Big Fat Uncle from Scibor Monstrous Miniatires - review

Today again we will emerge ourselves in the fantastic world of Scibor Monstrous Miniatures. Lately there is a great rush of miniatures from Scibor fantasy department, one we will review today is not newest but it still deserve our attention.

Big Fat Uncle is an awesome great demon and when I say great I mean enormous, gigantic and massive. It measures over 80mm from the base to the top, over 60 mm in diameter and comes in 3 main parts, so assembly is very simple. What we get after gluing and trimming any miscasts is a very unique model that is as much beautiful sculpture work as intentionally ugly.

Demon body is heavily mutated by warped and wicked powers of Chaos. It gives an impression of sluggish behemoth covered in slime and sores. In my mind it bears resemblance to Great Unclean One and plague demons of Nurgle, off course not intently. You can easily use this miniature in every Chaos/Demon army or collection, either fantasy or science fiction in nature.

A main portion of this model is a massive body containing mutilated torso, grotesque arms and legs, mutated head and really disturbing back. From the top, its head is low almost at the level of shoulders and its open mouth reach as far as to the middle of the chest. In the wide gap we can clearly see rows of discussing teeth and meaty inside of the demons mouth.

Above the mouth are oversized nostrils and sunken eyes with large wrinkles under it. When we look on its face we can fell a very really unease. T make matters more horrible head of the demon has one additional element that is separate, a big, curly, long and fat larva like tongue. You can almost see a toxic or corrosive saliva dripping from it. In short its head is wonderfully ugly.

When we take a closer look to a demon torso we can clearly see a disease, gluttony, mutations and chaos at work. Its fat and muscles are warped and oversized, its whole outline looks like a giant blob. From the shores and open wound a fluids are oozing, meet and intestines are pricing the sick layer of skin and coming open, and from multiples gaps in demons body human hands and heads are visible trying to reach out too free themselves or grab someone who will soon share their damned fate.

Its back is in similar state of decay but an upper part of its spine is clearly protruding from beneath rooting flesh. As this isn’t enough at the lower end of demon back there is something like… a big anus with fluids and partly dissolved human parts leaking from it, truly sickening sight.

Big Fat Uncle legs and arms are also fat and decayed and are mostly closely tight to demon body, We can see crocked toenails and fingernails, one leg is almost totally invisible under the mas of oversized body. Left hand is last part of this miniature and it has to be glued to the rest of the demons body. 

Scibor sculptured it in the process of gipping and squishing a life from some poor old human soul. What is cool is that in my opinion that person can be easily converted with parts form Warhammer (exchange of head and arms) to get more Battle of 40k experience. Either way on that pour persons face we can see a look of true despair and fear of someone that know that there are worse fate than simply death.

The whole Big Fat Uncle set is amazing in its details, seize and deliberate ugliness. In my opinion it is a really unique miniature and good challenge for yours painting skills. We got loot of surface, different “materials”(skin, bones, muscles, humans and other… demonic “stuff”). It  is not cheap model, but in my opinion it is totally worth the money.  Simply amazing.

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Scibor Monstrous Miniatures - Town Guard Miniatures set review

Usually, we review more futuristic products from Scibor Monstrous Miniatures, but recently a large number of interesting fantasy miniatures have emerged. One good example is the Town Guard Miniatures Set. It is a group of twelve resin models which should appeal to most collectors. They should also be of interest to people who are playing Warhammer Fantasy Battle and collectors of Empire army.

Each of the twelve miniatures is unique and no pattern is repeated twice, which is a big advantage of those models. Because of the presence of a jester and a monk, we actually have the impression of meeting some merry gathering, not a “war band”. It immediately reminded me of of Robin Hood and Terry’s Pratchett’s Ankh Morpork town guard.

Among the twelve miniatures there are nine knights dressed in a variety of ways. Most often we see the quilted long armor or a quilted tunic, long coats of chainmail, and even ordinary clothes, none of the soldiers have any form of more expensive and exclusive armor plate. The level of detail is great, and at the same time the manufacturer maintained a simple and clean style without a lot of unnecessary ornamentation.

Even the proportions and age of the individual town guards are different, so we have young and old, with facial hair and without, fat people and thin, full diversity, that’s really good job.

In those minis you can see that inspiration was rather historical reality than any kind of fantasy worlds, and for me it’s a plus. The only noticeable drawback is the air bubbles you can sometimes see in the resin (especially noticeable if any bubble is on the miniature’s face ).

From the whole Town Guard Miniatures Set the most distinguished are three models. Two of them – a monk and a jester – we already mentioned above the third is a squad leader nobleman knight. The monk reminds me of the Adventures of Roobin Hood and the character of brother Tuck. He is dressed in a hooded monk's robe (the hood is hanging loose on the back). The tip of his head is properly bald and is surrounded by a wreath of hair. There is a wooden flask hanging about his neck (probably full of alcohol).

The Jester costume is very original and complex. Buffoons and folds are everywhere. The Comical image is completed by a slim chest vest, a collar around his neck and a clownish hat with bells. The Jester is holding the drum under his left arm and happily hits it with a baton held in his other hand.

The Last figure is the nobleman, a knight I suppose, as he is the only one wearing a thicker armor made of steel plates. His face resembles a Polish XVI-XVIII century Sarmat (type of nobleman) with long mustache and distinctive hairstyle popular in those times. In addition to plate armor and parts of visible chainmail, his other characteristic equipment’s parts are a medallion and a long coat rimmed with fur. This warrior is also armed with a sword and a small shield.

Additionally, each miniature has its own unique square, runic battlebase, resembling a runic marble floor, cracked and damaged by time .  

As I saidbefore, all figures are superbly designed and very well made, Even if we find some small errors in the resin, the whole Town Guard Miniatures Set makes a very positive impression. I highly recommend this product.

