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HaT

Set 8084

1806 Prussian Fusiliers

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All figures are supplied unpainted    (Numbers of each pose in brackets)
Stats
Date Released 2004
Contents 48 figures
Poses 8 poses
Material Plastic (Medium Consistency)
Colours Grey
Average Height 24 mm (= 1.73 m)

Review

By the Napoleonic Wars most major armies used light infantry for skirmishing and support, though the limitations of the firearms of the day meant they remained tied to the main body of infantry. The Prussian light infantry was established during the reign of Frederick the Great, and with a higher level of training they were considered superior to the line.

These figures are clothed as per the regulations of 1801 to 1807, and are correctly done in all respects. The shako with the eagle badge marked them out from the Line infantryman, but otherwise there were many similarities. The last figure in the second row is an NCO, identified by the cartridge pouch on his waist belt and the cane suspended from a button on his coat. Curiously though, this individual has discarded the rest of his kit, unlike his men, who are fully equipped. While there is no officer in this set, the officer figure from the musketeers set will perform this role perfectly as the uniform was the same.

The eight poses reflect their light infantry role, with most firing or marching and none engaged in a full-blown charge. The man with his hand behind his back is taking a cartridge from his pouch. Whilst nothing to get excited about, all the poses are reasonable.

As with the other HaT figures in the 1805/06 range, the style of these is rather toy-like. Overly large heads are attractive to some, but we prefer more natural proportions. Detail too can be a little chunky at times (the sword of the kneeling figure looks more like a knife), but at least the faces are not as ugly as some of the others. However all detail is present, and everything is crisp and easy to see. No flash or other unwanted plastic means these are technically very well done.

The slightly chunky appearance will appeal to some and not to others, but this is a well researched product that has been well presented.


Ratings

Historical Accuracy 10
Pose Quality 9
Pose Number 5
Sculpting 8
Mould 10

Further Reading
Books
"Jena 1806" - Osprey (Campaign Series No.20) - David Chandler - 9781855322851
"Jena, Auerstaedt" - Histoire & Collections - Francois-Guy Hourtoulle - 9782908182767
"Napoleonic Uniforms Vol.4" - Emperor's Press - John R Elting - 9781883476205
"Prussian Light Infantry 1792-1815" - Osprey (Men-at-Arms Series No.149) - Peter Hofschrö&er - 9780850455403
"The Napoleonic Wars Part 1" - Ward Lock (Arms and Uniforms) - Liliane and Fred Funcken - 9780706314069
"The Prussian Army to 1815" - Schiffer - Digby Smith - 9780764319907

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