Ottoman Sipahi Cavalry Regiment

Cavalry was a vital component of all armies during the Pike & Shotte era, playing an especially significant role in the Ottoman army. While the Ottomans were always skilled horsemen throughout their history, they never fully committed to heavy cavalry in the Western style, instead preferring light cavalry as vanguards.

Nevertheless, most Ottoman armies included swift Sipahi cavalry, who fought with lances and swords and were equipped with shields and mail shirts. The Sipahis sought to break up enemy formations and attack isolated units, then retreating to the Ottoman infantry before the enemy could regroup. They were joined by the Sultan's elite "Six Divisions of Cavalry," the Kapikulu Sipahis, who formed the Sultan's bodyguard and were equipped with the finest gear in the Ottoman army.

In general, the Sipahis formed a large and important part of most Ottoman armies throughout the Pike & Shotte era, though the rise of firearms diminished their effectiveness.

Contains:

8 multi-part metal Ottoman Sipahi cavalry figures (including a command group consisting of officer, standard bearer, and musician).
Brass spears.
Plastic bases.
Miniature sculpted by Ronnie Shilton. Studio miniatures painted by José Antonio Bustamante.