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2018/08/18 06:49:29
Subject: Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases [Sale now on till the 31st]
Well, on your recommendation, I went ahead and made a small order. Just got one of those individual figures and the luxury sedan. The cars will actually be very useful in filling out my Walking Dead table. I do wish he had more individual figures available though.
That's something which I've asked for before. With stuff like say the Spartan belt fed PKM from the new Spetsnaz being something which could be useful for other settings. Or say one of the new under cover American spec ops in Afghanistan having a real Post-Apocalyptic vibe to him.
I've made my suggestions to the owner to do more one off character models like his earlier American spec ops with a prothetic leg. Stuff like a Russian with an anti-drone gun, or one in an exoskeleton. However, if you're wanting figures from individual sets, you could maybe email or message him. The thing is though that I'm not sure how he's casting them. Whether he can do individual figures, or each set's on the one plate, so for one figure he'd have a load of others cast at the same time which would now be incomplete.
2018/08/19 18:18:00
Subject: Re:Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases [Sale now on till the 31st]
Infamous JT, SASM's European distributor, currently has 10% off all the SASM products that they carry. Currently that's most of the new releases, and they're working back through the catalogue.
Of course SASM still have a sale running through till the end of the month on their products too when buying direct from the company.
Meanwhile on the Youtube channel there's been two more videos put up. This time covering the Ukrainian Separatist and State militias. Those who pre-ordered these should have them arriving some time this week. As Tim said in the second video they'd do for other conflicts as PMCs, or Post-Apocalyptic games too like in the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. setting (the ones I ordered though will go towards my existing Ukrainian militias collection).
2018/08/21 00:12:29
Subject: Re:Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases [Sale now on till the 31st]
And its worth posting up another of SASM's Youtube videos showing off the latest products.
Meanwhile I'll be doing the bi-weekly round up come this Friday as ever for those interested in the newest miniatures. I'm currently putting together one of their SOC-R boats among my other projects (mud on Spectre's new Humvee's just drying now).
(Needs more shell casings)
2018/08/21 06:15:25
Subject: Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases [Sale now on till the 31st]
Here's another quick round up of Special Artizan Service Miniatures. This one's covering what new stuff's been covered since my last post two weeks ago on the company.
The first point of order is to mention again that SASM have a sale on select items till the end of this month to celebrate Tim the owner's birthday. The items on offer were covered in my last post.
"From now till August 31st, take an additional 20% off the following products:"
28mm Armored Limousine
28mm CIA Juarez Operators
28mm Contractor Benghazi
28mm French Foreign Legion
28mm German Kommando Kayak Team
28mm German Recce Unit
28mm KSK
28mm Mexican Cartel Members
28mm Modern BearCat
28mm Modern DNR
28mm Modern Dumvee
28mm Modern GMV Flyer
28mm Modern Taguar Luxury Car
28mm Modern Ukraine SVU
28mm Russian Spetnaz
28mm SAS with Dog
28mm SOC-R Boat
28mm Special Operator with Prosthetic Leg
28mm US NAVY SEALS
28mm World War 2 Rangers
Furthermore, Infamous JT have expanded their range of SASM products and currently have a sale on too. With 10% off with the offer code: launch10. They're now SASM's UK distributor, so if you're in the UK or Europe maybe give them a look.
New Releases
For those looking for some more modern Spec Ops, the GROM have been expanded with a second set - similarly outfitted as the first. This set comes with Grenade Launchers on a few of their rifles, and a few more different poses than the first lot. If you're looking for some figures with NVGs then they'd work well with the other company's existing ranges - or with SASM's existing GROM and SEALs. *
As with the SEALs these guys have a similar amount of fancy kit (though with a few more pouches). The set comes with a load of modded out AKs, with three MGs for support (...which is a bit under armed for modern Spetsnaz ), one of which has a belt fed system attached (currently having been trialed in both Ukraine and Syria). In particular each figure comes with a face mask, to keep out the dust, and well keep their identities anonymous in case they're up to some off the books stuff...
Currently they're being sold at $54 for twelve - or $4.50 a model, and will be shipping by the end of August.
Another set of Igor Karpov's sculpts have been shown off too. They're not quite as odd looking as those Ethiopian tribesmen, but up they're in a modern market dominated by European soldiers in fancy tacticool gear. This set represents a group of American Special forces wearing Afghan National Dress (and could easily work as actual Afghan fighters with better equipment). Specifically based around the Battles surrounding the Tora Bora cave complexes, though would cover the wider war outside of that.
I'm all for figures like these. Modern wargaming varies between being a military simulator, all the way to John Woo esque firefights. When it comes to my own figures I'm more into character pieces than 100% accurate recreations of some spiv with an AK. These figures are in no doubt accurate to the real soldiers, but at the same time a bit "out there" in terms of your typical modern figure, so have that appeal of being a bit more eye catching on the table.
