back into MLB, play well enough to just barely stay in the big leagues, and then win the World Series the following year. Impossible, improbable, unlikely, take your pick. But it could happen!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o2jGc6QxopU/VyfNiKibpNI/AAAAAAAAA6A/d4WorFy4GfMBnaGjUypyxDFYmrCnj2YeACKgB/s1600/LCFC%2Blogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o2jGc6QxopU/VyfNiKibpNI/AAAAAAAAA6A/d4WorFy4GfMBnaGjUypyxDFYmrCnj2YeACKgB/s1600/LCFC%2Blogo.jpg" /></a></div>
Why do I support Leicester? Because of their goalkeeper. I am, of course, a loyal Seattle Sounders FC supporter, as they are the team I grew up with. But many football fans adopt international professional teams for any number of reasons. It always makes for entertaining smack talk at work, if nothing else. It also gives you an excuse to wake up stupid early on weekends and drink beer for breakfast if that's your thing.<br />
<br />
In 1998-1999, Manchester United won their famous treble, taking home the Premier League title, the FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League crown. Their keeper was Danish legend Peter Schmeichel. My friend Phil and I were along for the ride, watching the games and taking it all in. As a brother goalkeeper, I tend to get attached to teams based on their keepers. But I never hitched my wagon to United, or any other team. I guess I cheered for teams that had American born players in net (Kasey Keller, Brad Friedel, Tim Howard, etc.). But in 2014 I discovered that Kasper Schmeichel, the son of Peter the Great, was playing for Leicester, so I decided it was time to pick my Premier League team, and it was the Foxes of Leicester.<br />
<br />
Their run at the end of the 2014-2015 season was fun to watch, if more than a bit nerve-wracking. But who would have thought LCFC would fire their manager who guided them to the Premier League and then to safety, and bring aboard a nice but not hugely successful Claudio Ranieri and then go on to win first place in the BPL? Not me, and pretty much not anyone else in the football world.<br />
<br />
So congratulations to mighty Leicester, who dared to dream big and had the skill, courage, and spirit to see that dream become reality. Fearless, indeed.TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-26604904321888569922016-03-14T16:15:00.000-07:002016-03-14T16:15:05.398-07:00Lead Market Report, January/February 2016And here we go with the first LMR of 2016. I know it says January and it is now <strike>February</strike> March, but what can I say, I procrastinate with the best of them. I can usually gauge how busy I'll be working on a LMR depending upon how fast my watch list fills up after I finish the previous report. It filled up pretty damn quick this time around! Enjoy.<br />
<br />
<u><b>ARCHIVE</b></u><br />
The beginning and final bid for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sharkadillo-Archive-Miniatures-798-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/221973904410?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">this Sharkadillo</a> (coughbulettecough) was $22.50.<br />
<br />
<u><b>CITADEL</b></u><br />
We had a small assortment of ADD series minis this month: eight Blink Dogs in two lots of four at <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Citadel-AD-D-25mm-Blink-Dog-Pose-4-1985-/121858700883?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$6.50</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Ral-Partha-AD-D-25mm-Blink-Dog-Pose-3-1994-/121858700862?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$6.38</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Citadel-AD-D-25mm-Blink-Dog-Pose-2-1985-/121858700884?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$3.25</a>, and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Citadel-AD-D-25mm-Blink-Dog-Pose-3-1985-/311519858498?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$3.25</a>; and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Citadel-AD-D-25mm-Blink-Dog-Pose-4-1985-/311525851773?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$4.59</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Citadel-AD-D-25mm-Blink-Dog-Pose-2-1985-/311525851777?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$4.04</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Citadel-AD-D-25mm-Blink-Dog-Pose-1-1985-/121864773660?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$1.88</a>, and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Citadel-AD-D-25mm-Blink-Dog-Pose-3-1985-/311525851774?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$1.50</a>. Three Drow at <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Citadel-TSR-AD-D-25mm-Drow-Elf-Male-Pose-2-1985-/121858700614?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$5.58</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Citadel-AD-D-25mm-Drow-Elf-Female-1985-/311519857986?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$3.25</a>, and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Citadel-TSR-AD-D-25mm-Drow-Elf-Male-Pose-1-1985-/121858700686?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$2.25</a>. One Zombie at <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Citadel-AD-D-25mm-Zombie-Pose-1-1985-/121858700858?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$6.49</a>. A complete set of three stage Female Fighters sold for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Citadel-TSR-1985-AD-D-Female-Fighter-3-Stage-Character-Vintage-OOP-Warhammer-/311510083219?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">less than the $35</a> asking price.<br />
