Archon Studio Dungeons & Lasers Dragon of Schmargonrog Miniature

Introduction

This instruction manual provides guidance for the assembly, painting, and care of your Archon Studio Dungeons & Lasers Dragon of Schmargonrog miniature. This model is designed for tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) and comes unpainted and unassembled, allowing for personalized customization.

The Dragon of Schmargonrog is a formidable 157mm tall plastic miniature, part of the Dungeons & Lasers system. While the Dungeons & Lasers terrain system often features glueless assembly, this specific miniature kit requires assembly using hobby-grade plastic cement.

Setup and Assembly

The Dragon of Schmargonrog miniature comes as a multi-part plastic kit on sprues. Careful assembly is required. Please review all parts before beginning.

Required Tools (Not Included):

• Hobby clippers or sprue cutters
• Hobby knife or craft blade
• Small files or sandpaper (fine grit)
• Plastic cement (e.g., polystyrene glue)
• Tweezers (optional, for small parts)

Assembly Steps:

1. Inspect Parts: Carefully examine all components on the sprues. Familiarize yourself with the different parts of the dragon.
2. Remove Parts: Using hobby clippers, carefully cut each part from the sprue. Cut as close to the part as possible to minimize excess plastic.
3. Clean Parts: Use a hobby knife or small file to gently remove any mold lines or excess plastic (flash) from the edges of the components. Be cautious with sharp tools.
4. Dry Fit: Before applying glue, test fit the parts together to ensure they align correctly. This helps identify any areas that need further trimming or filing.
5. Glue Parts: Apply a small amount of plastic cement to one of the surfaces to be joined. Press the parts together firmly and hold for a few seconds until the glue begins to set. Allow adequate drying time as specified by your plastic cement manufacturer.
6. Assemble in Sub-assemblies: It is often easier to assemble the model in smaller sections (e.g., body, wings, head) and then join these sub-assemblies together.
7. Base Attachment: Once the main model is assembled, attach it securely to its base using plastic cement.

Note: Due to small parts and the use of sharp tools and adhesives, adult supervision is recommended for younger users.

Image: Unassembled plastic components on sprues, ready for cutting and assembly. This shows the various parts that form the Dragon of Schmargonrog model.

Operating and Painting

Usage:

Once assembled, your Dragon of Schmargonrog miniature is ready for use in your favorite tabletop role-playing games, including Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) and other TTRPG systems. It serves as an impressive centerpiece or a formidable foe for your adventurers.

Painting:

The model comes unpainted, offering a blank canvas for your creative expression. Consider the following steps for painting:

• Prime the Model: Apply a thin, even coat of hobby primer (e.g., black, grey, or white) to prepare the plastic surface for paint adhesion.
• Base Coats: Apply your chosen base colors using acrylic hobby paints. The Dragon of Schmargonrog is described as a large black dragon with red highlights, suggesting a dark body with fiery accents.
• Shading and Highlighting: Use washes or shades to add depth to recessed areas and drybrushing or layering to bring out raised details.
• Detailing: Paint smaller details such as eyes, teeth, and claws.
• Sealing: Once painting is complete and dry, apply a matte or satin varnish to protect the paint job from wear and tear during handling.

Image: An example of the Dragon of Schmargonrog miniature fully assembled and painted, showcasing its detailed design and potential for customization.

Maintenance

Proper care will ensure the longevity of your miniature.

• Cleaning: Dust your miniature regularly with a soft brush or compressed air. For stubborn dirt, gently wipe with a slightly damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals.
• Storage: Store your miniature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause paint fading or plastic warping. Consider using a foam-lined carrying case for transport and protection.
• Handling: Handle the miniature by its base whenever possible to avoid damaging delicate parts or paintwork.

Troubleshooting

• Parts Not Fitting: If parts do not fit together smoothly during dry fitting, carefully re-examine for mold lines or excess plastic that needs to be trimmed. Ensure you are attempting to join the correct parts.
• Glue Not Holding: Ensure you are using plastic cement specifically designed for polystyrene plastic. Apply sparingly and hold parts firmly until the bond begins to form. Avoid touching the glued area until fully cured.
• Paint Chipping/Flaking: This can occur if the model was not properly primed or if the paint was applied too thickly. Ensure proper priming and apply paint in thin, even coats. A protective varnish can help prevent future chipping.
• Missing Parts: If you believe parts are missing from your kit, please contact Archon Studio customer support directly.

Specifications

Warranty Information

This product is sold without a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the retailer's return policy for any issues upon receipt.

Support

For specific assembly instructions, missing parts, or further product inquiries, please visit the official Archon Studio website or contact their customer support directly. While general assembly steps are provided here, detailed, model-specific instructions are typically provided by the manufacturer.

You can often find additional resources, painting guides, and community forums related to Dungeons & Lasers products online.