Tabletop wargaming is a rewarding hobby that combines tactical strategy, historical interest, and artistic creativity. Whether you are a fan of sci-fi battles, fantasy quests, or historical recreations, having the right miniatures and terrain is essential for an immersive experience. Finding a reliable source for these items can sometimes be challenging, especially for beginners who are just starting their first army.
This guide provides a clear overview of where to buy wargaming miniatures, terrain, and the necessary supplies to build and paint your collection. From massive online retailers to specialized boutique shops, there are many options available to suit your specific needs and budget.
Top Online Retailers for Tabletop Wargaming
Online stores are often the most convenient way to browse thousands of products from different manufacturers in one place. These retailers typically offer competitive pricing and a wide selection of brands, making them a great starting point for any hobbyist.
General Hobby and Game Stores
Several large online retailers specialize specifically in tabletop games. These stores carry everything from popular mainstream systems to niche indie games. They often have robust search filters that allow you to sort by scale, genre, or manufacturer.
- Broad Selection: Look for retailers that stock multiple brands like Games Workshop, Warlord Games, and Mantic Games. This allows you to compare different styles and price points in a single order.
- Discounted Prices: Many large online shops offer a standard discount of 10% to 15% off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).
- Inventory Clearances: Check the “clearance” or “sale” sections of these sites frequently to find deep discounts on older editions or overstocked items.
Secondary and Out-of-Print Markets
Sometimes the specific miniature you need is no longer in production. In these cases, specialized secondary market retailers are invaluable. These shops buy used collections and resell them, providing a way to find rare or vintage models that are no longer available in standard retail stores.
Where to Buy Historical Wargaming Models
Historical wargaming covers everything from ancient Rome to the World Wars. Because historical models are not tied to a single intellectual property, many different companies produce figures for the same time periods. This variety gives players a lot of choices regarding material and detail level.
Plastic and Metal Miniature Manufacturers
Many historical wargamers prefer certain manufacturers based on the material of the models. Plastic miniatures are generally more affordable and easier to convert, while metal miniatures provide a classic weight and high level of detail.
- Hard Plastic Kits: Several companies specialize in multi-part plastic kits that allow you to build dozens of soldiers in various poses. These are the most cost-effective way to build large armies for games like Bolt Action or Black Powder.
- Metal Specialists: For specific characters or unique unit types, metal miniatures are often the preferred choice. Many UK-based companies are world leaders in producing highly accurate historical metal figures.
Finding High-Quality Terrain and Scenery
Terrain is what brings a tabletop battle to life. It provides cover for your troops and creates a visual narrative for your games. You can choose between ready-to-play pre-painted terrain or kits that you build and paint yourself.
Modular Plastic Terrain
Many companies sell plastic building kits that are modular. This means you can snap or glue the pieces together in different configurations to create unique layouts for every game. These kits are durable and hold paint very well.
Resin and 3D Printed Scenery
Resin terrain often features higher levels of organic detail, such as crumbling stone or wood grain. Additionally, the rise of 3D printing has opened up a massive market for digital files and physical prints. You can find many independent creators on craft marketplaces who sell high-quality 3D-printed ruins, trees, and scatter terrain.
Essential Tools and Painting Supplies
Once you have your miniatures, you will need the right tools to assemble and paint them. Using tools specifically designed for the hobby will prevent damage to your models and make the process much more enjoyable.
Assembly Tools
To get your models off the sprue and onto the base, you will need a few basic items. A pair of side cutters (clippers) is necessary for removing plastic parts cleanly. A hobby knife is used to trim away mold lines and excess material. Finally, you will need either plastic cement for plastic models or super glue for resin and metal models.
Paints and Brushes
Wargaming paints are different from standard craft paints because they have a higher pigment density, allowing them to cover small details without obscuring them. Look for dedicated hobby paint brands that offer sets for beginners. You will also need a few synthetic or sable brushes in various sizes, specifically a size 0 or 1 for general work and a larger brush for basecoating.
Supporting Your Local Game Store
While online shopping is convenient, your local game store (LGS) is a vital part of the wargaming community. These shops often provide tables where you can play games, meet other hobbyists, and participate in tournaments.
- Expert Advice: Staff at local stores are usually passionate hobbyists themselves and can offer great advice on which paints to use or how to start a specific army.
- Community Building: Shopping locally helps ensure that there is a physical space in your community for people to gather and play.
- Special Orders: If a store doesn’t have what you need in stock, they can often order it specifically for you from their distributors.
Finding the right place to buy your wargaming supplies is the first step toward building a collection you can be proud of. By exploring a mix of large online retailers, historical specialists, and your local game store, you can find the best deals and the highest quality models for your favorite games. Remember to start small, focus on one project at a time, and enjoy the process of bringing your miniature army to life. For more tips on getting started with tabletop hobbies, explore our other articles on game rules and painting techniques.