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Scibor Monstrous Miniatures Spartan SF Veteran - review

As far as I am concerned, until recently the most noticeable and most interesting miniatures from Scibor Monstrous Miniatures store were SF Roman Legionaries. But now there are new minis that are similar to Legionaries but are still different, based on another ancient Middle Sea civilization and brought to science fiction reality, SPAAARTAAA !

No other ancient army in history of mankind had been so glorified in popular culture as Spartan warriors, especially the 300 Spartans who died at Thermopile defending Greece against the Persian invasion.  Of course, most of what we know from movies, comic books or games is fictitious, but this does not change fact that Sparta and its soldiers were feared and admired by most ancient countries. Scibor Spartan miniatures made use that ancient heritage to the fullest.    

At the first glance the inspiration for the miniatures is apparent. Warriors’ armor and weapons bear clear resemblance to ancient Greek soldiers’ equipment. Breastplate armor is stylized to look like abdominal muscles and its lower part is covered with a robe.

Additionally, the breastplate may be adorned with a gemstone or a chain with some small icon. One other thing that is visible at that part of the armor is parchments with wax seals near the armored shoulder pads. 

Leg armor is relatively plain and simple looking, and the only engravings are those of stylized Greek letter Alpha and solar rays. Shoulder pads are also of simple design. They are smooth and one is adorned with small shield with an eagle or again Alpha letter inside. 

Their weapons bear strong resemblance to Roman Legionaries’ halberds. The core of the weapon is short and at the rear tip it is ended with small blade. At the top of the halberd there is a range weapon (similar to a bolt gun) added at the bottom of a long blade.

There is a mantle with fur falling from the back of all the Spartan miniatures, similar to those you can know from SF Celtic miniatures range. From beneath the mantle there extends a turbine that is a part of the generator that powers up the warrior’s armor. 

Every model has its own battlebase. Those bases look like more or less seriously damaged block (plate) of marble with a large Alpha letter engraved in the stone surface.

Like all Scibor’s products, Spartan SF miniatures are quite massive and bulky, and the main part of each model is created from one solid block of resin. For me that is not a problem but I know that this technique has many supporters and opponents. Those minis should satisfy all those who like Scibor Monstrous Miniatures brand. The only drawback in my opinion are slim weapons, halberds can by easily damaged or broken with little force and weapon blade felt little… flimsy.

Now go and fight for the SPACE SPARTAAAA

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Scibor Monstrous Miniatures - Ogre War Rhino Rider Review

In our previous reviews of Scibor Monstrous Miniatures’ products, we focused on models from the SF section. Today, we will look at something closer to the liking of fantasy fans. The Relatively small section of 28mm Ogres Army includes one of the largest and most interesting (and the most expensive) figures that I have seen at the Scibor’s store.

The Ogre War Rhino Rider is a true piece of art. Do not be fooled by it being placed in a 28mm section. This model will dwarf any other miniature in your collection (except maybe the Titans of Mech Suits). Like most Scibor’s  products, this miniature is cast in one large block of resin, so that there is little actual gluing. Despite this miniature’s size, it has ​​extremely high level of detail.

The main element of the War Ogre Rhino Rider miniature is a rider astride a mutant, lizard or dinosaur-like beast. The rider is simply beautiful in its ugliness, with his open mouth, crooked teeth, large stone armor and saddle made of tree logs laced with a cord. There is surprisingly little miscast for a figure of this size. The main model almost does not require any cleaning. The only downside are the division lines visible on the back of the rider, but I managed to smooth them away easily.

The beast itself is called the Rhino, but it is more like a rhinoceros-lizard hybryd, especially since the head is very reptilian (it reminds me a little of a t-rex). The creature's body has a lot of folds that show its tough skin. The Back of the beast , along with its neck, is covered with thick fur, while stone “lumps” or scales are visible on the monster’s whole body.

The head is a  masterpiece, with folds of skin extending around the eyes, nostrils expanded, long teeth protruding from closed mouth and five horns surrounding almost the entire head (three on top and two on the bottom). While looking at this model, I couldn’t help but wish that Mr. Scibor will create a dragon sculpture in near future.

Among the additional items we find one of the beast foot and both rider's feet, two horns, and the right Ogre’s hand holding a weapon. being a powerful warrior, the Ogre has been armed with a stone hammer, which looks impressive and intimidating.

The length of the weapon could rival the height of a Warhammer 40.000 Dreadnought. The Metal braces, holding the stone on a top of a hammer are great little details. The miniature base is large and rectangular. This time, we do not find much detail on it, only a few skulls and shattered parts of an ornamented relief, in addition to the two smooth spaces, which are needed to set the massive paws of the beast.

The Ogre War Rhino Rider is another example of excellent work of Mr. Scibor Teleszyński, a tribute both to him and to the technicians involved in the casting of his little (or not so little) work of art. It is worth noting that the recently Scibor Monstrous Miniatures added to their offer models related to World War II, thereby opening a new section in the shop, Historical Miniatures. You can buy Ogre War Rhino Rider HERE

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Scibor Mech Suits - review

When the titans come the ground is trembling and the sky is crying

Scibor Monstrous Miniatures is a company that stands out significantly in comparison to other wargames and miniatures manufacturers. Patterns designed by Mr. Scibor Teleszyński are unique and often inspired by specific cultures or monuments of art. You may also note that due to the uniqueness of the creation process, Scibor products are slightly larger than the standard miniatures for games, such as Warhammer or Confrontation. In the case of Mech Suits the difference is even greater.

In most games, there are powerful, larger models, such as dragons or giant war-machines, and usually they are the ones that attract most attention. The equivalents of  such special  war machines are Mechs Suits from Scibor.

So far there are three variants of the mechs available for sale from Scibor’s store, each  belonging to the SF miniatures section.  there is the Celtic SF Torin Mech Suit, Roman Gladiator Mech Suit and Templar Paladin Mech Suit. Each of them is a part of an already existing group of miniatures and a great addition to any collector's treasure trove.

