Plastic Soldier Review - HaT Russian Cuirassiers

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HaT

Set 8016

Russian Cuirassiers

All figures are supplied unpainted (Numbers of each pose in brackets)

Stats

Date Released	1998
Contents	12 mounted figures and 12 horses
Poses	4 poses, 2 horse poses
Material	Plastic (Medium Consistency)
Colours	Grey

Average Height

24.5 mm (= 1.77 m)

Review

This set of Russian cuirassiers represents these troops during the 1812 - 1814 period. This is apparent because it was only in 1812 that these troops were actually issued with cuirasses, and also the crest on the helmet changed to the comb from a 'caterpillar' style at the same date.

In 1812 most of the cuirassiers had their carbines taken away from them. Only 16 men in each squadron retained them as they acted as flankers, protecting the sides of the formation. However all the figures in this set possess carbines, which looks wrong when they are all placed together. Of course these can be carved off if not required, and at least HaT have given the customer the choice. That apart, these figures are completely accurate and well sculpted. They wear cuirasses both front and back (which was normal but not universal), and overalls over their breeches and boots, which was common practice when on campaign.

As we would expect from HaT, detail is first class, and the poses are realistic. There is very little flash, and the proportions are good for both men and animals. Only having four poses means no officers or musicians sadly, and only two horse poses imposes some limitations on their use, but what there is is very well done.

When this set was released there were very few Napoleonic Russian sets, despite the enormous influence of Russia on events of the day. HaT are to be congratulated on expanding the hobby with such important sets as this, which helped to redress the balance, and since the figures are compatible with the more recent release from Zvezda they are an essential element in any 1/72 Napoleonic Russian army.

Ratings

Historical Accuracy	10
Pose Quality	7
Pose Number	6
Sculpting	10
Mould	9