And well, some of them like that guy with the baseball cap, cloak and AK on the top row there are very Post-Apocalyptic looking.
This set's due out in October.
A start on a further (unexpected) set of civilians. Earlier SASM had shown off some European civilians, but this lot's a bit different - presumably to fit in with the burgeoning MENA range. So far its a set of six women in local dress (though it'd be difficult to tell just who and what was under those dresses, I can see a "hunt the IED" type scenario with these ladies), with the potential for more if we keep our fingers crossed. Again, I'm all for figures like these to bring a bit more colour to games.
Youtube
In other news, Tim's been uploading a lot more videos to the company's Youtube channel lately. Covering "unboxings" of the latest products - showing how they come out of the box, and what the figures look like in the hand instead of just pictures on a screen (huh, sounds a lot like what a guy on a certain dumbly named blog's been doing...).
They're worth a look, as at least personally I've found it interesting to hear Tim's own views on the design intent of certain figures. For instance why his Spetsnaz are all wearing face masks, or have those little wires over their shoulders.
And lastly, and something which caused the delay in posting this blog post, SASM have announced a partnership with Metal Oak Casting Studios, to offer custom miniatures production to customers.
"Metal Oak Casting Studios and Special Artizan Services Miniatures are happy to announce our partnership to support creators by offering a one stop shop for miniature creation. By combining the skilled sculptors and printing services offered by SASM and the quality molding and casting offered by Metal Oak we hope to help grow the American model market by offer quality services at a competitive price with local support and efficient timelines."
With the rate at which SASM are capable of putting out figures, this seems like it makes sense to expand those offerings into the wider market. So far the specifics haven't been laid out yet, but it may be a situation similar to for instance the services available from companies like Brother Vinni.
Keep your eyes out folks though if that's something which interests you. We'll have to see what sort of pricing and timescales are being proposed. Still, if that means more custom miniatures being available for those willing to go ahead with the service then that's a resource for the community.
2018/08/31 19:55:05
Subject: Re:Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases [Sale now on till the 31st]
As are more Spetsnaz planned for October. This pair are manning a SPG-9 recoiless rifle, with further weapons teams hinted at. Its nice to have some actual modern weapons teams figures out there, as I've been cannibalising Empress' range for a while now...
And we're back, again belatedly delayed, but in this case at least that means there's a back log of releases. So here's a round up of what's been happening at SASM for the month of September.
First up, a shout out to Infamous JT, SASM's UK supplier, who're now giving 5% of all sales to charity. Jamie's looking to have the entire SASM line in stock, so if you're in the UK or Europe he may be your first port of call for these products.
The base vehicle covers your bog standard Humvee without any modernisation upgrade modules (unless we could the nudge bar). Coming with an open for an open or closed cargo bed, and .50 cal included. The turret well is deep enough for a full figure to stand in (as with the GMV Flyer), so should be compatible with any of SASM's own Technical Gunners set.
The doors come as complete unit, which fit into indents on either side of the vehicle. With pre-drilled holes if anyone wants to hold them on with magnets to swap them out for some alternative ones. As are the wheels and supports metal ...in case of butter fingers.
Whilst the doors and turret look like they could be easily swapped out, the rest of the bits will likely have to be glued on in case anyone's wanting to magnetise the kit. Tim's also said that these pieces would be compatible with the existing Dumvee kit (which has an interior). Though some work would be required for everything to fit smoothly (as does the Dumvee has a tarp covered roof which if you include these doors, you may want to replace).
This set is retailing for $15.00 for all the bits. Which seems more than reasonable for the amount of pieces included.
I'd be interested in seeing what options are out there for future kits like these. Potentially upgrades which represent foreign vehicles like those used by the Polish GROM. Currently plans seem to be focused on making addons for this new Humvee, which has been built to be modular, rather than the existing Dumvee.
With a head swap he'd be representative of other forces that have been shown to be testing these, like say the Ukrainian Separatists. I'd already bought one of Spectre Miniature's own Spetsnaz figures for this purpose ...but well, I really should go back and finish that squad of Russian operators I already have.
This figure is currently for sale at $4.00.
Pre-Orders
Stowage - New & Expanded Sets - Out October
With an eye for adding to the existing modern range with some more universal items, SASM's gone ahead and produced a fairly comprehensive set of stowage.
Below's a list of just the new items, and if you head on over to the site you'll find the rest which are already up for sale.
These are currently up for Pre-Order, with a release date set for the first week of October.
Another range of figures sculpted by Igor Karpov. Complementing the civilian figures which he's already done, it looks like SASM are due to sell some War Correspondents too.
