The crystal structures of PbMe3I and BiPh2Cl have been determined by X-ray methods. Both compounds form polymeric chains via bent μ2-halogeno bridges and almost linear X-M-X units (X = I, Cl).PbMe3I: Space group P212121, Z = 2; lattice dimensions at -50 °C: a = 653.0(1), b = 1034.0(2), c = 1124.5(2) pm, R = 0.049.BiPh2Cl: Space group P42, Z = 4; lattice dimensions at -50 °C: a = b = 847.5(2), c = 1644.9(4) pm, R = 0.044