The entire clan, as of now. Not bad, and they're all based on 20x20mm bases (well, close to it, at least, I might have to do some careful alterations of some), or multiples thereof, allowing for use in all kinds of systems, and even more if some sabot movement trays are used. So far, they have been fielded for 9th Age and for SAGA: Age of Magic. I am also at least considering Oathmark and Kings of War. We'll just have to see how it goes. Almost all are Oathmark plastics.
The leaders, heroes and important individuals are an eclectic bunch.
There are the armoured Thanes, one carrying the clan standard, the other two wielding some potent weapons in general. The one with shield and faceplate is a metal champion, the other two are plastic.
The less armoured advisors are an interresting mix between wise, badass and adorable. The Court Loremaster (and wizard) is Oathmark metal, while the (incredibly, totally adorable) head piper and the badass Trollhunter are Atlantis Miniatures resin.
And there is of course the king himself. With two bodyguards that can lift him up for a better view of the battlefield (very useful when everyone in your army is a tad vertically challenged).
Of course, a king will have the fanciest cape around. His bodyguards, probably the two hardest warriors in the clan, aren't slouches either (although I should probably revisit these one day, now that I can do plaid).
And if need be, he can even leave the platform if someone else needs a lift. King is Oathmark metal, bodyguards/shieldbearers are Oathmark plastic (and a metal washer for the large shield). And let me just say, magnets are awesome.
Of course, the king can't be the only one with plaid. There is also Miss Lead Piper, wearing full kit.
The main dwarven warriors show a nice nest of spears and shields. As befits the lowest in the army (still armoured dwarves, mind you), these have only single-color shields. Becasuse they will most likely stand and recieve any charge (as befits a wall of spears, shields, and hard dwarves), they get a nice anvil as banner. Oathmark plastic Dwarf Infantry for these.
The grognards (I like that name for them, I think I will keep it. Nicely rules- and lore-free) are older and more veteran warriors. Still "only" carrying maille, shields and hand weapons, but that's equivalent to many a human kings chosen men. Carrying a fancy tree for their banner, these fellows might have gotten a bit too much fresh air through the years. Oathmark plastic Dwarf Infantry for these as well.
Dwarves with no ranged options just feel wrong. So a unit of crossbowmen would be next. They're still dwarves, so maille and shields can be expected, but they're a bit softer once the melee gets going. Oathmark plastic Dwarf Infantry for the heads, bodies and shields, while crossbows and arms are scrounged from here, there, and everywhere (these are predominantly Frostgrave and Fireforge).
Of course, some heavier equipment can also be useful. These dwarves may not use gunpowder (foolish goblin invention, as likely to kill you as your opponent), but it is amazing what you can get from stout wood, hard ropes and dwarven craftsmanship. Add some well-chosen rocks carved into ammunition...
The epitome of dwarfishness is a solid block, unmoving and and unflinching in battle, clad in armor from head to toe. An apt description to these elite heavy infantry, with their faceplates and steel-studded shields, leaving no more vulnerable to enemy blades than necessary. And not just clad in ordinary maille, but with plates and scales covering it as well. It is only fitting that such a unit carries a banner of an anvil. Oathmark plastic Heavy Dwarf Infantry delivers.
And where there's an anvil, there's a need for a hammer. Once again, elite heavy infantry clad in maille, scales and plates, but slinging the shields over their backs in favour of wielding heavy two-handd axes, hammers and maces. The boar standard they're carrying is more than a fancy piece of cloth, it is a statement of purpose and action. Do not poke, you're likely to be gored. Once again, Oathmark plastic Heavy Dwarf Infantry.
The standards used are all offered by North Star, specifically and exactly for these dwarves. It gives some nice variety and splashes of colour in an otherwise mostly steel-coloured army (with splashes of muted greens and yellows). My only problem with these, is that the flags are somewhat too large for the Heavy Infantry banner poles (or possibly, the poles are too short), but some surgical incisions can alleviate this.
I will have to admit to being quite tired of painting dwarves for now. I have some small expansions planned (mostly a few female champions), then we'll see how it is expanded. Possibly with more Atlantis Miniatures, because more scottish dwarves in kilts is always awesome. I can of course justify such a mix, but then again, I might have spent a tad too much thinking about exactly how I want my dwarves to be and mix...
/Fool Out
