Materials and Construction
Originally miniatures were produced using a white metal alloy including lead, although in 1987 Citadel began to produce plastic miniatures as well under the name "Psychostyrene" and "Drastik Plastik". These were made of a harder plastic than other plastic miniatures at time and allowed for greater detailed sculpting. Citadel has continued to produce white metal miniatures as the economics of plastic make it only suitable for large runs. Some models are a combination of both materials, with the arm-less bodies and heads metal and the arms, weapons and other accessories plastic.
In 1997 Citadel switched to a lead free white metal because of concerns about lead poisoning particularly in children.
Most of the models created by Citadel require some form of construction after purchase. With smaller models this usually involves attaching arms, weapons and the base. Larger models come in many pieces and require more construction.
On May 16, 2011, Games Workshop announced a new range of Citadel models known as Citadel Finecast. The new range of models are made out of high-quality resin, and were released on the 28th May 2011. All of the models that have been shown are resin versions of Citadel's lead-free white metal models, but are much lighter and more durable than their metal equivalents, as well as being of a higher level of detail than any other Citadel miniature currently available. However it is possible that the quality of these models aren't actually as good as Games Workshop intended. As many people have pointed out, they have many flaws. Usually the models come with defects in them, such as bent weapons, lots of additional flash etc. The most significant concern is reports of high number of models that have casting flaws, such as bubbles, that completely obliterate detail, requiring resculpting to ensure the model is complete. This has angered many customers and earned the range the nickname 'Failcast'. Wayland Games, a retailer in UK, includes the following note on Finecast on their website:
"Note: If you wish to purchase any Finecast products please accept that this is a product for experienced modellers only and that some remedial effort is required due to the nature of the material and manufacturing techniques. If in doubt please do not purchase."
Read more about this topic: Citadel Miniatures
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