Ultima Ratio – UR024 – Medieval Japan: Japanese Warrior Monks

Description:

Ultima Ratio brings another fascinating set to the 1/72 scale miniature market, this time focusing on the warrior monks (Sohei) of medieval Japan. The set (UR024) consists of 24 figures in 11 different poses, portraying the dynamic and dramatic essence of these fearsome Buddhist warriors. Let’s take a closer look at what this set has to offer.

The sculpting is quite impressive, with a good level of detail on the clothing, armor, and weaponry. The monks wear a variety of traditional garments, including robes, sashes, and pieces of lamellar armor. Some figures wear head coverings, while others display expressive faces. The weapons included are mostly naginatas, swords, and a few banners with Japanese inscriptions. There is also a unique figure carrying a barrel, possibly referencing gunpowder usage or supplies transportation.

One particularly interesting figure in the set is a warrior monk carrying a large bell. This strongly resembles the famous Bell of Mii-dera from Japanese folklore. According to legend, the warrior monk Benkei stole the bell from the Mii-dera temple and carried it up Mount Hiei. However, when the bell rang out mournfully, it was returned. This inclusion adds a unique historical and mythological touch to the set.

The set includes an excellent variety of dynamic poses, which enhance the overall appeal. We have warriors in combat stances, such as striking with naginatas, wielding swords, and running into battle. Some are in more static positions, like holding banners or preparing for action. The overall variety gives a realistic representation of a warrior monk force.

The figures come on sprues and need to be detached. The plastic is slightly soft, making the figures more durable but potentially harder to clean up if there are mold lines. Fortunately, the casting quality seems solid, with minimal flash. The proportions are well done, and the weapons are thin yet strong enough to resist bending too much.

Ultima Ratio has done a decent job capturing the essence of Sohei warrior monks. The weaponry and clothing appear historically accurate, though some poses and details may lean more toward dramatic interpretation rather than strict realism. Still, they fit well with other medieval Japanese sets from various manufacturers. The inclusion of the bell-carrying figure further enriches the set by referencing Japanese folklore and historical events.

As a 1/72 scale set, these figures should work well with other samurai or Sengoku-era sets from Zvezda, Strelets, or RedBox. The monks add an extra dimension to wargaming scenarios, allowing for more diverse armies beyond just samurai and ashigaru.

Pros:

• Great variety of dynamic poses
• Good sculpting quality with detailed armor and weapons
• Unique elements such as banners and the barrel-carrying figure
• The bell-carrying figure adds a touch of Japanese mythology
• A rarely covered subject in miniature wargaming

Cons:

• Some mold lines may need extra cleaning
• The plastic is a bit soft, which may make weapons slightly flexible
• Some figures lean towards a more cinematic interpretation rather than pure historical accuracy

Conclusion

Ultima Ratio’s Japanese Warrior Monks is an exciting addition to the world of 1/72 miniatures, bringing a unique faction into historical wargaming. The set offers a great mix of dynamic and static poses, decent sculpting quality, and historically inspired elements. The reference to the Benkei and the Bell of Mii-dera legend further enhances the set’s appeal by adding a cultural and mythological dimension. While there are minor drawbacks, such as mold lines and a slight softness in plastic, this set will be a great choice for collectors and gamers interested in feudal Japan.

Final Score: 8.5/10