Wargame conversion kits are specialized sets of parts designed to modify or enhance tabletop miniatures. These kits allow hobbyists to change the appearance, weaponry, or poses of their models beyond what is available in a standard box. Whether you are looking to create a unique hero or represent a specific faction from a book, conversion kits provide the necessary tools for deep customization.
What Are Wargame Conversion Kits?
A conversion kit typically includes a variety of components such as heads, weapons, shoulder pads, or decorative items. These parts are designed to be compatible with existing miniature lines, such as those found in popular sci-fi or fantasy wargames. Instead of building a model exactly as the instructions show, you swap out original parts for these specialized alternatives.
There are two primary ways hobbyists approach this: “kitbashing” and using dedicated conversion kits. Kitbashing involves taking parts from several different official model kits and mixing them together. Conversion kits, however, are usually standalone products created specifically to fit onto a particular model type to change its theme or function.
Why Use Conversion Kits?
The primary reason for using these kits is personalization. In many wargames, players may have armies that look very similar to one another. Using conversion kits ensures that your units stand out on the tabletop, giving your army a distinct personality that reflects your creative vision.
Another common reason is to represent specific lore. Many wargames have deep backstories with sub-factions that do not have their own official models. Conversion kits allow players to build these specific groups by adding thematic elements, such as unique helmets or specialized gear, to standard infantry units.
Finally, conversion kits can be a cost-effective way to create rare or expensive units. Instead of buying a high-priced character model, a hobbyist might use a conversion kit to turn a standard soldier into a decorated leader. This flexibility makes the hobby more accessible and allows for greater variety in army composition.
Common Materials Used in Kits
When shopping for conversion kits, you will likely encounter three main types of materials. Each material requires different tools and adhesives for the best results.
- Plastic: Most official kits are made of high-impact polystyrene. These are easy to cut and can be glued using plastic cement, which creates a very strong bond by slightly melting the surfaces together.
- Resin: Many third-party conversion kits are made of resin. Resin allows for high levels of detail but is more brittle than plastic. You must use super glue (cyanoacrylate) because plastic cement will not work on resin.
- 3D Printed Parts: With the rise of home 3D printing, many kits are now sold as resin prints. These behave similarly to traditional resin but may require some extra cleaning to remove support structures used during the printing process.
Essential Tools for Converting Models
To successfully use a conversion kit, you will need a few basic hobby tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your modifications look seamless and professional.
Hobby Clippers: Also known as side cutters, these are used to remove parts from the plastic or resin frame (sprues). Look for a pair with a flat edge to get the cleanest cut possible.
Hobby Knife: A sharp craft knife is essential for scraping away mold lines and trimming excess material. Always cut away from your body to ensure safety.
Files and Sandpaper: Small needle files or high-grit sandpaper help smooth out the surfaces where you have cut or trimmed a part. This is especially important for resin parts, which can have small imperfections.
Epoxy Putty: Often referred to as “Green Stuff,” this two-part putty is used to fill gaps between the new conversion part and the original model. It hardens over time and can be sculpted to look like fur, cloth, or armor plates.
How to Use a Conversion Kit: Step-by-Step
Converting a model may seem intimidating, but following a structured process makes it manageable for beginners. Here is a simple guide to getting started.
1. Plan Your Build
Before applying any glue, look at the parts you have and decide where they will go. It is helpful to look at photos of finished models for inspiration. Ensure the scale of the conversion parts matches the scale of your base model.
2. Clean the Parts
If you are using resin parts, wash them in warm, soapy water and let them dry completely. This removes any “mold release” agent left over from the manufacturing process, which can prevent paint and glue from sticking. For plastic parts, simply trim away any excess bits of plastic left from the frame.
3. Dry Fitting
Hold the conversion part against the model without glue to see how it fits. You may need to trim the original model or the conversion piece with your hobby knife to get a flush fit. Dry fitting is the most important step to prevent mistakes.
4. Assembly
Apply a small amount of the appropriate glue. For resin-to-plastic joins, use super glue. For plastic-to-plastic joins, use plastic cement. Hold the pieces firmly for a few seconds until the bond begins to set.
5. Filling Gaps
Sometimes a conversion part won’t fit perfectly, leaving a small visible crack. Mix a small amount of epoxy putty and press it into the gap. Use a damp tool or toothpick to smooth the putty until it is level with the surrounding surface.
Where to Find Conversion Kits
There are many sources for conversion kits, ranging from major manufacturers to independent artists. Knowing where to look depends on what kind of game you play and the level of customization you want.
Official Manufacturers: Some game companies sell “upgrade sprues” for their most popular factions. These are guaranteed to fit perfectly and are usually made of the same high-quality plastic as the base models.
Third-Party Companies: Many independent companies specialize in creating “alternative” parts for popular wargames. These are often highly thematic, such as medieval-style heads for sci-fi soldiers or specialized weapons for fantasy knights.
Online Marketplaces: Websites like Etsy and Shapeways host hundreds of independent designers who sell 3D-printed conversion kits. This is a great place to find very niche items that larger companies do not produce.
Safety Considerations
While converting models is a safe hobby, there are two main things to keep in mind. First, always be careful with hobby knives; they are extremely sharp and can easily slip if you apply too much pressure.
Second, if you are sanding or filing resin parts, wear a dust mask or sand the parts while they are wet. Resin dust is an irritant and should not be inhaled. Always work in a well-ventilated area and clean up your workspace afterward to remove any fine particles.
Conclusion
Wargame conversion kits are a fantastic way to elevate your hobby and create a miniature collection that is truly your own. By understanding the materials, using the right tools, and taking a patient approach to assembly, you can transform standard models into unique works of art. Whether you are adding a simple head swap or performing a major overhaul, the results will make your time on the tabletop even more rewarding.
For more tips on enhancing your hobby experience, explore our articles on how to prime miniatures for painting and choosing the right tabletop gaming terrain.