How to Assemble BattleTech Inner Sphere Recon Lance
By Catalyst Game Labs Store | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to assemble the BattleTech Inner Sphere Recon Lance ForcePack with step-by-step instructions, common mistakes, and painting prep tips.
Quick Answer
To assemble the BattleTech Inner Sphere Recon Lance, start by cleaning the miniatures, dry-fit the parts, apply plastic glue, and secure them to bases. Follow the step-by-step process below to avoid common mistakes and get your 'Mechs tabletop-ready.
Why Assembly Order Matters
The Inner Sphere Recon Lance includes four 'Mechs: the Firestarter, Ostscout, Spector, and Javelin. Each has different part layouts, but the assembly order is similar. Starting with cleaning and dry-fitting prevents misaligned joints and gaps that are hard to fix after glue sets.
Taking time to dry-fit each model before gluing helps you understand how the pieces connect. This is especially important for the Ostscout's thin legs and the Spector's jump jet parts, which can be tricky for beginners.
Tools You'll Need
Gather basic hobby tools before you start: a hobby knife, plastic glue (or super glue if you prefer), sprue cutters, and files or sandpaper. You might also want a cutting mat and a small container for loose parts.
Using the right glue is crucial. Plastic glue works by melting the plastic slightly, creating a strong bond. Super glue is easier to find but dries faster and can leave white residue. Choose what you're comfortable with, but plastic glue is generally recommended for these miniatures.
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
- Clean the sprues and parts: Use sprue cutters to remove each part from the sprue, then trim away excess plastic with a hobby knife. File down any mold lines or nubs so the parts fit together flush. Checkpoint: Make sure every connection surface is smooth before gluing.
- Dry-fit the main body: Assemble the torso, arms, and legs without glue to see how they align. Adjust or trim any parts that don't fit perfectly. This step prevents misaligned joints later. Checkpoint: If a part doesn't fit, trim it now—don't force it.
- Glue the legs to the base: Apply a small amount of plastic glue to the leg pegs and attach them to the hex base. Hold for 30 seconds to ensure a strong bond. Make sure the 'Mech stands upright and stable. Checkpoint: Use a small drop of glue—too much can cause slippage.
- Attach the torso and arms: Glue the torso to the legs, then attach the arms at the shoulder joints. Work quickly but carefully, and adjust pose before the glue sets. For the Spector, attach jump jet parts after the arms. Checkpoint: Pose the 'Mech before the glue dries to avoid a stiff look.
- Attach head and optional parts: Glue the head in place and add any optional parts like missile launchers or antennas. For the Javelin, make sure the SRM launchers are oriented correctly. Checkpoint: Double-check the orientation of all parts against the box art.
- Let glue dry and clean up: Allow the glue to cure completely (usually 1-2 hours). Then use a hobby knife to scrape away any excess glue or flash. Your 'Mech is now ready for priming and painting. Checkpoint: Wait until the glue is fully dry before handling to avoid breaking joints.
Product Facts
- BattleTech: ForcePack: Inner Sphere Recon Lance: The ForcePack includes Firestarter, Ostscout, Spector, and Javelin BattleMechs, plus four MechWarrior Pilot Cards and four Alpha Strike Cards. You'll need to assemble all four 'Mechs from their sprues, and the included cards are ready to use once your miniatures are built.
BattleTech: ForcePack: Inner Sphere Recon Lance
