In brief
Many miniatures are labelled as 28mm scale, but the proportions can vary widely between ranges. Some figures follow true scale, where body proportions reflect realistic anatomy, while others use heroic 28mm with larger heads, hands, and weapons to make details more visible. This article explains the difference between true scale and heroic 28mm, and why the distinction matters when comparing miniature ranges
True scale and heroic 28 mm describe different approaches to a figure’s proportions. A heroic sculpt usually emphasises parts such as the head, hands and weapons. A true-scale sculpt aims for more natural proportions. Two figures can measure the same height and still look quite different beside one another.
At Battle Honours 3D, we use a true-scale approach for our historical figures. We want the body, uniform and equipment to work together as a convincing miniature of the subject.
What changes between the two styles
These are general tendencies. Check the particular figures you want to combine, because the labels do not specify a fixed amount of exaggeration.
| Part of the figure | True-scale approach | Heroic approach |
|---|---|---|
| Head | Proportioned more closely to the body | Often enlarged to emphasise the face |
| Hands | Sized in relation to the arms and body | Often enlarged, making the grip more prominent |
| Weapons | More restrained thickness relative to the figure | Often thicker barrels, stocks or blades |
| Body and limbs | Natural proportions are the aim | May use a broader torso and heavier limbs |
Clothing can also change the outline. A soldier in a padded winter uniform will look broader than one in a summer tunic. Compare similar clothing and equipment before deciding that a difference comes from the sculpting style.
How we measure our 28 mm figures
We measure from the sole of the foot to the bridge of the nose. On a standing 28 mm figure, that measurement is 28 mm, excluding the base and headgear.
Using fixed anatomical points gives us consistent measurements regardless of hairstyle, helmets or tall shakos. A crouching or leaning pose will sit lower, so use an ordinary standing figure for your first comparison.
Our scale guide uses an adult eye-level reference of 1,610 mm. With that reference, a 28 mm anatomical measurement works out at approximately 1:58. The calculation describes height; head size, hand size and body width need to be checked separately.
Vehicles and buildings labelled 1:56 are commonly paired with 28 mm figures. Compare the actual models at the same ground level, allowing for figure bases, before judging how they fit together.
Other manufacturers using the 28 mm label
Perry Miniatures, Warlord Games, Victrix and Wargames Atlantic all use the 28 mm label. Their own descriptions give useful starting points when comparing ranges.
| Manufacturer | What its website says |
|---|---|
| Perry Miniatures | Describes its plastic Confederate infantry set as 28 mm. |
| Warlord Games | Its scale FAQ pairs 28 mm with 1:56. |
| Victrix | Lists its WW2 range as 28 mm. |
| Wargames Atlantic | States that it measures its 28 mm figures to the eyes. |
The 28 mm label alone does not tell you whether a sculpt has natural or exaggerated proportions, or how closely it will match another range. At Battle Honours 3D, we specify our sole-to-bridge-of-nose measurement so you have a clear reference for comparing your existing figures. Check head size, hands, weapons and body width alongside height.
Painting and viewing the finished figures
Larger faces and hands give you larger surfaces on which to place highlights. More restrained proportions give a different result, especially when you look closely at how a hand holds a musket or how equipment sits against the body.
Look at photographs of physical models as well as enlarged renders. Check whether straps, cuffs, fingers and facial details remain distinct at the size you intend to paint. A large image on a screen can make tiny details appear much easier to reach with a brush than they will be on the model.
Our figures are resin printed. We favour natural proportions with facial, uniform and equipment detail suited to historical painting and collecting.
Testing a mixed unit
Place a few figures from each range beside one another, with their feet at the same level. Compare standing height first, then heads, hands, shoulders and weapons.
For a Napoleonic infantry battalion, look along the rank and compare musket thickness, head size beneath the shakos and the spacing between figures. For a WW2 section, compare soldiers carrying similar weapons and wearing similar equipment.
Try the intended arrangement before gluing anything down. Differences may be less noticeable between separate units than between soldiers sharing one artillery base. Matching paint colours and basing materials can help the group look consistent, while differences in the underlying sculpt will remain.
If you intend to swap heads or arms between ranges, check the neck, shoulder and wrist joints too. The same nominal height does not guarantee that parts will fit.
What a scale adjustment can change
Resizing changes the dimensions of a model while keeping its proportions. Enlarging a figure from 28 mm to 30 mm increases each dimension by about 7%. The head remains the same size relative to the body.
A scale adjustment can therefore help match height, but it will not turn a slender sculpt into a heroic one. Send us the target sole-to-nose measurement and a photograph of the figures you want to match so we can discuss the fit.
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. Contact us with your order details within that window if you need a change.