The topic of modern war correspondents was brought up recently on Facebook, and at the time the offerings seemed a bit light on the ground. From what I can see here this set's the most expansive out there for this admittedly niche subject matter. Still, I can picture some nice dioramas featuring some of these figures, or scenario ideas (an intrepid reporter dodging sniper fire to get the best shots... Serpentine!)
The set of seven figures will be on sale come November, going for $30 for the set.
Upcoming Products
Spetsnaz - SPG-9 Team
The first in a planned series of weapons teams, comes a pair of Russian Spetsnaz operating a SPG-9 Recoilless Rifle.
A Kord Machine Gun has also been mentioned as being in the works. With individual crew for each weapon. Hopefully these crews will be available separately at some point for use with other manufacturer's weapons which don't come with figures like this, though the cost of the actual gun in each set is probably negligible overall. With a head swap these could serve in a few modern forces (or even leave the heads as they are seeing as how universal those bump helmets are).
French Foreign Legion
More of Igor Karpov's work. SASM already have an existing range of FFL available, based on some older sculpts, but folks have asked for more figures. Especially ones armed with FAMAS.
Its been discussed that modern French soldiers would likely be armed with HK416, but Tim's response to that is that existing US Navy SEALs figures with their Colt based rifles would be suitable for those. Instead, despite the lessening use of the rifle, he's accommodating for requests for a set of figures armed with the FAMAS (for rule of cool I suppose ...otherwise why would he also be making a set of US Spec Ops on horses...)
LATV
Some early work on an LATV's was also shown recently. This one appearing to be semi modular in construction, though with Tim's comments indicating that he's wanting to produce a vehicle as up to date as possible. No ETA on this one, so keep your eyes peeled on the SASM Facebook page (and tell Tim if there's any developments that he doesn't know about!).
M1 Abrams with Tusk
Also mentioned in passing, apparently SASM is currently working on the masters for a modernised Abrams tank. Spectre Miniatures recently released a set of RCWs which would fulfil a similar purpose were they to be added to Empress Miniature's existing Abrams, but we're a bit light on the ground as far as other upgrades like ERA.
I do like those reporters. I'll have to get it eventually. I assume most of them are based on actual people from war photos. Is the woman with the eyepatch based on anyone in particular?
Barzam wrote: I do like those reporters. I'll have to get it eventually. I assume most of them are based on actual people from war photos. Is the woman with the eyepatch based on anyone in particular?
'A Private War' according to their FB group. Based on the real war correspondent Marie Colvin
At least some of the SASM figures tend to be based on real people or film characters. For instance there's some US Spec Ops mounted on horses that're taken from a film coming out, as was the SOC-R Assault Boat inspired by a scene from the movie Act of Valour. And its been something which helps with publicity a bit so far. I mean, its Studio Miniatures' business mode.
I'm painting up the Ukrainians that just came out and two of the Separatists are definitely based on real people (Alexander Mozhaev & Evgeny Ponomaryov).
Spoiler:
2018/09/26 06:12:00
Subject: Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases: Stowage & More
I've painted up some of SASM's new Ukrainian fighters recently. This is the pair I mentioned earlier who are definitely based on a particular pair of figures from the early War.
Its been a minute since by last post, and so there's a fair bit of news to power through. With a few new releases, a load of teases at future stuff, and sights of a historical range in the near future. Without much preamble then, let's get into this.
New Releases
Tora Bora Hunters
Having left their Pre-Order stage the American Tora Bora Hunters range are now up for general release. I've posted the sculpts of these before, and now Tim's shown off a few of them now painted up.
Someone on the Facebook group also posted up one of the reference photos used for these fighters if you want an idea of what the real guys looked like.
Tim has confirmed that further African figures are planned. Igor's probably just sculpting so many other ranges right now that it'd be a shame to have this figure going unused whilst he catches up.
Pre-Orders
Austrian Jagdkommando
Similar to the GROM, SEALs, and Russian Spetsnaz, we're now seeing some Austrian Special Forces in the works. Kitted out as a breaching time armed with Steyr AUGs with all sorts of modern attachments, the set comes with a figure wielding a saw for any obstacles in their way.
Whilst they're based on an Austrian squad, as with the other Special Forces ranges SASM currently sells they could work for other forces currently using the AUG. I.e. Ukrainian internal security forces. ...Yes, ah, I do look at every other modern release and think "huh, those could do for my Ukrainians...".
Sculpts have been shown off for more mercenary figures. This time its a set of PMCs protecting a VIP. With the PMCs mostly standing at ease, they'd also work as guards at bases or similar locations.
The set are armed in with American made weapons and kitted out in a Western style, though that's not to say that the official has to be (or if he could be replaced with say SASM's South American drug boss miniature if you want them to be a bit shiftier). With these and the team of reporters we're maybe seeing more character figures planned outside of just regular dudes with rifles.
