Whether it's a metal Warhammer creature or a fine metal tank model, most metal miniatures will have mold lines and imperfections from when it was forged. They can form a small ridge where the miniature's two mold casts meet and little bumps or tags on the surface of the model. It's good to remove them for a clean finish to your model and for safety - sometimes the metal tags can be sharp - so here's how.
Step 1
Locate the mold line on the model or miniature. It will run in a continuous ridge around the model and is usually easy to find. In addition to the mold line will usually be metal tags, also from the forging process, which can be found as small bumps or long tags particularly on the extremities of the miniature. If you cut the model from a metal sprue, (a metal frame which metal models can be attached to for easier shipping), then you may also want to locate the areas on the model where you clipped it from.
Step 2
Gather all the equipment you will need to complete the task, including a pair of model clippers, a metal file, a brush and a sheet or tray to catch any bits of falling metal you may drop. For the clippers, wire cutters are not suitable as they will not give you as clean a cut, or as precise, as you will need - suitable model clippers are available from most hobby or model stores. A range of metal files is also recommended as different parts of the model may benefit from a different shape. Additionally, you may wish to use a magnifying glass to better see the model. A dust mask should also be worn if the area you are working in is windy as the metal dust may get disturbed.
Step 3
Clip off any metal tags around the model or large chunks of metal overhang. Be careful not to clip off actual parts of the model. There are usually a few metal tags on every model in addition to the mold line.
Step 4
Hold the model in one hand and with the other, select a metal file and bring it to the mold line you wish to remove. Only do this after all metal tags have been removed, as it makes it easier to handle the model.
Step 5
Gently run the metal file against the mold line, careful not to go too deep and damage the miniature. Do not keep the file in one place for too long - move it along and through the mold line until it has been removed.
Step 6
Follow the mold line around the miniature, filing bits of it off as you go. Some parts of the model may be more delicate than others, so take care and adjust the pressure you are placing on the file. Remember, the mold line goes the whole way around the model and links back up to where you started, so the mold line will only be removed when you reach the part of the model where you began the process.
Step 7
Brush off any loose bits of metal dust or pieces that are still on the model or your fingers into the tray or sheet you have set up - then throw this excess metal in the bin.
