Citadel Warhammer 40k Basing Kit

A few days ago, I ordered the Ahriman model from the Warhammer 40k line and the Citadel Warhammer 40k Basing Kit.  As usual, the package arrived no later than 3 days after I ordered.  How Awesome! 

The Ahriman model is mail order or direct order only.  Unfortunately, I didn't realize this until after I called every GW and Hobby store in the Maryland area.  Now that I finally have the model, I am pretty excited to be able to convert the Ahriman model to fit my Pre-Heresy Thousand Sons army. 

Picture courteous of Games Workshop

At first, I was quite skeptical about the basing kit.  I was concerned that more than half of the kit would go to waste or that I wouldn't use it.  Second, I was concerned it would not have the right size or enough of the medium slate in which I would like to use in basing my Space Wolves Army.  Lastly, I questioned whether or not I should order the Warhammer version or stick with the 40k Version. 

After much deliberation, I decided to order the 40k version and trust in GW.  Thankfully, when I opened up the kit, I soon realized I made a wise choice.  In fact, I am so excited about not only basing my Space Wolves Army, but other models in various armies as well. 

The kit is a pretty nice bargain.  The kit itself contains 5 tubs and one brass etching of basing detail.  One tub was filled with tiny slate fragments and another with medium slate that will fit nicely on 25mm and 40mm bases.  Next, there were two tubs filled with pre-made basing resin pieces made for 25mm and 40mm bases.  Finally, the kit includes an empty tub for mixing or whatever your heart desires.

So, if you are ready to base some of your models and you can't quite decide on how to accomplish this task.  I highly recommend trying out either of the Citadel basing kits.            

 

Ragnar Blackmane

After going through the many Gun and GW figure cases for my Sons of Ultramar Chapter's 1st Company, I ran across my converted Ragnar Blackmane model.  Like many 40k enthusiasts, I was not a fan of the older Special Character model with its static and boring pose.  Plus, I'm a fan of plastic models in which you can convert and make into your own unique figure.  With that said, here is my own version of Ragnar Blackmane.

This model incorporates several design elements that are copied from the original model.  However, the model is incomplete and will require some additional work.  For starters, the sword has to be replaced and I think I'm going to rebase the model at the least.  Other than that, I'm pretty satisfied with the way it turned out.  The picture really does not do it justice.

Sadly, as much as I might like the model, I doubt I'll ever use it in a practical game.  In fact, that is the case for most of the Space Wolves Special Characters.   In my opinion, they are all over priced for their abilities and stat lines when compared to other Special Characters.

In the mean time.

I'm contemplating how to base my Space Wolves Army.  Currently, I'm leaning towards small pieces of slate along with the normal basing materials.  Perhaps I'll pick up the Warhammer 40k basing kit.  

Until then, I'll leave you with a few pictures of the Sons of Ultramar Chapter, 2nd Company's (The Spear), Captain.  They are a successor chapter of the Ultramarines.

Later, I'll post some pictures of the first chapter and give a little back ground as to the Chapter's structure/organization.

Space Wolves Lone Wolf Models

(2) 85pts Lone Wolf w/TDA, Chainfist, Stormshield

Space Wolves and Feedback from the NOVA Open

As most of you know, the NOVA open has come and gone.  In the last few days, I've read and heard nothing but praises for the event.  Everything from the tournament organizers and the way the event was run to the missions and sportsmanship of other hobby enthusiasts.  It is for that reason; I regret not being able to have attended such an entertaining event.

Even though I was unable to make the NOVA Open, I feel as though I can still benefit from the event.  In particular, the coverage provided by certain players and the tournament organizers can provide some useful insight or be of help when considering how one of my armies may fair.  After reading dozens of battle reports, I've come to realize that I may need to update or consider a few changes in my Space Wolves List.  I'll detail my current 1850pt list and then discuss the possible changes I'm considering making.

This list is similar to the one I used to play Saint Omerville with in a practice game for the ICGT that took place on July 31st.  In fact, you can find a battle report on his blog, Saint Omerville's 40k Blog.

Space Wolves 1850pts

100pts - HQ: SW Rune Priest
140pts - Elite: SW Dreadnought w/Multi-Melta [Drop Pod]
140pts - Elite: SW Dreadnought w/Multi-Melta [Drop Pod]
198pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Wolf Guard w/Power Fist & Storm Bolter, Meltagun x2,
215pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Fist, Meltagun x2, [Drop Pod]
215pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Fist, Meltagun x2, [Rhino]
210pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Weapon, Plasmagun x2, [Rhino]
210pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Weapon, Plasmagun x2, [Rhino]
169pts - Fast Attack: SW Sky Claw Pack (8) Power Fist
255pts - Heavy Support: SW Land Raider Redeemer w/Extra Armor
Total: 1850pts

I have plenty of Anti-Tank weaponry even though it is short ranged.  The short range weapons are not a hindrance since I plan on being in my opponent's face most of the game, but what happens when I'm assaulted or inevitably assault something that packs a punch.  I just don't think I can rely on my single Power Fists in my Grey Hunter packs.  Two attacks on the charge and one sitting still with the exception of the single Wolf Guard model. 

