Battle Report: 21st October 1990 1879 British ~vs~ 1879 Zulu (Robert Avery ~vs~ Richard Avery)

.

1879 British Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points   Commander-in-Chief 1         100 Foot 1st Bttn 24th Foot 40 8x5 RegC blr   480   78th Highlanders 40 8x5 RegB blr   520 Cavalry Dragoon Guards 8 2x4 RegB blc,s,p   156   Durban Police 8 2x4 RegC blc,p   122 Artillery 1st Btty Royal Artillery 2 2x1 RegB light blrb FA   196   2nd Btty Royal Artillery 1 1x1 RegA hmg   96 Train Wagons & Mules           105               1775

.

1879 Zulu Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points   Induna Enkulu 1         100   Induna 1         100 Left Horn Impi 1 40 1x40 FanA sp,sh   345   Impi 2 40 1x40 FanA sp,sh   345 Right Horn Impi 3 40 1x40 FanA sp,sh   345   Impi 4 40 1x40 FanA sp,sh   345 Chest Impi 6 60 1x60 FanA sp,sh   265 Loins Impi 5 40 1x40 FanA sp,sh   345               2140

.

. 1879 British 1879 Zulu Foot 1600 5200 Horse 360 0 Guns 2 0

Report The British were caught unawares by the speed of the Zulu approach, and were charged whilst still forming their firing lines. On top of this, an unwise decision to retreat the artillery crews from the firing line as the Zulus charged, to prevent possible melee casualties, deprived the British of much of their firepower. Despite this, the British held their right flank firm:  repulsing a Zulu regiment with heavy casualties. On the left, however, the Zulus punched a massive hole through the 24th Foot:  routing four companies at first impact, and over-running the fleeing artillery crews. The Highland battalion and the remnants of the 24th Foot were forced to form two small squares, which were immediately charged by the Zulus. The lower square was overrun by sheer weight of numbers, with their attackers going on to assault the wagon train and pack animals. The upper square held, and repulsed its opponents, again causing heavy casualties but, just as it seemed things might be taking a turn for the better, the British CinC strayed too far in front of his firing line, and was torn from his horse and horribly disembowelled by the Zulus. This grim sight sent a wave of panic through the superstitious Scots, who broke under the next Zulu assault. Whilst all the above was going on, the Durban Police had dismounted and set up a firing line, but had been annihilated. The Dragoon Guards, however, had broken two Zulu impi's. Eventually even the Dragoons were overwhelmed and with them disappeared the last hope for the British army.  Casualties The British force was completely destroyed:  with only about 100 cavalry making good their escape. The Zulus lost about 3000 warriors: a high price to pay for victory.  Results A total victory for the Zulus.  Analysis On reflection, the British did not have a chance from the very start. Out-pointed by the Zulus, they saw their enemy too late to do anything about them. The decision to try and save the artillery crews was a bad one: they should have taken their chances and added their weight of fire to the defence of the main British line.

Battle Report: 9th August 1990 1879 British ~vs~ 1879 Zulu (Robert Avery ~vs~ Andy Purcell)

.

1879 British Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points   Commander-in-Chief 1         100 Foot 1st Bttn 90th Foot 40 8x5 RegB blr   440   78th Highlanders 40 8x5 RegA blr   480 Cavalry 17th Lancers 18 3x6 RegA blc,l   168 Artillery 2nd Btty Royal Artillery 1 1x1 RegA hmg   70 Train Wagons & Mules           100               1358

.

1879 Zulu Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points   Induna Enkulu 1         100   Induna 1         100 Left Horn Impi 1 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90   Impi 2 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90   Impi 3 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90 Right Horn Impi 4 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90   Impi 5 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90   Impi 6 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90 Chest Impi 7 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90   Impi 8 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90   Impi 9 20 1x20 IrregA sp/sh   90   Impi 10 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90 Loins Impi 11 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90 Impi 12 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90   Impi 13 20 1x20 IrregA sp,sh   90               1370

.

. 1879 British 1879 Zulu Foot 1600 5200 Horse 360 0 Guns 2 0

Report Someone has blundered! Contrary to usual practice, the British were marching in a careless formation and thus found themselves in a fragmented and extremely vulnerable position when the Zulu ambush was sprung. This was compounded by the fact that the wagon and mule train was positioned so as to impede the advance of the 90th Foot once battle was joined:  the panicked whinnying and braying of the horses and mules adding to the confusion throughout the encounter. Once the Zulu hordes appeared, the Highlanders formed an extended, and therefore weakened, square;  with the 90th Foot splitting into two halves:  one advancing to meet the Zulu main thrust, the other attempting to protect the wagons. Although taking huge casualties, the Zulus impacted on the north side of the Highland battalion’s square:  pushing it into an unwieldy line facing front and back. Horrendous casualties ensued on both sides during the resultant melee. Meanwhile, the Lancers had charged but, after initial successes, were forced into a retreat by sheer weight of numbers. Throughout this time, four companies of the 90th Foot and the gatling guns had been blasting away at the Zulu flank, although their colleagues at the wagons had become fragmented in the confusion. As pressure on the line increased, three companies of Highlanders broke and ran. Simultaneously, the Zulus being hammered on their flanks broke, and the south-facing Highlanders charged - pushing their opponents back. As the final mass of Zulu regiments began to arrive, things looked ill for the British:  but a sudden downpour flooded critical dongas and the battle ended. Casualties The Zulus had four regiments retreating or routing at the end of the battle. The British lost about three hundred Highlanders and almost all the Lancers. Had the donga not flooded, and battle continued, the British would very likely have been wiped out, but would probably have inflicted heavy casualties on the Zulus in the process.  Result Although the battle was not completed, certainly a tactical victory for the Zulus: poised on the verge of a bloody triumph. Analysis The British had problems right from the moment the enemy were sighted.  The slack order of march, and the weak, extended nature of the Highlanders’ square were the main reasons for defeat, although the Lancers were thrown away in pointless charges, and the 90th Foot got too tangled up in the wagon train to do any good.

Battle Report: 27th February 1990 1879 British ~vs~ 1879 Zulu (Robert Avery ~vs~ Andy Purcell)

.

1879 British Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points   Commander-in-Chief 1         100   Sub-General 1         50 Foot 1st Bttn 90th Foot 40 8x5 RegB blr   450   78th Highlanders 30 6x5 RegB blr   340 Cavalry 17th Lancers 12 3x4 RegA blc/p/s/l   250 Artillery 1st Btty Royal Artillery 2 2x1 RegB light blrb FA   196   2nd Btty Royal Artillery 1 1x1 RegA hmg   98               1498

.

1879 Zulu Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points   Induna Enkulu 1         100   Induna 1         50 Left Horn Uthulwana 20 1x20 FanA sp/sh   170   UmLambongwenya 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150   UmZinyathi 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150 Right Horn InDlondlo 20 1x20 IrregA sp/sh   260   UShisizwe 20 1x20 IrregA sp/sh   260   UmCijo 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150 Chest INdluyengwe 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150   UFasimba 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150   UDlambedlu 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150               1480

.

. 1879 British 1879 Zulu Foot 1400 3600 Horse 240 0 Guns 6 0

Report The British forces were marching through hilly veldt in an approved column format, but without having scouts out either to their front or flanks. Just as they were about to exit an awkward dip, the Zulus sprang a prepared ambush. Immediately, the British infantry snapped from column to line, and prepared to blast the tribesmen away as they came. On the left flank this was indeed what happened:  two Zulu regiments being shattered from the first volley from six companies and a field gun. On the right flank, however, the terrain and column of march deployment meant that only three companies and the gatling guns faced the charge of 6 Zulu impis. The rest of the British infantry, unable to shoot at the advancing enemy, hurried to form a second line of defense, protecting the left flank of the column. Meanwhile, the British cavalry left the column, and prepared to charge the flanks of the Zulu forces. The two lead squadrons were faced by a hastily redeployed Zulu regiment, but charged downhill at them:  breaking them utterly. Unfortunately, the British cavalry elected to pursue the fleeing Zulus, effectively removing themselves from the battle as well! At this point, the British 2inC, commanding the left, felt able to send three companies to his commander’s assistance on the right:  the forces opposing him being unable to make any headway. On the right, the Zulus charged home, but were blasted back time and time again by three companies from the 90th Foot. As more and more British troops joined them, the Zulus became more and more desperate, but were unable to cope with the sheer volume of firepower. After several brave charges, the Zulu impis faltered, and then retreated:  leaving their dead strewn across the battlefield.  Casualties The British lost approximately 150 men. The Zulus losses were estimated at about 1600 warriors.  Result A total victory for the British:  more cavalry and they could have massacred the retreating Zulus as well.  Analysis Despite the fact that the Zulus achieved an almost perfect ambush, the model marching formation of the British allowed them to deploy almost instantly to meet the threat. Once the British had formed line, the Zulus couldn’t penetrate the hail of bullets:  although for the three companies on the right, it was a close run thing!

Battle Report: 30th January 1990 1879 British ~vs~ 1879 Zulu (Andy Purcell ~vs~ Robert Avery)

.

1879 British Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points   Commander-in-Chief 1         100   Sub-General 1         50 Foot 1st Bttn 90th Foot 40 8x5 RegB blr   450 Cavalry 17th Lancers 6 1x6 RegA blc/p/s/l   130   1st Dragoon Guards 16 4x4 RegB blc/p/s   282 Artillery 1st Btty Royal Artillery 3 3x1 RegA light blrb FA   289   2nd Btty Royal Artillery 1 1x1 RegB hmg   98 Attached Frontier Light Horse 8 2x4 MilC blc   98               1497

.

