Walls vs Fences: Which MDF Terrain Blocks Line of Sight?
By Sarissa Precision Ltd – Sarissa Precision Limited | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Comparisons
Compare MDF walls and fences for wargame terrain. Learn which blocks line of sight best, how height and density affect gameplay, and find the right fit for your table.
Quick answer
Walls block line of sight completely because they are solid, opaque structures. Fences, especially picket or rail types, often leave gaps that allow partial visibility. For full cover and guaranteed LOS blocking, choose a wall. For a mix of visibility and cover, a fence works better.
Height and Density: The Key Differences
The most important factor in blocking line of sight is the height and solidity of the terrain piece. A wall, like the Sarissa Precision Town Wall Corner, stands roughly 78mm to the walkway and 156mm to the roof peak. This height easily hides 28mm miniatures, and the solid MDF panels leave no gaps. A fence, by contrast, is typically shorter and built with open slats or rails. Even a tall fence may only block line of sight for prone or crouching models, leaving standing figures partially visible.
Density matters just as much. A solid wall presents a continuous opaque surface. A fence with gaps between boards or pickets allows shooting models to trace line of sight through the openings. This makes fences ideal for games that reward tactical positioning and partial cover, while walls suit scenarios where you need guaranteed concealment.
Gameplay Implications for Wargaming
In skirmish games like SAGA or Bolt Action, line of sight determines who can shoot and who stays hidden. A wall creates a hard block: units behind it cannot be targeted unless the attacker has a height advantage. A fence, depending on its design, may only provide soft cover, granting a defensive bonus without full concealment. This difference can shift the balance of a game, especially in scenarios with limited terrain.
When building your table, consider the scale and rules of your game. For historical games set in the Mediterranean or Dark Ages, walls suit fortified positions and urban fighting. Fences work better for rural or open-field battles where visibility and movement are more important than total cover.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Solid walls: full LOS block: A wall like the Town Wall Corner provides a continuous opaque surface. No gaps means no line of sight through it. Best for games where hiding units is critical. Choose walls when you need guaranteed concealment.
- Fences: partial cover and visibility: Fences with gaps allow line of sight through openings. They offer soft cover rather than full block. Ideal for games that reward tactical positioning and shooting. Choose fences for dynamic, open-field battles.
- Height and scale considerations: Wall height (78mm to walkway) hides most 28mm figures. Shorter fences may only cover prone models. Always check the height against your miniatures. Measure your miniatures before committing to a terrain type.
Product facts for your terrain comparison
- Town Wall Corner: Dimensions Approx. W147 x L148 x H78mm (to walkway), 156mm (to top of roof). Removable roof. Material MDF Greyboard. The 78mm walkway height and 156mm roof peak easily conceal 28mm miniatures. The solid MDF panels block line of sight completely, making this wall a reliable choice for full cover in siege or urban scenarios.
- 4 Model Line Interlocking Infantry Tray (SAG): Interlocking movement tray for 4 models based for use with SAGA. Uses 25mm round bases. Formation: single-rank line (4×1). While not a terrain piece itself, this movement tray pairs well with wall terrain. It keeps your models in a tight line, making it easier to position them behind a wall for full cover without overhang.
Which should you choose?
Best for
- Players who need guaranteed line of sight blocking for skirmish or siege scenarios
- Historical wargamers building fortified Roman or medieval tabletop setups
Not for
- Players who want terrain that allows partial visibility and tactical shooting
- Open-field or rural battles where fences fit the setting better
