Warhammer Fest is in the books, giving us both some sneak peaks at what tenth Edition might hold and also a gigantic showcase for the final season of 9th Edition. Over three hundred players, and just one champion at the end of it all – so who made it through?
In order to prep this on time (since Warhammer Fest continued through Monday) I’ve shuffled up my ordering a bit to back-load part two, so this week’s schedule looks roughly as follows. Today we’ll be looking at:
- Warhammer Fest (supermajor)
- Tau Tipping 2023 (major)
- Isarauen Frühjahrscup
On Friday we’ll have part 2 with:
- Gibraltar GT (major)
- Winter Warfest 2023
- Peterborough Slam GT!
- Berks Spring Assault GT
This week’s showdowns will be:
- Iron Hands Successors vs Astra Militarum at Warhammer Fest
- Blood Angels vs Tyranids at the
Baal ClassicGibraltar GT - Disciples of Be’lakor Daemons vs Votann at Peterborough Slam GT!
No surprises as to where we’re going to kick off.
Warhammer 40,000 Grand Tournament – Warhammer Fest
9-round Major in England United Kingdom on April 29 2023. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.
The Showdown
Matchup & Mission – Death and Zeal
David Gaylard – Astra Militarum: An unusual board pressure-focused Astra Militarum build, using lots of Sentinels and Infantry with Armoured Superiority and Swift as the Wind to put pressure on objectives, Scions for a punch out of reserve, a couple of surprisingly nasty counter-charge command squads and a single Dorn to provide big shooting in a package that can be protected with Ablative Plating.
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + Game Type Regimental Doctrine: Armoured Superiority, Swift as the Wind + HQ + Cadian Command Squad [7 PL, -2CP, 135pts]: Commanding Authority, Relic: Legacy of Kalladius, Stratagem: Imperial Commander’s Armoury, Stratagem: Officer Cadre, WT: Front-LIne Combatant Cadian Command Squad [7 PL, -2CP, 135pts]: Commanding Authority, Relic: Claw of the Desert Tigers, Stratagem: Imperial Commander’s Armoury, Stratagem: Officer Cadre, WT: Master Tactician Lord Solar Leontus [9 PL, 170pts]: Commanding Authority, Warlord, WT: Grand Strategist + Troops + Cadian Shock Troops [3 PL, 65pts] Cadian Shock Troops [3 PL, 65pts] Cadian Shock Troops [3 PL, 65pts] Cadian Shock Troops [3 PL, 65pts] + Elites + Sly Marbo [3 PL, 50pts]: Envenomed Blade, Frag grenades, Ripper Pistol Tempestus Scions [10 PL, 110pts] Tempestus Scions [10 PL, 110pts] Tempestus Scions [10 PL, 110pts] + Fast Attack + Armoured Sentinels [9 PL, 150pts] Armoured Sentinels [9 PL, 145pts] Scout Sentinels [9 PL, 135pts] + Heavy Support + Rogal Dorn Battle Tank [15 PL, 320pts]: Armoured Tracks, Castigator Gatling Cannon, Heavy stubber, Knight of Piety, Stat Damage (Rogal Dorn) + Dedicated Transport + Chimera [5 PL, 85pts]: Chimera Heavy Flamer, Lasgun Arrays, Stat Damage (Chimera) Chimera [5 PL, 85pts]: Chimera Heavy Flamer, Lasgun Arrays, Stat Damage (Chimera) ++ Total: [120 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Imperium – Astra Militarum) [120 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++
. Cadian Commander: Chainsword, Commanding Authority, Frag grenades, Laspistol
. Cadian Veterans
. . Cadian Veteran w/ chainsword: Chainsword, Frag grenades, Laspistol
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Master-Vox: Frag grenades, Laspistol, Master Vox
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Medi-pack: Frag grenades, Lasgun, Medi-pack
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Regimental Standard: Frag grenades
. . . Lasgun and Regimental Standard: Lasgun, Regimental Standard
. Ogryn Bodyguard: Bullgryn Maul, Frag bombs, Slabshield
. Cadian Commander: Commanding Authority, Frag grenades, Laspistol, Power sword
. Cadian Veterans
. . Cadian Veteran w/ chainsword: Chainsword, Frag grenades, Laspistol
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Master-Vox: Frag grenades, Laspistol, Master Vox
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Medi-pack: Frag grenades, Lasgun, Medi-pack
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Regimental Standard: Frag grenades
. . . Lasgun and Regimental Standard: Lasgun, Regimental Standard
. Ogryn Bodyguard: Bullgryn Maul, Frag bombs, Slabshield
. 6x Shock Trooper: 6x Lasgun
. Shock Trooper Sergeant: Drum-fed Autogun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Plasma gun
. Shock Trooper w/ Vox-caster: Lasgun, Vox-Caster
. 6x Shock Trooper: 6x Lasgun
. Shock Trooper Sergeant: Drum-fed Autogun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Plasma gun
. Shock Trooper w/ Vox-caster: Lasgun, Vox-Caster
. 6x Shock Trooper: 6x Lasgun
. Shock Trooper Sergeant: Drum-fed Autogun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Plasma gun
. Shock Trooper w/ Vox-caster: Lasgun, Vox-Caster
. 6x Shock Trooper: 6x Lasgun
. Shock Trooper Sergeant: Drum-fed Autogun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Plasma gun
. Shock Trooper w/ Vox-caster: Lasgun, Vox-Caster
. Tempestor: Chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma pistol
. 4x Tempestus Scion: 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Hot-shot Lasgun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Vox-caster: Hot-shot Laspistol, Vox-Caster
. Tempestor: Chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma pistol
. 4x Tempestus Scion: 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Hot-shot Lasgun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Vox-caster: Hot-shot Laspistol, Vox-Caster
. Tempestor: Chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma pistol
. 4x Tempestus Scion: 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Hot-shot Lasgun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Vox-caster: Hot-shot Laspistol, Vox-Caster
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon
. Scout Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Scout Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Scout Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. 2 Meltaguns: 2x Meltagun
. 2 Multi-meltas: 2x Multi-melta
. Oppressor Cannon and Co-axial Autocannon: Co-axial Autocannon, Oppressor Cannon
. Heavy Flamer: Heavy flamer
. Heavy Flamer: Heavy flamer
vs.