Perhaps a bit niche for most gamers, they'd be suitable for more characterful fighters among other company's existing African militia ranges. Or I suppose weirder stuff if you're into Post-Apocalyptic settings...
Upcoming Releases
British Special Boat Service
Just the one figure has been shown for now of a future British Special Forces range similar to those ones which I've already mentioned. The figure looks to be kitted out a bit differently than the others with the coat he's wearing and webbing, though would probably do for generic soldiers in jackets if that's what you're looking for, rather than the usual un-hooded gear the other figures have.
Operator Yemen
Coming in December, along with the mercenaries shown earlier in this post, are a set of contractors based on some American operatives active in Yemen recently (there's some articles on the topic out there).
As such this set's again outfitted in some Western gear, with a SCAR too if that's what your into. Personally I'm into this style of figure over the other ranges of regular soldiers out their in that they look a bit more "lived in" with their gear and demeanour. Something a bit more suitable for irregular warfare than the standardised equipment which mainline militaries (attempt to) arm their soldiers with. Though maybe that's just my background in Post-Apocalyptic games.
Additionally more Technicals have been mentioned with two more on the war which are in the process of being moulded and casted. Hopefully with some images available at some point this month.
(Insert image of a random technical in Syria here)
I'm still kind of confused why nobody's shown off one of these bikes armed with DShKs which have become so prominent in the Middle East recently. They'd be such a simple conversion of one of the existing 28mm bikes out their with a spare DShK. Go on then one of you (I keep telling myself not to start a MENA collection...).
Other Projects
Savage Frontier
The big news this month has been the announcement of the Savage Frontier range. Covering the French & Indian War of 1754, SASM intends to release at least four sets of figures covering the conflict.
So far Tim's begun one of his "TimStarters" for the first set of figures, "Roger's Rangers". These will be eleven models priced at $30 for the set based on this group of light infantry, wearing their distinctive green wool uniforms and bunnets.
The intention behind the first set is to reach a pre-order goal of $2000 to fund the project. Totalling 66 individual pledges. With the intent being to judge interest in the subject matter.
This will be running through till the eleventh of this month, so if you're wishing to get into this range now's the time.
And as an aside to this project, further character pieces related to historical eras have been hinted at being a possibility. This fellow's maybe a bit out of place with the Seven Year's War sets.
You may not be aware, but SASM also have a range of terrain available besides all their vehicles and figures. For a while now they've had a 3D printed CIA Compound, and have recently partnered with Sarissa for an upcomming MDF release of the same product.
We'll have to see where this project takes the company. I know that Spectre Miniatures too have done some work with Sarissa, at least based on the building's they've been using on their show boards, but it may not be as official as this. Again, like the Savage Frontier range and their other products, whether we see more stuff like this for sale is likely down to if there's a customer base or not for it. Though given Sarissa's existing range, I can't see why not.
There's been a lot of talk on SASM's Facebook page regarding similar partnerships recently, so we'll have to see how all this pans out and if there'll be many more product releases in future like this.
There's the lot for another month. Sorry for any delay in posting this, things have been a bit hectic on my end if my posting schedule hasn't been an indication, but I'll try and keep you guys up to date on any big news coming out of SASM currently. Keep your eyes on the blog for some more modern miniatures posts, and possibly another review soon if things pan out as planned.
This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 2018/11/03 17:26:19
2018/11/25 22:39:39
Subject: Re:Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases -Seven Year's War previews & More
I want to thank the community for all of your support this year.
Now through Monday Take an additional 25% off the following Items:
28mm French 1 er RPIMa
28mm Polish GROM ALFA
28mm Armored Limousine
28mm CIA Juarez Operators
28mm Contractor Benghazi
28mm German Kommando Kayak Team
28mm German Recce Unit
28mm Mexican Cartel Members
28mm Modern BearCat
28mm Modern Boko Haram
28mm Modern DNR
28mm Modern Dumvee
28mm Modern GMV Flyer
28mm Modern GROM BRAWO
28mm Modern Isis Fighters
28mm Modern PMC Detail
28mm Modern Spetsnaz with Scorpion Backpack
28mm Modern Spetsnaz Альфа
28mm Modern Taguar Luxury Car
28mm Modern Tora Bora Hunters
28mm Modern Ukraine SVU
28mm Modern War Correspondents
28mm SOC-R Boat
28mm Special Operator with Prosthetic Leg
28mm US NAVY SEALS
No Coupon to apply. All of the above items will be reduced by 25% at check out.
After a sting of absence with these posts, I'm back. Things will normalise in the new year as far as posts here, Though that just means more to talk about in these posts.
