Samurai army (2000 points)

As used in 2006 WPS WAB Grand Tournament

Considered to be one of the toughest armies in the WAB lists. This army has been created to be tournament competitive but avoids the use of some of the 'gamey' units such as Ninja and Warrior Monks.

Under the new Warhammer Ancient Battle (WAB) rules (new rule book released March 2006) both the Samurai infantry and cavalry now are light troops and can be used in skirmish formation. In fact they have to be be used in skirmish formation to get maximum armour protection, as the protection of the samurai sword (katana) is now classified as a buckler, only giving the +1 save to formed troops in combat. However in skirmish formation, the units get the extra save when being shot at, as well as being more difficult to hit.

The figures have been painted by James Roach of the Olicana Painting service. Transfers (decals) used on the banners and sashimono from the Veni Vidi Vici Asian range.

Figures are mostly by 1st Corps but the Samurai cavalry with swords and the Samurai infantry are by Perrys Miniatures because they had the sashimono (back banners) and the Samurai cavalry with bows are The Assault Group figures.

General 211 points
mounted with longbow, naginata and extra weapons, Samurai armour

Mounted Hero 111 points
mounted with longbow, naginata and extra weapons, Samurai armour

Hero on foot 107 points
longbow and Samurai armour

Mounted Samurai unit 434 points
9 figures with Samurai armour, longbow, naginata and extra weapons.
Leader and musician (no standard).

Now I would use another unit of Samurai infanty instead. Too expensive in points for what they do.

Foot Samurai 457 points
16 figures with Samurai armour and longbow
Leader, musician and standard. Standard not really needed but sometimes useful.

A fantastic unit, real battle winner.

Unit of 18 Chugen with naginata 195 points
Leader, musician and standard.

Another combat unit which can be useful whilst the Samurai are fighting elsewhere. Not expected to win on their own but can hold up an enemy attack.

2 units each of 18 Ashigaru with bow 154 points each.
Leader and musician

These troops provide the fire support to the army.

2 units each of 9 Ashigaru with naginata 82 points each
Leader and musician

The light infantry support of the army. These troops will often beat other skirmishers with their strength 4 naginata. Also useful in columns of 3, getting round enemy flanks and attacking the sides of units fighting the Samurai.