Shadowrun Sprawl Runners Minis: Basing and Painting FAQ
By Catalyst Game Labs Store | Published: 2026-11-04
Category: How-to Guides
Practical answers on basing, painting, and scale for Shadowrun: Sprawl Runners miniatures, covering prep, primer, and tabletop durability.
Quick answer
Treat the five Sprawl Runners as pre-assembled gaming pieces: clean them, prime them, paint in sub-assemblies if you like, and base them on textured rounds that match your existing Shadowrun collection. The exact scale isn't listed, so measure the integrated bases before buying third-party toppers.
Why pre-assembled minis change your prep routine
Because the Sprawl Runners come pre-assembled, you skip the build phase but lose the chance to paint parts separately before gluing. That means you'll need to reach awkward areas with a brush or accept that some detail stays in shadow. A thin primer and a size 0 or 1 brush handle most of it.
Pre-assembly also means mold lines may be harder to reach. Check seams under good light and scrape gently with a hobby knife before priming; once primer is on, those lines become permanent texture.
Basing without knowing the exact scale
The product listing does not state a numeric scale, so don't assume these are 28mm or 32mm without measuring. The integrated bases are your reference: measure their diameter and use that to choose slotta or plain round bases if you plan to rebase.
For a Shadowrun look, keep bases urban: cracked asphalt, sidewalk grit, spent casings, or simple painted lines. Avoid elaborate diorama bases that raise the model's eyeline above the rest of your crew.
Paint choices that survive handling
Miniatures get picked up, knocked over, and stored in boxes. A matte varnish after painting protects the work, and a gloss varnish on lenses or screens adds contrast without needing advanced techniques. Use acrylic paints made for miniatures; craft paints can work but often need more thinning and may rub off more easily.
If you paint in sub-assemblies, keep a dry fit before final assembly so you don't discover a gap or misaligned arm after the paint is sealed.
Sprawl Runners basing and painting FAQ
- Do I need to assemble the Sprawl Runners before painting?
- No. They come pre-assembled, so you can paint them as-is. If you want to reach tight areas, you can still paint in sub-assemblies by carefully separating parts, but that risks damage and is not required. Decide before priming: full assembly is simpler, sub-assembly gives better access but adds risk.
- What scale are these miniatures?
- The product listing does not specify a scale. Measure the integrated base diameter and compare it to your existing Shadowrun minis to judge compatibility. Do not assume a standard scale without checking. Measure first if you plan to buy third-party bases or movement trays.
- How should I base them for Shadowrun games?
- Use round bases that match the integrated base size or slightly larger for stability. Texture with sand or fine grit, paint asphalt grey or concrete, and add small urban details like brass casings or painted lines. Keep the height low so the model stays consistent with your other runners. Test-fit a base before gluing; a too-large base can look out of place next to official figures.
- What primer works on pre-assembled miniatures?
- A thin coat of grey or white spray primer made for plastic or resin miniatures works well. Spray in short bursts from 20–30 cm away, and avoid heavy coats that fill detail. If you can't spray, use a brush-on primer. Prime in good weather and let it cure fully before painting.
- How do I protect the paint during play?
- Apply one or two thin coats of matte varnish after the paint is fully dry. For extra durability on high-touch areas like weapons or hands, use a gloss varnish first, then matte over it. Store minis in a foam tray or divided box. Varnish before first use; touching up bare paint is harder than preventing wear.
Product facts
- Shadowrun: Sprawl Runners Miniatures: The set includes five named runner miniatures: Flywheel (Troll Mage), Boris (Human Street Sam), Bom Bom (Elf Decker), Koko (Ork Technomancer), and Legs (Dwarf Face/Rigger). Each archetype has different silhouette and gear, so plan your painting order to handle the most complex details while your brush is still fresh.
Shadowrun: Sprawl Runners Miniatures