The first of the described products, the Celtic SF Torin Mech Suit, is interesting not only for those who have already bought figures such as SF Celtic Warrior or Veteran. What strikes us at the first moment about each Mech is their size (over eleven centimeters). These models could easily serve as a slightly smaller Titans for Warhammer 40,000. They are much larger than the Dreadnought or Wraithlord and when glued on its battlebases, the Mech Suits are even more impressive.

Celtic SF Torin Mech Suit is probably one of my favorites, my first thought when I saw it was that it would be perfect for the Space Wolves army. The Armor  is covered with runes, wolf themes, skins, fur, runic amulets and the like. What else do you need for the Space Wolves Chapter?

Each mech model is composed of several massive main parts: body, legs, shoulders, arms, head (usually in two variants) and the cloth hanging from the belt. Everything is really massive, and therefore, sometimes there are problems with the glue bonding of particular elements. That miniature is relatively heavy and I would recommend gluing it to the battlebase rather quickly.

Celtic SF Torin Mech Suit is richly decorated. Things Of note are the runes and Celtic ornaments on the knees, legs, waist, and the central decoration of the breastplate. In addition to large ornaments next to them, there are numerous smaller additions, medallions, charms, and in some parts there is a slight steampunk felling. In addition to the elements mentioned, on the mechanical legs there hang wolf pelts, and wolf fur can be seen at the bottom of the body. The head has two variants, one "knight" helmet (I prefer this option) and the head of a wild warrior.

The right hand is like a Gatling gun with is massive and rounded at the bottom. It makes the weapon feel really powerful and dangerous. The right hand is armed with a big hand/power fist and the fingers are covered with runes and carvings. You can see marvelous painting of Celtic SF Torin Mech Suit  HERE.

The battlebase is very large it has 60-70 millimeters in diameter and almost 30 in hight. Celtic SF Torin Mech Suit's legs are based on two large boulders, under which there is a pile of skulls and a partly-buried large sculpture of a wolf's head.

The Knight Templar Mech Suit is slightly different from the other mechs. It is "thinner", wider and a bit more edgy. The arms are more clearly separated from the body than  with the Celtic SF Torin Mech Suit. Pauldrons are much less massive, they seem like decorations rather than armor. On the shoulder there are human skeletons that are holding decorative ribbons and under the parchment we can see crest with sign of the cross.

What's more, the hands are narrower, have more joints and are not as bulky as in the previously described Mech Suit. The left hand is adorned with a beautiful cross and holds a flat, ornamental laser that has a single barrel, while the right hand is finished with an armored glove. On both hands there are numerous motives of skulls and crosses. On the glove in the Mech's right hand there is also a Fidi Defensor (Defender of faith in Latin) inscription.

The body is quite angular and decorated with prayers on parchment, purity seals, chains and medallions suspended from the sign of the cross. On the back there are parts of the powering mechanism, while at the top of the body a little smoke exhaust is placed. At the upper right side of the torso there is a searching spotlight reflector. Head  resembles a helmet from the period of the Templar Crusades (alternatively, you can put on a head of a hooded Templar warrior).

The legs may seem a bit too massive in comparison with the narrow hands, but this is just the first impression. The legs are fairly simple, more bent than those of the Celtic Mech, clearly showing  that the figure is in motion . The Embellishments are quite simple, there is a crest with a cross below the knees and armor. A Garment hangs suspended from the torso and there is a metal pendant on it. If I had to criticize anything here, it is that robe - in my opinion, it is strangely out of place.

The last and most recent mech is the Roman Gladiator Mech Suit. It seems to me that it is also the most polished and detailed of those miniatures. In overall appearance it resembles the Celtic SF Torin Mech Suit, it's bulky and heavily ornamented. The Torso again feels more rounded, the whole breast plate is covered with numerous designs. This time, the main recurring motif is the Roman eagle with wings or lightnings. The front armor is still big and decorated with sash and eagle medallions dangling from it. Decorations appear even on the back of the body, including an amazing image of a human head. Mech Suit helmet resembles that of the SF Roman Legionaries from Scibor’s shop and it is really nice.

Pauldrons are massive and topped with huge carvings of eagles, which protrude over the armor. Beside the eagles we find many other decorations - among other things, there are numerous purity seals. The Armored shoulder pads are one of my favorite parts of this model.

The right hand is again a big gun, similar to that of the Celtic SF Torin Mech Suit. However, it ends with a two-barrel laser rather than a Gattling gun. the Left hand is a power fist, but modeled much better than in the Knight Templar Mech Suit (it is better shaped). On the side of the iron fist we can see  power supply cables and on the back of his hand there is a beautiful crest.

This model is almost baroque in its overall appearance, even its legs are covered almost entirely (including the feet) with ornaments : crystals, seals and a variety of other details. Once again, there are various-sized imperial eagles with the lightning motif. The Elements which occur quite frequently on the legs are stones or gems inside the larger ornamental elements. For the first time a garment hanging from the waist seems to be really thought over, as it really fits.

All the three models look great, but each of them takes more work and more cleaning than smaller figures from Sciobr Monstrous Miniatures. Unfortunately, in some places strong dividing lines were visible. In one case, even the leg  width was different. These are large models and things like that can happen, you have to take this into account when buying one of the Mech Suits. Little resin errors occur more frequently than in the previously-reviewed products; fortunately, it happens only on smooth surfaces, without damaging any of the decorations, all the errors are also relatively easy to fix.

The three Mech Suits show the evolution of the concept and its execution, two of them are similar in overall structure (the Celtic Mech Suit and the Roman Gladiator Mech Suit). The Models are so similar that it would be possible to even swap weapons among them.

All three figures have beautifully carved battlebases. However, this has both good and bad sides. Battlebases are really wonderful and they add a lot of charm to each figurine, but because of that those models were carved/set to fit precisely onto a particular stand. In most cases they must have one foot above the other (presented as in move).