Innes Wilson – Iron Hands Successors: Shooty Successors with most of the classics but also Innes’ special secret tech – a Repulsor to protect Desolation Marines in the mirror, and also just to provide a lot of guns for the price tag. Factions Used: Adeptus Astartes Pre-Game Stratagems: March of the Ancients, Hero of the Chapter x2, Warlord Trait, Scion of the Forge Warlord & Trait: Primaris Techmarine – Target Protocols Secondary Objectives Information HQ: Primaris Techmarine [4PL, 70pts] (Warlord) TR: 5 Infiltrator [6PL, 100pts] Helix Gauntlet EL: 10 Vanguard Veteran [14PL, 300pts] Jump Packs, Sergeant with Lightning Claw and Relic Blade, 8 Lightning Claw and Storm Shield, Lightning Claw and Grav Pistol FA: Land Speeder Tornado [4PL, 70pts] Multi-Melta HS: 5 Devastator [8PL, 125pts] Multi-Melta, 3 Grav-Cannon, Armorium Cherub, Sergeant with Combi-Melta and Thunder Hammer DT: Land Speeder Storm [3PL, 50pts]
Army List - Click to Expand
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Player: Innes “Speedrun for Tyranids” Wilson
Team: Stat Check
Army Points: 2000
Reinforcement Points: 0
Number of Units / Kill Points: 16
Starting Command Points: 0
Army Trait: Combat Doctrines, Calculated Fury
No Prisoners: 80
Bring it Down: 9
Assassination: 10
Abhor the Witch: n/a
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
== Adeptus Astartes – [Iron Hands Successors] – Ark of Omen Detachment [Heavy Support] = -6CP, [111PL, 2000pts] ==
Chapter Tactics: Whirlwind of Rage, Master Artisans
– – – Warlord Trait : Target Protocols (-1CP)
HQ: Primaris Lieutenant [5PL, 65pts] Master-Crafted Power Sword, Neo-Volkite Pistol, Storm Shield
– – – Hero of the Chapter : Rites of War (-1CP)
EL: 10 Scout [8PL, 120pts] Camo Cloaks, 9 Scout Sniper Rifle, Missile Launcher, Thunder Hammer
EL: Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8PL, 195pts] 2 Twin Volkite Culverin, Cyclone Missile Launcher
– – – Martial Legacy (-1CP)
– – – March of the Ancients (-1CP)
– – – Hero of the Chapter : Merciless Logic (-1CP)
FA: Land Speeder Tornado [4PL, 70pts] Multi-Melta
HS: 5 Devastator [8PL, 125pts] Multi-Melta, 3 Grav-Cannon, Armorium Cherub, Sergeant with Combi-Melta and Thunder Hammer
HS: Repulsor [16PL, 220pts] Additional Ironhail Heavy Stubber, Twin Lascannon, Onslaught Gatling Cannon, Replace Auto Launchers with 2 Fragstorm Grenade Launchers, Icarus Rocket Pod
HS: 5 Desolation [8PL, 185pts] Vengor Launcher and Targeter Optics, 4 Super Krak Missile
HS: 5 Desolation [8PL, 185pts] Vengor Launcher and Targeter Optics, 4 Super Krak Missile
– – – Scion of the Forge : Master-Crafted Weapon – Vengor Launcher (-1CP)
DT: Land Speeder Storm [3PL, 50pts]
DT: Drop Pod [4PL, 70pts]
Thoughts
It’s great when Innes makes it into the finals of a big event, because I can mostly just hand over to him to write this. Both these armies are spins on popular archetypes, but both get in some unique flair as well. Guard are notably shorter on guns than normal, but particularly well built to force the issue on Secondaries, so it feels like this is going to come down to whether they can rack up a high enough score to take a win on points before getting annihilated. Let’s hand over to Innes to find out how that went.
Innes: My Game with David was an absolute nail biter – both coming down to some clutch rolls and charges as well as a very narrow line on Secondaries. I opted for Oath of Moment and Bring it Down, two fairly standard secondaries in a Vehicle heavy pairing, and Shock Tactics in order to punish David for attempting to flip primary with his Armoured Superiority. Banners is the other natural solution to the secondary issue that allows me to also engage in a very passive plan, but due to options like diving a Dorn 20″ onto a side objective opening up a 4pt Primary Swing, a Banner removal and a line of shooting into my very open home ruin, I opted for the riskier line.
Broadly as Iron Hands I have the shooting advantage, but due to Dave’s generally superior secondaries as far as passive scoring goes and my general need to spend a turn somewhere in dodge on the Games Workshop Layout 2 where Dave has a Dorn, 2 Melee Command Squads and 6 Sentinels (plus 30 Scions in Reserve) that can punish me for pushing up too much.
I spent 3 turns whittling away at his resources by putting the bare minimum into the middle, forcing David to use resources to remove my staging threats, committing to the middle fully only when I could both get a solid turn of shooting (off of the Dorn exposing along with a Command Squad) after the Scions had been placed defensively. This also allowed me to slingshot charges off of his units that were in my zone to score Boots on the Ground. Doing this enabled me to take enough of a position in the midboard that I could dive onto one of David’s objectives to flip a Shock Assault, while also costing him 4 Primary. From here, David was pressured into trying to hold me up with his remaining resources, almost all vehicles. When this failed, I was able to clean up the remaining Bring it Down points to clinch the victory.
All told, this was a super passive game with some really interesting technical lines and a lot of fun moments. David was an absolute pleasure to play, and the Judge at the table helped make sure a lot of the complex combat situations were resolved fairly despite the tension of the situation. David had a great line to success and just missed out on a couple of clutch options that might have given him the game, despite holding down my Shock Tactics constantly by never holding the middle objective in Death and Zeal.
Desolation Marines were by far the MVP of the game however: their ability to both chip away at the infantry resources available, and also put massive damage on Sentinels behind walls was a key contributor to forcing David to commit to the Center. Direct fire was responsible for cleaning up the incredibly resilient Command Squad Bullgryn, and also the Rogal Dorn. They’re also just wonderfully warm bodies to carry a Rites of War aura a long old way. Vanguard Veterans claim the consolation award for being the actual damage output that scored the Shock Assault that sealed the game.
Ultimately the overwhelming ability of the Iron Hands to remove anything in Line of Sight, along with the Contemptor’s ability to shoot through the middle to the home plate objective ruin limited David’s ability to meaningfully create pressure past the mid field, which eventually allowed my superior volume of units to pull off the plays required to close out an amazing game.
Wings: Thanks Innes – a fitting final for such a big event.
Result
Iron Hands Victory – 89 – 86
Innes Wilson – Adeptus Astartes – 1st Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand Factions Used: Adeptus Astartes Pre-Game Stratagems: March of the Ancients, Hero of the Chapter x2, Warlord Trait, Scion of the Forge Warlord & Trait: Primaris Techmarine – Target Protocols Secondary Objectives Information HQ: Primaris Techmarine [4PL, 70pts] (Warlord) TR: 5 Infiltrator [6PL, 100pts] Helix Gauntlet EL: 10 Vanguard Veteran [14PL, 300pts] Jump Packs, Sergeant with Lightning Claw and Relic Blade, 8 Lightning Claw and Storm Shield, Lightning Claw and Grav Pistol FA: Land Speeder Tornado [4PL, 70pts] Multi-Melta HS: 5 Devastator [8PL, 125pts] Multi-Melta, 3 Grav-Cannon, Armorium Cherub, Sergeant with Combi-Melta and Thunder Hammer DT: Land Speeder Storm [3PL, 50pts]
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Player: Innes “Speedrun for Tyranids” Wilson
Team: Stat Check
Army Points: 2000
Reinforcement Points: 0
Number of Units / Kill Points: 16
Starting Command Points: 0
Army Trait: Combat Doctrines, Calculated Fury
No Prisoners: 80
Bring it Down: 9
Assassination: 10
Abhor the Witch: n/a
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
== Adeptus Astartes – [Iron Hands Successors] – Ark of Omen Detachment [Heavy Support] = -6CP, [111PL, 2000pts] ==
Chapter Tactics: Whirlwind of Rage, Master Artisans
– – – Warlord Trait : Target Protocols (-1CP)
HQ: Primaris Lieutenant [5PL, 65pts] Master-Crafted Power Sword, Neo-Volkite Pistol, Storm Shield
– – – Hero of the Chapter : Rites of War (-1CP)
EL: 10 Scout [8PL, 120pts] Camo Cloaks, 9 Scout Sniper Rifle, Missile Launcher, Thunder Hammer
EL: Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8PL, 195pts] 2 Twin Volkite Culverin, Cyclone Missile Launcher
– – – Martial Legacy (-1CP)
– – – March of the Ancients (-1CP)
– – – Hero of the Chapter : Merciless Logic (-1CP)
FA: Land Speeder Tornado [4PL, 70pts] Multi-Melta
HS: 5 Devastator [8PL, 125pts] Multi-Melta, 3 Grav-Cannon, Armorium Cherub, Sergeant with Combi-Melta and Thunder Hammer
HS: Repulsor [16PL, 220pts] Additional Ironhail Heavy Stubber, Twin Lascannon, Onslaught Gatling Cannon, Replace Auto Launchers with 2 Fragstorm Grenade Launchers, Icarus Rocket Pod
HS: 5 Desolation [8PL, 185pts] Vengor Launcher and Targeter Optics, 4 Super Krak Missile
HS: 5 Desolation [8PL, 185pts] Vengor Launcher and Targeter Optics, 4 Super Krak Missile
– – – Scion of the Forge : Master-Crafted Weapon – Vengor Launcher (-1CP)
DT: Land Speeder Storm [3PL, 50pts]
DT: Drop Pod [4PL, 70pts]
Archetype
Shooty Iron Hands Successors
Thoughts
All the normal guns that you know and “love” plus the truly upsettingly efficient package that a Repulsor now represents, particularly when you can use it to safely stash away Desolation Squads if you’re worried that the opponent has a way to alpha strike them. Congratulations to Innes for taking the big win on the big stage.
