In brief
15mm scale is widely used in historical wargaming, but the relationship between millimetre scale and ratio scale often causes confusion. Many players assume 15mm equals 1:100, yet the conversion depends on how miniature height is measured. This article explains how 15mm scale translates into ratio scale and why those numbers can vary between figure ranges.
We measure our 15 mm figures from the sole of the foot to the bridge of the nose. On a standing figure, that measurement is 15 mm, excluding the base and headgear.
Using these fixed anatomical points gives us consistent measurements regardless of hairstyle, helmets or tall shakos. It also gives you a practical way to compare our figures with those already in your collection.
The relationship between 15 mm and 1:100 needs a little explanation. One describes a figure’s height; the other describes how much the subject has been reduced.
How 15 mm converts to a ratio
Our scale guide uses a reference adult measurement of 1,610 mm at eye level. Divide that by the figure’s sole-to-nose measurement to calculate an approximate scale ratio.
Using this reference, a 15 mm figure works out at approximately 1:107.
| Measured height from sole to bridge of nose | Approximate scale ratio |
|---|---|
| 15 mm | 1:107 |
| 16 mm | 1:101 |
| 17 mm | 1:95 |
| 18 mm | 1:89 |
The ratios are rounded to whole numbers. They use the same adult reference throughout, so you can compare measurements consistently.
At 1:100, that reference gives a figure measuring about 16 mm to the bridge of the nose. This explains why 15 mm figures and 1:100 models are close in size without being mathematically identical under our measuring method.
Human height varies, so this calculation is a comparison tool. A scale ratio cannot prescribe one height for every person represented.
Why figures with similar labels can look different
Before comparing two ranges, check what each manufacturer means by its size label. A measurement to the top of the head includes part of the figure that our sole-to-nose measurement excludes. Comparing those numbers directly can make the difference seem larger than it is.
Sculpt proportions matter too. Broader shoulders, larger heads and thicker weapons can make a figure look heavier beside another of the same height. Our true-scale approach combines a consistent measuring point with natural body proportions.
Some ranges also use a different size label explicitly. AB Figures describes its Napoleonic range as 18 mm. Check the particular range you are buying rather than assuming that everything grouped together by a retailer has the same dimensions.
If two standing figures actually measure 15 mm and 18 mm at the same anatomical point, the taller one is 20% larger in that measurement. That is a substantial difference to consider before mixing them within one battalion.
Compare a few figures before buying an army
Choose three to five ordinary standing infantry figures from your existing collection. Measure each from the sole to the bridge of the nose and calculate the average. Digital callipers help at this size, where a millimetre makes a noticeable difference.
Record the bare-head height separately where you can see it. Keep the base thickness out of both measurements, and follow another manufacturer’s stated method when checking its published dimensions.
Then place the figures together at the same ground level. Look along the shoulder line and compare heads, hands and equipment. A match that looks acceptable in separate units may be less convincing when the figures alternate across the same rank.
Test the poses on your intended bases too. Four figures across a 40 mm frontage have an average of 10 mm each before allowing for margins. Elbows, muskets and equipment still need room. Use the base dimensions required by your rules and check the actual figures before gluing them down.
Matching vehicles and scenery
For a vehicle or building with a stated ratio, divide its full-size dimensions by that ratio. At 1:100, a 2 m doorway becomes 20 mm high and a 6 m vehicle becomes 60 mm long.
Use those dimensions alongside the figure measurements. A doorway or vehicle hatch gives you something concrete to compare with the soldier beside it.
Base thickness can affect that comparison. A 2 mm figure base represents 20 cm at 1:100. If the vehicle or building sits directly on the table, the infantry will appear raised above the surrounding ground. Allow for this when planning pavements, building bases and display groundwork.
For gaming terrain, also check the footprint and access. Your infantry bases need space between buildings, and artillery positions need enough room for the gun, crew and movement around them.
If you are adding Battle Honours 3D figures to an existing army, send us the measurements, the manufacturer and range, and a straight-on photograph beside a metric ruler. We can discuss the closest match before you order.
We give you a 48-hour window after placing your order to request scale adjustments, so you have time to check your measurements and get the right size for your collection.