When starting a new army I first collect all of the figures I need. I then prepare and base them. For individually based figures for games like Saga I also make sure I have movement trays for each unit. The advantage of the trays is that it makes it easier to move figures on and off the display shelves, and for game purposes makes unit movement easier.

I use the bases and movement trays from either Mike Parker or  back2base-ix

Brian Boru

I wanted to be able to use the set of figures from Footsore Miniatures as both a scenic display and as individual figures when required. The movement tray was specially designed by Mike Parker so that I could achieve this.

Standard Warlord

I also wanted a generic Warlord and have used the Crusader model based on a larger 40mm base to make it easier to recognise or distinguish on the table. The same 40mm base was used for Brian Boru.

Priests

I could not decide between the Gripping beast priest model and the one from Footsore Miniatures so I purchased both. Like the warlords they have been based on 40mm round bases. I also intend to use the Gripping Beast models (left) as the Priest for my Crusader Saga army.

The 40mm round bases provides enough space to be able to create an individual scene.

Heroes of the Viking Age

With Brian Boru already being used as one of my Warlord options this only left his brother Ulf from the list. Again I purchased both the Footsore and Gripping Beast models.

Curaidh (or heroes)

 I intend to use the Footsore Ulf miniature (left)  as a standard Curiadh with the Crusader hero figure as my two choices. I love the Crusader figure because the lack of armour, dress  and equipment has a particular Irish “pugilist” feel that wouldn’t look out-of-place in a Victorian boxing ring.

Fianna (Hearthguard)

For the Fianna I wanted a few options. Firstly a six and a four figure mounted unit. both options were required in case I chose the Curaidh option and needed the two units.

 You will note movement trays to suit both options.

The foot Fianna were required in both Danish Axe and standard options. I used the Gripping Beast Danish Axes modes and a combination of Footsore miniatures for the standard option. I will use a combination of both units to make a  6 figure unit. Again movement trays have been organised for all of these options.

Bonnachts (Warriors).

Warriors should form the basis of any Saga armour so I have purchased two units of standard warriors and a third as Irish wolfhounds.

With the figures now purchased, based, and prepared, the last step prior to painting is to undercoat the army. I use a a light spray of Tamiya TS3 “Desert Yellow”.

In the next post I will use a few units as examples of how I paint my armies.