Essential Hobby Tools for every Wargamer

Essential Hobby Tools Every Wargamer Needs for Assembly & Customization

When it comes to building epic wargaming armies, having the right tools can make all the difference. Whether you’re assembling miniatures straight out of the box or diving into custom kitbashing projects, a solid hobby toolkit is a must. Here are the essential tools every wargamer should have and why they matter. Now you might be thinking to your self, " I dont want to drop a lot of money on tools" I couldn't agree more. So for me I picked some cheaper options and some of these I had laying around the house from a hardware store and other places like Amazon and Walmart. Be sure to check out our next article where we cover some great options for the tools we cover here.

1. Hobby Knife (X-Acto Knife)

• Precision Cutting: Great for trimming mold lines and fine detailing.

• Versatility: Works on plastic, resin, and even paper for basing projects.

• Control: Allows for detailed modifications during kitbashing.

Best For: Cleaning up miniatures before priming and cutting parts for custom models.

Example: Very useful cleaning up those thicker mold lines or for making precision cuts for projects. I find it most useful when scratch building terrain. For an example check out the video we have on our YouTube Channel

2. Sprue Cutters

• Clean Cuts: Designed for cutting miniatures off sprues without damaging pieces. As a rule of thumb the closer to the model you can get the better. A flush cut is always easier to clean up with your hobby blade or hobby files.

• Time-Saving: Faster and safer than twisting parts off by hand. When I first got started I did this and my hands and fingers would be so sore and scratchy for days after. Do your self a favor and get a good pair!

• Essential for Kitbashing: Cuts parts cleanly for easier reassembly. I made some custom weapon hoses for my Infernous Space Marines and had a much easier time clipping off the bits with my Spue Cutters.

Best For: Removing parts from plastic model kits and separating weapons or limbs for conversions.

Example: Really good for kitbashing projects such as adding all the spiky weapons and armor panels to Ork vehicles and barbed wire barricades.

3. Plastic Glue (or Super Glue)

• Strong Bonds: Creates a chemical weld on plastic models.

• Precision Application: Allows controlled use for small parts.

• Essential for Assembly: A must-have for keeping models secure.

Best For: Assembling miniatures, including infantry and vehicle models. Now for many people this is a personal choice but I have found that using the right glue does matter depending on the material your model kits are made of. For example Platic cement is not going to work on pewter or metal models. CA glue or super glue would be the better option here. Brand doesnt really matter either. I do recommend that you get one with a precision applicator to help with the mess and your less likely to glue your fingers together... " Not speaking from experience here lol"

4. Hobby Files

• Surface Smoothing: Removes rough edges left by sprue cutters.

• Detail Preservation: Keeps fine details intact while smoothing surfaces.

• Kitbashing Use: Prepares parts for seamless joins in conversions.

Best For: Cleaning up mold lines and prepping parts for painting.

Example: I use my files for each and every model kit. An absolute must have in my opinion. Soft sanding sticks work just as well and it depends again on your own personal choice but whichever way you choose just know that these will be super useful in getting your models to a pristine condition and ready for paint.

5. Green Stuff (Epoxy Putty)

• Customization: Perfect for sculpting new details.

• Gap Filling: Ideal for filling gaps between assembled parts.

• Versatility: Can create custom armor, cloaks, or bases.

Best For: Conversions and adding extra details to models.

Example: I use this often when filling gaps on older model kits that may not fit together well and for sculpting little modifications to some of the kits. While not an everyday used tool its really good to have some on hand, especially if you get a but too carried away when attempting those kitbash projects.

Final Thoughts

These five tools are absolute game-changers for wargamers. From assembly to customization, they empower you to create unique and battle-ready armies. No matter which brands you choose you cant go wrong with these tools. So get out there and build more Minis!