Zone Delta Transportation Pads: Sci-Fi Terrain Assembly Guide
By Sarissa Precision Ltd – Sarissa Precision Limited | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Product Reviews
Learn how to assemble and paint Zone Delta Transportation Pads from Sarissa Precision. Perfect for sci-fi wargaming terrain and objective markers.
Quick Answer
Assemble the Zone Delta Transportation Pads with standard wood glue, then paint them with a metallic base and neon accents to create instant sci-fi terrain and objective markers.
Why Transportation Pads Work as Sci-Fi Terrain
Transportation pads are a staple of science fiction, letting characters move instantly across a battlefield. The Zone Delta pads from Sarissa Precision capture that idea in a compact, modular kit that fits into any 28mm sci-fi setting.
Because they are supplied unassembled and unpainted, you can customize the finish to match your gaming table. They also work well as objective markers, giving you a clear, thematic focal point for scenarios that need a bit of narrative flair.
What's in the Box
The kit includes six transportation pads, enough to scatter across a table or to set up a network of teleportation points. The pads are laser-cut MDF, so they are durable and easy to work with, but they do require assembly and painting.
The instructions are included, but the build is straightforward. You won't need specialized tools—just basic hobby supplies like glue, a hobby knife, and paint.
Painting Options and Trade-offs
For a classic sci-fi look, prime the pads with a dark grey or black spray, then dry-brush with a metallic silver or gunmetal. Add a bright color—like cyan or orange—to the pad's central circle to suggest energy or a destination marker.
If you prefer a grimy, industrial feel, skip the bright accents and instead use washes and weathering powders to make the pads look worn and battle-scarred. This approach works well if your table is set in a dystopian or post-apocalyptic universe.
One trade-off: the pads are flat, so they won't add vertical interest to your terrain. But that makes them perfect for objective markers or as part of a larger scatter set.
Assembly and Painting Steps
- Prepare your workspace: Lay out all the MDF pieces and check them against the instructions. Have wood glue, a hobby knife, and a cutting mat ready. Ensure you have all parts before starting; missing pieces are easier to spot now.
- Dry-fit the pieces: Fit the pieces together without glue to see how they align. This helps you identify any tabs or slots that need slight sanding. If a piece doesn't fit, sand it gently—don't force it.
- Glue the pads together: Apply a thin layer of wood glue to the joints and press the pieces together. Hold them for a few seconds to set, then move to the next pad. Avoid using too much glue; it can seep out and ruin the paint job later.
- Let the glue cure: Allow the pads to dry completely, ideally overnight. This ensures the joints are strong and won't shift during painting. Patience here prevents warping or weak joints.
- Prime the pads: Spray or brush on a primer. A dark grey or black primer works best for sci-fi terrain, as it provides a solid base and helps shadows look deeper. Prime in a well-ventilated area and use light, even coats to avoid pooling.
- Paint the base colors: Apply your main colors. For a tech look, use metallic paints. For a more industrial vibe, use matte greys and browns. Thin your paints slightly to avoid obscuring the laser-cut details.
- Add the energy details: Paint the central circle or any recessed areas with a bright color (e.g., cyan, green, or orange) to suggest the transportation field. You can also dry-brush the edges for a glowing effect. Use a small brush for precision; a messy edge can ruin the effect.
Product Facts
- Zone Delta - Transportation pads (x6): The Zone Delta Transportation pads work in pairs to enable instantaneous transportation of matter across distances, making stairs obsolete. This means you can place two pads on your battlefield and use them as teleportation points, adding a dynamic mechanic to your scenarios.
Zone Delta - Transportation pads (x6)