David Gaylard – Astra Militarum – 2nd Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + Game Type Regimental Doctrine: Armoured Superiority, Swift as the Wind + HQ + Cadian Command Squad [7 PL, -2CP, 135pts]: Commanding Authority, Relic: Legacy of Kalladius, Stratagem: Imperial Commander’s Armoury, Stratagem: Officer Cadre, WT: Front-LIne Combatant Cadian Command Squad [7 PL, -2CP, 135pts]: Commanding Authority, Relic: Claw of the Desert Tigers, Stratagem: Imperial Commander’s Armoury, Stratagem: Officer Cadre, WT: Master Tactician Lord Solar Leontus [9 PL, 170pts]: Commanding Authority, Warlord, WT: Grand Strategist + Troops + Cadian Shock Troops [3 PL, 65pts] Cadian Shock Troops [3 PL, 65pts] Cadian Shock Troops [3 PL, 65pts] Cadian Shock Troops [3 PL, 65pts] + Elites + Sly Marbo [3 PL, 50pts]: Envenomed Blade, Frag grenades, Ripper Pistol Tempestus Scions [10 PL, 110pts] Tempestus Scions [10 PL, 110pts] Tempestus Scions [10 PL, 110pts] + Fast Attack + Armoured Sentinels [9 PL, 150pts] Armoured Sentinels [9 PL, 145pts] Scout Sentinels [9 PL, 135pts] + Heavy Support + Rogal Dorn Battle Tank [15 PL, 320pts]: Armoured Tracks, Castigator Gatling Cannon, Heavy stubber, Knight of Piety, Stat Damage (Rogal Dorn) + Dedicated Transport + Chimera [5 PL, 85pts]: Chimera Heavy Flamer, Lasgun Arrays, Stat Damage (Chimera) Chimera [5 PL, 85pts]: Chimera Heavy Flamer, Lasgun Arrays, Stat Damage (Chimera) ++ Total: [120 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Imperium – Astra Militarum) [120 PL, 8CP, 2,000pts] ++
. Cadian Commander: Chainsword, Commanding Authority, Frag grenades, Laspistol
. Cadian Veterans
. . Cadian Veteran w/ chainsword: Chainsword, Frag grenades, Laspistol
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Master-Vox: Frag grenades, Laspistol, Master Vox
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Medi-pack: Frag grenades, Lasgun, Medi-pack
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Regimental Standard: Frag grenades
. . . Lasgun and Regimental Standard: Lasgun, Regimental Standard
. Ogryn Bodyguard: Bullgryn Maul, Frag bombs, Slabshield
. Cadian Commander: Commanding Authority, Frag grenades, Laspistol, Power sword
. Cadian Veterans
. . Cadian Veteran w/ chainsword: Chainsword, Frag grenades, Laspistol
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Master-Vox: Frag grenades, Laspistol, Master Vox
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Medi-pack: Frag grenades, Lasgun, Medi-pack
. . Cadian Veteran w/ Regimental Standard: Frag grenades
. . . Lasgun and Regimental Standard: Lasgun, Regimental Standard
. Ogryn Bodyguard: Bullgryn Maul, Frag bombs, Slabshield
. 6x Shock Trooper: 6x Lasgun
. Shock Trooper Sergeant: Drum-fed Autogun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Plasma gun
. Shock Trooper w/ Vox-caster: Lasgun, Vox-Caster
. 6x Shock Trooper: 6x Lasgun
. Shock Trooper Sergeant: Drum-fed Autogun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Plasma gun
. Shock Trooper w/ Vox-caster: Lasgun, Vox-Caster
. 6x Shock Trooper: 6x Lasgun
. Shock Trooper Sergeant: Drum-fed Autogun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Plasma gun
. Shock Trooper w/ Vox-caster: Lasgun, Vox-Caster
. 6x Shock Trooper: 6x Lasgun
. Shock Trooper Sergeant: Drum-fed Autogun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Shock Trooper w/ Special Weapon: Plasma gun
. Shock Trooper w/ Vox-caster: Lasgun, Vox-Caster
. Tempestor: Chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma pistol
. 4x Tempestus Scion: 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Hot-shot Lasgun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Vox-caster: Hot-shot Laspistol, Vox-Caster
. Tempestor: Chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma pistol
. 4x Tempestus Scion: 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Hot-shot Lasgun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Vox-caster: Hot-shot Laspistol, Vox-Caster
. Tempestor: Chainsword, Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma pistol
. 4x Tempestus Scion: 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Hot-shot Lasgun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Plasma gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Special Weapon: Frag & Krak grenades, Hot-shot Volley Gun
. Tempestus Scion w/ Vox-caster: Hot-shot Laspistol, Vox-Caster
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Armoured Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon
. Scout Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Scout Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. Scout Sentinel: Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw
. 2 Meltaguns: 2x Meltagun
. 2 Multi-meltas: 2x Multi-melta
. Oppressor Cannon and Co-axial Autocannon: Co-axial Autocannon, Oppressor Cannon
. Heavy Flamer: Heavy flamer
. Heavy Flamer: Heavy flamer
Archetype
Astra Militarum Pressure
Thoughts
Really fantastic to see David reaching second place with such a unique Guard build, throwing away the standard template for building the army in favour of something that plays well to the GW Terrain maps (via the extra melee pressure and focus on Sentinels) and has incredibly reliable Secondary game, allowing David to reliably navigate it through the rock hard top tables at Warhammer Fest with minimal chances of a bad beat or stumble. That got him all the way to the final and within a handful of victory points of the win, so huge congratulations on a well-deserved second.
