Where to Get Torsos Legs and Arms for Custom Projects

Customizing miniatures is one of the most exciting aspects of the hobby. Whether you're building a custom Space Marine kill team, an elite Imperial Guard squad, or a completely homebrew warband, the ability to kitbash and swap parts is essential. But one challenge that many hobbyists face is where to get torsos, legs, and arms for custom projects.

These body components form the foundation of your models, and finding the right style, scale, and pose can make or break a conversion. In this article, we’ll explore the best sources for high-quality torsos, legs, and arms, ranging from official kits to third-party sellers, 3D printing, and bits markets. Whether you're a beginner kitbasher or a seasoned converter, you'll walk away with a toolkit full of sourcing options.

Why Torsos, Legs, and Arms Matter in Custom Miniatures

Structural Backbone of the Model

While heads and weapons grab visual attention, the torso and limbs define the pose, silhouette, and dynamics of your miniature. A crouching leg position can suggest stealth, while broad, upright torsos with outstretched arms project power and dominance.

If you're trying to tell a story through your custom model, selecting the right body parts is critical to:

• Setting the tone of the figure

• Conveying motion and attitude

• Matching faction themes or custom lore

• Ensuring the model fits its base size and role

Compatibility and Proportions

Swapping torsos, legs, and arms between kits isn't always plug-and-play. Differences in scale, armor style, or arm sockets can cause fit issues. However, sourcing the right bits designed for modular assembly or with neutral connection points allows for smoother customization and more natural-looking results.

Let’s break down where you can reliably get these parts, what to watch out for, and how to maximize your conversions.

1. Official GW Kits – Primary Source for High-Quality Bits

Why GW Kits Are a Good Source

Games Workshop’s official kits are rich with customization options, especially with multi-part plastic sprues. They often include:

• Multiple torso variants (helmeted, bare-chested, bionic, robed)

• Unique leg poses (standing, running, crouching)

• Swappable arms with different weapon or gesture options

They’re designed for modularity within their faction, and even cross-faction conversions are possible with some effort.

Kits with Great Modular Parts

Some kits are more conversion-friendly than others. Here are some top choices for those seeking torsos, legs, and arms for custom projects:

• Space Marine Tactical Squad – classic modular poses

• Cadian Shock Troopers – great for guard-based conversions

• Chaos Cultists – ragged limbs and chaotic flair

• Genestealer Neophytes – excellent for hybrid or sci-fi models

• Ork Boyz and Kommandoz – varied torso and arm types for feral and aggressive themes

• Necromunda gangs – perfect for urban or skirmish-style models with diverse body parts

Buying these kits new can be expensive if you're only after specific parts. That’s where bits buying comes in.

2. Bits Stores – Targeted and Affordable Customization

What Are Bits Stores?

Bits stores specialize in selling individual components from official kits. Rather than buying a full box, you can purchase:

• Single torsos

• Pairs of legs

• Left or right arms

• Full sets of limbs

This is ideal if you need multiples of a specific pose or just want to test parts before committing to a build.

Top Online Bits Stores

Here are some of the best online bits stores where you can find a wide selection of torsos, legs, and arms:

• Bits and Kits (UK) – wide inventory of GW parts

• Bitsbox – extensive stock of Warhammer and 40K components

• Hoards of Bits (US) – fast shipping and themed packs

• eBay – massive variety and often cheaper bulk buys

• Baron of Dice’s Bits Market – community-sourced and niche bits

Search for terms like “Space Marine torsos,” “Imperial Guard arms,” or “Ork legs conversion” to narrow your hunt.

Tips for Using Bits Stores

• Compare prices; some shops price based on rarity.

• Buy in bulk to save on shipping.

• Double-check part compatibility across kits or factions.

• Bookmark shops for restocks or discontinued kits.

3. Third-Party Miniature Companies – Unique and Thematic Options

Why Use Third-Party Bits?

Third-party miniature companies create aftermarket bits that are fully compatible with 28mm heroic scale miniatures (aka GW-style models). These are great if you want parts that:

• Don’t exist in official kits

• Match a custom narrative (post-apoc, steampunk, cyberpunk)

• Have extra flair, such as exaggerated musculature, armor trim, or cloaks

Many of these brands offer unique torso and limb sets that are designed for kitbashers and conversion artists.

