Quick answer
Metal miniatures offer superior durability and a satisfying heft, while plastic figures excel in fine detail and ease of conversion. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize a model that can survive drops or one that allows intricate customization.
Why material choice matters for wargamers
The material of your miniatures affects not just how they look on the table, but also how they handle during assembly, painting, and gameplay. Metal figures like those from Sarissa Precision's Test of Honour and 02 Hundred Hours ranges are cast in pewter or white metal, giving them a dense feel that plastic kits rarely match. Plastic, on the other hand, is lighter and easier to modify with simple tools.
There is no single 'best' material. Each has strengths that suit different play styles and hobby preferences. Understanding the trade-offs helps you pick the right models for your next project.
Durability: metal wins for hard knocks
Metal miniatures are notoriously tough. Drop one on a hard floor and it will likely survive with only a bent spear or sword that you can gently bend back. Plastic models, especially those made from softer polystyrene, can snap or crack under the same impact. For armies that see frequent transport or rough handling, metal wargaming figures are a reliable choice.
That said, metal's weight can be a downside. A full metal army may strain your carrying case and can be more tiring to move around the table during long games.
Detail and assembly: plastic offers more precision
Plastic injection molding allows for extremely crisp details, undercuts, and complex poses that are difficult to achieve with metal casting. Plastic kits also come with multiple options for arms, heads, and weapons, making conversions straightforward. Metal figures, by contrast, are often cast as single pieces or a few parts, limiting pose variety and requiring pinning for larger models.
However, metal's simplicity can be a benefit for beginners. Fewer parts mean less assembly time, and you do not need to deal with mold lines or sprue gates. The trade-off is that you sacrifice some detail and customization.
Metal vs Plastic: The key trade-offs
- Durability: Metal miniatures resist breaking from drops and impacts. Plastic models are more prone to cracks and snapped parts, especially thin components like swords or gun barrels. If you transport your army often or play with younger gamers, metal is the safer bet.
- Detail and customization: Plastic kits offer sharper detail, more pose options, and easier conversion. Metal figures have simpler assembly but limited pose variety and may require pinning for large models. Choose plastic if you enjoy kitbashing and fine detail painting. Choose metal for quick assembly and robust play.
- Weight and feel: Metal models feel substantial and have a satisfying heft. Plastic models are lighter, which can be an advantage for large armies where every gram counts in storage and transport. Consider your carrying capacity and personal preference for table presence.
Product facts: real metal miniatures from Sarissa Precision
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Test of Honour - Ashigaru Spearmen: This set contains 3 Ashigaru Spearmen, 2 Trait cards, 1 Quest card, and 1 Multi-base. Ashigaru spearmen were the backbone of samurai armies during the Sengoku period. These metal figures provide a durable core for your Test of Honour force, and the included cards add gameplay options without extra purchases.
Test of Honour - Ashigaru Spearmen
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02 Hundred Hours British Army Reinforcements 2: Reinforcements to fill out your British Army forces. This set contains 4 metal British Army troopers and bases. Models supplied unassembled and unpainted. Adding these metal troopers to your 02 Hundred Hours collection gives you sturdier defenders that can withstand repeated handling during tense urban scenarios.
02 Hundred Hours British Army Reinforcements 2
Which material fits your hobby style?
Best for
- Gamers who prioritize durability and want models that survive drops and rough handling
- Players who prefer minimal assembly and want to get models on the table quickly
Not ideal for
- Hobbyists who love converting models and need multiple pose options
- Anyone seeking the highest level of surface detail for display-quality painting