You might say to yourself, what about your Dreads.  The sad reality is one if not both will probably not survive very long after deploying from their Drop Pods.  They deploy, get a shot off and if I'm lucky, survive to charge a unit.  Even then, a MC or other crazy close combat unit may be able to take them out before they swing back.

After looking for a replacement, this is what I've come up with.

Space Wolves 1850pts

100pts - HQ: SW Rune Priest
140pts - Elite: SW Dreadnought w/Multi-Melta [Drop Pod]
085pts - Elite: SW Lone Wolf in TDA, Chainfist, and Storm Shield
085pts - Elite: SW Lone Wolf in TDA, Chainfist, and Storm Shield
180pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Fist, Meltagun x2,
215pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Fist, Meltagun x2, [Drop Pod]
215pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Fist, Meltagun x2, [Drop Pod]
210pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Weapon, Plasmagun x2, [Rhino]
210pts - Troops: SW Grey Hunter Pack (10) Power Weapon, Plasmagun x2, [Rhino]
151pts - Fast Attack: SW Sky Claw Pack (7) Power Fist
255pts - Heavy Support: SW Land Raider Redeemer w/Extra Armor
Total: 1846pts

The other consideration is taking a unit of three Thunder Wolf Cavalry in place of the Sky Claws and giving the Rune Priest a Wolf Tail Talisman. 

Some of you may remember when I said I refuse to field Space Wolves riding Giant Wolves.  Well, my stand on using Giant Wolves has not changed.  I was considering using two old Wulfen models per base to represent my Thunder Wolf Cavarly.  I'll have to consider the pros and cons and how other players would react (i.e. Line of site, size, etc). 

Both lists are similar in that they are led by a Rune Priest, their core units consists of five (5) full packs of Grey Hunters, Sky Claws, and a Land Raider Redeemer.  The big difference is their ability to deal with heavy hitting characters, Dreadnoughts, Monstrous Creatures, or Tough units in assault.  Their ability to crack open armor and put down MCs at short range has taken a slight decrease but nothing significant.

I plan on picking up a Space Wolves Terminator Box set this evening and will post some pictures in the near future.  So, Stay tuned!

Pre-Heresy Thousand Sons Army List

Here is the list I plan on using for my Pre-Heresy Thousand Sons Army (Using the Blood Angels Codex). 

100pts HQ: Master Sorcerer (Librarian)
100pts HQ: Master Sorcerer (Librarian)
150pts Elite: Sorcerer's Cadre (Sanguinary Priests x3)
210pts Troops: T.S. Tactical Sqd #1 Sorcerer (V.Sgt) w/Power Fist, Meltagun, Lascannon
210pts Troops: T.S. Tactical Sqd #2 Sorcerer (V.Sgt) w/Power Fist, Meltagun, Lascannon
200pts Troops: T.S. Tactical Sqd #3 Sorcerer (V.Sgt) w/P.Weapon, Meltagun, Lascannon
200pts Troops: T.S. Tactical Sqd #4 Sorcerer (V.Sgt) w/P.Weapon, Meltagun, Lascannon
210pts Heavy: T.S. Devastator Sqd #1 Sorcerer (V.Sgt) Missile Launchers x4
210pts Heavy: T.S. Devastator Sqd #1 Sorcerer (V.Sgt) Missile Launchers x2, Multi Melta x2
230pts Heavy: T.S. Devastator Sqd #1 Sorcerer (V.Sgt) Plasma Cannons x4
Total: 1820pts

I can't quite figure out how to incorporate the remaining 30pts, but I'll figure something out. 

This army is nearly identical to Saint Omerville's (a fellow FrAG) Blood Angel list.  It is designed to effectively cripple the enemy before they can reach my lines and fight off units that make it into assault.  The Librarians will help combat enemy psychic powers while providing cover and possibly boosting the armies assault capabilities.  The Sanguinary Priests can provide everyone with FNP and Furious Charge when counter assaulting.  Every unit is armed with one or more long range weapons while the tacticals sport special close combat weapons for additional close combat support.  Two of the Tacticals and all three Devastators will combat squad while the two remaining Tactical Squads will hold the lines. 