<br />
George the Giant <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Warhammer-Citadel-FF64-George-the-Giant-Rare-1982-/161915868437?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">sold for $47.80</a>, pretty good for one of the more popular Citadel giants. A C28 giant went for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/CITADEL-WARHAMMER-OOP-1980s-PRE-SLOTTA-C28-GIANT-/191763057244?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$31.85</a>, too much for me but I was tempted - I wanted the head and hammer.<br />
<br />
<u><b>DARK HORSE</b></u><br />
Here's a trio of TMNT blisters that went for good/about average prices: Shredder/Splinter/Mousers for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dark-Horse-Miniatures-Teenage-Mutant-Ninja-Turtles-Shredder-Splinter-Mousers-/272114124978?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$22.16</a>, The Foot for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dark-Horse-Miniatures-Teenage-Mutant-Ninja-Turtles-The-Foot-/281917602866?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$18.16</a>, and Terror Bears for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dark-Horse-Miniatures-Teenage-Mutant-Ninja-Turtles-Terror-Bears-/272114125774?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$10.16</a>.<br />
<br />
<u><b>DRAGONTOOTH </b></u><br />
Hell's Bells, good AC/DC song. Hell's Well, not a happy place, unless you are the buyer of <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Demon-Rising-from-Hells-Well-Dragontooth-Miniatures-DE11-usable-ad-d-d-d-/221973919041?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">DE11, Demon Rising from Hell's Well</a> that sold for $59. Just a sweet, sweet piece of old-school goodness. Staying with demons, here's <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Gothmaug-Balrog-no-axe-Dragontooth-Miniatures-DE4-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/221973408066?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">DE4 Gothmaug</a> (minus his axe) for $16.39. I think that's a great price, even with the missing axe. Another DE4 auction was for just <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Gothmaug-Head-part-of-Dragontooth-Miniatures-DE4-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/221973405821?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Gothmaug's head</a>, for $6.10. As much as I love giants, I was rather surprised to see this <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Horned-Hill-Giant-incomplete-damaged-Dragontooth-Miniatures-GI5-usable-ad-d-/221973401992?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">GI5 Horned Hill Giant</a> sell for $45.10, considering he is missing his tree trunk club and loot bag. If you were trying to complete your MB6 Griffon, you may have bid on <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Griffon-Nest-part-of-Dragontooth-Miniatures-MB6-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/221973403992?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">this nest ($12.50)</a> or <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Griffon-Wings-part-of-Dragontooth-Miniatures-MB6-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/381496556955?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">these wings ($2.82)</a>. The wings would also make for a nice conversion piece if that is your cup of tea.<br />
<br />
There were three DT dragons on the block: a <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/D-D-Miniature-1970-80-era-Large-Oriental-Style-Dragon-with-Wings-/221977312158?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">D78 Winged Fire Drake ($26)</a>, a <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Large-Dragon-incomplete-Dragontooth-Miniatures-D79-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/381496564536?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">D79 Large Dragon ($27.04)</a>, and a <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/D-D-miniature-Large-Dragon-1970-1980-era-Wings-Weighs-15oz-/221977341595?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">D81 Christmas Dragon ($52.89)</a>. I couldn't help myself and had to bid on the Christmas Dragon, and ended up winning it. If you are so inclined, you can <a href="http://theleaddragon.blogspot.com/2016/01/dragontooth-christmas-dragon.html" target="_blank">see some better pics</a> of it in the writeup I did on it..<br />
<br />