Despite these minor comments those are amazing miniatures (big badass miniatures). What makes them unique is not only their size, but also their quality. The Price is quite high, but when you think about that it's not much more than you pay for much smaller models (e.g. dreadnoughts).

Each Mech Suit will present itself phenomenally both in our domestic exhibitor, and in the midst of your army. It seems to me that the Celtic Suit will fit perfectly into the Space Wolves Chapter, while the other two Mech Suits will fit the Grey Knights army (especially the Templar Mech Suit reminds me of Dreadknight). Mr. Scibor Teleszyński actually said that this project is no at its end and he is planning to create Egyptian and Spartan Mech Suits in the future. 

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Scibor Monstrous Miniatures: Vehicles and Vehicles Decorations - review

This is a third article regarding the productsof Scibor Monstrous Miniatures (check previous texts) and we decided to focus on vehicles and vehicle decorations this time. Those accessories were also used in an attempt to restore a heavily damaged Land Raider model from the Warhammer 40,000 game.

Unfortunately, so far Scibor does not offer many vehicles. I really hope that one day this will change. For now, however, there are three models of motorcycles and three mechs (I will discuss them in the next review). All motorcycles, as you can guess, are obviously in the 28mm SF Miniatures section.

The First vehicle was simply called SF Motorcycle and it was and still is the simplest version of the motorcycle offered by this shop. It was first such model made by Scibor Teleszyński, and perhaps for this reason its structure is quite simple.

The first thing that strikes you when you see theg model is its size, all three bikes are much larger and more complex than those produced by Games Workshop. Scibors model is also clearly futuristic, low and somewhat aerodynamic. The front of the vehicle is low and has a slightly strange-looking reflector.

In some places you can see the gears and engine components, and the front of the motorcycle is equipped with twin machine guns with, horizontally placed magazines (slightly similar to the US First World War Lewis Gun or Russian DP-28 used in Second World War). One of the most interesting items is the tires that look like one thick tire composed of two narrower ones.

The second motorcycle that was available for sale is Angel Knight Motorcycle. This is essentially the same design as before, but with some fundamental differences. This time the vehicle is decorated with various ornaments, reliefs, eagles and crests. The biggest change is the skeleton with angel wings on the front of the bike, which dramatically changes the appearance of the model.

The Weapons are the same as in the previous model. This time, however, the driver is equipped with a sword and dressed in different clothes. It is worth mentioning that the fuel tank is decorated with an eagle sculpture and has an electronic dashboard placed below.

The third of the vehicles, which is the latest addition to the offer, is the Lion Knight Motorcycle, our favorite. It is obvious that the author had already established a pattern and began to improve it and experiment with the design. As you can guess, this model has been adapted to the design of Lion Knights figures. The rear part has remained the same as in the Angel Knight Motorcycle, but the front has been subjected to significant changes.

This time, the front top of the model is decorated with a lion's head, and the fuel tank feels more “solid” and is almost entirely decorated with reliefs. The fuel tank tap is surrounded by a circular decoration, below there is the dashboard, this time in the form of standard analog speed indicators (much better than the  digital ones). The weapon has been changed to guns resembling bolters (in our opinion, a much better pattern). This time, the driver is a Lion Knight armed with a spear.

All three models have the same base decorative tiles which are “damaged”. Because not all the pieces fit perfectly, you will need to be prepared to fill in the gaps with green stuff. The Overall quality is very good and I did not notice any major errors, air bubbles nor other similar defects. The only thing I can point out is the lack of holes in the bolters' barrels.

I would also like to discuss the custom vehicle ornamentations and decorations that are available from Scibor’s store. Some of them almost perfectly match the Land Raider tank from Warhammer 40,000. There are a few sets of these ornaments and they focus on the main themes: angels, death, knights, wolves and lions, but there are also decorations inspired by Celtic and Egyptian art.

I think the best option is to purchase Angels Big Conversion set, containing a few almost ready-to-use components. The largest of these is suitable for the side walls of the Land Raider model, while the others are a fit for the various slots in the vehicle armor. However, these decorations have many more possible uses. They can be used for a variety of vehicles, tanks, air ships and even buildings.

It would be difficult to describe all the accessories here, because it is a whole, separate section in the store: Decorated Plates. Certainly they are worth the attention and can really add some distinction and diversity to your models and fortifications. I’m positive that everyone will find a use for them in their own collection.

I earlier mentioned the use of accessories from Scibor Monstrous Miniatures in the restoration of the old Land Raider model. The vehicle was badly damaged and I bought it for a very low price. Both the roof and part of the side walls were distorted and broken. It also lacked some of the basic elements that have been replaced by some clumsy green stuff work. I had three options to choose from: make this model a wreck for a mock-up, convert it to Chaos (Nurgle) Land Raider, or try to fix it somehow with ornaments from Scibor offer. I chose the last option.

The work is far from complete, but I already see significant improvement and opportunities for final success. Damage to the side walls is practically invisible, I also was able to hide the majority of the roof deformations. Of course, not all of the ornaments fit perfectly. You have to be prepared for slight modifications of the model, I had to trim several elements, and after the installation of accessories I needed to fill the cracks and gaps with green stuff. It will take time, but I believe that the final result will be satisfactory.

At the end we would like to express our sincere hope that Scibor’s offer will be expanded by more machines, tanks, or some flying vehicles. I know Mr. Scibor Teleszyński worked with a design for an air speeder, I hope that he will finish this project one day. Frankly, all of the editors (including me) would really want to see a Scibor’s version of a Thunderhawk or Land Raider kind of vehicles.

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Scibor Monstrous Miniatures - SF ENG/PL

Some time ago, we reviewed few of the products offered by Scibor Monstrous Miniatures. Last time we had a small amount of accessories available, but now, thanks to courtesy of Mr. Scibor, we could inspect far more miniatures. Today we will present another bit of information about Scibor Miniatures company, but most importantly we will review selection of the figures representing the unique and special characters units from 28mm SF Miniatures section.