1879 Zulu Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points   Induna Enkulu 1         100   Induna 1         50 Left Horn Uthulwana 20 1x20 FanA sp/sh   170   UmLambongwenya 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150   UmZinyathi 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150 Right Horn InDlondlo 20 1x20 IrregA sp/sh   260   UShisizwe 20 1x20 IrregA sp/sh   260   UmCijo 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150 Chest INdluyengwe 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150   UFasimba 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150   UDlambedlu 20 1x20 FanB sp/sh   150               1480

.

. 1879 British 1879 Zulu Foot 800 3600 Horse 600 0 Guns 8 0

Report The British were caught in column crossing two low hills central to the battlefield. Their plan was to leapfrog their forces until a square could be formed in the valley between the two hills. Survivors later revealed that the speed of the Zulu attack caught the British command by surprise: they were expecting to have more time to get into position. However, spotting the Zulu “horns” starting to swing round his force, General Purcell sent out the Frontier Light Horse (left) and the 17th Lancers (right) to delay the enveloping impi's. Both were immediately engaged by the Zulus and, after initial successes at the charge, fell back fighting. Meanwhile, the main Zulu line, the “chest”, was doubling forward, wheeling slightly to the right as it came. Two squadrons of Dragoons were sent to delay the left wing of the Zulu line, but became as bogged down and overwhelmed as the Lancers. The Frontier Light Horse was now effectively protecting the Zulu main body and right “horn” from the fire of the British regulars, as it steadily fell back fighting across their field of fire. This meant that the Zulus were able to reach charging distance without taking the usual heavy casualties. The British cavalry broke, folding the British right wing inwards as the main Zulu body charged home. The British infantry and artillery on the right, although largely destroying the front regiments of Zulus, recoiled up the gentle slope of the hill, where they were overrun and massacred. Four companies of British infantry in the centre of the field were likewise annihilated, but on the far left of the line, two companies of infantry and the gatling gun blew back their opponents through sheer weight of fire and, as the rest of the British force routed, retreated in good order to the second hill top. There they stopped, and watched as the Zulus massacred their comrades, safe in the knowledge that the Zulus were too scattered and hurt to assault them again. Casualties The British lost five companies of infantry, most of the cavalry, and all guns except the hmg’s. The Zulus had three out of their nine regiments largely destroyed. Result A pyrric victory for the Zulus. Analysis The British commander threw away his cavalry, allowing the Zulus to close with his force behind the various melees being fought. Whenever the British did get a good shot at the Zulus, they blasted them into the ground: it just didn’t happen often enough before the impis began melee!

 

Battle Report: 5th December 1997

Maximilian French ~vs~ Mexican Juarista

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Richard Avery) .

Maximilian French
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
CinC	Brig. Pierre Margot	1	.	..	.		100
2inC	Col. M. Chevalier	1					50
Infantry	1ere Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
	2ieme Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
	Turcos	36	6x6	LightsB	mlr		492
	Foreign Legion	36	6x6	RegB	mlr		456
Cavalry	Lancers	12	2x6	RegB	s, l		200
	Cuirassiers	12	2x6	RegB	s, armour		200
	Guides	12	2x6	RegA	s, p		224
Artillery	Battery A	1	1x1	RegB	light mlsb FA		77
Convoy	Stagecoach	1	1x1	RegC			18
	Gold Wagons	3	3x1	RegC			54
	Ammo Wagons	1	1x1	RegC			50
	Pack Animals	3	3x1	RegC			27
							2716

.

Juarista Mexicans
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
CinC	El Matadore	1					100
2inC	Gen Ig. Comomfort	1					50
Guerillos	Red Flag	32	1x32	IrregC	mlr		239
Force	Blue Flag	32	1x32	IrregC	mlr		239
	Yellow Flag	32	1x32	IrregC	mlr		239
	Red Flag Horse	10	1x10	IrregC	mlc		115
	Green Flag Horse	10	1x10	IrregC	mlc		115
	Yellow Flag Horse	10	1x10	IrregC	mlc		115
Republican	Los Supremos Podres	30	6x5	RegC	mlr		300
Troops	1st Bttn Saltillo	30	6x5	MilC	mlr		300
	2nd Bttn Saltillo	30	6x5	MilC	mlr		300
	3rd Bttn Saltillo	30	6x5	MilD	mlr		180
	4th Bttn Saltillo	30	6x5	MilD	mlr		180
	1st Holy Lancers	12	2x6	RegC	s, l		176
	1st Divine Line	12	2x6	RegC	s, mlc		176
.							2824

.

.	French	Mexican
Foot	2880	4920
Horse	720	600
Guns	2	6

.

Report

This was a scenario game: with the French trying to get a vital convoy through hostile territory, and the Mexicans trying to stop them.

Both sides rushed their cavalry forward to clash near a ruined church. The French CinC ws confident that he could sweep the Mexican ragamuffins off the board, and was thus somewhat surprised when his elite Guides routed off the table!

However, he had also force-marched the Legion Etrangere down the road who, forming line, quickly saw off the victorious Mexican lancers.

This, however, left the Legion Etrangere dangerously exposed: a situation the Mexican commander exploited as he charged them with 5 (yes, five!) different units. Although they withstood two charges in square, the third was too much and, doubtlessly dishonouring their fallen comrades at Camerone, they fled!

A firefight then developed with the 3ieme Bttn of the French routing, but two Mexican battalions going as well.

Unfortunately, the battle had to end there, with nightfall, and both sides retreated. 

Casualties

The French CinC was killed in a spectacular fashion, with his 2inC being lightly wounded.

The French also lost 240 cavalry (the Guides); 340 line infantry; and a few Legionaires.

The Mexicans lost 400 guerillos infantry (mostly to artillery); the 1st Saltillo Battalion was wiped out; and the third took 440 casualties: making a total of 1440 infantry. They also lost the Lancers and 20 line cavalry.

Results

Under the victory conditions set: a win to the Mexicans, with 45 points to the French 20. 

Analysis

We’ll play it again!

Battle Report: 23rd August 1997

Prussian ~vs~ Late French

(Robert Avery & Richard Avery ~vs~ Rupert Avery & Nog Norgren) .

Prussian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1	.	..	.		100
1st	2inC	1					50
Division	Guards	48	4x12	RegA	blr		664
	1st Line	24	2x12	RegC	blr		260
	2nd Line	48	4x12	RegC	blr		520
	Dragoons	16	2x8	RegB	s, blc		296
	Battery A	3	3x1	RegA	light blrb FA		321
2nd	2inC	1					50
Division	Jaegers	48	4x12	LightsB	blr		664
	3rd Line	48	4x12	RegC	blr		520
	Uhlans	24	4x6	RegB	s, p, l		424
	Cuirassiers	24	4x6	RegA	s, p, blc, armour		520
Support	Ammo Wagon	1					50
.							4439

.

Late French
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1					100
1st	2inC	1					50
Division	1st Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	lbl		456
	2nd Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	lbl		456
	3rd Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	lbl		456
	Zouaves	36	6x6	RegB	lbl		528
	Cuirassiers	12	2x6	RegB	s, armour		200
	Lancers	12	2x6	RegB	s, l		200
2nd	2inC	1					50
Division	Marines	36	6x6	RegC	lbl		456
	Foreign Legion	36	6x6	RegB	lbl		528
	Band	20	5x4	RegC	lbl		270
	Guides	12	2x6	RegA	s, p		224
	Dragoons	12	2x6	RegA	s, blc		237
Artillery	Battery A	3	3x1	RegC	light mlsb FA		237
.							4447

.

.	Prussian	French
Foot	4320	4720
Horse	1280	960
Guns	6	6

Report

The Prussians set up their 1st Division to hold the centre and right flank under their two 2inC’s, as their CinC led the 2nd Division in a hooking attack up the left flank.

The French, mixing their divisions, advanced as a line of infantry, hoping to get into range with their Chassepots as soon as possible.

On the Prussian right, the two sides halted and sniped away at each other with skirmishers from the French Band inflicting casualties on the Prussian 3rd Line as it protected the Prussian guns: themselves attempting, unsuccessfully, to supress the French artillery. As more French appeared on this flank, the Prussians despatched half the Guards to reinforce.

Meanwhile, in the centre, the French had opened fire on the Prussians: who were now lying prone and advancing by rushes. The centre soon settled into a protracted firefight: with neither side able to devastate the other.

It was on the Prussian left, however, that the battle was decided. The Jaegers advanced to the river bank, and began skirmishing with the French Marine infantry. As the French commander moved up his Zouaves in support, so the Prussian 2nd Division cavalry crossed the river, and the 3rd Line infantry moved forward.

Half the French Marines charged the Jaegers’ front line (who, in their eagerness, had run out of ammo), who ran for cover. Despite their familiarity with water, the Marines ended their charge in the river, where they were run down by the Prussian Uhlans: who hit them from behind with devastating effect. The Uhlans, in turn, however, were routed by the French Guide cavalry: who ended their charge under the guns of the second Jaeger line, and were so destroyed in turn.

At the same time, the Prussian 3rd Line charged a small gap that had appeared between the French 2nd Line and the Zouaves: failing to come to impact but able to unload their needle guns at point blank range to good effect.

The French were now shaken and, seeing his opportunity, the Prussian commander ordered half the Dragoons and the 2nd Line to charge. Faced by this new threat, and the further advance of the Jaegers and Cuirassiers, the French infantry began to crumble: with the Marines, Zouaves and 2nd Line all routing.

A last ditch attempt to reverse the situation on the French left was stopped by the Prussian Guards: who saw off the French 3rd Line and the Dragoons: leaving the French no choice but to retreat. 

Casualties

The Prussians lost 200 Guards; 140 Jaegers; 180 1st Line; 80 2nd Line and 160 3rd Line. They also lost a squadron of 120 Uhlans: making a total of 1672 men or 26% of their force! 

The French lost 180 1st Line; 100 2nd Line; 440 3rd Line; 60 Bandsmen; 20 Zoauves and 420 Marines. They also lost 1 section of artillery and all 240 Guides: making a total of 1580 men or 27% of their force. Many more would, however, have been cut down in the retreat.

