Close Action with Tumbling Dice 1/4800 Napoleonic Naval Miniatures

"Why, sir," said he, looking about him, "what splendour I see: gold lace, breeches, cocked hats. Allow me to recommend a sandwich. And would you be contemplating an attack, at all?"
"It had crossed my mind, I must admit," said Jack. "Indeed, I may go so far as to say, that I am afraid a conflict in now virtually inevitable. Did you notice we have cleared for action?"
- Patrick O'Brian, The Mauritius Command

Not being able to leave well enough alone, I realized that moving the chits around wouldn't cut it for my future games of Close Action. I sent some crew up the ratlines to see what they could spy. Reports were shouted down to us on deck: there were all sorts of scales and manufacturers to choose from!

After some consideration I learned that Tumbling Dice had an excellent reputation as a purveyor of fine nautical miniatures. The cast-in ratlines (although somewhat controversial), lent the masts, sails and rigging some bulk which would hopefully provide durability during games in the future.

I had a sudden epiphany: I could just order a few packs of their 1/4800 scale ships and stick them on the flat counters! They'd fit perfectly.

Look at the difference it makes between the two photos above! You don't even need to paint them* and the game looks much more fun! A blob of Blu-Tac will affix them temporarily and you're ready to set sail. Each pack of one- two- or three-decker ships comes with 3 ships in it and only costs £2.40. That's a good deal! I ordered a pack of each and then waited patiently by my mailbox.

But wait, you say! There are more than three bags there! Um, yes, I can explain that...

* - who am I kidding... of course I will paint them!