I managed to hold a short conversation with the owner and founder of the company, Mr. Scibor Teleszyński, who shared informations about his company. I have to say it came as a surprise, because most shops or companies representatives and publishers (not to mention owner and a director) don’t have time for such things and don’t care about web sites reviews (sometimes they don’t care about customers opinions).

To my surprise, it turned out that almost all designs of products from an online store were singlehandedly created by Mr. Teleszyński! (respect). The only except of that rule are some accessories from Conversion Parts section. Second positive are few small tutorials and presentations of projects which are still in progress. In that way, customers and fans can feel more integrated in the creation process. I have to admit you have to have tremendous talent and discipline to regularly create so many models (maybe in this instance better word will be sculptures than models or miniatures).

On the web you can find many galleries with complexly painted figures from Scibor Monstrous Miniatures. Photographs of some of those painted miniatures appear in the Scibor web shop or on the official company Facebook. A large part of these figures is supposedly painted by Polish artists. Truth is that Poland has a lot of very talented miniature painters and sculptors but at the same time, this form of art is almost completely unsupported in Poland. I recommend a look at THIS gallery (actually that one not Polish), you can see there some really good works (including one of the Scibor’s Mech Suits.

But let’s go back to the figures. As I mentioned earlier, today we will be taking a closer look on some miniatures from Scibor 28mm SF Miniatures section. This time we focus on more unique models - figures that can be called heroes and leaders. There is quite a lot of them, and unfortunately I cannot describe all, but I hope either way I will satisfy your curiosity. Let's start with the most characteristic of all.

As I mentioned in the previous article, many products from Scibor Monstrous Miniatures suggests some association with the world of Warhammer 40,000. They can be effectively used as a replacement for some characters, and even representations of the officially non-existent product – Primarchs (if not for the game then for the collection). These similarities between Scibor Miniatures and Warhammer are not too large, as everyone knows Games Workshop’s licensing policy (reminds me a bit of Apple current behavior). On the other hand, I really appreciated that Scibor Monstrous Miniatures create patterns of their own, unique, and not just blindly copying existing motifs.

Perhaps the most recognizable of the company's products is Archangel. I think it's the best option on the market to create a decent image of Sanguinus (personally I would want to see something more in THIS style, but Scibor figure is close, especially with wings).

The first thing that strikes us when watching Archangel are its wings. Well done wings, not thin brittle feathers, but high and quite massive. Those wings are large and hero is in a specific way surrounded by them and seams small in comparison (it is really not small at all). Hero dimensions are 45 mm in height and 40 mm in width but wings are 75 mm height and the about 65 mm in the widest span - that’s a lot.

In addition to wings this model is clearly characterized by long hair and soft facial features, matching its angelic form. Armor is not too massive (its even slim comparing to other miniatures) and it is well decorated, coat flowing down the back is a good armor finish. The hero hold in one hand a large sword and in the other, outstretched in front of him, demon’s head. My one complain is that bigger and more expensive figures could be sold with a choice of some additional features or weapons, so I could swap for example hand with head for a shield or pistol or a second sword etc.

Somewhat similar to the miniature I had described above is the Angel of Death, which in turn brings to mind Warhammer’s Mortarion, Primarch of the Death Guard Legion. That one and the previous model are somewhat similar because of the wings, but the ones on the Angel of Death are even greater (almost 80 mm by 80 mm), hero is also higher and much more massive. The wings look like Archangel, but are bigger and are decorated with blasphemous symbols/accessories, for example in the form of skulls on a chain. Wings support itself looks like made of bone.

The figure is quite massive, the whole armor is decorated with symbols that reminiscent Chaos. Armor is cracked in places and seemingly made of bone or stone. Under armor, chainmail fragments are visible. One of the most unusual characteristics of Angel of Death is a strange (and disgusting) tube coming out of mouth and disappearing in the middle of the breastplate. It’s a curious motive, but some people may prefer to have an option to remove it. His head is covered by hood, beneath which lurks distorted humanlike face. It is worth noting that the Angel of Death is armed with a huge scythe, and shoulder armor are really well done, and taking a form of angry or weird faces. With minimal effort, you can easily change this miniature into Mortarion.

Since we are already at the "dark side", we should pay attention to two other figures, Chaos Master and Chaos SF Warrior, which, despite the fact that both represent the forces of evil (Chaos), differ dramatically. First can be described as "block" that is not a flaw, but a truly original and daring design. The entire back and shoulders look like a square block of stone with protruding rivets. Head with a few small horns is placed quite low, giving impression of protruding from stone. This effect make Master to Chaos resemble a Terminator or Dreadnought. Model is large and, therefore, has big, badass blunt weapon (sort of mace). Wicked base complete this miniature in more way than one, base is covered with diabolical runes and human heads are protruding from it.

Where Chaos Master is large and massive, Chaos Warrior seems to be agile and cunning. Perfectly sculpted hair and features give it a devious look, it appearance reminded me a psychopathic killer crossed with a pirate. His armor is less massive and ornamented. In his right hand he holds a gun, which barrel is decorated with the mouth of the beast. In the other hand miniature is holding a scythe/machete like blade, its handle and sheath are made of some sort of demonic skull.

Roman General is a great leader for reviewed previously futuristic Roman legionnaires (which may serve as Adeptus custodes). It seems to be not only a leader, but heavy weapon specialist. On back of his armor there is mounted an extra generator or ammo feeder. His ornate armor and coat is a bit like the Knights Templar, but the most interesting are its arms and shoulders. Below the big gauntlets there are two heavy armor, guns / machine guns with extended, thick belts of ammunition, the visual effect is really good.