If you needed some bits and pieces, or don't mind loose minis, there was a nice selection: AC1 Amphibian Colossus (incomplete) for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Amphibean-Colossus-incomplete-damaged-Dragontooth-Miniatures-use-w-ad-d-d-d-/221971649102?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$13.07</a>, A3 Ranidean Javelineer for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ranidean-Javelineer-no-weapon-or-shield-Dragontooth-Miniatures-usable-ad-d-d-d-/221972651605?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$2.52</a>, two T1 Trolls for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-Trolls-no-weapon-or-shield-Dragontooth-Miniatures-T1-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/381495757830?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$11.50</a>, two P-series horses for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-Horses-Dragontooth-Miniatures-suiatble-for-ad-d-d-d-/221972649292?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$2.82</a>, a P51 camel for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Camel-part-of-Dragontooth-Miniatures-P51-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/221972658855?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$7.49</a>, three assorted critters for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/3-Dragontooth-Miniatures-Monsters-1-damaged-no-weapons-usable-ad-d-d-d-/221972588132?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$13.40</a>, a small lot of weapons, gear, heads and figures including two Frost Giants (just one arm, though) for only <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dragontooth-Miniatures-Pieces-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/221972647866?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$5.17</a>, and three High Elf shields and one of the seven pieces from M8 Bodies & Booty for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dead-Monster-Body-Shields-Dragontooth-Miniatures-usable-ad-d-d-d-/381495757016?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$7.53</a>.<br />
<br />
<u><b>GALE FORCE NINE</b></u><br />
I typically don't track GF9, but this lot was on my radar because it was such a great value. I'm sure the buyer is more than pleased with the bargain they scored. Orcus alone seems to sell for around $70, so yeah, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/D-D-Collector-Series-6-Different-Models-NIB-/281894663675?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">this was a steal of a deal at $85</a>.<br />
<br />
<u><b>GRENADIER</b></u><br />
As regular readers of the LMR know, I loves me a bargain! I especially love bargains on giants, odd, rare, and hard-to-find minis, so when I was able to pick up this <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dungeon-and-Dragons-Fantasy-Lord-Figurine-Have-a-nice-day-/281903670783?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">"Have A Nice Day" beholder</a> (in blister no less) for $2, it totally made my day. Another oddity that a fellow bargain hunter picked up was this <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Grenadier-Future-Warriors-Rare-Gang-Car-and-Cyborgs-28mm-Apocalypse-Mad-Max-/161943362905?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Future Warriors resin Street Gang Car</a> for $4 (along with a blister of cyborgs).<br />
<br />
Box set bonanza!Take a deep breath, here we go: on the rare/uncommon end of the spectrum, we have both the Lords of Light (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dungeons-And-Dragons-Grenadier-Lords-Of-Light-Miniatures-Shrink-Wrapped-/111883762573?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$46</a>) AND Lords of Decay (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Dungeons-And-Dragons-Grenadier-Lords-Of-Decay-Miniatures-Shrink-Wrapped-/111883765592?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$67.50</a>) in shrink. This <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metal-Grenadier-figure-kit-/191786333027?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Water Nymph</a> was only $21.01, probably due to a generic title. Big dragons? Check. The Invincible Dragon for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/131691174496?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$42.99</a> and a Shadow Dragon for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/131691174141?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$21.50</a>. Dwarf Cannon in shrink, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/272091168490?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$23.50</a>. There are also some Series II Dragons including Red (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/221982002590?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$33.99</a>), Black (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/272091169084?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$33.99</a>), Bronze (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/221982002190?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$23.50</a>), Silver (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/272091168746?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$22.50</a>), and a Golden War Dragon for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/221982002129?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$19.16</a>; Giant's Club giants <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/131691170502?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">Stone</a> and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/131691170418?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">Forest</a> for $21.49 each and Chaos for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/252248555312?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$16.50</a>; Gold Line Hirelings box for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/D-D-Ral-Partha-Miniatures-Hirelings-Dungeons-Dragons-9-miniature-set-/141870433177?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">only $6.50</a>; a Goblin War giant for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/221974290788?