Results 

A total victory for the Prussians.

Analysis

A great battle fought over two afternoons. The balance of power was even until the final charges of the Prussians left flank proved decisive.

Again the French Chassepots forced the Prussians to adopt a rushing advance in between lying prone: with the Prussian artillery not being as effective as it could have been due to an obsession with destroying the French guns.

 

Battle Report: 19th August 1997

Prussian ~vs~ Late French

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Rupert Avery) .

Prussian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1	.	..	.		100
Infantry	Guards	48	4x12	RegB	blr		568
Brigade	Jaegers	48	4x12	RegC	blr		520
	Line	48	4x12	RegC	blr		520
Cavalry	Uhlans	6	1x6	RegB	s, p, l		136
Brigade	Dragoons	12	2x6	RegB	s, blc		232
	Cuirassiers	6	1x6	RegB	s, p, blc, armour		148
Artillery	Battery A	3	3x1	RegB	light blrb FA		306
.							2510

.

Late French
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1					100
Infantry	1st Bttn	30	5x6	RegC	lbl		390
Brigade	2nd Bttn	30	5x6	RegC	lbl		390
	3rd Bttn	30	5x6	RegC	lbl		390
	Zouaves	36	6x6	RegB	lbl		492
Cavalry	Guides	6	1x6	RegA	s, p		122
Brigade	Cuirassiers	6	1x6	RegB	s, armour		110
	Dragoons	6	1x6	RegA	s, blc		128
	Lancers	6	1x6	RegB	s, l		110
Artillery	Battery A	3	3x1	RegB	light mlsb FA		237
.							2525

.

.	Prussian	French
Foot	2880	2520
Horse	280	480
Guns	6	6

.

Report

An excellent battle played under the hidden movement system.

As battle was joined, both sides attempted to advance slowly in the centre of the field, with strong pincer movements on both flanks deployed behind screening cavalry.

On the Prussian left, in the village, the German commander sent forward his Dragoons to scout, quickly pulling back on seeing a mass of enemy skirmishers. As he did so, a force of French Cuirassiers burst from the village in their rear: causing them to rout. Fortunately, the Prussian infantry commander had anticipated the enemy cavalry and formed square. As the fleeing Prussian Dragoons cleared their line of fire, the Jaegers readied their weapons and, as the enemy Cuirassiers came within range, annihilated them!

Meanwhile, on the Prussian right flank, the French had occupied the high ground, and began peppering two companies of Guard with their artillery. The German ordered his guns to suppress those of the enemy and, after some 90 minutes of firing, they did so.

This delay, however, meant that the French commander was able to get his 3ieme Battalion into position to hit the Prussian Guard with their Chassepot rifles and, after 30 minutes of both artillery and Chassepot fire, the Prussian Guard fled!

In the centre, 2½ battalions of French infantry, supported by cavalry, advanced into range. However, rather than use the superior range of the Chassepot to pepper the Prussians, the French commander held his fire: waiting to move closer.  Seeing an opportunity, the Prussians launched an attack column into the manoeuvring French, moving up more infantry in support. Caught somewhat off their guard, the French lost ½ battalion of Zouaves and their cavalry, and had their infantry advance halted in disarray. The Prussians, however, lost their attack column to defensive fire.

The battle now moved into its next phase. On the Prussian left, an impetuous French charge was repulsed by the Jaegers, but in effect pinned them down, along with the rallied Dragoons, for the rest of the game.

On the Prussian right a grave situation had arisen: with the French looping round with their 3ieme Ligne and two squadrons of cavalry. All that lay between them and the Prussian flank was the Prussian artillery. It fired, the French cavalry was destroyed, and their accompanying infantry failed to charge home as the Prussians guns reloaded.

In the centre, the French commander, realising it was now or never, sent everything he had left (2 battalions of infantry) forward. Although they also didn’t charge home, and ended up shaken and battered, they did cause the Prussians facing them to flee.

As the battle ended, the centre and both sides were stalled for both the French and the Prussians. They had fought each other to a standstill! 

Casualties

The Prussians lost 260 Guards; 80 Jaegers and 360 Line Infantry. They also lost all the Cuirassiers and Uhlans, and their CinC was lightly wounded.

The French lost all their Lancers, Dragoons and Guides; all their artillery; the entire Zouave battalion and 120 line infantry.

Results 

A draw.

Analysis

Great battle, a fair result, with the contrast between the Prussian artillery and French Chassepots really showing.

Battle Report: 11th March 1997

Crimean British ~vs~ Crimean French

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Nog Norgren) .

Crimean British
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1	.	..	.		100
Infantry	Grenadier Guards	40	10x4	RegA	mlr (2 co's LI)		588
Brigade	Berkshire Regt	40	10x4	RegB	mlr (2 co's LI)		508
	Middlesex Regt	40	10x4	RegB	mlr (2 co's LI)		508
	Rifles	8	2x4	LightsA	mlr		124
Cavalry	11th Hussars	10	2x5	RegA	s		180
Brigade	17th Lancers	10	2x5	RegA	s, l		190
	Heavy Dragoons	10	2x5	RegA	s, mlc		190
Artillery	Rocket Battery	1	1x1	RegA	rocket launcher		98
							2486

.

Crimean French
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1					100
Infantry	1st Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
Brigade	2nd Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
	3rd Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
	Zouaves	36	6x6	LightsB	mlr		492
Cavalry	Guides	12	2x6	RegA	s, p		224
Brigade	Cuirassiers	12	2x6	RegB	s, armour		200
	Lancers	12	2x6	RegB	s, l		200
Artillery	Battery A	1	1x1	RegB	light mlsb FA		83
							2451

.

.	Crimean British	Crimean French
Foot	2560	2880
Horse	600	720
Guns	2	2

.

Report

Tensions mounted between the allies as the Crimean winter deepened: not helped by Lord Raglan’s continued references to the French as the enemy. Finally, with a foraging force on both sides discovering a village with food, the men could take no more, and battle was joined.

Both sides advanced strongly: but with the British attempting to envelope the French by having a longer line. The British rocket battery disrupted the French advance by disordering the 1ere and 2ieme Ligne so, in order to avoid allowing the British troops to get into position as he was re-ordering his troops, the French CinC ordered the 3ieme Ligne to charge.

Quickly the British Guards snapped into line: managing to prevent the 3ieme coming to impact, but not routing them. The 3ieme punished the Guards at point blank range with devastating fire, causing them to go shaken.

Looking to capitalise on this situation, the French commander launched his entire cavalry brigade against the Guards. Fortunately for the British, the Middlesex regiment had formed line and managed, with the help of the Guards, to halt the cavalry: sending most of them off the field.

Now it was the turn of the British commander to throw away his cavalry. Thinking that the French were now weakened, he sent in the Heavies and the Lancers against the 1ere Ligne. Forward the cavalry charged, but the French fire wiped out both squadrons of Heavies and a squadron of Lancers.

The French CinC knew that soon the British line would re-organise and begin advancing: remorselessly, towards his battered troops. Taking the lead, he led the Zouaves in a charge against the Berkshire regiment, now forming up against a hedge surrounding a Russian village. Forward he led his men, but their charge was halted.

With the French cavalry off the field, his infantry battered and bruised, and the British advancing, the French Commander capitulated. 

Casualties

The British lost 320 horse and 380 infantry. 

The French lost 160 horse and 420 infantry.

Results

A win for the British.

 

Battle Report: 8th February 1997

Crimean Russian ~vs~ Crimean French/Turkish

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Richard Avery) .

Crimean Russian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1	.	..	.		100
11th	2inC	1					50
(Moscva)	1st Bttn	48	4x12	LightsC	mlr		520
Infantry	2nd Bttn	48	4x12	RegB	sbm		424
Regiment	3rd Bttn	48	4x12	RegD	sbm		328
	4th Bttn	48	4x12	RegD	sbm		328
Attach-	Cossack Foot	48	4x12	MilD	sbm		280
ments	Sailors	48	4x12	MilD	sbm		376
Cavalry	2inC	1					50
Brigade	Guard Dragoons	16	2x8	RegB	s, mlc		292
	Hussars	24	4x6	RegC	s		376
	Uhlans	16	2x8	RegC	s, l, mlc		276
	Cossacks	10	2x5	RegC	s, mlc		170
Artillery	Battery A	3	3x1	RegC	light mlsb FA		237
	Battery B	2	2x1	RegC	heavy mlsb FA		237
Train	Ammo Wagon	1					50
							4089

.

Crimean French/Turkish
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
FRENCH	CinC	1					100
1st	2inC	1					50
Brigade	1st Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
	2nd Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
	3rd Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
2nd	The Band	20	5x4	RegD	mlr		210
Brigade	2nd Bttn (Zouaves)	36	6x6	LightsB	mlr		492
	Ammo Wagon	1					50
Cavalry	2inC	1					50
Brigade	Cuirassiers	12	2x6	RegB	s, armour		200
	Lancers	12	2x6	RegB	s, l		200
TURKISH	CinC	1					100
Infantry	1st Bttn	20	4x5	RegC	sbm		180
	2nd Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	sbm		184
	3rd Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	sbm		184
Cavalry	Lancers	12	2x6	RegC	s, l		176
Artillery	Battery A	2	2x1	RegC	light mlsb FA		148
							3476

.

.	Crimean Russian	Crimean French/Turkish
Foot	5760	4640
Horse	1320	720
Guns	10	4

The Turkish troops guarded a fort worth 52” of heavy works on the top right of the field, supported by a French camp top left.

Report

The battle opened with the Russians advancing strongly from the bottom left corner:  sending only their heavy infantry and Don Cossacks towards the French camp. Immediately the French headed for the fort:  although attempts at doubling ended in disorder.

The Russians halted within artillery range of the fort, defending their guns with lines of infantry. The Russian cavalry headed up the left wing whilst, on the right, the heavy infantry crossed a bridge and halted: still some way from the French camp.

