Several years ago I picked up a couple of die-cast Johillco? howitzers quite cheaply, as they were missing their wheels. These toys have a splendid c.1900 look to them, which I was keen to include in my 54mm collection. Restored, they have also proved very useful to my gaming, and I have been keen to obtain some more.
In a recent auction I picked up another five, and a spare barrel. Unfortunately, only two of these are in full working order, the others are broken or with missing parts. I know these guns aren't rare, and were probably made as penny toys, but I like them! I will keep the two working models as they are, with their original paint, but will go to work converting the others and attach them to various armies. These guns came in two designs, one having a shield. Total cost was £10.
Those are very nice looking guns MGB - great restoration work
ReplyDeleteHi MJT, it just seems right to use these old toy guns with my old lead figures!
DeleteMichael
Another wonderful bargain Michael, I love the "toy look" of these beautiful guns! Your restorations are perfect, it's as if you recreated the period photos of the French in miniature! Very well done!
ReplyDeleteThanks Brad, I used some 28mm Napoleonic wheels, about the same size as the originals. Presently contemplating how to use the new batch which has just arrived.
DeleteMichael
Very cute models and you have done a good job repairing them .
ReplyDeleteCheers Tony, Yes, they are cute toys. I suspect they would work with your 40mm figures too!
DeleteMichael