Brian Seipp – Aeldari – 3rd Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Fast Attack Craftworld Selection Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + No Force Org Slot + Seer Council (Unit) [3 PL, 65pts] + HQ + Baharroth [7 PL, 160pts] Farseer Skyrunner [6 PL, 135pts, -2CP]: 4. Crushing Orb, 4. Executioner, 5: Mark of the Incomparable Hunter, Stratagem: Champion of the Aeldari, Stratagem: Relic, Witchblade + Elites + Dire Avengers [6 PL, 78pts] Striking Scorpions [5 PL, 110pts] Warlock Skyrunners [3 PL, 65pts]: 5. Quicken/Restrain + Fast Attack + Shroud Runners [5 PL, 90pts] Shroud Runners [5 PL, 90pts] Vypers [3 PL, 40pts] Warp Spiders [6 PL, 135pts] + Heavy Support + Night Spinner [8 PL, 150pts]: Crystal Targeting Matrix, Twin Shuriken Catapult Support Weapons [3 PL, 65pts]: Support Weapon w/ D-Cannon Support Weapons [3 PL, 65pts]: Support Weapon w/ D-Cannon ++ Patrol Detachment 0CP (Aeldari – Harlequins) [35 PL, 750pts, -1CP] ++ + Configuration + Saedath Characterisation: Light: Blaze of Light + HQ + Shadowseer [5 PL, 100pts]: 1. Twilight Pathways (Blessing), 3. Mirror of Minds (Witchfire), Shuriken Pistol, Warlord + Troops + Troupe [4 PL, 65pts] Troupe [4 PL, 75pts] + Elites + Death Jester [4 PL, 110pts, -1CP]: 1: Favour of Cegorach, Harvester of Torment, Stratagem: Champion of the Aeldari Solitaire [6 PL, 110pts] + Fast Attack + Skyweavers [4 PL, 100pts] + Dedicated Transport + Starweaver [4 PL, 95pts] Starweaver [4 PL, 95pts] ++ Total: [98 PL, 1,998pts, 3CP] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Aeldari – Craftworlds) [63 PL, 1,248pts, 4CP] ++
. *Far-Flung Craftworld*: Masterful Shots, Swift Strikes
. Warlock Skyrunners: 4. Protect/Jinx
. . Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. Kurnous’ Bow
. 5x Dire Avenger: 5x Avenger Shuriken Catapult, 5x Plasma Grenades
. Dire Avenger Exarch: Two Avenger Shuriken Catapults
. 4x Striking Scorpion: 4x Mandiblasters, 4x Scorpion Chainsword, 4x Shuriken Pistol
. Striking Scorpion Exarch: Biting Blade, Crushing Blows
. Warlock Skyrunner: Witchblade
. 3x Shroud Runner: 3x Ranger Long Rifle, 3x Scatter Laser, 3x Shuriken Pistol
. 3x Shroud Runner: 3x Ranger Long Rifle, 3x Scatter Laser, 3x Shuriken Pistol
. Vyper w/ Scatter Laser
. 4x Warp Spider: 4x Death Spinner
. Warp Spider Exarch: Two Death Spinners & Powerblades, Web of Deceit
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Lead Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Blade, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Kiss, Shuriken Pistol
. Player: Harlequin’s Embrace, Shuriken Pistol
. Skyweaver: Skyweaver Haywire Cannon, Star Bolas
. Skyweaver: Skyweaver Haywire Cannon, Star Bolas
Archetype
Swift Strikes Pressure
Thoughts
In third we have another list with a very strong Secondary plan from Brian, able to use its mobility to launch all-spectrum alpha strikes/counter attacks that can bowl opponents off the board and lock in points early. With that initial advantage in the bag, it can use its huge depth of herohammer and other tricky tools to make it very hard for the opponent to shut down its scoring even as they clear units, and also to snipe out key threats or force multipliers to sabotage their scoring plans. Peak Aeldari, basically, and in Brian’s hands it left a whole trail of opponents in the dust before finally falling to Innes in the semis.
Mani Cheema – Dark Angels Successors – 4th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + **Chapter Selector**: Custom Chapter, Dark Angels Successor, Stalwart, Whirlwind of Rage Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Elites Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + Stratagems + Stratagem: Honoured by the Rock [-1CP] + Agents of the Imperium + Inquisitor [4 PL, 60pts]: Bolt pistol, Chainsword, Hereticus – Scourging, Ordo Hereticus, Psyker + HQ + Librarian [6 PL, 105pts]: 1) Mind Worm, 3) Righteous Repugnance, Boltgun, Force sword, Jump Pack Primaris Chaplain on Bike [8 PL, 135pts, -2CP]: 1. Litany of Faith (Aura), 6. Canticle of Hate (Aura), Chapter Command: Master of Sanctity, Litany of Hate (Aura), Stratagem: Relic, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, The Vox Espiritum, Warlord, Wise Orator + Elites + Bladeguard Ancient [6 PL, 90pts, -2CP]: Chapter Command: Chapter Ancient, Pennant of Remembrance, Steadfast Example, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, Stratagem: Relic of the Chapter Bladeguard Veteran Squad [10 PL, 210pts] Bladeguard Veteran Squad [10 PL, 175pts] Bladeguard Veteran Squad [10 PL, 175pts] Deathwing Command Squad [10 PL, 105pts]: Watcher in the Dark Deathwing Terminator Squad [18 PL, 330pts]: Watcher in the Dark Deathwing Terminator Squad [18 PL, 330pts]: Watcher in the Dark Ravenwing Apothecary [5 PL, 90pts, -1CP]: Rites of War, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter Ravenwing Champion [4 PL, 60pts] + Fast Attack + Attack Bike Squad [2 PL, 50pts] + Heavy Support + Eliminator Squad [4 PL, 75pts]: Las Fusil ++ Auxiliary Support Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Agents of the Imperium) [1 PL, 10pts] ++ + Configuration + Faction Selection: Agents of the Imperium + Elites + Acolytes [1 PL, 10pts]: Ordo Hereticus ++ Total: [116 PL, 2,000pts] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Dark Angels) [115 PL, 1,990pts, ] ++
. 5x Bladeguard Veteran: 5x Frag & Krak grenades, 5x Heavy Bolt Pistol, 5x Master-crafted power sword, 5x Storm Shield
. Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant: Heavy Bolt Pistol
. 4x Bladeguard Veteran: 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Heavy Bolt Pistol, 4x Master-crafted power sword, 4x Storm Shield
. Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant: Heavy Bolt Pistol
. 4x Bladeguard Veteran: 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Heavy Bolt Pistol, 4x Master-crafted power sword, 4x Storm Shield
. Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant: Heavy Bolt Pistol
. Deathwing Sergeant
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Sergeant
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Cyclone Missile Launcher, Thunder Hammer, Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Cyclone Missile Launcher, Thunder Hammer, Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Sergeant
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Cyclone Missile Launcher, Thunder Hammer, Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Cyclone Missile Launcher, Thunder Hammer, Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Deathwing Terminator
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield
. Black Knight Bike: Astartes grenade launcher
. Black Knight Bike: Plasma Talon
. Attack Bike: Multi-melta
. Eliminator Sergeant: Instigator Bolt Carbine
. 2x Eliminators: 2x Bolt pistol, 2x Camo cloak, 2x Frag & Krak grenades
. Acolyte: Hot-Shot Lasgun, Laspistol
Archetype
Outer Circle ObSec Pressure
Thoughts
I’m living in hell, apparently, because there’s still a “whoops all Deathwing” list, even after the Balance Dataslate. Admittedly it’s a very different one – with perma-transhuman gone on the Terminators, Mani’s added lots of Bladeguard to the mix (who have access to boring old regular Transhuman), ensuring he can still assemble ultra-tough tarpits with the Pennant, and presenting an opponent with a wall of melee bodies that puts them on a very short clock before getting overwhelmed. Taking both an upgraded Ancient and Rites of War means that the army can have ObSec spread far and wide. Packing both an Inquisitor and Librarian ensures it has plenty of passive scoring options, and it all sums up to a list that can grind opponents out of games again and again and again, until David’s equally potent pressure plan finally got the better of it.