Eagle Knight also seems to be inspired by the Roman culture, this is a figure that intrigued me, mainly because of the unusual equipment. Model differs slightly from the others, its more natural, common, in terms of facial features, more human, looking at him, you have immediately associations with the characters from Gears of War. His armor is neat and simple, without excessive ornamentation, but the most interesting thing is large, one-handed chainsword, which could be useful at Warhammer 40k either as two handed weapon for space marine or damn big one handed for some hero in terminator armor.

Grail Knight SF Jetpack is somewhat “simpler” (it lacks ornaments) than other miniatures. His armor is relatively simple and in the middle of the breastplate decorated only with a small grail and on the knees with symbol of blood drop (in the overall Grail Knight feel a bit like the Sanguinary Guard). What makes this figure unique is its Jetpack (somewhat reminiscent of the Pre-Heresy technology). Other important thing about that model is it base. This time, instead of a piece of land or stone ruins we got a sculpture (a bust), almost the same height as Grail Knight itself.

Among our purchases were also two Egyptian miniatures, Egyptian SF Warrior (unfortunately there are only two Egyptian design in shop, a shame, because I like Egyptian motive the most). The first model is a bit like a commander or a veteran. Its armor is very ornamental, it does not have a helmet, but boldly reveals its head. What I like most is that it is armed with two Egyptian swords, one in each hand.

The second Egyptian Warrior is a bit like those known from Star Gate universe. Armor is interesting and decorated with scarabs and a variety of other Egyptian symbols, miniature is also equipped with robe. Most striking is the head or rather helmet in the shape of a bird head, clearly inspired by Egyptian art (and probably Star Gate). I would arm it with different weapons (he uses a kind of halberd), but to me it is still one of the most interesting. I regret that there’s so few other Egyptian patterns in Scibor’s shop now.

Among the warriors inspired by Celtic art we will find many potential heroes for Space Wolves, and best example of it is probably Celtic SF Lord, which I think fits the role of Chapter Master. It is a miniature that makes a powerful impression, it is set in a dynamic battle pose (look at me and know that I’m dangerous). Celtic SF Lord is clad in very ornamental armor, there are also elements of fur and chain mail in it. At a back we can see coat blown by the wind.

Mr. Scibor carved a long and thick beard, and an older face experienced with life, which gives that miniature some real character. Celtic Lord is armed with a long sword covered with runes and runic gun, unfortunately (if I were to be picky) the gun is oddly flat. This weapon seems to be "flat" and “two dimensional” in comparison to other rifles and pistols from Scibor Monstrous Miniatures.

As you can see Scibor Miniatures products are really from the top shelf. As I mentioned in the previous review, the resin is very good and hard, casts are not damaged or distorted, and the designs are original and interesting to potential buyers (collectors and gamers). I could only draw more attention to two things. The first is already mentioned additional equipment option to the larger (and more expensive) miniatures, so that they can be glued on in more than one version of the weapon or pose.

The second issue is the size. It would be great if there were more accessories and weapons to fit the size standards battle games. In this way, you could create your own legion. I think many people would benefit from this opportunity. Unfortunately, partly of my fault, I forgot to order miniatures of the Knights Templar and the Lion Knights, but I hope that I will soon fix this error. At the end I recommend you to peep on this site. This is the Grey Knights Army exhibition, which features Knights Templar from Scibor Monstrous Miniatures.

Jakiś czas temu w naszym serwisie pojawiła się recenzja niektórych produktów oferowanych przez firmę Scibor Monstrous Miniatures. Poprzednim razem mieliśmy do dyspozycji niewielką ilość akcesoriów, teraz jednak, dzięki uprzejmości właściciela tej firmy, udało nam się przyjrzeć większej ilości figurek. Dzisiaj przybliżymy kolejną garść informacji na temat firmy Scibor Miniatures oraz przede wszystkim część z figurek reprezentujących bohaterów unikalnych i jednostki specjalne z działu 28mm SF Miniatures. 

Udało mi się przeprowadzić krótką rozmowę z właścicielem i założycielem firmy, Panem Ściborem Teleszyńskim, który podzielił się częścią informacji dotyczących jego firmy. Zaliczyć to muszę na duży plus, gdyż najczęściej przedstawiciele sklepów, wydawnictw oraz firm (nie mówiąc już o ich dyrektorach, czy właścicielach) nie mają czasu na takie rzeczy i nie przejmują się specjalnie serwisami recenzenckimi (czasem też opinią klientów). 

Roman Legionary i Roman Veteran

Ku mojemu zaskoczeniu okazało się, że praktycznie wszystkie wzory produktów ze sklepu internetowego są autorstwa Pana Teleszyńskiego, wyjątkiem jest niewielka część akcesoriów z działu Conversion Parts. Na stronie firmowej można zresztą zapoznać się z kilkoma małymi tutorialami oraz przedstawieniem projektów będących jeszcze w toku. Trzeba mieć talent i olbrzymią dyscyplinę by regularnie tworzyć taką ilość modeli. 

Na sieci można znaleźć sporo galerii ze złożonymi i pomalowanymi figurkami firmy Scibor Monstrous Miniatures. Fotografie niektórych z nich pojawiają się na stronie sklepu lub na oficjalnym koncie na Facebooku. Spora część z tych figurek jest ponoć malowana przez polskich artystów, Pan Teleszyński uważa zresztą, że polska ma najzdolniejszych malarzy miniatur na świecie i jednocześnie ta forma sztuki jest w Polsce praktycznie zupełnie niedoceniana (racja). Polecam zerknąć na galerię, nie jest w prawdzie polska, ale można zobaczyć tam kilka naprawdę dobrych prac (między innymi jednego z dostępnych w sklepie mechów), warta obejrzenia.