The Russian guns opened up on the Turks:  all parties expecting the “sick men of Asia” to flee. They did not. In fact, the whole masterplan of the Russians was held up by the steadiness of the Turkish 2nd Brigade: which refused to budge despite the guns cutting vast swathes through their ranks.

The Russian cavalry then advanced to start peppering them with carbine fire: only to rout backwards at the first shots from the fort. In fact, Pasha Avery routed both the Uhlans and the Dragoons, severely disrupting general Russian morale.

Meanwhile, the French were now in column heading right from their camp. This was the moment that the Russian commander had been waiting for. His men surged forward into position: forcing the French into an uneven firefight four battalions to three. Fire blazed from one end of the line to the other.

The French line, outnumbered 3:2, began to waver and go shaken. Desperate measures were needed: particularly as the Turkish infantry had finally succumbed to Russian artillery fire and routed back to the fort.

The French commander ordered his Zouaves to charge the Russian line. They did: driving both the 4th Moscva and the light artillery from the field. A charge at the right flank of the Russian line was, however, less successful: with the 3ieme Battalion Ligne halted before impact.

At this point, both armies began to waver: the French from the appalling casualties taken from the firefight, the Russians from the morale effect of the French charges. Independently, but simultaneously, both Commanders ordered a withdrawal.

Casualties

The Turks lost 220 infantry and 200 Lancers.  The French lost 640 infantry, with the 1ere Bttn, 1ere Ligne being very badly hit.

The Russians lost 700 infantry, 180 cavalry and 20 artillerymen.

Results

Although technically a draw, the Russians failed to capture the fort, despite outnumbering the French/Turks!

Analysis

If nothing else, the battle showed that fighting line verses line can happen: and that even the force armed with smoothbore muskets can sometimes hold its own against muzzle-loading rifles.

The luck of the battle swung this way and that: with the Turkish infantry proving impossible to shift despite being D class.

In the end, a draw had to be declared: as both sides were about to quit the field. The Russians had, however, failed to shift the Turks from the fort: so had to accept “loser” status.

 

Battle Report: 5th October 1996

Zulu ~ vs ~ Prussian

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Richard Avery) .

Zulu
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1	.	..	.		100
	2inC	1					50
Veteran	1	36	1x36	FanA	sp, sh		225
Tribesmen	2	36	1x36	FanA	sp, sh		225
	3	36	1x36	FanA	sp, sh		225
	4	36	1x36	FanA	sp, sh		225
	5	36	1x36	FanA	sp, sh		225
	6	36	1x36	FanA	sp, sh		225
Unmarried	7	36	1x36	FanB	sp, sh		225
Men	8	36	1x36	FanB	sp, sh		225
	9	36	1x36	FanB	sp, sh		225
	10	36	1x36	FanB	sp, sh		225
	11	36	1x36	FanB	sp, sh		225
	12	36	1x36	FanB	sp, sh		225
	13	36	1x36	FanB	sp, sh		225
	14	36	1x36	FanB	sp, sh		225
	15	36	1x36	FanB	sp, sh		225
	16	8	1x8	FanA	sp, sh, blr		119
							3644

.

Prussian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1					100
1st	Guards	48	4x12	RegA	blr		664
Brigade	Jaegers	48	4x12	LightsB	blr		664
	1st Line	24	2x12	RegC	blr		260
	2nd Line	48	4x12	RegC	blr		580
Cavalry	Uhlans	24	4x6	RegB	s, p, l		424
Brigade	Dragoons	16	4x4	RegB	s, blc		296
	Cuirassiers	24	4x6	RegB	s, p, blc, armour		309
Artillery	Battery A	3	3x1	RegB	light blrb FA		309
							3783

.

.	Zulu	Prussian
Foot	10960	3360
Horse	0	1280
Guns	0	6

Report

In their attempts to impose German rule on a small part of the Dark Continent, the Prussians sent a strong column of troops out into Zululand.

Camped near a large farm, the Prussian cavalry scouts reported a huge force of Zulus moving in for the kill, so the column deployed for battle.

Massing his cavalry far out on the wings, the Prussian commander hoped to out-flank the Zulu “horns of the bull”:  driving the Zulus onto his strong infantry centre.  The Zulus deployed as expected : with the head and loins of the bull comprised of their unmarried warriors, with the veteran warriors forming the horns.

The Zulus had intended to pick on the weak targets (ie the Prussian line infantry) first but, as they came within charge range, saw that the Prussian Guards had not yet formed square.  Seeing an opportunity to catch the Prussians off guard, the Zulu Induna ordered the charge.

This was a mistake:  the Prussians snapped into square, their guns fired double canister, and the warriors were turned into mincemeat!  Although they forced the Prussian gunners to flee their pieces, two Zulu regiments were all but destroyed, and two more routed.

Meanwhile, on the right, the Zulus had prepared to storm the farm - invested by the Jaegers and dismounted cavalry.  Forward the warriors ran but, dismayed by the failure of the central thrust, ravaged by fire from the Prussian infantry, they failed to charge home.

At the same time, on the left, the Zulu horn had succeeded in forcing the Prussian cavalry to withdraw.  Seeking a new target, they crossed the donga and assaulted some Prussian infantry on a small hill.  By now, however, the Zulus were beginning to lose heart:  and the attack was easily beaten off.

With their regiments broken and battered, the Zulus fled the field. 

Casualties

The Prussians lost 60 Jaegers:  victims of the Zulu sharpshooters who, for a change, has a very good day! 

The Zulus lost 2380 warriors:  a spear thrust to the heart of the nation!

Results

A win for the Prussians.

Analysis

When will I learn?  Don’t charge the enemy’s strongest unit at the beginning of the battle:  pick off his weakest units and save the strongest until their morale is suffering.

Battle Report: 31st August 1996

Crimean Russian ~vs~ Crimean French

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Richard Avery) .

Crimean Russian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1	.	..	.		100
11th	2inC	1
(Moscva)	1st Bttn	48	4x12	LightsC	mlr
Infantry	2nd Bttn	48	4x12	RegB	sbm
Regiment	3rd Bttn	48	4x12	RegD	sbm
	4th Bttn	48	4x12	RegD	sbm		1650
Attach-	Cossack Foot	48	4x12	MilD	sbm
ments	Sailors	48	4x12	MilD	sbm		656
Cavalry	2inC	1
Brigade	Guard Dragoons	16	2x8	RegB	s, mlc
	Hussars	24	4x6	RegC	s
	Cossacks	30	1x30	IrregC	s, l, ½mlc		1078
Artillery	Battery A	3	3x1	RegC	light mlsb FA
	Battery B	2	2x1	RegC	heavy mlsb FA		469
Train	Ammo Wagon	1					50
							4003

.

Crimean French
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1					100
1st	2inC	1					100
Brigade	1st Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr
	2nd Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr
	3rd Bttn	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		1202
2nd	1st Bttn (Marines)	36	6x6	RegB	mlr
Brigade	2nd Bttn (Zouaves)	36	6x6	LightsB	mlr
	Attached Turks	24	4x6	RegB	mlr		1252
	The Band	20	5x4	RegC	mlr		250
Cavalry	2inC	1
Brigade	Guides	12	2x6	RegA	s, p
	Dragoons	12	2x6	RegA	s, mlc
	Cuirassiers	12	2x6	RegB	s, armour
	Lancers	12	2x6	RegB	s, l		898
Artillery	Battery A	3	3x1	RegB	light mlsb FA		249
Train	Ammo Wagon	1					50
							4001

.

.	Crimean Russian	Crimean French
Foot	5760	4080
Horse	1400	960
Guns	10	6

 

Report

Heavily outscouted by the hordes of Russian Cossacks, the French deployed first: their infantry forming attack columns in the centre, with their cavalry and artillery supporting on the wings.

The Russians massed their entire cavalry force on their left flank, matched the French infantry with their own, and placed the heavy artillery safe behind the river on their right.

The battle commenced with an advance on both sides: with the French moving strongly forward across their entire frontage and sending off a small detachment of Turks to cross the river to threaten the Russian heavy guns. The main advance was, however, delayed by the failure of the 3ieme Battalion, 1ere Brigade to advance quickly without disorder.

The Russians advanced in echelon: sending their left flank forward in an attempt to drive the French onto their centre with the best of the Russian infantry.

The first real action was a massive cavalry charge: with the vast Cossack regiment thundering towards the French Cuirassiers. The French counter-charged, won the impact, followed up, and a massive cavalry melee developed around a hedge. At first the Cuirassiers made good progress, but then the sheer weight of the Cossacks’ numbers (a 2½:1 advantage) overwhelmed them.

The rest of the French force, however, continued unchecked: with the 2ieme Battalion, 1ere Brigade charging over the hedge straight at the Russian heavy infantry. Despite heavy losses from artillery fire, the Glorious Deuxieme thundered into contact and the Russians, appalled by the fact that they hadn’t stopped the French with musket fire, broke before the fearsome column.

The 2ieme had, however, advanced too far: and were quickly sent scurrying back over the hedge. Their charge had provided, however, the cover needed for the French to get the rest of their men into position: with the 3ieme Bttn, 1ere Brigade routing the battered Cossacks with rifle fire.

Unfortunately, the delay by the 3ieme at the beginning of the battle now proved vital: the short Crimean winter’s day drawing to a close. With victory within his grasp (the best of the Russian troops either routed or shaken), the French Commander, reluctant to fight at night, was forced to withdraw.

Casualties

The Russians lost half their Cossacks and a smattering of infantry: most of their men running away before impact!

The French 2ieme,1ere lost 280 out of 720 men; with the Infantrie de Marine losing 120 men to artillery fire. The French Cuirassiers were almost completely wiped out: with only 40 out of 240 men returning.

Results

A winning draw for the French.

