Victrix Plastic Miniatures

28mm Early Imperial Roman Bolt-Shooter VXA049

This detailed 28mm hard plastic set from Victrix recreates the powerful Roman bolt-shooters used by the legions of the Early Imperial period. Every Roman Centuria was issued one of these artillery pieces — commonly either a Scorpion or Manuballista — to provide long-range, armour-piercing support on the battlefield, during sieges, or from defensive positions.

The set includes four bolt-shooters, each of which can be assembled in multiple configurations with either extended or drawn-back sliders, adding realism and visual interest. Barrels full of bolts, defensive stakes, and loose ammunition pieces bring depth and purpose to your artillery bases. A generous selection of 16 crew figures are included, depicted performing various roles — operating cranks, reloading, or standing guard — along with a range of tools and equipment like picks, buckets, and axes to represent Roman engineers or sappers.

This versatile kit is ideal for representing the Roman field artillery at full deployment, with enough variation in parts to customise each scene. The 44 head options allow you to create truly unique crews, including options with crests and bare heads for further personalisation. The set also serves as a foundation for conversion — combining elements from Victrix Late Roman infantry sets to adapt it into a Late Roman artillery unit if desired.

• 4 x Bolt-shooters with extended and drawn slider options
• 16 x Crew figures in assorted poses
• 4 x Barrels with loose bolts
• 8 x Defensive stakes
• 44 x Head options, including feathered and bare heads
• Additional tools and accessories: picks, axes, buckets

Note: This set requires assembly and painting. Glue, paints and tools are not included and must be purchased separately.

History:

The Roman army’s mastery of battlefield engineering extended beyond bridges and fortifications to include sophisticated artillery. The scorpio, or bolt-shooter, was a torsion-powered machine capable of hurling heavy darts or bolts with deadly precision over long distances. These devices were particularly effective against lightly armoured enemies and formations at a distance. Positioned in rows or mounted on fortifications, they added a devastating punch to Roman tactical doctrine. Reliefs from Trajan’s Column depict these machines in action during the Dacian Wars, highlighting their use in siege warfare. Manned by legionaries trained in both construction and combat, bolt-shooters reflect the dual nature of Roman soldiers as engineers and warriors — a defining characteristic of Rome’s military success.