Roman Pretorian Guard

 Wróćmy jednak do figurek, które mam opisać. Jak wspomniałem dzisiaj pod lupą znalazły się wybrane miniatury z działu 28mm SF Miniatures. Tym razem skupiliśmy się na wzorach bardziej unikatowych figurkach, które można nazwać bohaterami i dowódcami, jest ich całkiem sporo i niestety wszystkich nie dam rady tutaj opisać, mam jednak nadzieję, że zaspokoją waszą ciekawość. Zacznijmy od tych najbardziej charakterystycznych. 

Jak wspomniałem już w poprzednim artykule, wiele figurek Scibor Monstrous Miniatures nasuwa pewne skojarzenia ze światem Warhammera 40.000. Dzięki temu, mogą one być skutecznie używane, jako zamienniki niektórych bohaterów, a nawet reprezentacje oficjalnie nieistniejących produktów (wtedy stanowią gratkę głównie dla kolekcjonerów). Podobieństwa te nie są jednak zbyt duże, gdyż każdy zna politykę dojenia i zaskarżania stosowaną przez Games Workshop (przypominają mi w tym trochę Apple). Z drugiej strony należy docenić, że Scibor Monstrous Miniatures tworzy wzory własne, unikalne, a nie tylko ślepo naśladujące istniejące już motywy.

Archangel

Chyba najbardziej rozpoznawalną miniaturą tej firmy jest Archangel. Moim zdaniem to najlepsza na rynku opcja na stworzenie porządnego wizerunku Sanguinusa (osobiście chciałbym kiedyś zobaczyć coś bardziej w TYM stylu, ale figurka ze Scibora, jest dość blisko, zwłaszcza ze skrzydłami). 

Pierwsza rzecz, jaka uderza przy oglądaniu Archangela, to jego skrzydła. Świetnie wykonane, nie jakieś cieniutkie łamliwe piórka, ale wysokie i dość masywne. Skrzydła są duże i w specyficzny sposób okalają, czy też rozświetlają nieco małą przy nich figurkę (która tak naprawdę wcale małą nie jest). Wymiary postaci to ok 45mm wysokości i 40mm szerokości (rozłożone ręce), natomiast skrzydła mają wysokość 75mm i rozpiętość w najszerszym miejscu ok 65mm, sporo. 

Poza skrzydłami wyraźnie odznaczają się długie włosy i łagodne rysy twarzy, pasujące do takiej anielskiej postaci. Pancerz nie jest zbyt duży i dobrze, za to pęknie zdobiony, pasuje do niego spływający z pleców płaszcz. Bohater w jednej ręce trzyma duży miecz, a w drugiej, wyciągniętej przed siebie, obciętą głowę demona. Tutaj jedna moja uwaga, wydaje mi się, że takie większe i droższe figurki mogłyby być tworzone z możliwością wyboru jakiejś dodatkowej opcji uzbrojenia lub pozy, np. inna ręka, druga broń itp. Jak dla mnie głowę można by zastąpić tarczą, pistoletem, albo jakimś artefaktem.

Angel of Death

Nieco podobna do opisywanej wyżej jest figurka Angel of Death, która z kolei przywodzi na myśl warhammerowego Mortariona, Patriarchę legionu Gwardii Śmierci. Ten i poprzedni wzór są nieco podobne z powodu skrzydeł, jednak te tutaj są jeszcze większe, mają praktycznie 80mm na 80mm, sama postać również jest większa. Skrzydła wyglądają podobnie jak Archangela, jednak poza tym, że mają większe wymiary to ozdobione są bluźnierczymi dodatkami w postaci czaszek na łańcuchu a same podpory skrzydeł wyglądają jak zrobione z kości. 

Sama postać jest dość masywna (taki nieco „blok”), cały pancerz ozdobiono znakami kojarzącymi się z Chaosem. Zbroja jest miejscami popękana i wykonana jakby z kości lub kamienia. Pod pancerzem widoczne są fragmenty kolczugi. Charakterystyczna jest dziwna ( i obrzydliwa) tuba wychodząca z ust figurki i znikająca na środku napierśnika. Mnie podoba się ten motyw, jednak niektóre osoby z redakcji wolałyby, żeby istniała opcja odłączenia tego elementu. Głowę okryto kapturem, spod którego wyziera zniekształcona twarz. Warto dodać, że Angel of Death uzbrojony jest w olbrzymią kosę, a potężne naramienniki to świetnie zrobione obrzydliwe głowy. Przy minimalnym nakładzie pracy można spokojnie zrobić z niego Mortariona. 

Chaos Master

Skoro jesteśmy już przy „ciemnej stronie mocy” warto zwrócić uwagę na dwie inne figurki, Chaos Master oraz Chaos SF Warrior, które pomimo tego, że obydwie reprezentują siły zła, różnią się od siebie diametralnie. Pierwszą z nich możemy zdecydowanie określić mianem „kloca”, nie jest to wada, lecz naprawdę oryginalny i odważny design. Całe plecy i barki postaci wyglądają niczym kwadratowy blok kamienia ze sterczącymi nitami. Głowa z kilkoma małymi rogami umieszczona jest dość nisko, sprawiając wrażenie wystającej z kamienia. Ten efekt upodabnia nieco figurkę Chaos Master’a do terminatora albo dreadnoughta. Model jest duży i w związku z tym posiada odpowiednio wielką broń obuchową. Całości dopełnia diaboliczna podstawka z runami oraz wystającymi z ziemi ludzkimi głowami. 

Tam gdzie Chaos Master jest duży i masywny, tam Chaos Warrior wydaje się zwinny i przebiegły. Świetnie wyrzeźbione włosy i rysy twarzy nadają tej postaci coś diabolicznego, wygląd typowy dla jakiegoś growego, lub filmowego, psychopatycznego mordercy, skrzyżowanego z piratem. Jego zbroja jest mniej masywna, uwagę za to zwraca zbrojenie. W prawej ręce trzyma on pistolet, którego lufę ozdobiono paszczą bestii, w drugiej natomiast trzyma on ostrze przypominające kordelas, tylko uchwyt i osłona wykonane są z jakiejś demonicznej czaszki.

