Attain By Surprise: WWII Commando Forces for Raids

By Guy Bowers

Our theme this issue provided us with a unique challenge – what to review. Raids encompass so much of history, we would be overwhelmed by it, and for the most part raiders would generally look like soldiers from the time. We did discuss reviewing looting models, but there were too few to give a good selection. We were tempted to include more modern special forces in our round-up but then a quick calculation of the sheer number of models meant this was not viable. So we opted for World War II British Commandos.


Alongside the SAS and LRDG, the British Commando is the iconic raider miniature. The traditional image is of the camouflaged unit wearing a woollen cap comforter, although berets were also common pieces of head gear. As usual, space and time prohibits us from covering every manufacturer, so we are limited to a small selection, using what has been supplied in time for our deadline. Ones we missed include West Wind and the classic Airfix plastics.


What follows should provide gamers with inspiration as to what is available in different sizes/scales. Ranges are classified as follows: Basic, basic infantry only; Standard, has the essential infantry and command; Comprehensive, as Standard, but with support and other options; and Complete, you would have to think hard to come up with units they do not have. WS&S

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