If everything goes as planned, I'm confident this list will do fairly well.  After all, two fellow FrAG gamers have had pretty successful runs with similar lists.

If you have any suggestions regarding the remaining 30pts, please post a comment below and share your thoughts.

Pre-Heresy Thousand Sons Army

What can I say, I've been contemplating on converting and collecting a Pre-Heresy Army ever since I read the first Pre-Heresy novel.  However, I ran into some road blocks with the idea of a Pre-Heresy army.

1) Which army should I create?
2) Do I create a Loyalist army or a traitor legion?
3) If I create a traitor legion, how far along will they be corrupted?
4) Toughest question, which codex will I use? (Chaos, Space Marines, etc)
5) I would love an army that really stands out from the rest.

Several Pre-Heresy novels later, I finally decided on creating a Pre-Heresy Thousand Sons army.  In addition, I'm pretty set on using the new Blood Angels codex for a few reasons.

1) I like their selection of psychic powers.
2) I like the idea of being able to field a Librarian Dreadnought (How cool is that!)
3) Finally, I like the BA units (Sanguinary Priests, Fast Vehicles, and Special Characters)

Next, I needed to find or create an idea that popped out or screamed Pre-Heresy Thousand Sons.  Before long, I ran across a few sites where fellow Hobbyist used Tomb King and other conversion bits from several independent miniature sites.  I mixed these with Chaos Bitz and liked where the look of the army was headed.  I've added a few pictures below.  

Maxmini is one such site in which they sell Pre-Heresy Terminator Shoulder Pads and Marine Helmets
http://www.maxmini.eu/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=12&products_id=60

I should warn you, the models in the pictures are not complete.  They all require heads, shoulder pads, back packs, and a few little extra bits. 

Basic Components (the picture is a little out of focus)

Two Librarians (each is sporting a Glaive or Spear)

Sanguinary Priests

Two Sergeants with Power Swords

Two Sergeants with Power Fists

Originally, assault marines.  Now they will be used for tactical

marines and the swords and bolt pistols are just for looks. There

are approximately 14 models armed similar to these four.  I have no

 doubt they'll look sharp mixed in the tactical squads. 

Just a few Tactical Marines with Bolters

Tactical Marines with Meltaguns (Split between four squads)

Tactical Marines with Lascannons (Split between four squads)

Devastator Marines with Missile Launchers

Devastator Marines with Plasma Cannons

Present Day!

Currently, I am going to school and working full time.  As you may imagine, this leaves little time for wargaming.  However, after watching many of my friends and fellow FrAGs participate in local and regional tournaments, I have been inspired to prepare a few of my armies for competition.  With the help of a little schedule adjustment and better time management, I believe it is now possible to increase my participation and time spent on my grand hobby.  Huzzah!

That said, please stay tuned for regular updates on armies I'm currently working on, lists I'm developing, and battle reports. 

Goodnight and stay classy 40k!

The Age of Strife (The Beginning)

I'd like to start by introducing myself.  I go by TheEC (The Emperor's Champion) on forums and online, but my fellow friends and gamers know me as Chris. 

I casually started playing GW Games in 98' and become more involved in '01 when I meet a solid group of gamers in the Frederick, MD Area.  Overtime, we formed into a core group of likeminded gamers who not only gamed together, but partied with each other.  Eventually, we decided to create a club in order to organize the local 40k gamers and create an environment that would see our hobby prosper.  We called ourselves, FAGs, which stood for the Frederick Area Gamers.

The Frederick Area Gamers became a well organized club supporting all things Warhammer 40k (Games Day, Tournaments, BBQs, and other events).  FrAG's ranks swelled and participation was at an all time high.  When the clubs one year anniversary came up, the current club leadership decided it was time to have an open election in which all FrAGs could play a role in leadership and help decide the future of the Frederick Area Gamers.  Unfortunately, this opened up our club and allowed it to be abducted and held for ransom (literally) by gamers of a different yolk.  Not only was our club high jacked, but so was our local gaming area. 

Long story short, FrAG's core contingency wrestled back control of the club and shed the dead weight we all knew as Hobbytown USA and the FAIL Club.  Through encouraging a greater understanding of our hobby and by fostering positive relationships with other gamers, FrAG has evolved and matured far beyond their previous companions.  The Frederick Area Gamers (FrAG) now consists of a smaller, more competitive group of gamers who actively participates with and in other events held by gaming clubs throughout the greater Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington D.C. area.

In the end, I am proud to call my self a FAG, a Frederick Area Gamer!