Something completely different - Border Reivers in 28mm

 This has been brewing on and off for years. Some figures were done years ago put aside and then forgotten about. However with my regular gaming opponent getting some impressive buildings  ( a bastle house and Pele tower) https://thistleandtime.scot/fortresses-of-survival-tower-houses-peels-and-bastles-of-the-scottish-borders/

and my enthusiasm for the manufacturer Vendel Miniatures, now Bloody Day, in the form of some good eBay finds, things came together. The figures were finished some time back as part of a stalled renaissance Irish project in 28mm . All was painted but my enthusiasm to game it disappeared but will return soon l am sure. Anyway l hosted here and tried out a game set in the Borders between England and Scotland in the late sixteenth century. Here is a link to a wee background article if the period is new to you-

https://romanarmymuseum.com/about/border-reivers/

I painted two forces for the period, my opponent has lots painted too btw, one represents the border reivers themselves and the other representing the forces of law and order in the form of The March Warden, his men and townspeople. A lot of figures , especially the reivers were converted by adding different weapons and equipment, much of which were gleaned from Perry plastic kits, to add interest and equipment for for fun. The rules were those which had once been free on the internet which I have had knocking around for years. So finally, with the addition of cattle and pigs to steal not to mention some buildings and fences , we had a crack at the game yesterday.

The rules and figures ready for their first outing yesterday plus d10 , only dice needed.

The terrain set up on the dining room table. Note animals in fields. The rules have a section on herding animals btw.

Trying to get a balance of not too much terrain but not to little either. Enough to prevent it being too easy for either side to steal the cattle and pigs as well as engaging the enemy.

The Reivers , identified by red flowers on their bases, move with intent towards the cattle as well as the enemy.

Blurry photo of the townsfolk about to do the same…

Herders attempt to control the herd and bring it away. The cattle are spooked by arquebus fire and prove hard to manage…

Cattle bolting away from the frustrated herders and the sounds of gunshots.

A herder driving some pigs with greater success just as we had to call time on the game. Verdict, great fun full of gaming possibilities including some scenario and campaign ideas contained in the rules. We will read the rules with greater attention and give the game a go again next week, can’t wait!