Characteristics of Resins and Their Influence on Printing for Wargaming: Our Experience

Resin 3D printing has transformed how wargamers create miniatures, terrain, and custom accessories. By offering precise detail and smooth finishes, it can rival traditional manufacturing methods. Below, we share our top resin picks and key tips to help you get the best results for your tabletop projects

1. Our Go-To Resins

Anycubic Standard Resin (Black)

• Why We Use It: Affordable, easy to clean, and produces non-sticky prints. Despite its budget-friendly price, it maintains good detail.

• Ideal For: Large batches of infantry or terrain where cost can add up. The black color also helps you see small details before painting.

Anycubic ABS-Like Resin Pro 2 (Black)

• Why We Use It: Significantly tougher and less brittle than standard resin. Its slightly flexible, rubber-like finish prevents damage during handling or shipping.

• Ideal For: Fragile parts (thin banners or weapons) and models often transported or mailed.

Elegoo Standard Resin 8K (Grey)

• Why We’re Switching: Provides “showcase-level” detail designed for high-resolution printers—models look almost injection-molded. The grey color is excellent for photography and spotting surface flaws.

• Ideal For: Centerpiece minis or high-end terrain where crisp detail and a professional look matter most.

2. Key Factors for Wargaming Resins

1. Cost vs. Quantity: If you’re printing entire armies, an affordable resin like Anycubic Standard keeps expenses low.

2. Durability: Choose tougher, flexible resins (e.g., ABS-like) for minis that will be handled frequently.

3. Detail Level: Ultra-detailed prints call for specialized resins like Elegoo 8K.

4. Color: Black helps highlight details before painting, while grey is perfect for photography and a professional finish.

5. Printer Compatibility: Always verify that your resin matches your printer’s specifications (wavelength, power, etc.).

3. Tips for Great Prints

• Layer Heights: Use 0.02–0.03 mm for detailed minis; larger terrain can go 0.05 mm or higher to save time.

• Exposure Calibration: Every resin has unique curing needs; small test prints help you avoid over- or under-curing.

• Support Placement: Resin minis often feature complex geometry. Balance enough supports for stability with easy removal to protect fine details.

• Post-Processing: Rinse prints in isopropyl alcohol, cure under UV light, then sand and prime.

• Safety: Wear gloves, ensure good ventilation, and store resins in opaque containers to block UV exposure.

4. Final Thoughts

Choosing the right resin depends on budget, durability needs, and desired level of detail. Anycubic Standard is cost-effective for bulk printing, ABS-Like adds flexibility and resilience, and Elegoo 8K delivers premium detail for showcase pieces. By understanding these resins’ strengths and fine-tuning your printer settings, you can consistently produce high-quality, tabletop-ready miniatures that stand out on the battlefield.