Airfix Battles without the grid

 I couldn't resist trying Airfix Battles without the gridded maps so I dug out some of my 1/72nd toys and set up the board.

I converted one square on the grid to four inches on the table and went for it.

I used some very old models for this game, for example the Panzer IV has been with me since the early '70's and it is not the right mark for Normandy. But who cares, I certainly don't!.

Here are some pictures of the salient parts of the battle, there was a lot going on that I didn't get photos of like a tank assault that went badly for the Allies.

A Sherman gets a good shot at the Tiger tanks rear. Both Airfix originals, you need Airfix models for Airfix Battles!.

German Grenadiers, Revell, Italeri and a lone Airfix Panzerfaust man from the first version of Airfix Germans.

Americans take over a building close to one of the objectives.

The Tiger moves behind the Sherman but before it can shoot the Sherman gets a flank shot in and KO's the monster. Note the red Fire Interrupt card.

The American Captain calls in artillery support.

Causing casualties and pinning this German squad. They still managed to repel a Sherman tank later in the game.

The British Sergeant in his Sherman moves to outflank the German command tank.

But the Airfix Panzer IV reacts and eventually gets the better of the exchange.

The Americans improve their position with a Dig In card, from there they managed to outgun and force a German squad to retreat.

While another squad captures one of the objectives.

The Germans assault to oust the Yanks but are repelled with severe losses.

As the game nears it's end the venerable Panzer IV takes the other objective, it was painted white when I was a boy. I think I can still see a bit of white paint in this photo.

The tank survives Bazooka fire from the adjacent ruins.

After fierce fighting over the other objective the opposing Captains and their veterans engage in close combat.

The American Captain wins the melee. He looks very proud of his mould lines!.

Suddenly the American Bazookas hit the spot and the Panzer IV is toast.

A 17-11 win for the Allies and a very enjoyable afternoon.