Cutting the Heads (or other bitz) off of Metal Minis

[The_Universe]

I'm working on attempting to modify a couple of WH40K minis for use in a sueprs game, and I'd like to try to replace the head on at least one of the minis in question. Unfortunately, this mini came with a head pre-attached (unlike a good many 40K minis), which means that this is not simply a matter of choose and swap. I need to cut the head off of a fairly solid pewter miniature before proceeding.

How do I do that? Do I need a dremel or rotary tool? Can it be done with a hobby knife? What do you experts use? Any and all advice appreciated!

 

[Saba Taru]

Having worked with Warhammer figures for several years now, I can say that under NO circumstances should you use anything that is dremel-esque on a metal mini. I've had them start to melt before I figured that one out. It wasn't pretty.

That said, the easiest thing I've found to do what you want is a jeweler's saw. Most hobby stores sell them, and I'm pretty sure that Games Workshop also sells one, but they're usually more expensive than a generic hobby store one will be. Just be prepared to use lots of files and green stuff until you master the saw. It took some screw-ups, but was worth it, in my opinion.

I'm also certain there are other ways to do it. The above is just what happens to work best for me.

Saba


[EDIT] I should probably also mention that for smaller snips off of metal minis it's ok to use an old pair of "metal/wire snips" like the ones GW sells (the yellow handled ones). Its usually best to have one pair for metal, one for plastic, and one from a hardware store for those tough jobs that would break the other two.

 

[Ursa Romanov]

I beg to differ on the dremel thing. I have been painting minis professionally for nearly 20 years and I use a dremmel all the time. I also use a jewlers saw, wire cutters, and even nail clippers. All have their uses and functions. Hell I have even used a mitter saw a time or two expecially on heads between raised arms.