Analysis

A good battle both in terms of excitement and looks! It was a great shame that time constraints didn’t permit a continuation: but probably quite lucky for the Russians!

Battle Report: 8th June 1996 French 1870 ~vs~ Prussian 1870 (Robert Avery ~vs~ Nog Norgren)

.

French 1870 Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points . CinC 1 . .. .   100   2inC 2         100 Line 1ere Ligne 36 6x6 RegC lbl   456 Infantry 2ieme Ligne 36 6x6 RegC lbl   456   3ieme Ligne 36 6x6 RegC lbl   456   Zouaves 36 6x6 RegB lbl   528   Marines 36 6x6 RegC lbl   456 Cavalry Lancers 12 2x6 RegB s, l   200 Brigade Cuirassiers 12 2x6 RegB s, armour   200   Guides 12 2x6 RegA s, p   224   Dragoons 12 2x6 RegA s, blc   236 Artillery Battery A 3 3x1 RegC light mlsb FA   237 Train Ammo Wagon 1       50 50               3699

.

Prussian 1870 Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points CinC 1   100   2inC 2         100 Foot Guards 48 4x12 RegA blr   664   Jaegers 48 4x12 LightsB blr   664   1st Line 48 4x12 RegC blr   520   2nd Line 24 2x12 RegC blr   260 Horse Uhlans 24 4x6 RegB s, p, blc, l   472   Cuirassiers 24 4x6 RegA s, p, blc, armour   520 Artillery Personality 1         25   Battery A 3 3x1 RegA light blrb FA   321 Train Ammo Wagon 1         50               3696

.

. French Prussians Foot 3600 3360 Horse 960 960 Guns 6 6

Report Neither side outscouted, so the armies deployed for battle simultaneously. The Prussians placed their full strength infantry battalions in the centre, supported by their artillery, their Uhlans on the left, with the smaller infantry battalion and Cuirassiers on their right. The French placed all their cavalry on their left flank, and pushed forward their infantry in column: evenly spaced out over their frontage. Both sides immediately advanced strongly:  with infantry rushing forward in column. On the French left, the French cavalry poured out of the village and formed four huge lines, each two squadrons wide, in preparation for a wave assault on the Prussian Cuirassiers and smaller infantry battalion. The Prussian artillery, proving as deadly as their historical counterparts, wiped out all but one section of their French equivalents, which fled the field anyway. The Prussian commander now deployed his men into line but, as they began to move, suddenly realised that the French Marines and Zouaves were charging forward, sunlight glinting off their bayonets! At the same time, the French cavalry spurred their horses forward into a charge:  it was going to be a short, sharp battle! On the French left, their cavalry smashed into the Cuirassiers and a small square of infantry. The first squadron of Prussian Cuirassiers and the whole of the French Lancers were wiped from the field, but then the French Heavy cavalry, big men on big horses, crashed into their foes: hurling them backwards shaken and in disorder. Still more French cavalry charged forward, and the Prussians gave way and routed. Meanwhile in the centre, the French Marines had smashed through the Jaeger skirmish line, and forced the Prussian gunners to flee to the Guards unit. The Guards refused flank, and halted the Marines who, next phase, were peppered by the Prussian Guard on their own flank, and fled in some confusion. The Zouaves had smashed the rest of the Jaegers from the field and had paused to regroup. Into view came the Prussian Uhlans, rushing across the field to halt the victorious French cavalry from rolling up their lines. Chassepots were raised, and the unfortunate Uhlans blasted in the flank. With only the Guards and one line battalion remaining, and facing five untouched French units, the Prussians retreated. Casualties The Prussians lost 120 Jaegers; 40 Cuirassiers; 220 Line Infantry and 60 Guards. The Uhlans took very heavy casualties too. The French lost two artillery sections; half the Marines and Zouaves; all the Lancers and most of their Cuirassiers. Results A narrow victory for the French:  with the Prussians being able to retreat in good order. Analysis A great battle decided by two charges in the second turn! The French fought with élan:  winning at the point of the bayonet. Note that the speedy Prussian advance did negate the advantage of the Chassepot’s longer range.

Battle Report: 13th April 1996 Late British Indian ~vs~ Mahdist (Robert Avery ~vs~ Richard Avery)

.

Late British Indian Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points . CinC 1 . .. . 100 100   2inC 1       50 50 1st British Bttn 20 4x5 RegB blr 11 240 Brigade Indian Bttn 32 8x4 RegC mlr 8 336   Indian Bttn 40 10x4 LightsC mlr 10 480 2nd British Bttn 20 4x5 RegB blr 11 240 Brigade Indian Bttn 32 8x4 RegC mlr 8 336   Indian Bttn 40 10x4 RegC mlr 8 400 Cavalry British Regt 8 2x4 RegB s, l, blc 16 148 Brigade Indian Regt 15 3x5 RegC s, l, mlc 14 240   Indian Regt 15 3x5 RegC s, mlc 13 225 Artillery Indian Btty 3 3x1 RegC screw guns 66 228   RA HMG Btty 1 1x1 RegB hmg 88 98 Train Ammo Wagon 1       50 50               3107

.

Mahdist Brigade Unit Fig.'s Org. Class Weapons Pts/Fig Points CinC 1 100 100   2inC 2       50 100 Fuzzy- Brown Unit 36 1x36 FanA sw/sp, sh 8 303 Wuzzies White Unit 36 1x36 FanB sw/sp, sh 7 267 Tribesmen 1st Unit 36 1x36 IrregB sw/sp, sh, blr 10 375   2nd Unit 32 1x32 IrregB sw/sp, sh, blr 10 335   3rd Unit 32 1x32 IrregB sw/sp, sh, blr 10 335   4th Unit 32 1x32 IrregC sw/sp, sh 4 143   5th Unit 32 1x32 IrregC sw/sp, sh 4 143 Horse 1st Unit 10 1x10 IrregA l, sw, sh, armour, mlr 14 155   2nd Unit 10 1x10 IrregA l, sw, sh, armour, mlr 14 155   3rd Unit 10 1x10 FanB l, sw, sh, mlr 14 155   4th Unit 10 1x10 FanB l, sw, sh, mlr 14 155 Artillery Tribal Guns 3 1x3 IrregC light blrb FA 107 321 Train Ammo Wagon 1       50 50               3092

.

. Late British Indian Mahdist Foot 3520 4720 Horse 760 800 Guns 8 6

Report A superb battle, with the result only decided in the final phase. The battle opened on the British right flank: where his mounted brigade were opposed by two units of fanatical Mahdist horse. Both sides elected to soften each other up with rifle fire: fire so effective that the Bengal Horse on the British side and one unit of Mahdists became shaken. Now supported by the gatling gun, the 17th Lancers charged forward into the remaining Mahdist unit, and an extremely bloody melee followed. Eventually the hard-fighting 17th force the Mahdists to flee, but had taken such heavy casualties themselves that they took no further part in the battle. The next phase of the battle was on the left flank: where the British 1st Brigade advanced forward too hastily and were forced to hurriedly form square in the face of a Mahdist charge. Six Mahdist units charged the British square: and although the two Mahdist horse units and two of the four infantry units were destroyed, the other two units of tribesmen impacted with such force that first the Ghurkas and then the Sikhs broke and fled the field. The British 24th held on for one more phase, but were eventually overwhelmed as well. Motto: if you don’t want to lose a whole brigade, form square before being charged! Finally, in the centre of the field, the Fuzzy-Wuzzies and the British 2nd Brigade raced for the hill. The British got there first, and the supporting screw guns quickly silenced the Mahdist artillery: blowing all six guns in the battery to pieces. Then, as the battle approached its climax, the only remaining British troops, the 2nd Brigade, were charged by six units of Mahdists: all that they had left. The British commander, not paying proper attention to fire control, stopped four of the Mahdist units from getting close enough to worry his men, but was unable to prevent the other two to get close enough to panic the 2nd Brigade - already nervous from the destruction of the rest of the British troops. First the artillery crews fled, then the Sepoys, and finally even the Highlanders broke and ran. Casualties There were no details of casualties available...but they were high! Results A hard-fought victory for the Mahdists. Analysis If the British had formed square earlier, and practiced better fire control, then the Mahdists would probably not have got into “fear-of-charge” range. Full marks, however, to the Mahdist commander: whose boldness and co-ordinated attacks paid off.

Battle Report: 2nd May 1998

Crimean Allies ~vs~ Crimean Russian

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Richard Avery) .

Crimean Allies
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
BRITISH	CinC	1	.	..	.		100
Infantry	57th Regt	40	10x4	RegB	sbm		420
Brigade	66th Regt	40	10x4	RegB	sbm		420
	Rifles	16	4x4	RegA	mlr		280
Cavalry	Light Dragoons	10	2x5	RegA	s, mlc		190
Brigade	17th Lancers	10	2x5	RegA	s, l		190
	Heavy Dragoons	10	2x5	RegA	s, mlc		190
Artillery	2inC	1					50
Brigade	1st Battery	3	3x1	RegB	light mlsb FA		249
	2nd Battery	2	2x1	RegA	light mlsb HA		216
	Ammo Wagon	2					50
TURKISH	CinC	1					100
1st Brigade	1st Bttn	20	4x5	RegB	sbm		200
	2nd Bttn	24	4x6	RegC	sbm		208
	3rd Bttn	24	4x6	RegC	sbm		208
2nd Brigade	1st Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	sbm		184
	2nd Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	sbm		184
	3rd Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	sbm		184
	Attached Art.	2	2x1	RegC	light mlsb FA		158
							3831

.

