Magnetizing infantry arms/weapons

[Bmseifer]

So I want to start using magnets and I need help.

 

What size(width and height in mm please) magnets do you use for arms and wrists on plastic infantry models(space marines)?

[Grotsmasha]

For arms, I use 2mm x 2mm round, amd 2mm (depth) x 1mm (round) for wrists, as it's the depth that gives strength. I would do wrists on Characters, Sergeants, and Special Weapons (Plas/Meta/Flamer etc), I would completely assemble Arms/Weapons/Back pack for heavies and magnetize the whole arms.

 

Cheers,

Jono

[Chaplain Raeven]

Agreed with Grosmasha, except for the heavies. It's easier to get some spare torsos (Assault kits have plenty of spares) and just magnetise them at the waist.

[NiceGuyAdi]

Just to add, when doing the wrist magnets, take your time:

 

- starting with the tip of a scalpel blade to make a small guide hole for the drill

- then drill out a pilot hole smaller than the magnet

- finally drill a larger hole to take the magnet.

 

There's not much room for error and if you just dive in with the big drill bit you're likely to chew out chunks of plastic you didn't want to.

 

(edit) and don't forget to match your polarity across the whole army, so everything is mix & match.

[Venerable Jazzman]

I did see a good idea on here recently to make the cut in the upper arm - a, it's hidden by the shoulder pad, and b, there's a lot more plastic to work with.
I'll see if i can find the thread, but Searchy on magnet and arm throws up a lot of hits! 

[Grotsmasha]

Also, be sure about polarity. Magnetise one set of arms/hands then use those to set the rest of your magnets. For example, put the magnet you are about to glue into a wrist onto the weapon bit and then apply glue and push it into place, it's a sure fire way to get it right every time. Just make sure your holes are a snug fit, and always drill a little deeper than you think, you could even put some painters tape on your drill bit to act as a depth guide.

 

Cheers,

Jono