Miniature Base Size Converter
Base diameter (mm)
25.4
Size category
Small
How it works
Miniature base sizing is standardized by game system, but older models or models from different manufacturers often need rebasing. The Miniature Base Size Converter calculates the equivalent base diameter across common systems and recommended base footprint for a given miniature body size.
**Common base standards** Warhammer 40K: infantry 25mm, elites/cavalry 32mm, large models 40 to 65mm, vehicles 60 to 105mm oval. Age of Sigmar: infantry 25 to 32mm, heroes 40mm, monsters 60 to 130mm. D&D/Pathfinder: medium creatures 1-inch (25mm) bases, large 2-inch (50mm), huge 3-inch (75mm). Flames of War: infantry squad bases 20mm x 45mm.
**Rebasing considerations** Base size affects gameplay: too-small bases for large models give unfair footprint advantages in tight terrain. Check tournament rules for official base size requirements before rebasing models for competition.
**Base materials** Plastic bases (supplied with models): lightweight, easy to paint. MDF laser-cut bases: flat and stable, good for dioramas. Resin bases: detailed textures (cobblestone, dungeon floor, rubble). Magnetic bases: attach to steel-lined carry cases for transport.
**Converting between metric and imperial** Older models used inch-based bases. Many hobby shops stock both; 25mm and 1-inch are effectively interchangeable in most gaming contexts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Yes, significantly. In movement-based wargames (Warhammer, Kings of War, Bolt Action), base size determines how many models can fit in a unit formation, how models move through terrain gaps, and charge distances (measured from base edge). Larger bases are disadvantaged in narrow terrain gaps; smaller bases give unfair reach advantages when measuring attack range from base edge. Most tournament rule packs specify official base sizes and prohibit undersized bases on large models. When buying older second-hand miniatures that were sold without bases, look up the current official base size for that model's current rules edition — sizes are sometimes updated between editions.
- Most plastic and some metal miniatures are attached to their original base with plastic cement or super glue. Removal techniques: for super glue (cyanoacrylate) — freeze the model and base in the freezer for 30 minutes, then use a thin, flexible knife to pry the bond. Super glue becomes brittle when frozen. For plastic cement (solvent bond) — the bond is usually stronger; soak in 91% isopropyl alcohol for 30–60 minutes, which softens the glue. For resin models: use acetone-free nail polish remover (test in inconspicuous area first). After removing, clean residue from both surfaces before gluing to new base. Use two-part epoxy for large metal models — super glue alone may not hold heavy metal on a flat plastic base.
- Texture: Citadel and Army Painter texture paints (pre-mixed sand/grit acrylic paste, applied with a brush). Fine sand or model railroad ballast (glued with diluted PVA, sealed after drying). Greenstuff or brown stuff (two-part epoxy putty, sculpt stone/cobblestone/bark texture while pliable). Ready-made resin or plastic bases (purchased pre-textured). Scenic materials: static grass (electrostatic fibers applied over PVA for standing grass effect), tufts (pre-made clumps, peel-and-stick or glue-on), model railroad foliage, small pebbles. Depth technique: prime and paint the base before gluing static grass or tufts — the visible painted base under vegetation creates depth. Paint earth tones, then dry brush with lighter colors before adding static grass.
- Coins are popular alternatives to plastic bases — they add weight stability (especially for top-heavy metal miniatures), are cheap, and come in standardized sizes. Common conversions: US penny = 19mm (close to 20mm standard). US nickel = 21mm. US quarter = 24mm (close to 25mm). 1 euro cent = 16mm. 2 euro cent = 18mm. 10 pence (UK) = 24.5mm (close to 25mm). 50 pence (UK) = 27.3mm (close to 25mm). Copper coins prime and paint well; nickel-coated coins need light sanding or an adhesion promoter before priming. For tournament play, coins are usually acceptable as bases if they match the required diameter — check your specific game's rules.