Minifigure Loadout Ideas by Role (Cheat Sheet)
A squad of identical figures looks like a copy-paste. A squad where every figure carries something different looks like a team. This cheat sheet gives you a loadout for each common role so you can build a believable group from any set.
The short answer
Give each figure one job and one signature item. Rifleman: standard rifle. Support gunner: heavier weapon. Radio operator: radio or headset. Medic: pack or case. Leader: something different on the head or hand. Six figures with six different items beat twelve with the same one.
Loadouts by role
- Rifleman. Rifle, helmet, vest. The baseline. Make two or three of these and no more.
- Support gunner. A heavier weapon and a larger pack. Place at the edge of the group.
- Radio operator. Radio on the back or headset on the head. Place next to the leader.
- Medic. Pack or case, no heavy weapon. Place behind the front line.
- Leader. A different headgear or a pointing pose. Place slightly apart from the group.
- Scout or point. Light gear, pose leaning forward. Place ahead of the group.
- Shield bearer. A shield and a sidearm. Place at the front for entry or crowd scenes.
Matching loadouts to sets
You do not need a special set for every role, but some sets help. The SWAT Police Mega Set ($33.99) includes four shields and two K9s, which covers shield bearer and handler roles. The Modern Military set ($24.99) gives twelve different prints for riflemen, support and leader roles. The Airborne set ($29.99) adds a drone and robot dogs for scout and equipment roles. Check each page for availability.
Building a squad of six
- Two riflemen, front and rear.
- One support gunner on the flank.
- One radio operator beside the leader.
- One medic behind the line.
- One leader, slightly apart.
That is a squad. Add a scout or a shield bearer if the scene calls for one.
Common mistakes
- Everyone has the same weapon. Spread items across the group.
- No leader. A group needs a focal point.
- No medic or radio. These two small items add more realism than any weapon.
Where to start
Pick one set, lay the figures out, and assign roles before you build. Browse military and minifig accessories for extras, and read how to build a military diorama when you are ready to stage the squad.