German Reiters with Pistols for 15th and 16th Century Armies

The Reiters, also known as "Schwarze Reiter" (Black Riders) due to their dark armor, emerged in the mid-15th century as firearm technology began to reshape European battlefields. These German mercenaries, notable for their adoption of multiple wheel-lock pistols, represented a significant shift from the traditional lance-armed cavalry.

During the 16th century, amidst the backdrop of religious and political upheavals, the Reiters became a sought-after mercenary force across Europe, primarily serving within the Holy Roman Empire but also sought by various European powers.

Reiters introduced a tactic that would come to be known as the "caracole": a method of attack wherein the riders would approach the enemy line, discharge their pistols, and then retreat to reload, allowing the next line to move forward and fire. This cycling technique sought to maintain a continuous hail of gunfire upon the enemy.

Their significant engagements spanned various conflicts, but they were particularly notable in the Eighty Years' War, the French Wars of Religion, and the numerous battles and skirmishes during the Protestant Reformation in the Holy Roman Empire.

Printing at 100% resolution will yield a 28mm miniature. Prints at 105% are slightly more in scale with Perry Miniatures and 110% prints will be in a compatible scale with Warhammer Fantasy miniatures.