How to Magnetise Warhammer Miniatures: A Complete Beginner's Guide
- Wix
- Jun 8
- 4 min read
If you've ever wished you could swap weapons, change loadouts, or transport your Warhammer army more safely, magnetising your miniatures is one of the most useful hobby skills you can learn.
Whether you're building your first Warhammer 40,000 army, expanding an Age of Sigmar force, or simply looking to future-proof your collection, magnetising allows you to customise your models without permanently gluing every option in place.
At Megathorium Models, we regularly help hobbyists find the right tools, magnets, and modelling supplies for their projects. If you're unsure where to start, our team is always happy to help.
Call us on 01621 220590, visit our shop, or email info@megathoriummodels.co.uk for expert advice.
What Does Magnetising a Warhammer Miniature Mean?
Magnetising involves embedding small neodymium magnets into your miniatures so that different parts can be attached and removed as needed.
Common examples include:
Swapping weapon options on Space Marines
Changing vehicle loadouts
Interchangeable arms and heads
Removable flying stands
Modular terrain pieces
Storage and transport solutions
Instead of buying multiple kits to represent different weapon choices, a magnetised model can adapt to changing army lists and new editions.
Why Magnetise Your Models?
Save Money
Many Warhammer kits come with multiple weapon options, but only enough parts to build one version. Magnetising allows you to use all available options from a single kit.
Future-Proof Your Army
Rules change regularly. A weapon that's powerful today might not be your best choice next year. Magnetised models can easily adapt without requiring a rebuild.
Easier Transportation
Magnetised bases can be attached securely to metal trays or carrying cases, reducing the chance of damage during transport.
Greater Hobby Flexibility
Want to experiment with different army lists? Magnetisation gives you the freedom to test new configurations without committing permanently.
What You'll Need
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
Neodymium magnets
Pin vice hand drill
Hobby knife
Super glue
Marker pen
Ruler or calipers
Spare sprue for testing
The most common magnet sizes for Warhammer miniatures are:
Use | Typical Magnet Size |
Infantry Arms | 2mm x 1mm |
Space Marine Shoulders | 3mm x 2mm |
Vehicle Weapons | 5mm x 2mm |
Large Monsters | 5mm+ |
If you're not sure which magnets are right for your project, drop into Megathorium Models and we'll help you choose the correct size for your army.
Need advice before buying? Call 01621 220590 or email info@megathoriummodels.co.uk and we'll point you in the right direction.
Step 1: Plan Before You Drill
Before reaching for the drill, decide exactly which parts you want to swap.
Look carefully at:
Weapon options
Arm positions
Vehicle turrets
Flying stands
Large accessories
Dry-fit the components first to understand how they connect.
Planning ahead will help avoid mistakes and ensure your magnets are positioned correctly.
Step 2: Mark Magnet Polarity
This is the most important step.
Nothing is more frustrating than gluing magnets in backwards and discovering your model repels itself.
A simple trick:
Stack your magnets together.
Mark one side of the entire stack with a permanent marker.
Always keep the marked side facing the same direction throughout the project.
Consistency is key.
Step 3: Drill the Recess
Using a pin vice, carefully drill a hole slightly deeper than the thickness of your magnet.
Take your time:
Drill slowly
Test fit regularly
Avoid forcing the drill
Remove plastic gradually
The goal is for the magnet to sit flush with the surface.
Step 4: Glue the Magnet
Place a small amount of super glue into the hole and carefully insert the magnet.
Check polarity one final time before pressing it into place.
Allow the glue to cure fully before attaching any components.
Step 5: Test the Connection
Once both magnets are installed:
Check alignment
Test strength
Ensure the parts sit naturally
Make adjustments before painting
A properly magnetised component should hold firmly while remaining easy to swap.
Common Beginner Mistakes
Using Weak Magnets
Cheap magnets often lack the holding power required for larger models.
Forgetting Polarity
Always double-check before gluing.
Drilling Too Deep
A hole that's too deep can weaken the connection.
Magnetising Everything
Not every component needs a magnet. Focus on parts you'll genuinely swap during games.
Best Models for Beginners to Magnetise
If you're new to the process, consider starting with:
Space Marine weapon options
Terminator arms
Dreadnought weapons
Tank turrets
Monster heads and arms
These kits generally provide large, forgiving contact points that make learning easier.
Transporting Magnetised Miniatures
One of the biggest advantages of magnetising is improved transportation.
Many hobbyists attach magnetic sheets or steel plates to storage boxes, allowing armies to remain upright and secure during travel.
This reduces wear on paint jobs and lowers the risk of breakages compared to traditional foam storage.
Final Thoughts
Magnetising Warhammer miniatures may seem intimidating at first, but it's a skill that quickly pays for itself. With a few basic tools, a little patience, and the right magnets, you'll gain greater flexibility, save money on duplicate kits, and make transporting your collection much easier.
Whether you're building your first army or upgrading a veteran collection, magnetisation is one of the most rewarding hobby techniques you can learn.
Need Help With Your Hobby Project?
At Megathorium Models, we're passionate about helping hobbyists get the most from their collections. We stock a wide range of paints, tools, modelling supplies, and hobby essentials, and our knowledgeable team is always happy to offer advice.
Visit us in-store, call us on 01621 220590, or email info@megathoriummodels.co.uk to discuss your next project.
Whether you need magnets, hobby tools, painting supplies, or expert guidance, Megathorium Models is here to help bring your imagination to life.
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