Dr Grant wrote:
I'd go for the second list, the D6 of the Royal Guard will be invaluable against S3 (primarily elf shooting and most combats) and the extra punch of the sons of Eorl will really help you. Their 2 attacks will also mean you have a fighting chance when you inevitably get charged, finally you get an extra outrider which should help your shooting. I wouldn't worry about dropping the 5 ROR shots as 5+ (because you'll move) S2 shooting is rarely effective against most armies.
Finally, I would consider giving as many Throwing Spears as possible to your viable models (11) although this might be limited by the models you have. Throwing spears will make up for the lack of bows and pack that extra punch at S3, they also have an 8" range so allow you to sit out of infantry charge range and pelt the enemy. A lot of people don't like Throwing weapons but remember, if you paid the 22 points then against most armies you'll only need to kill 2 or 3 with them throughout the whole game to make their points back - personally I think they're more than worth it.
You'll obviously have to drop a model to afford them, I'd probably drop 1 Royal Guard to buy you 9 TS.
All very good advice, thanks for getting back to me pal. Having played the first list a few times, I can see how the second list improves upon it. Two sons of eorl seem to always become target priority so getting them into combat is tough. Having four gives them a chance. Agree regarding the D6 increase... effectively an extra four models at higher defence on the second list.
Yup, losing 5 x 5+ shots from the moving rohirrim seems to be worthy of sacrificing, especially for the single added Outrider firing at 3+ (or 4+ moving) I find that because it's impossible (nor sensible) to get an all cavalry army into combat in one go, it's good to keep guys back for the shooting and counter. And as you say, 5+, str2 doesn't end up being too effective anyway.
Throwing spears are interesting as never really done too much in games I've play tested them, mainly because the minus 1 to shooting value for moving/charging and firing them.
Although it involves buying/trading a few more models, I think I'm keener for the second list myself. Plus, enjoyed painting the Son of Eorl models no end so another two and I can't complain.
If anyone comes across 2 x Sons of Eorl, Rohan Captains holding Orc, Eorl the Young on foot, King's Huntsmen, 1 x RRG mounted, 4 x RRG on foot and 4 x Outriders foot and mounted, let me know!
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