Polish-Lithuanian Levy Cavalry with Sabres

In the 16th century, the introduction of gunpowder and firearms rendered medieval armored cavalry obsolete. The standing army of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth gradually transitioned to other, more modern forms of cavalry. Under Eastern influence, the armament of the cavalrymen became lighter, and their speed and mobility increased. This contributed to the successes of Polish cavalry in numerous wars against the Tsardom of Russia, the Ottomans, and the Tatars. In the 16th century, a lighter cavalry emerged, known as Kozacy (singular Kozak, hence "towarzysz kozacki"). Their offensive armament in the 16th century included a shorter "half-lance" (dzida) or rohatyna, bow and arrows, a battle-axe and a saber, and in the 17th century, one or two pistols and a carbine. These miniatures can also be used as Cossacks, as this was an umbrella term used for light cavalry troops, even if the soldiers were Poles and not ethnic Cossacks. This is somewhat confusing, as the term "Cossack" was used in various contexts, including for troops who rebelled and fought against the Poles.

Contains:

3 metal Polish-Lithuanian Levy Cavalrymen with Sabres.
Miniature sculpted by Wojtek Flis. Miniatures painted by Jamie Getliffe.