Flames of War is a popular tabletop miniature wargame that focuses on World War II battles, allowing players to command armies and recreate historical scenarios with incredible detail. One essential but often overlooked aspect of playing Flames of War effectively is the organization and storage of miniatures, terrain pieces, and gaming accessories. Proper stowage not only protects valuable miniatures from damage but also ensures ease of transport, quick setup, and a more enjoyable gaming experience overall. Whether you are a casual player or a dedicated hobbyist, mastering the art of Flames of War stowage can significantly improve your gaming sessions.
Understanding the Importance of Flames of War Stowage
Protecting Your Miniatures
The miniatures used in Flames of War are typically made of metal or plastic and are often hand-painted with great care and precision. Because of their delicate nature, improper storage can lead to broken parts, chipped paint, and other damage. Stowage solutions provide cushioning and separation to keep each figure safe during transport and storage.
Efficiency and Convenience
Well-organized stowage allows players to quickly access the units and accessories they need without wasting time searching through boxes or containers. This efficiency is especially valuable during tournaments or gaming events where time is limited. Good stowage also reduces setup and teardown times, making the gaming experience more fluid and enjoyable.
Popular Stowage Solutions for Flames of War
Foam Trays and Cases
Foam trays are among the most common storage solutions used by Flames of War players. These trays feature cutouts designed to fit miniatures snugly, preventing them from moving around during transport. Specialized foam cases, like those offered by brands such as Battle Foam, Feldherr, or KR Multicase, provide durable, lightweight, and customizable options for storing entire armies.
- Customizable Foam: Many cases use modular foam inserts that players can customize by cutting or arranging to fit their specific collection.
- Pre-cut Foam Trays: Some suppliers offer pre-cut trays designed specifically for Flames of War vehicles, infantry, and artillery.
- Durability: These cases often have rugged exteriors with waterproof or impact-resistant materials to protect against environmental hazards.
Plastic Storage Boxes
Plastic storage boxes with adjustable compartments are another practical choice. These boxes are often affordable and allow for flexible organization of smaller units, dice, templates, and tokens. However, they may not provide as much cushioning as foam trays, so additional padding may be necessary.
Magnetic Storage Solutions
For players looking for advanced stowage options, magnetic bases and magnetic trays provide an innovative way to keep miniatures secure. Attaching small magnets to the bottom of each miniature and using metal-lined trays or cases ensures miniatures stay firmly in place, even during transport. This method also facilitates quick setup and breakdown during gameplay.
Tips for Effective Flames of War Stowage
Group by Unit Type
Organizing miniatures by unit type such as tanks, infantry squads, artillery, and command units makes it easier to locate what you need during a game. Labeling compartments or trays further speeds up retrieval and packing.
Protect Fragile Parts
Fragile elements such as antennae, gun barrels, and thin accessories should be handled carefully. Using foam padding, bubble wrap, or custom-cut slots that fit the miniature’s shape can protect these parts from breaking.
Keep Accessories Organized
Dice, templates, markers, and cards are crucial for gameplay but can easily get lost. Consider using small boxes, zip-lock bags, or dedicated compartments within your storage solution to keep these accessories together.
Label Your Storage
Whether you use multiple foam trays or boxes, labeling each container clearly can save time and prevent confusion. Labels might include the army name, unit types, or scenario-specific notes.
DIY Stowage Ideas
Homemade Foam Inserts
If buying specialized foam trays is not within your budget, many players create their own inserts using inexpensive craft foam sheets or insulation foam. With a sharp knife and a ruler, you can cut custom slots for your miniatures. Though time-consuming, this DIY approach offers flexibility and personalization.
Repurposed Household Items
Some players repurpose tackle boxes, jewelry organizers, or toolboxes for Flames of War stowage. These containers often come with adjustable compartments, sturdy construction, and handles for easy transport.
Magnetic Sheet DIY
Adding self-adhesive magnetic sheets to the bottom of trays or boxes can create a magnetic surface for miniatures with magnetized bases. This setup offers a budget-friendly alternative to commercially available magnetic cases.
Transporting Flames of War Armies
Choosing the Right Case
When transporting armies to tournaments or gaming meetups, durability and portability are essential. Hard cases with handles, shoulder straps, or wheels make carrying heavy loads easier. Look for cases with lockable latches for added security.
Weather Protection
If you expect to encounter rain or other adverse conditions, waterproof or water-resistant cases protect your miniatures and accessories from moisture damage.
Compact vs. Expandable Storage
Some players prefer compact cases that fit all miniatures in a single container, while others choose modular systems that can expand as their collection grows. Modular solutions allow for incremental upgrades and better organization over time.
Maintaining Your Flames of War Stowage
Regular Cleaning
Dust and dirt can accumulate on foam and plastic, so it’s important to clean your storage solutions periodically. Wipe down plastic boxes with a damp cloth and vacuum foam trays gently to remove debris.
Inspect for Wear and Tear
Foam inserts and cases can wear out over time, especially with frequent transport. Check for tears, compressions, or broken latches and replace or repair as needed to maintain protection.
Repaint and Repair Miniatures
Despite careful storage, miniatures may sustain minor damage. Keeping hobby supplies on hand for touch-ups ensures your army remains battle-ready and visually appealing.
Effective Flames of War stowage combines protection, organization, and convenience to enhance the overall gaming experience. By investing time and effort into choosing or creating the right storage solutions, players can safeguard their miniatures, reduce setup time, and enjoy more seamless gameplay. Whether using commercial foam cases, plastic boxes, or DIY magnetic setups, proper stowage is an essential part of maintaining and showcasing your Flames of War collection. As you expand your army and participate in more battles, good stowage habits will keep your miniatures in top condition and ready for action.