Nathan,
Great thread. I echo many of the comments on favorite sets. This is a tough one. I collect in several ranges: (1) Napoleonics (I have all 57 Nap sets, including add-ons); (2) Crimea (will have them all in short order excluding some of the add-ons, which I will skip); (3) Egypt/Sudan (I have 14 of the 20 sets - basically all the ones that I want in that range); (4) Bengal Lancers (have all 5 of the sets and 1 of the 5 officer sets); and (5) a few early sets and HS 1, Gordon Highlanders. Over 100+ sets and counting. Thus, for me, I will make my selection for each of these ranges.
1. Napoleonics. It is almost impossible to pick one because I love every set in this range. They truly define what it is to make a great toy soldier. Just beautifully done. Anyway, with that intro and forced to make a pick, I would have to say Set 118, Chef De Escardon Kirman. I have always thought the Mamelukes were cool looking and he is very nicely done.
2. Crimea. I would assume most folks would pick from the British side for this range. To change it up a bit, I would pick Set 85, the Russian Line Infantry (black straps) with flag bearer.
3. Egypt/Sudan. Set 126, Camel Regiment. I was after this set for years and when Imperial reopened, I snapped up the last one they had. David is now making this set again so I would encourage folks to pick up this very unique set. Would love to see Imperial do some Mahdis on camels in the future. Honorable mention to No. 54, Mounted Mahdist banner bearer. This was one of the first sets I ever purchased in April 1995.
4. Bengal Lancers (50-50D). Again, great sets. I loved them so much I got duplicates of them. I really like Set 50B, 1st Bengal Cavalry (in yellow), but 50C, 4th Bengal Cavalary (in red) is a close second.
5. Early and special sets. Set 1, Girl's Khaki Brigade. It is the first Imperial set and it is a female unit, which is unique. I also love my HS1, Gordon Highlanders (Drum, thanks again for that opportunity).
Dan
.