The Best of the Rest
Bracketed events are a nightmare for this, and I am near certain that this order is wrong, so to at least make sure no one gets left out here’s the rest of the top bracket in the placings that BCP says, don’t shoot the messenger if they aren’t quite right.
- 5th – David Irving – Iron Hands: Iron Hands with double BIG TANK, the connoisseur’s choice.
- 6th – Nassim Fouchane – Tau: Coreside nightmare fuel, with Shadowsun and Longstrike to buff them up, then a Riptide, murder Commander and Crisis bomb as secondary threats.
- 7th – Terroxer El Rojo – Thousand Sons & Daemons: Traditional Duplicity tools with some small Tzeentch Daemon units and a Fateskimmer to add flexibility and expendables.
- 8th – Josie Cartwright – Necrons: Another huge power move here – melee Novokh with a Monolith to apply absolutely brutal pressure on turn two, and also sporting Anrakyr and Szeras to really dial up the power of the big Skorpekh units that are the key threats.
- 9th – Josh Roberts – Space Wolves Successors: Loads of melee bodies, loads of melta weapons and a big squad of Desolation Marines to round it all off.
- 10th – Christopher Radford – Space Wolves Successors: Pretty much the same again, just tweaking a few units around to find points for a Judiciar to help open up melee matchups.
- 11th – Boris Michev – World Eaters: Invocatus Eightbound spam.
- 12th – Nathan Roberts – Chaos Knights: Herpetrax/Dreadblade War Dog spam.
- 13th – Mike Porter – Genestealer Cult: Another successful outing for Mike’s heavily mechanised Rusted Claw build we covered a few weeks back.
- 14th – Alex Harrison – Necrons: Nihilakh with a tonne of Destroyers and a second appearence for Anrakyr, helping them do enough damage to reduce the risk of getting out-punched by opposing melee builds.
- 15th – Anthony Chew – Genestealer Cult: More mechanised Rusted Claw.
- 16th – Raphaël Jaffré – Ynnari & Harlequins: High-pressure Melee Ynnari with some Light Saedath objective tools in tow.
Tau Tipping 2023
59-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Hoquiam, WA US on April 29 2023. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.
Harry Gieringer – Salamanders – 1st Place
(pretend it’s a Rhino OK)
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + **Chapter Selector**: Salamanders Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Elites Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + HQ + Bray’arth Ashmantle [11 PL, 220pts]: Burning Wrath, 2x Dreadfire claw, 2x Dreadfire heavy flamer Chaplain [7 PL, -2CP, 115pts]: 1. Litany of Faith (Aura), 6. Canticle of Hate (Aura), Chapter Command: Master of Sanctity, Combi-melta, Crozius arcanum, Frag & Krak grenades, Jump Pack, Litany of Hate, Never Give Up, Stratagem: Exemplar of the Promethean Creed, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord, Wise Orator + Troops + Tactical Squad [5 PL, 90pts] Tactical Squad [5 PL, 90pts] Tactical Squad [5 PL, 90pts] + Elites + Scout Squad [4 PL, 60pts]: 5x Camo cloak Sternguard Veteran Squad [6 PL, 100pts] Sternguard Veteran Squad [6 PL, 100pts] Sternguard Veteran Squad [6 PL, 100pts] Terminator Assault Squad [18 PL, 330pts]: Teleport Homer + Fast Attack + Assault Squad [6 PL, 90pts]: Jump Pack Land Speeders [3 PL, 60pts] + Dedicated Transport + Rhino [4 PL, 85pts]: 2x Storm Bolters, Hunter-killer missile Rhino [4 PL, 80pts]: 2x Storm Bolters Rhino [4 PL, 80pts]: 2x Storm Bolters ++ Super-Heavy Auxiliary Detachment 0CP (Imperium – Imperial Knights) [16 PL, 310pts] ++ + Configuration + [Reference] Chivalric Oaths Chivalric Oath: Mixed Army Questor Allegiance: Custom, Custom Household: Hunter of Beasts, Questor Imperialis + Lord of War + Armiger Helverins [16 PL, 310pts]: Freeblade, Martial Tradition: Hunters of Beasts, Questor Imperialis ++ Total: [110 PL, 4CP, 2,000pts] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Salamanders) [94 PL, 4CP, 1,690pts] ++
. 3x Space Marine: 3x Bolt pistol, 3x Boltgun, 3x Frag & Krak grenades
. Space Marine Sergeant: Combi-melta, Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw
. Space Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Multi-melta
. 3x Space Marine: 3x Bolt pistol, 3x Boltgun, 3x Frag & Krak grenades
. Space Marine Sergeant: Combi-melta, Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw
. Space Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Multi-melta
. 3x Space Marine: 3x Bolt pistol, 3x Boltgun, 3x Frag & Krak grenades
. Space Marine Sergeant: Combi-melta, Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw
. Space Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Multi-melta
. Scout Sergeant: Frag & Krak grenades, Sniper rifle, Thunder hammer
. 4x Scout w/Scout sniper rifle: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Scout sniper rifle
. Sternguard Veteran: Bolt pistol, Combi-flamer, Frag & Krak grenades
. Sternguard Veteran: Bolt pistol, Combi-flamer, Frag & Krak grenades
. Sternguard Veteran: Bolt pistol, Combi-flamer, Frag & Krak grenades
. Sternguard Veteran: Bolt pistol, Combi-flamer, Frag & Krak grenades
. Sternguard Veteran Sergeant: Combi-flamer, Frag & Krak grenades, Power fist
. Sternguard Veteran: Bolt pistol, Combi-melta, Frag & Krak grenades
. Sternguard Veteran: Bolt pistol, Combi-melta, Frag & Krak grenades
. Sternguard Veteran Sergeant: Combi-melta, Frag & Krak grenades, Power fist
. Sternguard Veteran w/Heavy Weapon: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Multi-melta
. Sternguard Veteran w/Heavy Weapon: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Multi-melta
. Sternguard Veteran: Bolt pistol, Combi-melta, Frag & Krak grenades
. Sternguard Veteran: Bolt pistol, Combi-melta, Frag & Krak grenades
. Sternguard Veteran Sergeant: Combi-melta, Frag & Krak grenades, Power fist
. Sternguard Veteran w/Heavy Weapon: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Multi-melta
. Sternguard Veteran w/Heavy Weapon: Bolt pistol, Frag & Krak grenades, Multi-melta
. Assault Terminator Sergeant
. . Thunder Hammer & Storm Shield: Storm shield, Thunder hammer
. 7x Assault Terminator w/THSS: 7x Storm shield, 7x Thunder hammer
. 2x Assault Terminator w/x2LC: 2x Lightning Claw (Pair)
. 2x Space Marine: 2x Astartes Chainsword, 2x Bolt pistol, 2x Frag & Krak grenades
. Space Marine Sergeant: Combat shield, Frag & Krak grenades, Lightning Claw, Thunder hammer
. Space Marine w/Special Weapon: Flamer, Frag & Krak grenades
. Space Marine w/Special Weapon: Flamer, Frag & Krak grenades
. Land Speeder: Multi-melta
. Armiger Helverin: 2x Armiger Autocannon, Questor Ironhail Heavy Stubber
. Armiger Helverin: 2x Armiger Autocannon, Questor Ironhail Heavy Stubber
Archetype
Salamander Inferno
Final Round Matchup
97 – 53 Victory against Noah Beddome – Imperial Knights.
