Scale & Motion Plus — Model Railways, Slot Cars, Tabletop & Wargaming

Getting into Warhammer 40,000 is not complicated — but there are more ways to start than there used to be, and choosing the wrong entry point can mean spending money on things you do not actually need yet. This guide cuts through the options and explains which starter set makes sense depending on what you want from the hobby: playing games quickly, building and painting a proper army, or doing both at once. All products are available at Merlin's Miniatures using coupon code SCALEANDMOTION at checkout.

Fallout: Wasteland Warfare is one of the most fully realised licensed miniatures games currently available. It takes the post-apocalyptic world of the Fallout video game series — the Survivors picking through the ruins, the Brotherhood of Steel in their power armour, the Super Mutants, Raiders, Institute Synths, Robots and the irradiated creatures of the wasteland — and translates it into a tabletop skirmish game that plays equally well as a competitive two-player encounter, a co-operative mission or a solo campaign against AI-controlled opposition. This guide covers how the game works, what you need to get started, which faction suits which playstyle, and what to buy first.

Combat Patrol is the most practical entry point into Warhammer 40,000—a single box that gives you a complete, playable force at a size specifically designed for the smaller Combat Patrol game format, which uses simplified rules and fits on a smaller table. It is also the format Games Workshop recommends for new players, and for good reason: you get a coherent set of units from a single faction, enough models to start painting and learning the hobby, and a self-contained experience that does not require you to own a full army before you can play.

If you have been spending any time in miniature painting communities — YouTube tutorials, Reddit threads, hobby Discord servers — you have almost certainly heard 'Pro Acryl' mentioned. Monument Hobbies' flagship paint range has built a strong and genuinely earned reputation over the past few years, and it has done so without the decades of brand inertia that Citadel or Vallejo carry. 

Wargaming miniatures sit at an unusual crossroads in the hobby world. They are simultaneously a tabletop gaming system, a modelling discipline, a painting challenge and — for many collectors — an end in themselves. Whether you are building your first Bolt Action platoon, deep into a Warhammer 40,000 campaign army, assembling Fallout: Wasteland Warfare figures between games, or simply buying Gunpla kits as display pieces, the range of products, systems and retailers available in 2026 is broader than it has ever been.

Entering the world of Warhammer 40,000 is a significant step into a hobby that combines complex storytelling, artistic expression, and strategic gameplay . With decades of history and dozens of unique factions, the initial choice of an army box can be overwhelming for a newcomer. This guide focuses on the essential factors to consider when selecting your starting point in the grim darkness of the far future .

Tabletop wargaming and miniature collecting have evolved far beyond simple gameplay. What was once a niche hobby has grown into a structured and highly detailed discipline that combines craftsmanship, artistic expression, and strategic thinking.

If you're looking for scale models, miniatures, or hobby kits, this page brings everything together in one place.   Instead of browsing randomly, you can quickly find what interests you—from WWII tanks to Warhammer armies and modelling supplies.

Miniature painters, model builders, and hobby artists have come to trust Monument Hobbies' Pro Acryl Paint Sets for reliable, high-quality acrylics. Each 22-ml bottle is designed to cover smoothly and provide bright colour, making it easier to focus on your creative work. Pro Acryl is made to mix well and work with any painting technique, whether you use a brush or an airbrush. This lets you get professional results on a wide range of projects.

For decades, Warhammer 40,000 has stood as a towering presence in the world of miniature wargaming, inviting enthusiasts into a rich and sprawling universe where science fiction collides with epic strategy. This game transforms finely detailed miniatures into instruments of storytelling and tactical challenge, allowing players to immerse themselves in battles that feel grand in scope and deeply personal in craft.

  Trajann Valoris – Adeptus Custodes The Emperor’s Chosen, Brought to the Tabletop Trajann Valoris stands at the pinnacle of the Adeptus Custodes — the Captain-General, the voice of the Emperor’s will, and one of the most powerful individual characters available to Imperial armies in Warhammer 40,000. For collectors, painters and players alike, this model represents more than a single miniature. It is a centrepiece. Why Trajann Valoris Matters Within the lore, Trajann Valoris is not simply a commander — he is the embodiment of the Custodes’ purpose: absolute loyalty, unmatched skill, and strategic brilliance. On the tabletop, that translates into: Strong aura abilities that enhance nearby units Exceptional survivability Reliable combat output against elite and standard units alike For Adeptus Custodes players, this is not a niche addition — it is a cornerstone unit. Trajann Valoris – Adeptus Custodes at Merlin's Miniatures  (affiliate link) Model ...

Wellington's British Army Starter Set – Warlord Games Epic Black Powder Review The Napoleonic Wars represent one of the most iconic periods in military history, defined by disciplined infantry lines, massed formations, and decisive battlefield strategy. The Wellington's British Army Starter Set from Warlord Games captures this era in a highly accessible and visually impressive format through the Epic Black Powder range. Designed for large-scale battles in a compact footprint, this set provides a complete foundation for building a British Napoleonic force under the command of the Duke of Wellington. What's included and why it matters This starter set is designed to give immediate tabletop presence, allowing players to field a cohesive army straight out of the box. Multiple Epic-scale infantry units Artillery support elements Command figures and officers Compact scale designed for large battles Full compatibility with Bla...

