Quick answer
For most 28mm wargame armies, start with Plastic Bases Set 1 for standard infantry (20mm squares) and Plastic Bases Set 2 for larger figures or command stands (40mm squares).
Why base size matters for your army
Base size affects how your miniatures rank up, fit on movement trays, and interact with terrain. A 20mm square base suits rank-and-file infantry in close order, while 40mm bases work for cavalry, monsters, or single command figures that need more presence on the tabletop.
The trade-off: larger bases give you more room for scenic basing but reduce the number of figures you can fit in a given frontage. Smaller bases let you pack more models into a unit but offer less space for creative dioramas.
Decision rules for choosing plastic bases
- Infantry in close formation: Use 20mm square bases (from Plastic Bases Set 1) for standard foot troops like hoplites, legionaries, or Napoleonic line infantry. This keeps unit frontage consistent with common rulesets.
- Cavalry, monsters, or command stands: Choose 40mm square bases (from Plastic Bases Set 2) for single cavalry figures, large monsters, or officers you want to stand out. The extra space makes basing details easier. Check your ruleset for base size requirements before committing to a full army.
- Mixed unit basing: If your army uses multiple base sizes (e.g., 20mm for rank and file, 40mm for command), buy both sets. Plastic Bases Set 1 covers most small bases, while Set 2 handles the larger ones. Buying both sets together saves you from ordering separate packs later.
Product facts
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Plastic Bases Set 1: Plastic Bases Set 1 includes 80 x 20mm square bases, 16 x 20x40mm bases, and 12 x 25x50mm bases on 4 frames. This variety covers standard infantry, small command stands, and cavalry or skirmishers, making it a versatile starter set for most historical armies.
Plastic Bases Set 1
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Plastic Bases Set 2: Plastic Bases Set 2 provides 48 bases, each 40mm x 40mm, designed for 28mm scale miniatures. The larger 40mm squares are ideal for single larger models, command figures, or scenic bases where you want extra room for tufts and terrain details.
Plastic Bases Set 2
Which set fits your army?
Best for
- Players building historical 28mm armies with standard infantry (use Plastic Bases Set 1 for 20mm squares)
- Wargamers needing large bases for cavalry, monsters, or scenic command stands (use Plastic Bases Set 2 for 40mm squares)
Not for
- Games requiring round or irregular base shapes (these are square only)
- Players who need pre-slotted bases for figure tabs (these are flat plastic)
