i think the photo doesnt do it justice ... its just too close and makes it look sloppy. i like the scheme and think a squad of these would look nice on the table. paintjob + base + scheme = 6 points + 1 to push the score up, as this mini is good tabletop standard!
First of all this is definety a 5 and im not being mean:)
OK i think you have to go and review some of the basics.
Thinning paint is a major one and can make or break a mini(or in this case make it cool or not :) ) Dont want to spend money on thinners (like me) Water is perfect!!!
The blending on the sword looks pretty good it looks as though that you have skill.
The base is simple but perfect. An overloading base can distract attention from the mini so this is good.
The thing that i dont really like is that it look a bit rushed. Like you slapped the paint on. Put some time in it if you want to get a better score. Put more time into layering. Highlighting and things and then you will get over an 8.
Hope this helps and please dont take this as if i am being mean, nasty whatever cause im not.
Goodluck and post future minis
I think its definatly not under five the whole mini is painted no spots left some highlighting and the base is done.
I would thinn my paints more research extenders and flowimprovers they are great try to experiment and go higher with the highlights on highpoints