Building Your First Army on a Budget

So, you’re ready to dive into the world of tabletop wargaming but the thought of the cost is making your wallet weep? Fear not, aspiring general! Building an army doesn't have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and some clever tactics, you can field a formidable force without emptying your savings. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to build your first army on a budget.

1. Choose Your Game Wisely

Different wargames come with different price tags. Before you get invested in a particular faction or aesthetic, research the cost of entry. Games with smaller model counts or less complex rules often require less initial investment. Consider games like:

Kill Team: A skirmish version of Warhammer 40,000, requiring a small squad instead of a full army.
Warhammer Underworlds: A card-driven miniatures game with pre-built warbands, offering a quick and affordable way to get started.
Historical Wargames (e.g., Bolt Action): Depending on the scale, these can be relatively inexpensive, especially if you opt for smaller engagements.

2. Start Small and Expand Gradually

The temptation to buy everything at once is strong, but resist! Begin with a core unit or two that forms the backbone of your army. As you play games and learn the rules, you'll get a better sense of what units you enjoy using and what your army needs. This prevents you from buying models that end up collecting dust on a shelf.

3. Embrace the Secondhand Market

Online marketplaces, local gaming groups, and hobby stores often have secondhand models for sale. These can be significantly cheaper than buying new miniatures. Be patient, browse regularly, and you might just find the perfect unit at a bargain price. Just be sure to inspect the models carefully before purchasing, looking for damage or missing parts.

4. Explore Alternative Miniature Options

Official miniatures can be expensive. Consider these alternatives:

3D Printing: If you have access to a 3D printer (or know someone who does), you can print your own miniatures for a fraction of the cost. Numerous websites offer free or inexpensive STL files for wargaming models.
Proxy Models: Use models from other games or even repurposed toys as stand-ins for the official miniatures. Just make sure they're clearly distinguishable and that your opponent is okay with it.
Papercraft or Cardboard Miniatures: A very budget-friendly option, especially for terrain or large units. Numerous templates are available online.

5. Master the Art of Painting

A well-painted army looks impressive, regardless of the models' price. Invest in a basic set of paints, brushes, and some primer. Watch online tutorials and practice your painting techniques. A cohesive paint scheme can tie together models from different sources and make your army look like a unified force. A base coating, wash, and highlight can do wonders.

6. Make Your Own Terrain

Terrain is essential for creating an immersive wargaming experience, but it can be expensive to buy pre-made pieces. Fortunately, terrain is easy to make yourself using inexpensive materials like:

Foam board: For building walls, hills, and platforms.
Cardboard boxes: For creating buildings and structures.
Sand, gravel, and flocking: For adding texture and detail to your terrain.
Craft sticks and skewers: For creating fences and barricades.

7. Prioritize Rulebooks and Codexes

While models are important, you can't play the game without the rules! Prioritize purchasing the core rulebook and any faction-specific codexes or army books. You can often find digital versions of these books at a lower price than physical copies.

8. Play with Friends and Share Resources

Team up with friends who are also interested in wargaming. Share rulebooks, terrain, and even models. You can split the cost of expensive items or trade units with each other. Playing with friends makes the hobby more enjoyable and affordable.

9. Be Patient and Persistent

Building an army on a budget takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't have a fully painted, tournament-ready force overnight. Focus on enjoying the process of collecting, building, and painting your models. With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can create a fantastic army that you're proud to field without breaking the bank. Happy wargaming!