The Russian Napoleonic army underwent massive organisational changes in 1805, and the revamping of the artillery arm was a vital part of this as it was considered the most important branch of the Russian army at the time.

Count Arakcheyev’s reforms had led to a standardisation of gun types so the army could rely upon a uniform selection of 6-pounder and 12-pounder guns and the 10-pounder and 20-pounder Licornes. In conjunction with the Karbanov gun sight (the most advanced of its time) Russian artillery was a match for any enemy.

The Licorne (or Unicorn in English) was a different breed of gun to its French howitzer counterpart. It was a uniquely Russian design, being a hybrid howitzer with a long barrel and chambering that allowed a flatter trajectory and improved range and accuracy. They came as quite a nasty surprise for Napoleon’s veterans.

Contains 1 Metal gun and 4 crew