For tabletop wargamers exploring 28mm scale figures, Vietnam War-era miniatures bring distinctive gear, uniforms, and equipment to the table. This article highlights five detailed 28mm options from respected brands that can be used for modern conflict campaigns, with notes on how their WWII and Civil War kits might adapt or inspire Vietnam-era gaming. While dedicated Vietnam minis are available from various manufacturers, these selections offer excellent sculpts, versatility, and value for converting into Vietnam-themed units or serving as bases for modern-era forces in generic 28mm tabletop play.
| Product | Brand | Era Fit | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| German Army Veterans Infantry Platoon – 28mm Scale Plastic Miniatures | Warlord Games | World War II (adaptable for modern eras) | 30 miniatures, diverse weapon options, command models, multiple equipment configurations |
| US Infantry GI’s – 28mm Scale Plastic Miniatures | Warlord Games | World War II (adaptable for modern eras) | 30 infantry with optional weapons and backpacks, full-color decals, variety of arms |
| Woodland Indians Tribe – 28mm Scale Plastic Miniatures | Warlord Games | American War of Independence | 24 multi-pose figures, range of equipment, unassembled and unpainted |
| Perry Miniatures: American Civil War Infantry – 36 Figures | Perry Miniatures | American Civil War | 40 figures, hard plastic, gray molded, versatile for conversion |
| US Airborne D-Day Platoon – 28mm Scale | Warlord Games | World War II | 30 airborne troops, multiple weapon configurations, D-Day reinforced uniforms |
German Army Veterans Infantry Platoon
Warlord Games offers a 28mm plastic kit designed to assemble up to 30 German Army Veterans Infantry figures. The set includes a broad array of weapon options and command figures, enabling dynamic squad builds. Notable configurations cover flamethrowers, anti-tank rifles, light machine guns, carbines, and grenades, with additional options for Feldgendarmerie and pioneer squads. While tailored for World War II, the mix of equipment and poses can be repurposed for modern-era campaigns with appropriate basing and conversion work.
US Infantry GI’s – 28mm
Warlord Games’ US Infantry set provides 30 plastic soldiers with optional weapon configurations and command figures. The kit features classic M1 Garand and BAR options, alongside submachine guns and carbines, plus backpacks and assorted kit. The inclusion of weathered decals and construction leaflets adds authenticity for gaming tables set in the mid-20th century. For Vietnam-era use, hobbyists often modify bases and add era-appropriate gear to create plausible modern infantry units.
Woodland Indians Tribe – 28mm
Warlord Games’ Woodland Indians provide 24 multi-pose figures with a range of armaments and equipment. Supplied unassembled and unpainted, these figures rely on painter skill to achieve realistic finishes. While focused on an American Revolutionary War setting, their variety and pose options can inspire conversions for guerrilla-style forces or modern-era insurgent units in broader 28mm campaigns, if players are comfortable with thematic adaptation.
American Civil War Infantry
Perry Miniatures’ American Civil War Infantry kit features 40 hard plastic figures molded in gray, offering a robust base for 28mm armies. While set in a 19th-century conflict, the consistent scale and high detail make them suitable for conversions or alternate-history scenarios. The durable plastic composition supports extensive basing and customized basing for thematic campaigns that bridge eras with imaginative narrative design.
American Civil War Cavalry
Perry Miniatures’ 28mm Cavalry set includes 12 mounted figures with flexible poses. These multi-part figures support varied cavalry units for Civil War battles and can be repurposed for general 28mm gaming with creative basing and loadout changes. The mixture of horses and riders provides dramatic on-table presence and conversion opportunities for modern or alternate-history campaigns.
American Civil War Union Infantry
Perry Miniatures’ Union Infantry pack includes 40 highly detailed 28mm figures molded in gray. The set emphasizes uniform accuracy and solid sculpts, making it versatile for Civil War reenactment play or conversion for other historical episodes. The consistent scale aids in seamless mixing with other manufacturers’ 28mm figures for a varied gaming table.
US Airborne D-Day Platoon
Warlord Games’ US Airborne D-Day Platoon features 30 miniatures in M42 jump uniforms, with options for different weapon configurations and command models. The reinforced uniforms and equipment reflect airborne landings and rapid deployment tactics. While rooted in World War II, the range’s equipment and control elements can inspire modern-era conversions or be used in alternative-history scenarios on 28mm tables.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations for 28mm Vietnam War Miniatures
When selecting 28mm miniatures for Vietnam War tabletop play or related modern-era campaigns, consider the following:
- Era and authenticity: Check for era-specific gear (flak jackets, M14/M16 rifles, radios) and whether you’re comfortable adapting models from earlier eras with conversions or basing tweaks.
- Pose variety and basing: A mix of standing, prone, and kneeling poses creates a dynamic battlefield. Ensure bases are compatible with your terrain and movement rules.
- Material and assembly: Plastic kits are usually easier to assemble and modify, while metal figures offer sharp detail but can be heavier to convert.
- Weapon options and command figures: Kits with multiple weapon configurations and command options add strategic depth to your games and allow tailored unit rosters.
- Painting and basing: Vietnam-era palettes often favor muted greens, browns, and khaki tones. Plan for weathering, camouflage patterns, and terrain-based basing to enhance realism.
- Compatibility with existing fleets: If you already own WWII or Civil War 28mm forces, assess how your new units will mix on the same tabletop—consider basing size, basing texture, and scale uniformity.
- Conversion potential: For Vietnam-specific visuals, assess which parts are easily altered (webbing, helmets, vests) and what additional pieces you’ll need (heads with boonie hats, specific headgear, or resin accessories).
In summary, the five highlighted sets provide reliable 28mm options with robust sculpts, broad weapon configurations, and strong versatility for tabletop campaigns. While not all are Vietnam-dedicated, their adaptable nature supports creative modern-era gaming and compelling historical scenarios on the same 28mm battlefield.