Lead Rot: Myth or Miniature Killer?

For as long as people have been collecting and painting lead miniatures, there have been whispers of a mysterious and destructive force known as Lead Rot. Hobbyists describe it as a powdery, white or grey bloom that spreads across the surface of a model, sometimes leaving it pitted, brittle, or even crumbling into dust. But how much of this is fact, and how much is hobby legend?

In my latest video, I tackle the subject head-on, drawing not only from decades of hobby experience but also from published research in conservation science and the work of museum curators who look after lead artefacts far older than anything in our collections. Studies by institutions such as the Canadian Conservation Institute and research into the preservation of historic ship models for the U.S. Navy show that what collectors call “Lead Rot” is really a chemical process known as lead carbonate corrosion. This occurs when lead comes into contact with acidic vapours, such as acetic or formic acid, in the presence of carbon dioxide.

This is not a contagious disease that leaps from one model to the next. It is a predictable chemical reaction that depends heavily on the environment. Poorly ventilated wooden cabinets, cardboard storage, and unsealed surfaces can all accelerate corrosion, while modern pewter alloys are far less vulnerable. That means the risk today is lower than it was in decades past, but collectors of older figures should still take precautions.

The video explains what lead carbonate corrosion looks like, why it happens, and—most importantly—what you can do to prevent it. From sealing figures with primer and acrylic paint to improving airflow in your display cases, there are practical steps every wargamer and miniature painter can take to protect their collection.

If you’ve ever worried about whether your old metal miniatures might be at risk, or if you simply enjoy exploring the history and science behind the hobby, this video is for you. Follow the link, join the discussion, and discover the truth behind one of wargaming’s longest-standing myths.