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">a reasonable $38.77</a>, an unboxed incomplete Goblin War giant for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/381496528064?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$17.28</a>, Ogres of the East <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/131691174023?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">for $14</a>, some Chaos Dwarves at <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/131691170305?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$17.16</a>, a super cheap set of Foot Knights for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/221982001734?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">only $3.13</a> (not a typo, three bucks and thirteen cents). Oh, and one more, the Encounter at the Forest of Elvenwold for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Grenadier-Models-Mystical-Fountain-of-Elvenwold-Box-set-/272114183241?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$23.59</a>.<br />
<br />
This Dragon Lords (the game) Dragon Treasure Hoard with Wizard blister <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/161946463775?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">sold for $10.49</a>, and I really wish I had picked up one of these two Barbarian Giants that sold for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/291656508251?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$12.51</a> (blister) and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Grenadier-Miniatures-Fantasy-Warriors-1429-Barbarian-Giant-/181982505725?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">less than $10</a> (loose) respectively. I did, however, pull the trigger on this <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/121858700158?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">Purple Worm for $20.50</a> - I'll be doing a post on this one later this month, where I compare it with a couple other Purple Worms.<br />
<br />
<u><b>HERITAGE</b></u><br />
There were 5 blisters of Conan minis that sold, all for the starting price of $59.99 each and not surprisingly all won by the same bidder. They were <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heritage-Conan-the-Barbarian-5003-Companions-of-Conan-Dungeons-and-Dragons-NEW-/172048235197?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Companions of Conan</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heritage-Conan-the-Barbarian-5004-Sorcerors-of-Conan-Dungeons-and-Dragons-NEW-/361460315500?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Sorcerers of Conan</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heritage-Conan-the-Barbarian-5005-Enemies-of-Conan-NEW-D-D-/361460318235?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Enemies of Conan</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heritage-Conan-the-Barbarian-5007-Pirates-of-the-Red-Brotherhood-NEW-/172048236697?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Pirates of the Red Brotherhood</a>, and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heritage-Conan-the-Barbarian-5008-Mercanaries-of-Koza-Dungeons-and-Dragons-NEW-/172048234089?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Mercenaries of Koza</a>.<br />
<br />
I kind of expected this complete set of Adventure Game Starter Sets to go for a bit more than the <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Fantasy-D-D-1981-starter-set-Clerics-Quest-Fighters-Fury-Wizard-Bane-Warrior-/221980148954?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$9.99 winning bid</a>. All are complete, two are in shrink, and the only defect I saw was some box crushing.<br />
<br />
These two lots of LOTR minis went for about what is expected, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-80s-Lord-of-the-Rings-Animated-Movie-Metal-miniatures-/121849042394?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$20.51</a> for a mostly complete Prancing Pony Inn, and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-80s-Lord-of-the-Rings-Animated-Movie-Metal-miniatures-/121849041787?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$20.16</a> bought me a mix of the Helm's Deep boxed set and the Attack on Weathertop blister.<br />
<br />
Staying with LOTR, a nice set of 10 LOTR 75mm figures didn't sell for $167.59, but did end up selling when relisted for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Elan-Merch-Lord-of-the-Rings-Set-of-12-75mm-Figures-1977-/272125362016?nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557" target="_blank">$120</a>.<br />
<br />
I still need one of these <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heritage-25mm-Storm-Giant-1230-1981-/311519858011?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Storm Giants</a> and a <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heritage-25mm-Hill-Giant-1299-1980-/311519858053?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Hill Giant</a> too, and would have no problem paying the $11 that each one sold for. And this old hydra is very, very nice, and so is the <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heritage-25mm-Hydra-/121858700695?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$11.38</a> winning bid.<br />
<br />