Thoughts
Tactical Squads in Rhinos – where can one learn such power? The metagame is packed with AP-1 and AP-2 attacks, so the Salamanders chapter tactic is back to looking pretty appealing, while combining their superdoctrine with dedicated melta and flamer squads enables them to toast pretty much any kind of target, and indeed Harry carved through a wall of Daemonic bodies at one end and the iron-clad Imperial Knights at the other. Helverins add some efficient backfield pieces, Terminators provide a huge rolling threat to dominate the board with via Born Protectors, and you end up with a great all-round build that earned a very impressive win!
Nicolas Ohlsen-Johnson – Iron Hands Successors – 2nd Place (Undefeated)
The List
Army List - Click to Expand Starting CP: 0 + Configuration + **Chapter Selector**: Born Heroes , Custom Chapter, Iron Hands Successor, Whirlwind of Rage Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Heavy Support Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + HQ + Primaris Lieutenant [5 PL, 65pts, -1CP]: Rites of War, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter Primaris Techmarine (Iron Father Bartholomew) [4 PL, 70pts, -1CP]: Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Target Protocols, Warlord + Troops + Infiltrator Squad [6 PL, 100pts]: Helix gauntlet Infiltrator Squad [6 PL, 100pts]: Helix gauntlet + Elites + Relic Contemptor Dreadnought [8 PL, 195pts, -3CP]: Cyclone missile launcher, Merciless Logic, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, Stratagem: March of the Ancients, 2x Twin volkite culverin Scout Squad [4 PL, 60pts]: Camo cloak Vanguard Veteran Squad [14 PL, 305pts]: Jump Pack + Fast Attack + Land Speeder Tornadoes [4 PL, 70pts] Land Speeder Tornadoes [4 PL, 70pts] Land Speeder Tornadoes [4 PL, 70pts] + Heavy Support + Desolation Squad [16 PL, 185pts]: Superkrak Rocket Launcher Desolation Squad [16 PL, 185pts, -1CP]: Superkrak Rocket Launcher Devastator Squad [8 PL, 135pts]: Armorium Cherub Devastator Squad [8 PL, 135pts]: Armorium Cherub Eradicator Squad [7 PL, 135pts]: Heavy melta rifle + Dedicated Transport + Drop Pod [4 PL, 70pts]: Deathwind launcher Land Speeder Storm [3 PL, 50pts] ++ Total: [121 PL, 2,000pts] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Iron Hands) [121 PL, 2,000pts, ] ++
No Prisoners: 94
Bring it Down: 6
Assassinate: 10
. Neo-volkite pistol, Master-crafted power sword and Storm Shield
. 4x Infiltrator: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Marksman bolt carbine
. Infiltrator Sergeant
. 4x Infiltrator: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Frag & Krak grenades, 4x Marksman bolt carbine
. Infiltrator Sergeant
. Scout Sergeant Brian: Combi-melta, Thunder hammer
. Scout w/Heavy weapon: Missile launcher
. 3x Scout w/Scout sniper rifle: 3x Bolt pistol, 3x Frag & Krak grenades, 3x Scout sniper rifle
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran: Lightning Claw, Storm shield
. Vanguard Veteran Sergeant: Lightning Claw, Relic blade
. Land Speeder Tornado: Assault cannon, Multi-melta
. Land Speeder Tornado: Assault cannon, Multi-melta
. Land Speeder Tornado: Assault cannon, Multi-melta
. 4x Desolation Marine: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Castellan Launcher, 4x Frag & Krak grenades
. Desolation Sgt
. . Replace Superfrak/krak with Vengor & Targeter Optics: Vengor Launcher
. 4x Desolation Marine: 4x Bolt pistol, 4x Castellan Launcher, 4x Frag & Krak grenades
. Desolation Sgt: Master-Crafted Weapon, Stratagem: Scion of the Forge
. . Replace Superfrak/krak with Vengor & Targeter Optics: Vengor Launcher
. Devastator Marine Sergeant: Combi-melta, Thunder hammer
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Grav-cannon
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Grav-cannon
. Devastator Marine Sergeant: Combi-melta, Thunder hammer
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Multi-melta
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Grav-cannon
. Devastator Marine w/Heavy Weapon: Grav-cannon
. 2x Eradicator: 2x Bolt pistol
. Eradicator Sgt: Multi-Melta
Archetype
Iron Hands Successors
Thoughts
It’s the Iron Hands list. It is not new, though Nicholas has gone for the option of a little extra melee punch from hammer-toting sergeants rather than a Master Artisans re-roll, perhaps aiming to get a little bit of a legup against Daemons. Otherwise, business as usual.
Linton Rowan – Space Wolves Successors – 3rd Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + **Chapter Selector**: Custom Chapter, Hungry for Battle, Space Wolves Successor, Whirlwind of Rage Arks of Omen Compulsory Type: Elites Game Type: 5. Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + HQ + Librarian [7 PL, 125pts, -2CP]: 1. Living Lightning, 2. Murderous Hurricane, 4. Instincts Awoken, Chapter Command: Chief Librarian, Combi-melta, Force sword, Jump Pack, Psychic Mastery, Stratagem: Hero of the Chapter, Stratagem: Relic of the Chapter, The Armour Indomitus + Elites + Wolf Guard [7 PL, 130pts]: Jump Pack Wolf Guard [7 PL, 130pts]: Jump Pack Wolf Guard [7 PL, 130pts]: Jump Pack Wulfen [12 PL, 295pts]: 10x Stormfrag auto-launcher Wulfen [12 PL, 295pts]: 10x Stormfrag auto-launcher Wulfen [12 PL, 265pts]: 9x Stormfrag auto-launcher + Fast Attack + Skyclaws [8 PL, 110pts] Skyclaws [8 PL, 110pts] Skyclaws [8 PL, 110pts] + Lord of War + Roboute Guilliman [19 PL, 300pts, 2CP]: Nobility Made Manifest, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord ++ Total: [107 PL, 2,000pts, 6CP] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Imperium – Adeptus Astartes – Space Wolves) [107 PL, 2,000pts, 6CP] ++
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard Pack Leader: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard Pack Leader: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wolf Guard Pack Leader: Combi-melta, Lightning Claw
. Wulfen Pack Leader: Wulfen Frost claws
. 9x Wulfen w/ thunder hammer & storm shield: 9x Storm Shield, 9x Thunder Hammer
. Wulfen Pack Leader: Wulfen Frost claws
. 9x Wulfen w/ thunder hammer & storm shield: 9x Storm Shield, 9x Thunder Hammer
. Wulfen Pack Leader: Wulfen Frost claws
. 8x Wulfen w/ thunder hammer & storm shield: 8x Storm Shield, 8x Thunder Hammer
. Skyclaw
. Skyclaw
. Skyclaw Pack Leader: Meltagun, Power fist
. Skyclaw with Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Skyclaw with Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Wolf Guard Skyclaw Pack Leader: Combi-melta, Thunder hammer
. Skyclaw
. Skyclaw
. Skyclaw Pack Leader: Meltagun, Power fist
. Skyclaw with Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Skyclaw with Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Wolf Guard Skyclaw Pack Leader: Combi-melta, Thunder hammer
. Skyclaw
. Skyclaw
. Skyclaw Pack Leader: Meltagun, Power fist
. Skyclaw with Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Skyclaw with Special Weapon: Meltagun
. Wolf Guard Skyclaw Pack Leader: Combi-melta, Thunder hammer
Archetype
Wolf Sevens
Thoughts
Returning from some recent escapades, Linton’s build continues to trade on the powerful combo of Hungry for Battle and Guillimans’ aura for +2″ to charges, making charges from deep striking/flanking units extra reliable and minimising the time the opponent has to get control of the situation. Not complicated, but also clearly very effective, well done Linton!