SASM's had a few releases which we'll need to catch up on. With stuff which was on Pre-Order now going up for retail in the time since my last post. At the same time the release schedule's slowed a bit over there, with some things going on behind the scene being talked about which hopefully will pan out in the coming months.
Till then, onto the releases.
New Releases
Modern Operator Technical
As part of the renewed modern vehicle range, we have here this fine little technical to stir things up a bit compared to all those fancy MRAPs we've been seeing lately. This one's sold as an "Operator" technical, coming with a bullbar and M2 Browning (fitted to go with the technical crewmen on sale already on the site).
I've said before that I prefer the mix of resin and pewter when it comes to vehicles. Particularly when it comes to the chassis, just as pewter's less prone to snapping off and taking a chunk of its supports with it. The tailgate also comes as a separate part if you're that way inclined (as in inclined to stick a Zis-2 field gun hanging out the tailgate that is...).
Its a fair little kit for the price (coming in at $23.50), even without all the optional parts (which can be stowed away for converting 1/50th diecasts, as I've been doing with Spectre's technical upgrade kits). If current plans for the new year with myself go ahead then I may have use for a few of these (and go so far as to convert a few to show off some of these vehicle's versatility. More modellers should be sticking Field Guns onto pickup trucks!).
There's supposedly more vehicles like this on the way, so keep your eyes peeled if you're into Toyota Wars.
Sandcat
Speaking of MRAPs...
Another of these armoured cars, following on from the Bearcat which SASM released recently. [urlk=https://www.kingshobbiesandgames.com/v/vspfiles/photos/28mMSac-3.jpg]This one fits into a similar niche[/url], serving with internal security forces and special operations groups worldwide (the police lights are a nice feature).
The kit comes with no weaponry, though it wouldn't be too difficult to rig up a pintle mount to go on the cupola on the roof. Its nice to see more options out there for modern forces other than the ubiquitous Humvee, with things like this giving a bit more of a contemporary edge to our modern forces. Its certainly a cut above just a regular jeep for police forces (and would take less effort to look "correct", as opposed to just painting a Humvee black and calling it a day).
Whilst vehicles like these can be a bit niche, perhaps if there's enough interest this'll open the door for some indigenous MRAPs like the stuff the Turks are using these days. I'm already taking for granted the amount of vehicles that SASM are now offering, considering what little was available even only a few years ago (though seriously, where are my dirt bikes with machine guns mounted on the back? Please. ).
One more thing in SASM's character/ scenario range. Following releases like a Pablo Escobar miniature, here we have some stuffy business man type (hey, he could have those operator's pay in that briefcase). He comes with a group of bodyguards in some generic military gear with a mix of NATO weapons (more SCARs are never a problem).
I put this set into the "scenario" category, as they fit in more with publicity photos than strictly as gaming pieces due to their poses. They'd look the part standing outside some embassy or checking passes leading into a base than duking it out with some op-for. Still, I can see guys being into them as a little distraction from all the other stuff that they're painting at the time, and they're up to the standard of the sculptor's other work. Besides, there are some more animated figures now up for Pre-Order if that's more your pace.
The set's sold as six models - Five operators and the VIP for $24. I have the figures myself due to be painted at some point in the future (if I can find a scenario to use them ...which goes beyond "The Boss told us that we aren't supposed to get Mr Dave here shot in the face lads").
Some more terrain details are now on sale too (and that's the real juicy stuff for me...).
Aircon (overlay dramatic font for this, but stick with me here...)
And Bed Mats (still here?)
Which you can't have enough variety of either. I can't say that I've seen that style of bed mat for sale in 28mm scale. They'd do more for military/ survivalist bedding than the standard mattress and quilt options that other manufacturers are selling, and maybe suit the warmer climates a bit better too. Regardless, more options can't be sniffed at, and if you're looking to fill out a whole residential area, or just give a rooftop sniper a place for a quick kip, here's something for ya.
I know Chargedog's got his own PMCs for fighting in modern games, but at least locally folks tend to stick to the big militaries as opposed to private ventures like these for representing their Western forces. PMCs I suppose let you use whatever you want however, with no set vehicles or weapons to choose from beyond your own limitations. You could have your guys being ex-US soldiers, with a preference for US equipment, or be more international and pick and choose what models you want, with anything and everything being an option.
I suppose that would be just the opportunity to use those more nuanced vehicles SASM's selling, even if it means representing a fictional company. ...Its not like the ones in video games do much else than use PMCs as an excuse to throw in some cool looking kit. As I type this I'm now beginning to consider just that actually. Hmn, I'd need to think of a logo first (every outfit has to have a neat logo!)...