American Civil War Infantry Regiment (Charging) – Warlord Games Black Powder The American Civil War remains one of the most compelling periods in military history, defined by large infantry formations, tactical manoeuvres, and intense battlefield engagements. For collectors and wargamers looking to recreate these moments on the tabletop, the American Civil War Infantry Regiment (Charging) set from Warlord Games offers a highly engaging and versatile entry point. This box set is designed for use with the Black Powder system and represents infantry advancing into combat — one of the most iconic visual elements of 19th-century warfare. What's included and why it matters This set features multiple infantry figures posed in dynamic charging stances, making it ideal for building visually striking units on the battlefield. Highly detailed plastic miniatures Dynamic charging poses for realism Compatible with Black Powder and other historical systems Id...

The Space Marines: Drop Pods kit is a dedicated transport option for Adeptus Astartes armies in Warhammer 40,000. Designed to deliver rapid assault forces directly into the heart of battle, these iconic Drop Pods are launched from orbit, allowing Space Marines to strike with speed and overwhelming force. Overview This box contains two detailed plastic Drop Pod miniatures, supplied unassembled and unpainted. Each pod is equipped with opening hatches and a range of optional faction-specific iconography, allowing hobbyists to customise their models for various Chapters. The set also includes optional rubble pieces for added basing detail. Key features Includes two Drop Pod miniatures in 28mm scale Multiple Chapter icons: Ultramarines, Space Wolves, Imperial/Crimson Fists, Black Templars, Raven Guard, Dark Angels, Blood Angels 26 optional rubble pieces for custom basing Designed for Adeptus Astartes forces in Warhammer 40,000 Supplied unassembled and un...

Warhammer 40,000 Starter Sets — Understanding the First Step Into the Hobby Warhammer 40,000 is often perceived as complex from the outside. Miniatures, rules, painting, and gameplay systems can appear overwhelming to those unfamiliar with the hobby. However, this complexity is typically introduced gradually, and starter sets are specifically designed to provide a structured entry point. These sets combine multiple aspects of the hobby into a single package: miniatures, basic rules, and introductory scenarios. This allows new players to engage with the core elements without needing to assemble a full collection or understand the entire ruleset from the beginning. From a design perspective, Warhammer miniatures are notable for their level of detail. Each figure represents a character, faction, or narrative element within a much larger universe. The act of assembling and painting these miniatures becomes part of the experience, rather than a prerequisite. View Warhammer 40K Introductory ...

Austrians in Action – Seven Years' War (HäT Industrie 1:72 Model Kit) The Austrians in Action – Seven Years' War set by HäT Industrie is a 1:72 scale plastic model kit featuring Austrian infantry engaged in battle during the mid-18th century conflict. This kit is designed for historical modellers and diorama creators interested in recreating scenes from one of Europe's pivotal wars. Overview The kit includes unassembled and unpainted plastic figures, allowing hobbyists to customise uniforms and poses to match historical references. The detailed sculpts capture the uniforms and weaponry of Austrian soldiers from the Seven Years' War, making it suitable for both display and wargaming contexts. Key Features • 1:72 scale plastic model kit by HäT Industrie • Depicts Austrian infantry during the Seven Years’ War • Historically accurate uniforms and poses • Unassembled and unpainted (paints and glue not included) • Ideal for dioramas, displays, or wargame armies • Not suitable...

Italian Tanker M40 75-18 – WWII (Royal Model 1:72 Model Kit) The Italian Tanker M40 75-18 from Royal Model is a detailed plastic model kit in 1:72 scale of the key Italian armoured vehicles of World War II. Designed for military modellers and collectors, this kit provides an accurate miniature of the M40/75-18, suited for North African and European theatre dioramas. Overview This kit arrives unassembled and unpainted, allowing hobbyists to customise the model to their preferred historical markings and camouflage. The parts are finely moulded, capturing the distinctive shape and features of the medium Italian tank used during WWII. This model is suitable for display, wargaming, or as part of a larger 1:72 scale project. Key Features • 1:72 scale plastic model kit by Royal Model • Depicts the Italian M40 75-18 WWII tanker • Historically accurate representation for dioramas or displays • Unassembled and unpainted (paints and glue not included) • Compatible with other 1:72 WWII kits • Not ...

German Machine Gun Troops – 1:35 Scale Model Kit (Tamiya 35038) The Tamiya German Machine Gun Troops set is a classic 1:35 scale plastic model kit designed for military modelling enthusiasts interested in World War II figures and diorama building. This kit provides a detailed representation of German infantry operating machine guns, suitable for both standalone display and as part of a larger historical scene. Overview The set includes unassembled and unpainted plastic parts to build a complete team of German machine gun crews. Each figure features historically accurate uniforms and poses, capturing the field conditions and equipment of WWII German forces. The kit is ideal for collectors, painters, and diorama creators seeking realistic infantry elements for 1:35 military projects. Key Features • Authentic Tamiya 1:35 scale plastic model kit • Depicts German machine gun crews in field action • Detailed uniforms, weapons, and gear • Unassembled and unpainted (paints and glue not include...

The Lumineth Realm Lords have become one of the most distinctive forces in Warhammer Age of Sigmar, celebrated for their elegant designs and unique magical prowess. Their latest battleforce, the  Iliathan Warhost , offers a curated entry point for collectors and wargamers looking to command an Aelven army with both visual impact and tactical depth. Overview The Iliathan Warhost is a limited edition battleforce set, bringing together a balanced selection of Lumineth miniatures. Designed for both new and experienced players, it provides a fast track to building a functional army or expanding an existing collection. Each model arrives unassembled and unpainted, ready for hobbyists to customise with their painting schemes and basing. Key Features • Official Games Workshop release for Age of Sigmar • Includes a curated mix of Lumineth Realm Lords units • High-quality Citadel plastic miniatures • Unassembled and unpainted for hobby customisation • Suitable for both gameplay and display •...