ModelCalcs.uk
Army Cost Calculator — Full Army Budget
Estimate the real-world cost to buy and build your full army list.
How We Calculate This
Totals up kit boxes, paints and supplies to give you the full cost of getting an army table-ready.
Formula
- Kit total = Sum of (Box cost × Quantity) for each box type
- Discount saving = Kit total × Retailer discount %
- Grand total = (Kit total − Discount saving) + Paint cost + Supplies cost + Shipping cost
Frequently Asked Questions
A typical Warhammer 40K 2000-point army costs £400-£800 at retail, depending on the faction. Horde armies (Orks, Tyranids) are more expensive due to sheer model count. Elite armies (Custodes, Knights) cost less in kits but more per model. Add £50-£100 for paints and supplies.
Buy Start Collecting / Combat Patrol boxes for discounted bundles. Shop at independent retailers (Element Games, Triple Helix) for 15-20% off retail. Buy second-hand on eBay or trading groups. Split box sets with friends. Paint with budget paints for non-display models.
No. Buy and paint in stages — start with a 500-point patrol force, then expand. This keeps you motivated and spreads the cost. You might also change your mind about unit choices as you play more games.
Yes. A basic paint set for one army costs £30-£60. Add primer (£8-£12 per can), washes (£4-£5 each), and brushes (£5-£15 per brush). Budget £50-£100 for painting supplies for your first army, less for subsequent armies as you build your paint collection.
Related Calculators
Army List Cost Calculator
Calculate the total real-world cost of a wargaming army list from unit counts and box prices.
Army Points Calculator
Build army lists to a target points value with unit costs and upgrades.
Paint Pot Calculator
Estimate how many paint pots you need based on army size and colour scheme.
Army Painting Time Calculator
Estimate total painting hours for a miniature army based on model count, size, complexity and batch painting.
Base Size Calculator
Look up correct base sizes for miniature figures by game system and unit type.
Was this calculator helpful?
Last updated: February 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.