Upcoming Releases
Now there's not much to say in this section as work seems to be going on elsewhere behind the scenes. There's rumblings about future ranges coming out of Igor covering other periods (as we've seen with the French Indian Wars range), and SASM potentially working with other companies like their Sarissa deal. As more's posted I'll wrap things up in this round up, but I'll keep a lid on some unsubstantiated claims of there being much more to come in the new year.
Till next time folks. Keep your eyes on my blog for new projects, both from SASM and otherwise over the next few months. I may not have posted much recently, and if anything that's just led to a backlog of stuff to show off sooner rather than later (I hope). Anyhow, cheers.
2018/12/26 22:53:02
Subject: Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases -Seven Year's War previews & More
Now to be fair, currently there's at least three companies doing modern British forces. With White Dragon Miniatures recently releasing their own range. For vehicles currently Airfix has a discontinued range of 1/48th scale plastic kits, and HLBS (sold via Empress Miniatures, who have their own British figures) do a load of Cold War era vehicles.
Evil Bear Wargames actually already do a 1/50th scale Foxhound.
With SASM its a case of if enough people want something then they'll have one of their 3D sculptors make it. So if you can argue the case for a specific vehicle which isn't currently available out there, then they may well sell one.
2019/01/09 22:30:26
Subject: Re:Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases - *Sale now on at InfamousJT.com
A proper news post will be due over the weekend, and wow there's some big news that needs to be talked about.
For the moment though as I collect together things it should be mentioned that there's a 20% off Sale over at InfamousJT.com on all SASM products while stocks last.
Check it out if you want a deal on SASM products. Infamous JT is located out of the UK.
2019/01/11 15:42:38
Subject: Special Artizan Service Miniatures 28mm Modern Miniatures Releases - *Sale now on at InfamousJT.com
Yes, you've already likely heard the news on this one from a few outlets. Special Artizan Service Miniatures has become part of the War Banner family, and the owner Tim is now partnering with the company on all future (and existing releases).
That may not come as a surprise to some who have been following SASM's social media for the past few months. Tim's been hanging out with the War Banner guys on Rocky's War Game Ramble podcast for a while now, where they seemed to show some common interests. Well I suppose it was more than just some light chat, and going forward Tim will be working closely with the other War Banner members.
So what does that actually mean for the company? Well here's War Banner's official announcement taken from their Facebook page.
••Anouncement••
War Banner Limited are pleased to announce a new partnership which brings a new member to the family.
Tim Spakowski of Special Artizan Service Miniatures (SASM) LLC has agreed to join ‘under the banner’ as our man in the US, a move that will also see us incorporating his range as ‘War Banner Modern’.
Starting in 2019 War Banner Limited will create, produce and distribute the SASM Modern range in the UK and throughout the EU. The War Banner Modern range will continue to grow and expand with many new projects planned between Tim and the War Banner team.
In addition, Tim Spakowski is named Director of Operations in the US for War Banner and is in charge of all sales, distribution and promotion for the US Brick and Mortar stores, he will also run the US creative team developing several new miniature ranges and rules while establishing us on his side of the pond.
If you wish to contact Tim regarding War Banner his email is tim@warbanner.com, we hope you join us in wishing him the best of luck!
Those UK and EU readers may be especially excited when reading that. Previously Tim was distributing his range in the UK solely through Infamous JT (who now have a sale on SASM products till the 26th I might note). However now with War Banner he'll be able to use the UK production facilities to bring product to European customers faster.
That's two fold for American customers as well, with War Banner's other products set to be cast and distributed by Tim over in the States - which I can imagine, at least on the receiving end of products from across the pond, is going to be a big plus for US customers.
Not only that though, what this also means is that War Banner: Modern products are set to be available on the high street and at Wargaming shows. Tim's already lined up to attend a show over in England this year, which could lead to all sorts of opportunities...
Now, enough of the trade spiel, what are the guts of this merger when it comes to the future of Tim's ranges?
War Banner's committed to expanding these modern ranges. The expectation is now that Tim will have access to the company's resources, including sculptors, to start releasing even more models (because apparently the rate he was going at wasn't already fast enough...).
This goes as far as the other ranges previously carried by SASM, including "Savage Frontier" - the French - Indian War miniatures which we've only just seen the beginning of (French Marines in Snow Shoes were mentioned). Tim had said that he has interest in other settings and periods too, and with the merger we can expect Tim to be working on both his own and other projects within the company.
With more models also will come a dedicated rules set. Tim's intent with SASM was to release a set of miniatures which were "rules agnostic". War Banner is a Wargaming company, and its only natural that with this partnership that they'd want to create a game to go along with the figures (which would help to have at shows as well). No notes on just what these rules would entail, and what end of the casual vs simulator scale they'd be on, but the company has a good catalogue, so it may be one to keep an eye on.
