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As per the thread title- has GW white metal changed much, particularly in the post-lead era (obviously removing lead was a big change)?

I'm drilling pinning holes in 3rd edition metal stormtroopers that have been obtained from various time points and sources (some secondhand). The ease with which I am able to drill the holes definitely varies- some of the models are noticeably harder and slower going. Now, it is possible the secondhand troopers are forgeries, but they are very good fascimiles if so.

I'm aware that "white metal" is far from a defined term, and covers a variety of related alloys. My basic metallurgy knowledge also tells me the alloy composition can affect properties like hardness.

Has GW changed the mix of their white metal over the last 20 years? Has anyone else noticed differences?

I couldn't say for sure, but I'm pretty sure the formula has changed over time. The very first batches of white metal models were really hard and brittle. Any sort of work more complicated than trimming mould lines was just a pain, and getting multi-part metals assembled was the path to madness.

Somewhere between then and its replacement with "Fine"cast, I'm sure it became slightly softer and less difficult (but still not fun) to work with.

I never saw any difference between my older and newer LOTR minis, or Plague Marines from 5th Edition or Nobz I got as an MTO last year.
So, I don't think so.
Other producers felt different, like metals from Heresyminiatures or Dark Art for example.

 insaniak wrote:
I couldn't say for sure, but I'm pretty sure the formula has changed over time. The very first batches of white metal models were really hard and brittle. Any sort of work more complicated than trimming mould lines was just a pain, and getting multi-part metals assembled was the path to madness.

Somewhere between then and its replacement with "Fine"cast, I'm sure it became slightly softer and less difficult (but still not fun) to work with.

I've spent a lot of time converting metals and it is rather maddening sometimes! I hadn't noticed changes before because I was usually working from the same "batch". This time I'm building a squad grouped from models that are definitely from multiple batches, so it has stood out more.

Interesting that the older ones are the more hard and brittle. I'm going to guess that they hadn't worked out how to fully replace the function of lead in the alloy yet, I think the lead provided much of the malleability in traditional pewter.