Some Heritage paper product was available, starting with the Knights & Magick rule set. It has no box, and is in nice condition overall, so the final bid of <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Knights-and-Magick-Heritage-USA-Games-8220-1980-RPG-Vintage-Rare-OOP-/272109472522?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$31.04</a> is very fair and reasonable. Several copies of the John Carter Warlord of Mars Adventure Gaming Handbook were available, selling for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Warlord-of-Mars-adventure-gaming-handbook-1977-Heritage-Models-Inc-excellent-con-/331748239390?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$26.65</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Warlord-of-Mars-adventure-gaming-handbook-1977-Heritage-Models-Inc-excellent-con-/231819632572?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$26.00</a>, and <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/331764294032?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">$22</a> (my copy). Another one is currently available on eBay until Wednesday 2/10/16 for <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/331771264681?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">a starting bid of $22</a>.<br />
<br />
<u><b>LEADING EDGE GAMES</b></u><br />
OK, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LEADING-EDGE-GAMES-ALIENS-POWER-LOADER-25mm-24401-New-in-Blister-Package-/272094562746?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">the Power Loader</a> from Aliens is pretty cool, but did you know it also comes with Jonesy? I wonder if Ripley's cat is statted up in the game. This NIB model went for the starting price of $25.<br />
<br />
For the Aliens RPG game, there was this unpunched expansion <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Aliens-Expansion-RPG-Leading-Edge-Games-20101-UNPUNCHED-Cards-LOOK-/191784503522?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">that tallied $102.55</a>. <br />
<br />
<u><b>MARTIAN METALS</b></u><br />
This incomplete box set of 9901 Magic (magic users?) should have 9 wizards and 1 panther, but <br />
only has 7 wizards. Still, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LOT-OF-6-VINTAGE-DUNGEON-DRAGON-MARTIAN-METALS-MINIATURES-9901-MAGIC-ORG-BOX-/371530851107?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">for only $9,</a> the buyer can probably fill in the missing pieces with a little patience.<br />
<br />
<u><b>MINIFIGS</b></u><br />
$14.99 was the winning bid for an <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Elven-Dragon-Master-with-Dragon-No-Wings-Minifigs-/361458789020?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Elvin Dragon Master with Lance astride a Small Dragon</a> from the Aureola Rococo line. I wonder what the price would have been if the wings were included, the tail wasn't missing the tip, and the lance was unbroken? And I really dig this neat sculpt of Satan, all that evilness for only <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Satan-Minifigs-Valley-of-the-Four-Winds-VFWM11-suitable-for-ad-d-d-d-/381496542879?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">$12.49</a>.<br />
<br />
<u><b>RAL PARTHA</b></u><br />
Lot of Battletech changing hands, including a fair amount of box sets and even more blisters. I wasn't able to track every blister lot, so I focused on the ones I though might command top dollar. We'll start with boxes and go high to low. <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-53-Ral-Partha-Battletech-Medium-Lance-10-803-Factory-Sealed-package-/272091166867?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Medium Lance for $132.50</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-55-Ral-Partha-Battletech-Recon-Lance-10-801-Factory-Sealed-package-/221982000124?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Recon Lance for $128.50</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-54-Ral-Partha-Battletech-Heavy-Lance-10-805-Factory-Sealed-package-/221981999989?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Heavy Lance for $106.50</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-52-Ral-Partha-Battletech-Light-Lance-10-802-Factory-Sealed-package-/221981999685?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Light Lance for $56</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-57-Ral-Partha-Battletech-Command-Lance-10-807-Factory-Sealed-package-/221982000448?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Command Lance for $55</a>, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Battletech-Pursuit-Lance-box-set-minatures-circa-1994-/231796028516?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Pursuit Lance for $54</a>, and another <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-56-Ral-Partha-Battletech-Pursuit-Lance-10-808-Factory-Sealed-package-/221982000275?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Pursuit Lance for $42</a>. The 4-pack of blisters sold for $182.50 (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-43-Ral-Partha-4-20-862-Stalker-20-843-Marauder-20-843-Orion-20-840-Warha-/272091165186?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Marauder, Warhammer, Stalker, Orion</a>), $130 (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-42-Ral-Partha-4-20-947-Awesome-20-848-Orion-20-846-Goliath-20-860-Victor-/221981994352?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Goliath, Awesome, Victor, Orion</a>), $71 (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-31-Ral-Partha-4-20-840-Warhammer-20-834-Crusader-20-855-Ostsol-20-845-At-/221981991929?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Warhammer, Atlas, Crusader, Ostol</a>), and $61 (<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/LotB-30-Ral-Partha-4-20-840-Warhammer-20-86-Cyclops-20-834-Crusader-20-842-Ar-/221981991732?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">Warhammer, Cyclops, Archer, Crusader</a>).<br />