More models and rules, that doesn't sound too shabby to me. Personally I'll be looking forward to the Modern range now being available locally at Wargaming shows, as there's always been a drought of Post-WWII miniatures available there. And well, this might get me into more games now that I've been exposed to War Banner beyond some gamers playing Gangs of Rome at my club every now and then.
Talking War Banner specific news. This merger will mean that with Tim's expertise they'll be releasing more ranges in resin, which is always nice for conversion projects (and keeps the production costs down).
Earlier War Banner had also announced the acquisition of Footsore Miniatures (and their Gangs of Rome line I'd candidly mentioned earlier), so what this means is that we'll be seeing their ranges being distributed by Tim as well (...he is just one man you know!).
Of course I wish them all the best of luck with this, and again, yes, hope to see this meaning only good things for the modern miniatures market. Now with that said, there is a bit of other "News & Releases" for this month, so onto that.
Upcoming Releases
"Tilux"
Coming in both flat bed and rear cab variants, we're due to see a Toyota Hilux model come February. The flat bed comes with optional bull bars and other accessories as standard, though personally I'd be more inclined to shove an artillery piece of something silly on the back there. I think one of these would look nice with a rear bed just laden down with stowage for some games out in the wilds of Afghanistan or the like.
As you can see its scaled to fit in with the existing Spec Ops technical crew figures, who tend to work better than most ranges with these 1/50th scale vehicles. Ideally in future if there's enough of an ask from the community we may see this range of technicals expand out a bit to cover some of the other pickups in use in these conflicts (you don't see as many American vehicles tending to be covered in this scale).
Graeco-Roman Pillars
Ok, not specifically for the modern ranges, but I thought I'd give these a shout out. Due to be released in the next few weeks, this is another move by Tim into making terrain. I picked these out specifically as through looking into working on my own Syrian Civil War collection, I'd come across a few battles which raged across ancient monuments like these.
The intent behind these was to make a set which whilst still generic, aren't the common type you'd be able to just pick up in a pet shop. Tim's ethos was that he could make a set of pillars which were nice, but well, nobody would buy them as they'd just buy a set on the cheap elsewhere. They're fair enough, and ideally the tip of more to come in this regard.
Closing
I may be getting repetitive with these closing segments, though once again, to coin Tim's line, "big things to come". I'll look forward to what War Banner: Modern's able to release in future, especially if there's the potential for more sculptors to be brought in. Things are looking good for the modern scene.
The one thing I never heard, and I should probably just ask Tim himself, is whether he is closing down his Kings Hobbies and Games page, or if it will still remain up for US sales.
I hope this merger means I'll actually be able to purchase his modern stuff at Brookhurst Hobbies now, since they already carry stuff like Gangs of Rome.
That is good news to here damn as soon as the modern stuff is on sale in the uk in going to have trouble deciding what to buy first. 2019 looks like a year of moderns for me.
Barzam wrote: The one thing I never heard, and I should probably just ask Tim himself, is whether he is closing down his Kings Hobbies and Games page, or if it will still remain up for US sales.
I hope this merger means I'll actually be able to purchase his modern stuff at Brookhurst Hobbies now, since they already carry stuff like Gangs of Rome.
We'll have to see how things pan out. Currently War Banner's using the Footsore website in the UK for distribution, so they may move the US site onto that, or be fine keeping Kings Hobbies and Games. However, keeping things to one site seems like it would be better for marketing (and less confusing for customers), unless they made it obvious when accessing the UK site that the US one also exists (personally when I just look at a website's URL and see its overseas that can lead to me clicking away from it pretty quickly, without reading anything like "go here for the UK site", if its not super clear).
As for selling the product elsewhere. Tim in the past has been rather enthusiastic about getting his products in brick and mortar stores, so if he has any control over that side of things then we may well be seeing a deal of his products coming out alongside the other War Banner releases. Though we'll have to see how things are handled. I can see the French - Indian War range being fine, but more controversial ranges like the Islamic State may not be picked up by stores. Of course the generic stuff like Special Forces would be fine, and its not like customers couldn't buy sets stores choose not to supply online.
On which note, you don't really find modern miniatures being sold on the high street. Well, other than the odd Tamiya kit, pulp figures or 15mm infantry. Even if War Banner's not where the customer base eventually lands with their collections, having their products available on shop shelves will be a definite boost to the setting I suspect. I wonder how this will influence other companies. Though only really Empress comes to mind when dealing with the sort of market presence and number of figures per set to manage a decent set of blister packs (unless the other companies combine figures which are bought online separately into sets - which IIRC Spectre had discontinued a while ago for a couple of reasons),.