Crimean Russian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1					100
Infantry	2inC	1					50
Regt	1st Bttn	48	4x12	LightsC	mlr		520
	2nd Bttn	48	4x12	RegB	sbm		424
	3rd Bttn	48	4x12	RegD	sbm		328
	4th Bttn	48	4x12	RegD	sbm		328
Cavalry	2inC	1					50
Brigade	Uhlans	16	2x8	LightsC	s, l		260
	Hussars	24	4x5	RegC	s		376
	Cossacks	10	1x10	IrregD	s, l		115
Unbrigaded	Cossacks	48	4x12	MilD	mlr		376
Foot	Sailors	48	4x12	MilD	mlr		376
Artillery	1st Battery	3	3x1	RegC	light mlsb FA		237
	2nd Battery	2	2x1	RegB	heavy mlsb FA		244
	Ammo Wagon	1					50
							3834

.

.	Crimean Allies	Crimean Russian
Foot	4720	5760
Horse	600	1000
Guns	7	5

Report

The battle opened with a general advance on both sides. The British commander had placed his British Regulars in the centre, with the Turks on the left flank. On the right, a small force of Rifles, Heavy Dragoons and Turkish Artillery were to try and turn the flank.

The Russians commander sent three battalions of line infantry up the centre, with the Cossacks and Sailors left to hold the flanks. The final battalion of line infantry was sent to head off the British flank-turning force.

In the centre, battle was joined swiftly: with the Russians suddenly charging the three infantry columns and two cavalry units into a surprised British line. Although the British withstood the first impact, Russian artillery fire and the devastating fire of the close range Russian infantry broke both British Regular battalions:  sending them fleeing the field.

The charge had not, however, been without cost to the Russians:  of the five units sent in, only the Heavy Infantry and Uhlans survived - two Russian sub-Generals had also perished.

Meanwhile, on the right flank, the British flank-turning force was having some success: the fire from the Rifles and Artillery routing the Russian battalion, with the Heavy Dragoons finishing them off.

On the left flank, an advance by Turks had been halted by the Russian CinC, himself, leading the militia Sailors forward.

At this point, both sides agreed to end the battle. The British had their centre shattered, but the Russians had lost the power to exploit the victory. On the flanks, the British had broken one, but were being forced to retreat on the other. In effect, both sides were too bruised and battered to go on. 

Casualties

The British lost 340 Regulars and 20 or so cavalry. Their Turkish allies lost 260 infantry.

The Russians lost 940 infantry, two sub-Generals, and 20 or so Hussars.

Results

A draw. 

Analysis

A great battle: proving once again that the points system evens out any differences in the quality of troops fielded and that, well led, the Russians are a match for anybody.

Battle Report: 3rd May 1998

Egyptian ~vs~ Mahdist

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Rupert Avery) .

Egyptian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1					100
1st Brigade	1st Bttn	20	4x5	RegB	blr		240
	2nd Bttn	24	4x6	RegC	blr		280
	3rd Bttn	24	4x6	RegC	blr		280
	Lancers	12	2x6	RegC	l, s, blc		200
2nd Brigade	1st Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	sbm		256
	2nd Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	sbm		256
	3rd Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	sbm		256
	Lancers	12	2x6	RegC	l, s, blc		200
	Attached Art.	2	2x1	RegC	light blrb FA		198
							2266

.

Mahdist
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1					100
Tribal	2inC	1					50
Foot	Blue Flag	32	1x32	IrregB	sw/sp, sh, blr		335
	Green Flag	32	1x32	IrregB	sw/sp, sh, blr		335
	Purple Flag	32	1x32	IrregC	sw/sp, sh		143
	Red Flag	32	1x32	IrregC	sw/sp, sh		143
	Yellow Flag	32	1x32	IrregC	sw/sp, sh		143
Tribal	2inC	1					50
Horse	Purple Flag	10	1x10	IrregA	l, sw, sp, armour, mlr		155
	Green Flag	10	1x10	IrregA	l, sw, sp, armour, mlr		155
	No Flag	10	1x10	FanB	l, sw, sp, armour, mlr		155
Artillery	Battery	2	1x2	IrregC	light blrb FA		229
	Ammo Wagon	1					50
							2265

.

.	Egyptian	Mahdist
Foot	3200	3800
Horse	480	600
Guns	2	2

.

Report

Battle opened on the right flank: with the Egyptian 2nd Brigade cavalry charging and routing the Mahdist Green Flag horse and also throwing the Red Flag tribesmen into confusion at the same time. Unfortunately, the shock of the epic cavalry melee proved to great for the Egyptian Lancers to withstand and, despite having won, they too fled the field!

On the left flank, the Egyptians had advanced out of a sunken road, perhaps a mistake, and formed line to await the Mahdist advance. As the Egyptians stood in line, the Mahdist artillery blew great holes in their ranks, sapping their morale and, as the Mahdist infantry came into range with their stolen breechloaders, the Egyptian soldiers began to have second thought about battles in general and this one specifically.

The Mahdists, however, did not have it all their own way: taking casualties from the return fire of the Egyptians, and losing another unit of horse.

The deciding action of the battle came far on the left wing: where the 1st/1st battalion of Egyptians had formed a square as an anchor for that flank. The Mahdist Purple Flag horse charged the square, hoping the general unease of the Egyptians would be transformed into mass panic at their approach.

So it proved. The entire battalion routed off the field without taking a single casualty.

With their battle line now fully shaken, with two units already broken, the Egyptians now faced the main charge of the Mahdist hoard.

They broke and ran: cut down as they fled!

Casualties

The Mahdists lost a 2inC; 280 foot; one artillery section and 160 horse.

The Egyptians lost 80 infantry; 80 cavalry and one section of artillery: although many more casualties would have been suffered in the general rout.

Results

A victory for the Mahdists.

Analysis

A great battle that the report above does not really do justice to.

Fortunes swung both ways throughout the battle: with the Egyptian and Mahdist morale gradually getting worse and worse.

Finally, it was the Egyptian morale that gave way first: with one unit domino-ing the rest of the line!

Battle Report: 28th July 1998

Early Chinese ~vs~ Early British Indian & French

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Rupert Avery) .

Early Chinese
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1					100
1st Imperial	2inC	1					50
Brigade	Tigermen	25	1x25	IrregC	sbm, sw		165
	Musketeers	25	1x25	IrregC	sbm, sw		165
	Spearmen	25	1x25	IrregC	sbm, sw		165
	Archers	25	1x25	IrregC	sbm, sw		165
Unbrigaded	Tigermen	25	1x25	IrregD	sbm, sw		165
Troops	Musketeers	25	1x25	IrregD	sbm, sw		165
Horse	Imperial Lancers	12	1x12	IrregC	sp, sw, sh, mlr		147
	Imperial Lancers	12	1x12	IrregC	sp, sw, sh, mlr		147
	Tartar Skirmishers	12	1x12	IrregD	sp, sw, sh, mlr		111
	Tartar Skirmishers	12	1x12	IrregD	sp, sw, sh, mlr		111
Artillery	2inC	1					50
	Imperial Battery	4	1x4	IrregD	light mlsb FA		287
	Gingals	4	1x4	IrregD	mountain guns		233
	Ammo Wagon	1					50
Villagers	One Spot Flag	30	1x30	IrregD	sp/sw, sh		105
	Two Spot Flag	30	1x30	IrregD	sp/sw, sh		105
	Three Spot Flag	30	1x30	IrregD	sp/sw, sh		105
							2581

.

Early British Indian & French
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1					100
1st	2inC	1					50
(British)	57th Regt	40	10x4	RegB	mlr		500
Brigade	66th Regt	40	10x4	RegB	mlr		500
	Naval Brigade	24	6x4	RegB	mlr		300
2nd	2inC	1					50
(British)	1st Bengal Foot	32	8x4	RegC	sbm	.	304
Brigade	2nd Bengal Foot	32	8x4	RegC	sbm	.	304
	Ammo Wagon	1				.	50
3rd	2inC	1					50
(French)	Marines	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
Brigade
							2592

.

.	Chinese	Allies
Foot	4800	4080
Horse	960	0
Guns	16	0

Report

This was an attempt by the Allies to destroy one of the Taku forst: holding up the attempt to reach the Chinese capital.

The Chinese set up with their right flank anchored on the fort. Their guns were either in (the gingals) or next to (Imperial Battery) the fort, followed, running left, by their infantry and, on the far left, their cavalry.

The Allies set up in a long line of mixed line and column formations. The order, from the right, was:  the 66th, the French, the Naval Brigade, the 2nd Bengal Foot, the 57th, and the 1st Bengal Foot.

The battle opened with the Chinese advancing their whole cavalry force, in column, to threaten the British 66th Regiment. These fine troops halted their advance, and both sides spent the next 30 minutes hoping the other would advance and show some weakness.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the field, the 57th Regiment sped forward in column and charged, unsupported, straight at the Chinese artillery. This turned out to be a little over-enthusiastic: as even these strong British troops couldn’t get through the hail of canister resulting from the combined fire of 16 guns and a unit of Tigermen.

Back on the Allied right, the French Marines had allowed a gap to appear between their main line, three companies, and another line of three companies perpendicular to their comrades and tasked to protect their flank. Seeing this, the Chinese commander charged a unit of Tigermen and all their cavalry onto the exposed flank of the first line of Marines. These countercharged, but were unable to resist the Tigerman, no doubt inspired by opium, and so fell back, shaken and disordered. The Chinese cavalry, despite the loss of the CinC to spectacular death, charged these shaken Marines and, despite taking casualties from fire, made them rout, along with their support.

The situation looked desperate for the Allies: with the Chinese now in a position to turn their flank:  rolling them up from Naval Brigade onwards.

The Gods smiled on the Allies:  suddenly two Chinese units turned and ran for no reason. Unfortunately, the commander of the Naval Brigade, unused perhaps to dry land, ordered his men to disengage rather than fall back in an ordered fashion. This proved fatal:  as the Tartar skirmishers smashed into their rear, driving them from the field.

Unfortunately, immediately after this success, another crisis of confidence caused another two Chinese units to flee: and it looked as if, despite looking as if they could win, the whole of the Chinese left flank had collapsed.

