"TSATF question ?" Topic

Can a unit that is being charged, fire into the charging unit? If so when would that unit do this, before the test to stand or charge completion test?

Before the test to stand.

That way they may just gun down the attackers before they roll to make contact.

VCarter, I thought they had to pass the "To Stand" test before they could do defensive fire?

In the 20th page 26 – section b target designation item 2 – The closest threatening enemy unit (… within weapons range or closing into Close Combat).

The only firing during close combat is natives throwing spears. Now, if I could just remember the spears when I game.

They have to pass the "To Stand" test ONLY when (if) the chargers close. That comes after firing.
If a unit is charged BEFORE their card comes up, they must test (Critical Morale) if they wish to move to react to the charge. If they fail, they take the charge in the formation they started in. This reaction may be to fall back out of charge reach. (We always see if the charge move used up all the movement dice. If a die is left over, then the chargers may move that already rolled die (dice) to finish their move.)
We do not allow the charged unit to move into square, but they may move into a line. If they condense into a 2-deep line, second rank may not fire, but may participate in melee.

If the unit fails the Critical Morale test when charged, only figures eligible to fire may fire.

At least, that's how we interpret and play.

To clarify, the Firing phase comes BEFORE the "To close" melee phase.
And all movement comes before firing.

Winston, well said, and correct sir.

With the firing exception for native spears. The spears are only fired (thrown) when the natives actually come into close combat.

By the way, there is no such thing as "defensive fire".
All firing is just firing, and of course the order is determined by card flip. It is not simultaneous.
With the exception of throwing spears, of course. Only units armed with spears (duh!) can throw them, and ONLY if they passed their roll to close.
So, spears are not a normal missile weapon, like rifles. They are almost exactly like Roman pila.

And this is where some strategery comes in. You want your most important units to shoot first. However, if their only target shoots first, don't fire right back for revenge! It can now wait until later. Your shooting should next be at a unit you can damage who can damage you.
Save a unit's fire that has already been hit for later if it has already taken all the shots that are possible.

Thank you for the clarification.