Rzymski Generał (Roman General), to świetny dowódca do opisywanych poprzednim razem futurystycznych rzymskich legionistów (mogących służyć za Adeptus Custodes). Wydaje się on być nie tylko przywódcą, ale i specjalistą od cięższej broni. Na plecach, na swym potężnym pancerzu, zamontowany ma dodatkowy generator lub podajnik amunicji a nad głową umieszczoną ma turbinę. Jego zbroja i okrywająca ją częściowo szata przypomina nieco templariuszy, cały pancerz jest bogato zdobiony, najciekawsze są jednak ręce i naramienniki. Poniżej wielkich rąk znajdują się sprzężone z pancerzem dwa ciężkie pistolety/karabiny maszynowe z wystającymi, grubymi taśmami z amunicją, efekt jest naprawdę niezły. 

Roman General

Inspirowany kulturą rzymską wydaje się również Eagle Knight, figurka, która zaciekawiła mnie głównie ze względu na wyposażenie. Model odróżnia się nieco od pozostałych, jest… zwyczajniejszy, pod względem rysów twarzy, bardziej ludzki, patrząc na niego nie masz natychmiast skojarzeń z bohaterami Gears of War. Jego pancerz jest schludny i prosty, bez nadmiaru ozdób, najbardziej jednak rzuca się w oczy duży, jednoręczny miecz łańcuchowy, coś takiej wielkości przydałoby się w Warhammerze.

Nieco prościej wykonany jest Graal SF Knight Jetpack. Jego pancerz jest stosunkowo prosty, zdobiony na środku napierśnika niewielkim kielichem, graalem i na kolanach symbolem kropli krwi (w całościowym odczuciu nieco podobny do Sanguinary Guard). Tym, co wyróżnia tą figurkę to Jetpack (przypominający nieco te z Pre-Heresy) oraz podstawka. Tym razem zamiast kawałka terenu czy ruin dostajemy kamienne popiersie, rzeźbę praktycznie tej samej wysokości, co sama figurka. 

Graal SF Knight Jetpack

Wśród naszych zakupów znalazły się również dwie egipskie figurki Egyptian SF Warrior (niestety wzorów egipskich jest obecnie bardzo niewiele, a szkoda, bo podobają mi się najbardziej). Pierwszy wzór przypomina nieco jakiegoś dowódcę, weterana. Zbroja jest bardzo ornamentacyjna, nie posiada on hełmu, lecz śmiało odsłania głowę. Najbardziej podoba mi się to, że uzbrojony jest w dwa egipskie miecze, po jednym w każdej ręce. 

Drugi z wojowników przypomina trochę postacie znane z Gwiezdnych wrót. Poza niezwykle ciekawym pancerzem ozdobionym szatami, skarabeuszami oraz przeróżnymi innymi egipskimi symbolami, uwagę zwraca głowa figurki, przedstawiona, jako hełm w kształcie łba ptaka, wyraźnie inspirowany sztuką egipską (i chyba Gwiezdnymi wrotami). Ja uzbroiłbym go nieco inaczej, jednak i tak jest to jedna z najciekawszych dla mnie figurek. Żałuję nieco, że tak mało jest wzorów egipskich.

Wśród wojowników inspirowanych sztuką celtycką znajdziemy za to wielu potencjalnych bohaterów do Kosmicznych Wilków, najlepszym z nich jest chyba Celtic SF Lord, który moim zdaniem idealnie pasuje na mistrza zakonu. Jest to potężna figurka, jednak ustawiona w dynamicznej, bitewnej pozie, mówiącej patrz na mnie i wiedź, że jestem groźny. Odziany w zbroję bardzo ornamentacyjną, do tego pojawiają się też elementy futra i kolczugi, z tyłu natomiast wyłania się rozwiewany wiatrem płaszcz. 

Celtic SF Lord

Autor wyrzeźbił długą i gęstą brodę oraz starszą, doświadczoną życiem twarz, co nadaje miniaturze charakteru. Celtic Lord uzbrojony jest w długi, pokryty runami miecz, oraz runiczny pistolet, niestety jeśli miałbym się do czegoś przyczepić (bo to też jedna z lepszych figurek), to właśnie do pistoletu, dziwnie płaski. Broń ta wydaje się „chuda” i „spłaszczona” na tle innych karabinów i pistoletów ze Scibor Monstrous Miniatures.

Jak widać produkty Scibor Miniatures stoją na wysokim poziomie. Jak wspominałem już we wcześniejszym tekście, żywica jest bardzo dobra i twarda, odlewy nie są uszkadzane, czy zniekształcone, a wzory są oryginalne oraz ciekawe dla potencjalnych nabywców. Tym razem zdarzyło mi się zaobserwować nieco większe nadlewki, ale nie było to nic, z czym nie dałoby się poradzić. Mógłbym zwrócić jedynie większą uwagę na dwie sprawy. Pierwsza, to wspomniane już dołączenie „opcji” do większych figurek tak, aby można było je skleić na więcej niż jedną wersję broni lub postawy. 

 

Druga sprawa to wielkość. Byłoby super, gdyby pojawiły się akcesoria i bronie bardziej pasujące wielkością do standardów gier bitewnych. Dzięki temu, można by utworzyć na przykład własny legion (wystarczy trochę naramienników oraz ozdóbek i tyle), sądzę, że wiele osób skorzystałoby z tej możliwości. Niestety, częściowo z mojej winy, nie udało mi się jeszcze przyjrzeć figurkom Templariuszy oraz Lwich Rycerzy, mam jednak nadzieję, że już niebawem naprawię ten błąd. Polecam zerknięcie na tą stronę. Jest to wystawa armii Grey Knights, w której wykorzystano między innymi oddział Templariuszy ze Scibor Monstrous Miniatures.

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