Using metal to convert plastic figures

[Ochoin]

Although I've converted lots of plastic figures, I've never used metal components before.

I bought (& painted!) a unit of Minifigs French SYW Grenadiers de France but they're just too big to use with my 20mm army: they look ridiculous.

However, their distinctive bearskins look useable.

The plan is to hacksaw them off & stick them onto the heads (de-tricorned) of Strelets' GNW dragoons to create German etranger cavalry suitable for the SYW. (such as Royal Allemand: http://www.kronoskaf.com/syw/index.php? ... _Cavalerie )

It seems fairly simple but I can't pin the hats as per usual so the glue seems vital.

2-part epoxy?

Any tips in general?

donald

[KGV]

Try and pin them, then use a tiny amount of superglue. Seems to work for me.

[C M Dodson]

Hi,

I use the high viscosity superglue, cyanoacrylate, which seems to do the job, but watch your fingers!

If it is a matter of effectively balancing the head/hat before the glue sets, try using plasticine to ram the subjects feet into first. You can then move your figure to get the right angle for applying the bit you need, otherwise gravity can be an issue.

Happy modelling.

Chris

[Ochoin]

Try and pin them, then use a tiny amount of superglue. Seems to work for me.

I think pinning metal, whilst desirable would be difficult.

donald

[KGV]

[quote="Ochoin"][/quote]

I think pinning metal, whilst desirable would be difficult.

donald[/quote

I use a pin vice. The difficult bit is holding the item you are trying to drill without putting a hole in your finger. Very useful, I'd be lost without it.

http://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/pin-vice-do ... 70267-1000

Don't forget the drillbits

[Ochoin]

KGV, I have a pin vise. An essential piece of kit.

I meant you can wiggle a plastic head/hat to ensure a perfect fit but a pin in metal will need (excuse this) pin point accuracy.

OK I'll give it a go on your say-so.

donald

[Ochoin]

I've been adding the metal heads to the plastic bodies over the last week.

I thought I'd try NOT pinning them.

So a small drop of super-glue to give nearly instant bond & some 2 part epoxy adhesive for long term. Wait a minimum of 24 hours & they are rock solid.

My 20 mm bearskinned SYW Etranger cavalry will be something special.

donald