Tommy Aguilu – Grey Knights – 4th Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand + Configuration + Battle Size [6CP]: 3. Strike Force (101-200 Total PL / 1001-2000 Points) Brotherhood:Rapiers Game Type: Chapter Approved: Arks of Omen + HQ + Brotherhood Chaplain [7 PL, 110pts]:1. Words of Power, 1: Gate of Infinity, Presaged Paralysis, Warlord Brotherhood Librarian [7 PL, -1CP, 105pts]: 4: Purifying Flame, 4: Vortex of Doom, 6: Psychic Epitome, Combi-melta, Gem of Inoktu, Stratagem: Shield of Humanity Grand Master in Nemesis Dreadknight [11 PL, -2CP, 225pts]:1: Daemon Slayer, 1: Gate of Infinity, 2: Empyric Amplification, Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Daemon Greathammer, Servant of the Throne, Sigil of Exigence, Stratagem: Relic, Stratagem: Shield of Humanity Kaldor Draigo [9 PL, 165pts]:1: Gate of Infinity, 4: Vortex of Doom, 5: Warp Shaping + Troops + Strike Squad [6 PL, 100pts] Strike Squad [6 PL, 100pts] Strike Squad [6 PL, 100pts] + Fast Attack + Interceptor Squad [16 PL, 240pts] Interceptor Squad [16 PL, 240pts] Interceptor Squad [16 PL, 240pts] + Heavy Support + Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 185pts]: Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword Nemesis Dreadknight [8 PL, 185pts]:Dreadfist, Dreadknight teleporter, Gatling Psilencer, Heavy Psycannon, Nemesis Greatsword ++ Total: [116 PL, 3CP, 1,995pts] ++
++ Arks of Omen Detachment (Imperium – Grey Knights) [116 PL, 3CP, 1,995pts] ++
. Nemesis Warding Stave
. 4x Grey Knight (Sword): 4x Nemesis Force Sword, 4x Storm Bolter
.Grey Knight Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
. 4x Grey Knight (Sword): 4x Nemesis Force Sword, 4x Storm Bolter
. Grey Knight Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
. 4x Grey Knight (Sword): 4x Nemesis Force Sword, 4x Storm Bolter
. Grey Knight Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
. 5x Interceptor (Halberd): 5x Nemesis Force Halberd, 5x Storm Bolter
. 4x Interceptor (Sword): 4x Nemesis Force Sword, 4x Storm Bolter
. Interceptor Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
. 5x Interceptor (Halberd): 5x Nemesis Force Halberd, 5x Storm Bolter
. 4x Interceptor (Sword): 4x Nemesis Force Sword, 4x Storm Bolter
. Interceptor Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
. 5x Interceptor (Halberd): 5x Nemesis Force Halberd, 5x Storm Bolter
. 4x Interceptor (Sword): 4x Nemesis Force Sword, 4x Storm Bolter
. Interceptor Justicar
. . Nemesis Force Sword
Archetype
Dreadknights and Interceptors
Thoughts
The Rapiers version of the most popular Grey Knights setup, adding a little bit of target flexibility via mixing weapons on the big Interceptor units (allowing Combat Squadding into dedicated killers of various flavours) and access to Words of Power from the Chaplain when only a big pile of Mortal Wounds will do. Despite getting a hefty boost in Arks, Grey Knights still haven’t been that common at the top, so well done to Tommy for getting there!
The Best of the Rest
There were 6 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
- 5th – Timothy Grant – Disciples of Be’lakor: As many mid-weight Daemon bodies as you can shake a stick at, including a daunting stack of three Beasts of Nurgle, and a couple of Korvax War Dogs to chase aforesaid stick (if the Flesh Hounds don’t get it).
- 6th – Lukas Troller – Orks: Goff pressure with Stormboyz and Kill Rigs.
- 7th – Gareth Hunt – Disciples of Be’lakor: More Disciples and War Dogs, this time with extra Fiends instead of Beasts of Nurgle.
- 8th – Noah Beddome – Imperial Knights: House Raven with a neat setup of a Forgemaster Paladin and Princeps Errant – allowing the Paladin to stay at home early if needed then swiftly pivot into battle mode when the time comes.
- 9th – Steve Trimble – Black Templars: Brutal Templars, packing a pair of Brutalist Dreads, big squads each of Desolation Marines and Terminators, and a full trio of Gladiator Reapers.
- 10th – Tyler Bortel – Genestealer Cults: Industrial Neophyte/Bike spam.
Isarauen Frühjahrscup
50-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Dachau, BY Deutschland on April 29 2023. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.
Stefan Härle – Cult Mechanicus – 1st Place
The List
Army List - Click to Expand == Forge World: Lucius Arks of Omen == 0 CP, 1997 pts, 118 PL HQ1: Skitarii Marshal: Relic: Exemplar’s Eternity, Stratagem: Relic, Stratagem: Warlord Trait, Warlord, Warlord Trait (Codex 5): Firepoint Telemetry Cache [50 pts, 3 PL, -2 CP] HQ2: Tech-Priest Manipulus: Artisans, Magnarail lance, Relic (Lucius): The Solar Flare, Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist [105 pts, 5 PL, -1 CP] HQ3: Tech-Priest Manipulus: Logi, Magnarail lance, Relic: Raiment of the Technomartyr, Stratagem: Archeotech Specialist, Stratagem: Mechanicus Locum, Warlord Trait (Lucius): Luminescent Blessings [110 pts, 6 PL, -2 CP] HQ4: Technoarcheologist : Magi [80 pts, 5 PL] TR1: Skitarii Rangers: Enhanced Data-Tether, Omnispex, Ranger Alpha (Galvanic Rifle, Host of the Intermediary, Power sword, Warlord Trait (Codex 3): Programmed Retreat), 17xSkitarii Ranger, 2xSkitarii Ranger (Arc Rifle) [200 pts, 12 PL, -1 CP] TR2: Skitarii Rangers: Omnispex, Ranger Alpha (Galvanic Rifle, Power sword), 14xSkitarii Ranger, Skitarii Ranger (Arc Rifle) [154 pts, 12 PL] TR3: Skitarii Vanguards: Omnispex, 15xSkitarii Vanguard, Vanguard Alpha (Power sword, Radium Carbine) [149 pts, 12 PL] TR4: Skitarii Vanguards: 4xSkitarii Vanguard, Vanguard Alpha (Power sword, Radium Carbine) [45 pts, 3 PL] TR5: Skitarii Vanguards: 3xSkitarii Vanguard, Skitarii Vanguard (Plasma Caliver), Vanguard Alpha (Power sword, Radium Carbine) [50 pts, 3 PL] TR6: Skitarii Vanguards: 3xSkitarii Vanguard, Skitarii Vanguard (Plasma Caliver), Vanguard Alpha (Power sword, Radium Carbine) [50 pts, 3 PL] EL1: Sicarian Infiltrators: Infiltrator Princeps (Flechette/Taser), 4xSicarian Infiltrator (Flechette/Taser) [85 pts, 4 PL] EL2: Sicarian Ruststalkers: Ruststalker Princeps (Blades), 4xSicarian Ruststalker (Blades) [80 pts, 4 PL] EL3: Sicarian Ruststalkers: Ruststalker Princeps (Blades), 6xSicarian Ruststalker (Blades) [112 pts, 8 PL] EL4: Sicarian Ruststalkers: Ruststalker Princeps (Blades), 6xSicarian Ruststalker (Blades) [112 pts, 8 PL] FA1: Ironstrider Ballistarii: 3xIronstrider Ballistarius (Twin Cognis Lascannon) [255 pts, 12 PL] FA2: Pteraxii Sterylizors: 4xPteraxii Sterylizor, Pteraxii Sterylizor Alpha [95 pts, 4 PL] FA3: Pteraxii Sterylizors: 4xPteraxii Sterylizor, Pteraxii Sterylizor Alpha [95 pts, 4 PL] DT1: Skorpius Dunerider [85 pts, 5 PL] DT2: Skorpius Dunerider [85 pts, 5 PL]
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Archetype
Lucius Skitarii
Final Round Matchup
97 – 78 Victory against Thomas Kroemmer – Asuryani.