Meanwhile in the centre, the 2nd Bengal Foot had been advancing slowly forward in line: taking casualties from the Chinese artillery. Seeing their Naval Brigade support, they halted, shaken: and were charged by three units of Chinese foot. They broke and ran, chased by the Chinese hatchetmen!

On the Chinese right, by the fort, the 1st Bengal Foot were finally in a position to assault the guns. Unfortunately, the charge fell short, and they were peppered by the artillery.

As the battle ended, the entire Chinese left flank had collapsed, but they had broken the British right and centre. However, the 66th and the rallied French Marines were now advancing forward, and the artillery had yet to break the Bengalis, although infantry were rushing to their support.

Casualties

The British lost 300 infantry (mostly the 57th); 300 Sepoys; and one 2inC suffered a light wound. Total 600 casualties.

The Chinese lost 160 Imperial Foot; 240 Horse; and 140 Village Levies. Total 540 casualties. Their CinC was also killed.

At the end of the battle, the following units were routed: the British 57th and 2nd Bengal Foot; the Chinese 1st Spearmen, 2nd Tigermen, 1st & 2nd Lancers and 1st & 2nd Tartar Skirmishers.

Results

The battle was declared a draw.

Analysis

Any tactical errors that the British might have made (the charge of the 57th, the gap in the French Marine line and the disengaging of the Naval Brigade) were more than made up for by the appalling morale rolling of the Chinese. Their whole left flank went through “old snake eyes” whilst rallying troops from shaken!

At the end of the day, the British were coming back strong from their earlier disappointments: and it may have been that the Chinese no longer had the morale to withstand their renewed attacks.

Battle Report: 6th August 1998

Early Chinese ~vs~ Early British Indian & French

(Rupert Avery ~vs~ Robert Avery) .

Early Chinese
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1					100
1st Imperial	2inC	1					50
Brigade	Tigermen	25	1x25	IrregC	sbm, sw		165
	Musketeers	25	1x25	IrregC	sbm, sw		165
	Spearmen	25	1x25	IrregC	sbm, sw		165
	Archers	25	1x25	IrregC	sbm, sw		165
Unbrigaded	Tigermen	25	1x25	IrregD	sbm, sw		165
Troops	Musketeers	25	1x25	IrregD	sbm, sw		165
Horse	Imperial Lancers	12	1x12	IrregC	sp, sw, sh, mlr		147
	Imperial Lancers	12	1x12	IrregC	sp, sw, sh, mlr		147
	Tartar Skirmishers	12	1x12	IrregD	sp, sw, sh, mlr		111
	Tartar Skirmishers	12	1x12	IrregD	sp, sw, sh, mlr		111
Artillery	2inC	1					50
	Imperial Battery	4	1x4	IrregD	light mlsb FA		287
	Gingals	4	1x4	IrregD	mountain guns		233
	Ammo Wagon	1					50
Villagers	One Spot Flag	30	1x30	IrregD	sp/sw, sh		105
	Two Spot Flag	30	1x30	IrregD	sp/sw, sh		105
	Three Spot Flag	30	1x30	IrregD	sp/sw, sh		105
							2581

.

Early British Indian & French
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1					100
1st	2inC	1					50
(British)	57th Regt	40	10x4	RegB	mlr		500
Brigade	66th Regt	40	10x4	RegB	mlr		500
	Naval Brigade	24	6x4	RegB	mlr		300
2nd	2inC	1					50
(British)	1st Bengal Foot	32	8x4	RegC	sbm	.	304
Brigade	2nd Bengal Foot	32	8x4	RegC	sbm	.	304
	Ammo Wagon	1				.	50
3rd	2inC	1					50
(French)	Legion Etrangere	36	6x6	RegC	mlr		384
Brigade
							2592

.

.	Chinese	Allies
Foot	4800	4080
Horse	960	0
Guns	16	0

Report

Forces were identical to the previous battle:  with a single unit swap - the French Marines were replaced by an identical unit of Legion Etrangere.

The terrain was also identical, as were the objectives.

The British placed their troops in columns in line facing the fort: with their British troops on the right, the Sepoys in the middle, and the FFL and Naval Brigade on the left.

The Chinese placed their Lancers on the left, supported by a unit of infantry; their Tartar skirmishers on the right, also supported by a unit of infantry; with the rest of their force in the centre. The village levies and artillery would hold the ford; three units of infantry would attack.

On the Allied right, their British troops advanced towards the enemy, but halted in good time to deploy into line and square to face the expected cavalry charge. All four charging horse units were either repulsed or halted (the Imperial Lancers wbeing totally destroyed) and, as the battle ended, the British troops were preparing to advance again.

In the centre, two Sepoy battalions faced two units of Chinese infantry. Both Sepoy battalions deployed into line but, unwisely, their commander decided to charge half of one battalion in column into a unit of Tigermen to cover a further advance into range with their smoothbores.

The column charged forward, but was blown off the field by the Tigermen. Lesson learnt: soften them up more before you charge in!

This proved, however, a temporary setback, as the rest of the Sepoy battalion were able to move forward and rout the Tigermen with fire.

On the British left, the Naval Brigade and half the FFL successfully destroyed or routed the Tartar skirmishers and Archers that charged them.

However, the rest of the FFL unwisely decided to charge a unit of chinese musketeers without softening them up first. A melee developed, and this half of the FFL were overwhelmed. This left the slightly bemused chinese infantry right in the middle of the Allied line not sure what to do next!

Unfortunately, with 8 units routing, the morale of the Chinese was broken, and they retreated: leaving the victorious Allies free to move into the fort and clear the way to Peking.

Casualties

The Allies lost 300 Sepoys; 80 French Foreign Legion and had two sub-Generals lightly wounded.

The Chinese lost 660 infantry and 580 cavalry.

Result

A win for the Allies.

Conclusion

A good, if short, battle: with the Allies using their firepower to good effect, and regretting closing with a mass of good morale swordsmen!

 

Battle Report: 13th August 1998

Crimean British ~vs~ Crimean Russian

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Rupert Avery) .

Crimean British
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1	.	..	.		100
Infantry	2inC	1					50
Brigade	Grenadier Guards	40	10x4	RegA	sbm		500
	57th Regt	40	10x4	RegB	sbm		420
	66th Regt	40	10x4	RegB	sbm		420
	Extra for Light Co's						48
	Rifles	16	4x4	LightsA	mlr		280
Cavalry	Light Dragoons	10	2x5	RegA	s, mlc		190
Brigade	17th Lancers	10	2x5	RegA	s, l		190
	Heavy Dragoons	10	2x5	RegA	s, mlc		190
Artillery	1st Battery	3	3x1	RegB	light mlsb FA		249
Brigade	2nd Battery	2	2x1	RegA	light mlsb HA		216
							2853

.

Crimean Russian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1					100
Moscva	2inC	1					50
Regt	1st Bttn	12	1x12	LightsB	mlr
		36	3x12	RegB	sbm		460
	2nd Bttn	12	1x12	LightsB	mlr
		36	3x12	RegB	sbm		460
	3rd Bttn	12	1x12	RegC	mlr
		36	3x12	RegC	sbm		388
	4th Bttn	12	1x12	RegC	mlr
		36	3x12	RegC	sbm		388
Cavalry	2inC	1					50
Brigade	Uhlans	12	2x6	RegB	s, l		234
	Hvy Dragoons	12	2x6	RegB	s, armour		234
Artillery	1st Battery	3	3x1	RegB	light mlsb FA		249
	2nd Battery	2	2x1	RegB	medium mlsb FA		200
	Ammo Wagon	1					50
							2863

.

.	Crimean British	Crimean Russian
Foot	2720	3840
Horse	600	480
Guns	10	10

Report

The Russians were outscouted and set up first:  choosing a traditional formation of infantry in the centre with mixed units of cavalry on the wings. The British concentrated all their infantry in a column aimed at the Russian left flank, supported by the Light Dragoons and the RHA, with the RA and other cavalry covering their own, exposed, left flank.

As battle commenced, the British doubled forward and very wquickly threatened the still deploying Russians. It was then, however, that the flaw in the British plan became apparent: the British commander had failed to take into account a large, dense, thick, heavy wood protecting the Russian line. For the rest of the battle, the main British strike force, although succeeding in some local skirmishes, could not extricate themselves from the woods and take an active part in the battle.

Meanwhile, the Russian CinC deployed two infantry battalions to hold the British in the wood whilst he moved to outflank them with the rest of his force. The British cavalry moved to intercept the Russians but, just as they moved towards a mutual charge with the Russian cavalry, were hit in the flank by some cunningly placed Russian artillery. This shook them so much that they were forced to receive the Russian cavalry charge at a halt, and were smashed from the field.

This obviously left the entire British flank exposed and, despite desperately trying to extricate his infantry from the terrain on the right flank, the British CinC seemed unable to counter the Russian outflanking manoeuvre.

The British started to take fire on their flank as well as their front and, within a short time, began to crumble. A brave effort by the RHA was not enough, and the British fled the field.

Casualties

The British lost 60 Riflemen; 140 of the 57th Foot; 20 Guards; 40 Light Dragoons; 40 artillerymen; 20 Lancers and 20 Heavy Dragoons: for a total of 340 men. The entire British cavalry, the RA and the Rifles were routed off the field.

The Russians lost 640 infantry, 200 cavalry, and had their CinC lightly wounded.

Results

A victory for the Russians.

Analysis

In the early stages of the battle, it looked as if the British tactic of smashing a flank and rolling the Russians up might work. Unfortunately, the British CinC just couldn’t get his men through the heavy woods before the Russians threatened to outflank, and lost his covering cavalry in a typically stupid way.

In all, an excellent victory for the Russians: although it must be said that their force was an example of an elite Russian army! This was, however, partially countered by the luck being on the British side throughout the battle.

