Lead vs. Tin

I just noticed this notification from Reaper. They're going back to their original formula for lead miniatures for a new product line. It will be in addition to their tin based minis, rather than converting the line over. They cite the Indonesian desire to own the tin market and the subsequent cost increases for their reasoning, and the new lead prices seem to be back to older price structures. Minis that used to be $3.99 and recently jumped to $4.99 are only $2.99 using their P-65 lead formula. Right now the only lead minis in our store are Flames of War from Battlefront (Rackham's Confrontation metal minis used to contains lead).

"Pewter" is an alloy comprised of around 90% tin, by the way. Everyone is always surprised when I start going off about tin, since they think their minis are made from this mystical material called Pewter.

Oh and in case you were wondering about the Lead Exposure Reduction Act of 1994, here's the exception for minis:

(4) WAIVERS FOR TOYS AND RECREATIONAL GAME PIECES- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator shall promulgate regulations to waive the requirements of subsection (a)(2)(B) with respect to certain toys and recreational game pieces that are collectible items and scale models intended for adult acquisition.