The Best Places to Buy and Sell Used Miniatures Online

1. 2ndHandGeek.com — The Marketplace for Tabletop Gamers

If you're looking for a community-driven marketplace designed specifically for tabletop games and miniatures, 2ndHandGeek.com should be your go-to destination. Unlike larger online platforms, 2ndHandGeek is tailored for hobbyists and enthusiasts. Here, you can buy and sell used miniatures for Warhammer, Dungeons & Dragons, and a range of other popular games.

Pros of 2ndHandGeek:

• Community Focus: Designed by and for tabletop gamers, so you know you're reaching the right audience.
• Low Fees: Listing and transaction fees are lower compared to larger platforms.
• Specialized Categories: Find exactly what you're looking for—from used wargaming armies to rare RPG miniatures—all in one place.

Whether you're buying to expand your collection or selling to make some extra cash, 2ndHandGeek.com provides a peer-to-peer marketplace that makes transactions easy, secure and transparent.

2. eBay — The Giant in Used Goods

eBay is another well-known option when buying and selling used miniatures. The platform is vast, and you can find an incredible variety of miniatures, from Warhammer to vintage board game figures. However, because eBay caters to everything under the sun, it might require some patience to navigate through non-related listings and find the gems.

Pros of eBay:

• Global Reach: Access to a wide audience, both for buying and selling.
• Auction Feature: If you're selling, auctions can drive up prices, especially for sought-after miniatures.

Cons of eBay:

• Higher Fees: Listing and selling fees can be on the higher side.
• Less Community: It’s not specifically designed for miniatures, so you’re not always reaching fellow enthusiasts.

3. Facebook Marketplace and Groups — Local and Personal

Facebook Marketplace and various gaming-related groups are also popular places to find used miniatures. You can join local buy/sell groups dedicated to Warhammer, Dungeons & Dragons, or general tabletop gaming. The advantage here is that you can often find deals with no fees involved.

Pros of Facebook Groups:

• No Fees: Most transactions happen without listing or commission fees.
• Local Pickup Options: Find buyers and sellers nearby, which can save on shipping costs.

Cons of Facebook Groups:

• Trust Issues: Buyer and seller protection isn’t always guaranteed.
• Limited Inventory: The selection can vary based on the size and activity of the group.

4. Reddit r/Miniswap — A Miniature Enthusiast's Haven

Reddit's r/Miniswap is a niche community where members buy, sell, and trade miniatures. The subreddit is home to like-minded hobbyists, which means you'll find fewer low-quality listings and more serious collectors looking to trade or sell.

Pros of r/Miniswap:

• Niche Community: It's all about miniatures, which keeps listings focused.
• Good Deals: Because the community is made up of dedicated hobbyists, there’s often a level of respect in pricing and trading.

Cons of r/Miniswap:

• Trust-Based Transactions: There's no built-in buyer protection, so you have to rely on community reputation.
• Limited Audience: Smaller than other platforms, which can mean fewer listings at times.

5. Local Game Stores — Offline Meets Online

Some local game stores (LGS) also sell used miniatures through their online platforms. They often buy used miniatures from players and resell them at competitive prices. Supporting local businesses while getting the miniatures you need is a win-win!

Pros of Local Game Stores:

• Support Your Community: Every purchase helps support your local gaming community. We love local game stores, so this is a big plus!
• Curated Inventory: Typically, LGS owners only list items in good condition, ensuring quality.

Cons of Local Game Stores:

• Smaller Inventory: The selection might not be as vast as major online marketplaces.

Tips for Buying and Selling Used Miniatures

• Take Clear Photos: When selling, make sure your miniatures are well-lit and photographed from multiple angles. More pictures are usually better than less and help a potential buyer understand exactly what you're selling.
• Be Honest About Condition: Buyers appreciate accurate descriptions, especially when it comes to painted or partially assembled pieces. Don't play down the condition of a model you're selling. You will only end up with a disappointed buyer on the other end and a possible refund.
• Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate, especially on platforms like Facebook and Reddit.
• Reputation: As a buyer, look for sellers that have positive reviews and a track record of delivering what's promised. As a seller, use a platform that's secure and track packages accurately when shipping.

When it comes to buying and selling used miniatures online, there are plenty of great options—each with its own unique advantages. Whether you're after the ease of use and targeted audience of 2ndHandGeek, the sheer size and auction capability of eBay, or the community feel of Reddit or Facebook groups, you'll find a platform that suits your needs.

For tabletop gamers who want a dedicated marketplace with low fees and a community of like-minded enthusiasts, 2ndHandGeek is an excellent choice. Start buying and selling your used miniatures today to resupply and reinforce your armies for the next great battle!