Battle Report: 15th August 1998

Prussian ~vs~ Late Afghan

(Nathanial Norgren ~vs~ Robert Avery) .

Prussian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1	.	..	.		100
1st	2inC	1					50
Brigade	Guards	48	4x12	RegA	blr		664
	Jaegers	48	4x12	LightsB	blr		664
2nd	1st Foot	24	2x12	RegC	blr		260
Brigade	2nd Foot	48	4x12	RegC	blr		520
Cavalry	2inC	1					50
Brigade	Uhlans	24	4x6	RegB	s, p, l		376
	Cuirassiers	24	4x6	RegA	s, armour, blc		448
	Heavy Dragoons	16	4x4	RegB	s, blc		296
Artillery	1st Battery	3	3x1	RegA	light blrb HA		384
	Ammo Wagon	1					50
							3812

.

Late Afghan
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1					100
1st	2inC	1					50
Tribal	1st Marksmen	18	1x18	FanA	sw/sp, sh, mlr		231
Group	1st Ghazi	36	1x36	FanB	sw/sp, sh		267
	2nd Ghazi	36	1x36	FanB	sw/sp, sh		267
2nd	2inC	1					50
Tribal	1st Marksmen	18	1x18	FanA	sw/sp, sh, mlr		231
Group	1st Waziris	32	1x32	IrregB	sw/sp, sh, mlr		249
	2nd Waziris	32	1x32	IrregB	sw/sp, sh, mlr		249
	3rd Waziris	32	1x32	IrregB	sw/sp, sh, mlr		249
3rd	2inC	1					50
Tribal	3rd Marksmen	18	1x18	FanA	sw/sp, sh, mlr		231
Group	4th Waziris	32	1x32	IrregB	sw/sp, sh, mlr		249
	5th Waziris	32	1x32	IrregC	sw/sp, sh, mlr		207
	6th Waziris	18	1x18	IrregC	sw/sp, sh, mlr		123
Tribal	2inC	1					50
Horse	1st Horse	10	1x10	FanA	sp, sw, sh, mlr		185
	2nd Horse	10	1x10	FanA	sp, sw, sh, mlr		185
	3rd Horse	10	1x10	FanB	sp, sw, sh, mlr		105
	4th Horse	10	1x10	FanB	sp, sw, sh, mlr		105
Artillery	1st Battery	3	1x3	IrregC	light mlsb FA		291
	Ammo Wagon	1					50
							3901

.

.	Prussian	Late Afghan
Foot	3360	6080
Horse	1280	800
Guns	6	6

.

Report

The Afghans were outscouted, so set up first: palcing their three infantry groups in the centre, with two horse units on either flank. The Prussians, however, replied by compressing their force into a small box on the left hand side of the field, witht he Uhlans and Cuirassiers massed in a huge column on their left flank.

The battle opened with the Afghans advancing strongly: particularly keen to get their marksmen into action. The Prussian CinC, likewise, deployed the Jaegers: using this skirmish screen to advance in columns.

The second phase of the battle saw two decisive actions. The first was some superb counter-battery fire by the Afghan gunners: knocking out two sections of Prussian HA. The second was the charge of the combined Prussian cavalry column onto the far right of the Afghan line. as they thundered forward, the Afghan Purple Flag marksmen, despite the presence of their 2inC, scattered in fron tof them: leaving only a unit of Ghazis between the Prussian horse and the Afghan flank.

The Ghazis, bolseterd by the presence of their CinC, waited until the last moment, then devastated the cavalry with a hail of well-placed spears. At the same time, the Afghan guns, again firing superbly, hit the germanic horse in the flank. This hail of fire proved too much for even the Cuirassiers and Lancers: and those that survived were unable to make contact, and bounced back several hundred yards.

In the centre, meanwhile, the Afghan skirmishers and Jaegers were sniping somewhat ineffectually at each other. Seeing a need to quickly recover from the the disappointments of the last phase, the Prussian commander ordered the Guard forward: charging them into the heart of the Afghan line.

The Guard was met by a hail of fire from Afghan jezzails and captured Martini-Henry rifles, as well as a unit of charging Afghan tribesmen. Despite brave efforts, the casualties they had taken took the heart out of the Guard, and they were sent back to the Prussian lines shaken and in disorder. 

Meanwhile, the Afghans had been advancing towards the Prussian right flank, and were now in a position to start sniping at the Prussian forces there. After softening them up, another unit of Afghan tribesmen charged from the centre of the field into the flank of the right flank forces who, already distressed by sniper fire, broke and ran.

With his cavalry and artillery largely destroyed, the Guard, Jaegers and Line Infantry shaken and routed, the Prussian commander conceded defeat.

Casualties

The Afghans lost 320 tribesmen.

The Prussians lost 80 Jaegers; 760 Cuirassiers; many Uhlans; 120 Guard; two artillery sections and about 140 line infantry.

Results

A win for the Afghans. 

Analysis

The Prussians never really managed to get into a position where they could deliver a significant weight of fire into the advancing Afghans. They remained closely bunched and in multiple lines.

Battle Report: 17th November 1998

Egyptian ~vs~ Late British

(Robert Avery ~vs~ Rupert Avery) .

Egyptian
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
	CinC	1					100
1st Brigade	1st Bttn	20	4x5	RegC	blr		280
	2nd Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	blr		256
	3rd Bttn	24	4x6	RegD	blr		256
	Lancers	12	2x6	RegC	l, s, blc		200
	Attached Art.	2	2x1	RegC	light blrb FA		198
2nd Brigade	1st Bttn	24	4x6	RegC	blr		240
	2nd Bttn	24	4x6	RegC	blr		280
	3rd Bttn	24	4x6	RegC	blr		280
	Lancers	12	2x6	RegC	l, s, blc		200
	Attached Art.	2	2x1	RegC	light blrb FA		198
							2488

.

Later British
Brigade	Unit	Fig.'s	Org.	Class	Weapons	Pts/Fig	Points
.	CinC	1					100
	2inC	1					50
1st	43rd Foot	20	4x5	LightsB	lbl		340
Brigade	95th Highlanders	40	8x5	RegB	lbl		600
	Naval Brigade	24	6x4	RegB	lbl		392
Cavalry	17th Lancers	10	2x5	RegB	s, p, blc, l		200
Brigade	Camel Corps	8	2x4	RegC	s, p, blc		140
Artillery	Battery	3	3x1	RegB	light blrb HA		372
	Naval Brigade	1	1x1	RegB	gatling gun		98
							2342

Report

This was an encounter battle: with both sides starting in column and suddenly realising that the other was there!

As battle opened, the Egyptian commander rushed his 1st Brigade infantry to the town in the centre of the field, covering their left flank with the 1st artillery and their right flank with the combined cavalry. The 2nd Brigade infantry, although delayed as they let their guns through, were also sent to the left flank.

The British elected to send their Highlanders around the town, with their centre being held by the Naval Brigade and 43rd Foot. They also sent the horse artillery, supported by the Camel Corps and a squadron of Lancers, around in an attempt to outflank the Egyptian left.

Although the Egyptians peppered the British infantry with artillery fire from their 1st Battery, they were unable to do more than minimal damage before being scattered to the winds as the British outflanking RHA came into play. The RHA, however, although routing the 1st Battery of Egyptian guns, then lost two of its own sections to counter-battery fire from the 2nd Egyptian Battery.

Meanwhile, the Egyptian infantry were approaching the town, supported by the combined Lancers. The commander of the Lancers suddenly spotted a column of Highlanders and, thinking to destroy them before they deployed, launched a charge against them.

Unfortunately, the Highlanders were more than able to cope with this: snapping smartly into line and just about destroying the Lancers with fire from their Martini-Henry’s.

Things did not look to hot for the Egyptians: they had lost two units of cavalry, one battery of guns and a battalion of infantry (2nd/1st) - routed by the outflanking squadron of British Lancers. However, the Egyptian commander invested the town and, lying prone, the 1st/1st began a firefight with the British 43rd Foot and Naval Brigade. Casualties amongst the 1st/1st and 43rd were minimal, as both sides were lying prone and either skirmishing or behind cover, but the Naval Brigade took some damage.

It should be noted at this point that the Naval Brigade Gatling Gun had jammed: and had therefore done no casualties in the battle so far!

It was now, however, that the British commander managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory! Keeping the Egyptian 1st/1st pinned down with fire from the 43rd Foot, his plan was to charge them with the Naval Brigade: the sailors taking full advantage of the opportunity of bayoneting the prone Egyptians! Unfortunately, the Naval Brigade, as they were preparing for their battle-winning charge, were hit by more fire from the 1st/1st that, combined with their previous casualties, was enough to shake their morale! No battle-winning charge this turn.

Worse, however, was the fact that the 43rd Foot, eager to get maximum firepower onto the town, had exposed their flank. Seizing the opportunity, the Egyptian CinC charged this open flank with the Regular D 2nd/3rd: who crashed into the prone, skirmishing foot with devastating effect!

The 43rd broke and ran: taking the shaken Naval Brigade and their supporting Lancers with them! Now with only the Highlanders and Camel Corps undamaged (and these on opposite sides of the field), and with the Egyptians not only safe in the town but also pursuing his routed men, the British commander had no choice but to order a retreat.

Casualties

The Egyptians lost 180 infantry, 40 artillerymen, and 360 cavalry.

The British lost 2 sections of artillery, 120 sailors, 20 lancers and a smattering of regular infantry.

Results

A win for the Egyptians.

Analysis

As the battle came to its climax, the Egyptian CinC had just about given up hope: as he had thrown away his cavalry and half his artillery unnecessarily. The British commander, however, has split his force and allowed the Egyptians to invest the town.

It was the failure of the Naval Brigade to charge that caused the British defeat: something that was somewhat due to bad luck. With that charge going in, the Egyptians would have collapsed before their own, flanking charge went in.

In all, a narrow escape for the Egyptians.