Recommended Third-Party Suppliers

Here are some top-rated companies for custom torsos, arms, and legs:

• Anvil Industry – highly modular “Regiments” line with dozens of torso/leg options

• Kromlech – especially good for Ork and Chaos conversions

• Mad Robot Miniatures – known for detailed and customizable guard-type bits

• Puppetswar – sci-fi and cyberpunk-focused limb sets

• Spellcrow – creative armored torsos and legs for fantasy or sci-fi

Always verify scale compatibility. Most of these suppliers design for 28–32mm scale, but stylization may differ.

What to Look for in Third-Party Parts

• Clean cast quality (resin or plastic)

• Universal arm sockets or flat joins for easier fitting

• Thematic consistency with your army

• Shipping and return policy, especially for international orders

4. 3D Printing – Ultimate Customization with STL Files

Advantages of 3D Printing

For advanced hobbyists or those with access to a resin 3D printer, printing your own torsos, legs, and arms opens up an entire world of design. With STL files, you can:

• Scale parts to fit any model type

• Create completely unique sculpts

• Modify parts in 3D software for perfect posing

• Print large batches for squads or units

It’s especially useful for custom factions or narrative warbands that don’t fit within existing model lines.

Where to Get STL Files

Top STL file sources include:

• Cults3D – massive library of sci-fi and fantasy miniatures

• MyMiniFactory – curated models and Patreon support options

• Thingiverse – free community uploads

• Patreon creators like StationForge, Red Makers, or Unit9 – for monthly themed kits

Many designers even offer modular STL kits, where torsos, legs, and arms are separate and compatible across sets.

Tips for 3D Printing Model Parts

• Use high-resolution settings for detail-rich torsos and arms

• Cure thoroughly before assembly

• Test-print one set before batch production

• Always credit and support creators where applicable

If you don’t own a printer, many hobby communities or services like OnlyGames or Etsy offer print-on-demand options.

5. Hobby Swaps, Trade Groups, and Communities

Why Trade Instead of Buy?

Not everyone wants to keep leftover parts after a build. You can trade parts with other hobbyists to score the exact legs, torsos, and arms you need without spending more money.

Communities often have members looking to offload:

• Duplicate poses

• Unused sprue extras

• Miscast resin parts

• Unwanted limbs from multi-faction kits

Where to Find Swaps and Trades

• Facebook Groups (e.g., Warhammer Trading Post)

• Reddit: r/miniswap, r/bitstrade

• Discord communities: many hobby servers have trade channels

• Local game stores or club bulletin boards

When trading, be specific in your requests. List part names, kits, and whether you're offering cash or a swap.

6. Kitbashing From Other Model Lines

Explore Non-GW Kits

You can often find compatible parts from other manufacturers in the 28mm miniature space. Companies like:

• Wargames Atlantic

• Reaper Miniatures

• Mantic Games

• North Star Military Figures

offer kits with usable torsos, legs, and arms. These are perfect for unique NPCs, civilians, or cult factions that differ from the traditional 40K aesthetic.

Combine a sci-fi trooper’s legs with a gothic torso and mutant arms for a completely fresh look.

Be Mindful of Scale and Style

Not all model lines match GW's “heroic scale.” You might need:

• Minor trimming

• Gap-filling with green stuff

• Base elevation for short figures

But with patience, these kits can massively expand your creative toolbox.

Final Tips for Sourcing and Using Custom Body Parts

Store and Organize Bits Effectively

Invest in labeled drawers, hobby tackle boxes, or magnetic trays. Separate your torsos, arms, and legs by faction or size. You’ll save time during your next build.

Use Green Stuff or Milliput to Modify Fit

When joining parts from different kits or suppliers, use putty to:

• Fill neck or shoulder gaps

• Sculpt missing armor joints

• Smooth transitions between different limb types

Experiment and Test-Fit Often

Dry-fitting is your best friend. Before gluing:

• Hold the torso and legs together

• Test how the arms align

• Consider the pose and balance

• Think about weapon placement or accessories

Combine Sources for Maximum Effect

Some of the best custom builds mix parts from multiple sources:

• GW torso, 3D-printed legs, Puppetswar arms

• Anvil Industry body with Kromlech ork arms

• Mad Robot torso with Wargames Atlantic legs

Let your creativity drive your sourcing strategy.

Conclusion

Knowing where to get torsos, legs, and arms for custom projects can unlock new creative potential in your miniature building. These core body parts are more than just building blocks—they define the character, tone, and story of your models. From official kits and third-party suppliers to 3D printing and community trades, there are more options than ever for sourcing exactly what you need.

Take the time to explore different vendors, test out new materials, and push your creative limits. With the right combination of custom torsos, unique leg poses, and expressive arms, your models won’t just stand on the battlefield—they’ll tell a story worth remembering.