I wonder too if this will mean that the existing moulds will be redone to an extent. It was mentioned in that podcast I linked that converting existing War Banner lines to resin was a possibility. I'd assume that would also be the case for the Modern products. In which case that would be an opportunity to fix some of the niggling issues present in a few of the sculpts which I've come across. Though with new talent being brought in, messing with older miniatures may be peripheral compared to the amount of product being produced.
Back for our quarterly War Banner news round up...
Ahem, things have been a bit quite around here lately after I took a bit of a break from the miniatures scene. Now that I'm properly back, its time to catch up on how things have been going over at Kings Hobbies and Games.
Dark Peak Games
Well the first thing to address is that War Banner: Modern is now Dark Peak Games: Modern. After a legal dispute with Games Workshop, the company's decided the best thing would be to rebrand themselves. The Footsore Miniatures and Kings Hobbies and Games websites remain the same if you're looking for suppliers.
Honestly, having followed a few of Trademark cases over the past couple of years, this seems like a perfectly logical thing for the company to do. The validity of Games Workshop's dispute is perhaps another topic, but for War Banner to do this was likely the smart option to save themselves unnecessary trouble.
With all the changes in the company in the past year, making this change now will likely cause the least impact. Regardless, hopefully everything goes well for them and this doesn't come with much of a loss, if any, to their own brand name.
North Star
Speaking of developments, Dark Peak Games had also announced a partnership with North Star Military Figures to have Nick as a distributor. North Star's a bit of a behemoth when it comes to stocking wargaming products. Just another avenue if anyone's looking to pick up some of the ranges outside of Dark Peak Games' existing distribution channels.
New Website
On this note, after March a new US website for the company's products was due to be set up. At the time the domain was listed as WarBannerUS.Com. Since the change in the company's name this may change. For the moment www.kingshobbiesandgames.com is still available, and I suppose we'll just have to wait for further announcements following the rebranding regarding the status of this.
With that said, here's the round up of upcomming releases announced over the past few weeks. I'll just be covering the Modern sets, so if you want to see any Dark Peak Games other stuff, like Mortal Gods, or Savage Frontier, check out the Dark Peak Games and Dark Peak Games: Modern pages on Facebook.
Pre-Orders
Modern Team Overwatch
One more set of figures to fit in with the existing Private Military Contractor range sculpted by Igor Karpov. This set's a bit low key compared to the Bodyguard Detail released earlier - without the ballistic vests and webbing. They still have that Private Security look about them (if a little heavily armed for most contracts), though could equally do as band robbers or terrorists.
The set of Five's due out at the end of May for $20, and are already up for Pre-Order on the Kings Hobbies and Games site.
Upcoming Releases
British Urban SAS
Last year SASM had put out a [/url=https://www.kingshobbiesandgames.com/28mm-Modern-SBS-Troop-Boss-p/28mmmsbtrp.htm]SBS figure[/url] on its own for sale. Now we're getting a full squad of figures - in this case titled Urban SAS (with more SBS to follow). So far three soldiers have been shown off, kitted with what I'd presum are C8 SFW rifles (or at least some other M16 derivative) and gas masks for Urban Combat and room clearing.
These are more 3D sculpted figures, printed out and cast in metal. So far they're a Work In Progress, though are slated to be released as a set of Five in March.
"Real American Heroes"
If you catch any of Tim's posts on Facebook you'll catch on to his tastes in cartoons. Heh, well with a sculptor on hand, someone thought it'd be a good idea to start work on a certain trio of characters.
No commentary on when (or if) they'll be released so far, but well, with a certain few other figures for sale already, I wouldn't expect these not to be up on the site eventually.
British Special Forces in Kenya, "Who Dares Wins"
This image was shown off a while ago, depicting a British SAS soldier during the recent terrorist attack in Nairobi. Since then the figure was due to have a bit of a re-work to make it a bit more accurate, though I haven't seen much on a release date.
Closing
That's your major news round up since the end of January. Release for the moment have slowed a tad, likely as the company continues to restructure itself and work out new production and distribution channels. The American side now had access to War Banner's existing sculptor's of course, which will likely mean further high quality models being released over the coming months as these modern figures can be slotted into their schedules.
Of course, Tim's also shown interest in other settings, which may well mean his efforts are going to diversify themselves a tad as well - though with the new Modern rules being worked on at War Banner, we may well see more interest from the rest of the company in future (the existing moderns were certainly well received by the community over on the main War Banner Facebook page).
I'll keep things updated as and when they come out, in ideally these bi-weekly/ monthly posts (whatever's appropriate). But for the moment, this is hopefully a quick enough catch up for all the major news that I've managed to pick up on over these past weeks. Till next time folks.
), one of which has a belt fed system attached (currently having been trialed in both Ukraine and Syria). In particular each figure comes with a face mask, to keep out the dust, and well keep their identities anonymous in case they're up to some off the books stuff...
).