<br />
<u><b>SOLDIERS & SWORDS</b></u><br />
This might be the first entry for Soldiers & Swords for me (at least without going back and checking previous LMRs). Someone obviously collects them or uses them in their capes & spandex game, and hey, for about $4 per blister, <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Champions-RPG-minatures-circa-1994-/231796031084?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">this lot of 6 Champions blisters</a> (The SUPER Miniatures, according to the subheading) seems like a very nice deal.<br />
<br />
<u><b>WOTC</b></u><br />
<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Big-Dungeons-and-Dragons-Fantasy-Miniatures-Lot-/201505103951?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">This lot was $81</a>, and included a Monsters III Box Set, an Umber Hulk, and 33 more blisters. At less than $3/blister, I think this lot is a great value.<br />
<br />
<u><b>NOT MINIS</b></u><br />
Sometimes buyers get lucky, and sometimes sellers get lucky. I think this time the seller lucked out big time. I'm guessing they likely had no idea what they were sitting on when they listed <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/A-trio-of-Dungeons-and-Dragons-Treasures-/181977046116?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">"A Trio of Dungeons and Dragons Treasures"</a> that included the red box Basic set, a Battlesystem set, and...wait for it...a woodgrain set! $1,314 got you this nifty lot (including Greyhawk and Blackmoor).<br />
<br />
First printings of the Holmes blue box continue to hold their value, as evidenced by <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-1777-Dungeon-Dragons-Basic-Set-F-115-R-with-unused-dice-F-116-R-book-/311508670273?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=0%252BTSk9NXOMq00MUXPtLyGICla38%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc" target="_blank">this example that sold for $242.50</a>. I find it humorous that it is listed as vintage circa 1777. Benjamin Franklin was a DM, no doubt.TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589953466581334956.post-44428599807252705592016-03-08T17:53:00.000-08:002016-03-08T17:53:03.294-08:00British Grenadier #14I picked up a copy of Grenadier's <i>British Grenadier</i> magazine. Not sure if magazine is quite the right word, as it is a bit more akin to a bulletin or newsletter at 16 pages cover to cover, but you get the picture. This is Edition 14, and is labeled International Edition. I assume that is because it originated from Grenadier Models UK Ltd. Here are the front and back cover scans:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jvK50e-77Yo/Vt9aIE5YJ1I/AAAAAAAAA5g/RezGeUSTMPQ/s1600/Grenadier%2BUK%2B14%2BFront.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jvK50e-77Yo/Vt9aIE5YJ1I/AAAAAAAAA5g/RezGeUSTMPQ/s200/Grenadier%2BUK%2B14%2BFront.jpeg" width="145" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-znfYJSNzMxo/Vt9aH3tTumI/AAAAAAAAA5c/soDiUo5N5Ps/s1600/Grenadier%2BUK%2B14%2BRear.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-znfYJSNzMxo/Vt9aH3tTumI/AAAAAAAAA5c/soDiUo5N5Ps/s200/Grenadier%2BUK%2B14%2BRear.jpeg" width="145" /></a></div>
<br />
Edition 14 seems to be a marketing platform for Grenadier, Mayfair Games, and Iron Crown Enterprises, and is pretty sparse on any actual content. I figure when you feature King Arthur on the cover then you will feature the King Arthur boxed set somewhere inside. But oddly enough, the only mention is a small blurb on page 6 under the News heading. That's it! No pics of the boxed set, no pics of the miniatures, painted or unpainted. Seems to be an odd way to promote your product.<br />
<br />
There's a great full-color photo of two Grenadier armies facing each other down on the gaming table, a mixed band of orcs, trolls, ogres along with a Goblin War Giant facing down a mostly dwarf army. The article with the picture mentions mass-battle fantasy wargaming somewhat generically, as well as speed painting, but does not specifically mention the Fantasy Warriors rules, so I can only assume this publication predates 1990, when the FW rules were released. There was no date listed in the masthead, and one ad (Family Business from Mayfair Games) states it is "sure to be the hottest release of 1989!" which leads me to believe Edition 14 was printed in 1989 or possibly late 1988.<br />
<br />
And that's really it on content. There's the editor's column, fan letters, classified ads, and new releases, which accounts for 6 pages (8 if you count the covers). The rest is advertising, mostly for Mayfair Games, and a couple pages for ICE product.<br />
<br />
I don't know if this was issued with the three hole punches already in place or if they were added after the fact.<br />
<br />
The only credited contributor was the editor, Doug Cowie.TopKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01585385302101384148noreply@blogger.com0