Thoughts
Everything comes around again eventually – lots of D1 chip damage in the metagame? Lucius time. Big squads appearing using either the Solar Flare or a Legio Teleportarium allow this list to heap pressure on opponents who don’t have the tools to clear it out in a hurry, and now that all the Skitarii have a 5+ invulnerable save it’s never trivial to take down. Going in on a lot of bodies and good melee pressure helps take advantage of AdMech’s significantly improved Arks Secondaries too, and this list puts real challenges in front of opponents while having a great scoring plan, a powerful and (here) tournament-winning combination from Stefan.
Fabian Bader – Astra Militarum – 2nd Place (Undefeated)
The List
Army List - Click to Expand == Armoured Superiority (Swift as the Wind) Arks of Omen == 0 CP, 2000 pts, 116 PL HQ1: Cadian Command Squad: Astropath (3. Psychic Barrier), Cadian Commander (Laspistol, Power sword), Cadian Veterans (Cadian Veteran w/ Master-Vox (Laspistol, Master Vox), Cadian Veteran w/ Medi-pack, Cadian Veteran w/ Regimental Standard (Lasgun and Regimental Standard), Cadian Veteran w/ chainsword (Laspistol, Plasma gun)), Ogryn Bodyguard (Brute Shield, Ripper Gun), Relic: Finial of the Nemrodesh 1st, Stratagem: Imperial Commander’s Armoury, Stratagem: Officer Cadre, WT: Master Tactician [165 pts, 9 PL, -2 CP] EL1: Combat Engineer Squad: 4xCombat Engineers (Engineer shotgun, Gas bombs), Engineer Watch Master (Engineer shotgun, Gas bombs) [40 pts, 2 PL] FA1: Armoured Sentinels: 2xArmoured Sentinel (Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw), Armoured Sentinel (Militarum Plasma Cannon) [145 pts, 9 PL] HS1: Heavy Weapons Squad: 3xHeavy Weapon Team (Mortar) [55 pts, 3 PL] DT1: Chimera: Armoured Tracks, Chimera Heavy Flamer, Heavy Flamer [90 pts, 5 PL]
HQ2: Death Korps Marshal: Bolt pistol, Power sword, Relic: Laurels of Command, Stratagem: Officer Cadre, Stratagem: Relic, WT: Superior Tactical Training (Prefectus Orders) [35 pts, 2 PL, -2 CP]
HQ3: Lord Solar Leontus: Stratagem: Warlord Trait, WT: Grand Strategist, Warlord [170 pts, 9 PL, -1 CP]
HQ4: Tank Commander: 2 Heavy Flamers (2xHeavy flamer), Armoured Tracks, Executioner Plasma Cannon, Heavy flamer [180 pts, 10 PL]
EL2: Combat Engineer Squad: 4xCombat Engineers (Engineer shotgun, Gas bombs), Engineer Watch Master (Engineer shotgun, Gas bombs) [40 pts, 2 PL]
EL3: Kasrkin: Kasrkin Sargeant (Chainsword, Hot-shot Laspistol, Relic: The Barbicant’s Key, Stratagem: Battlefield Bequest), 3xKasrkin w/ Hot-shot Lasgun, Kasrkin w/ Hot-shot Marksman Rifle (Hot-shot Marksman Rifle), 2xKasrkin w/ Special Weapon (Hot-shot Volley Gun), 2xKasrkin w/ Special Weapon (Plasma gun), Kasrkin w/ Vox-caster (Hot-shot Lasgun, Vox-Caster), Mechanised Infantry [100 pts, 5 PL, -1 CP]
EL4: Sly Marbo [50 pts, 3 PL]
FA2: Armoured Sentinels: 3xArmoured Sentinel (Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw) [150 pts, 9 PL]
FA3: Armoured Sentinels: 3xArmoured Sentinel (Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw) [150 pts, 9 PL]
FA4: Scout Sentinels: 3xScout Sentinel (Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw) [135 pts, 9 PL]
FA5: Scout Sentinels: 3xScout Sentinel (Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw) [135 pts, 9 PL]
FA6: Scout Sentinels: 3xScout Sentinel (Militarum Plasma Cannon, Sentinel Chainsaw) [135 pts, 9 PL]
HS2: Heavy Weapons Squad: 3xHeavy Weapon Team (Mortar) [55 pts, 3 PL]
HS3: Leman Russ Battle Tanks: Leman Russ Battle Tank (2 Heavy Flamers (2xHeavy flamer), Armoured Tracks, Dozer Blade, Executioner Plasma Cannon, Heavy flamer) [170 pts, 9 PL]
Archetype
Armoured Superiority Sentinel Spam
Thoughts
A list that asks a very simple question – can you clear out 18 Sentinels or not? Apparently the answer was “not”, so well done to Fabian for asking the question.
The Best of the Rest
There were 8 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
- 3rd – Max Herzog – Adepta Sororitas: Valorous Heart spamming tonnes of Sacresants and Zephyrim alongside powerful named Characters and a pair of Dogmata for ObSec.
- 4th – Thomas Kroemmer – Asuryani: Melee Ynnari wiht a full rainbow of Aspect Warriors.
- 5th – Daniel Mueller – Death Guard: Ferrymen with lots of Terminators and Daemon Engines.
- 6th – Manuel Wayand – Dark Angels: The broadly expected post-dataslate pivot for Dark Angels – one big Deathwing brick with the Pennant, lots of Ravenwing and a big Desolation squad.
- 7th – Fritz Peters – Chaos Daemons: Fiends and Flamers with an appropriate tag team of Greater Daemons overseeing them.
- 8th – Alexander Wolf – Khorne Daemons: Incredible aggro Daemons, Skarbrand and a super Bloodthirster at the head of a multitude of Flesh Hounds, Bloodcrushers and Bloodletters.
- 9th – Michael Rüffer – Iron Hands Successors: Shooty Successors with an Infantry focus.
- 10th – Maximilian Eschenbaum – Iron Hands: Shooty Successors with an Infantry focus, and also Scouts. Who are Infantry, but the other one didn’t have them. Look I’ve got to write something here.
Wrap Up
Hopefully that’s just about sated your hunger for Wednesday competitive content, make sure to come back on Friday where we’ll be hitting the rest of the week’s events.
