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Gaming | Tactics | Warhammer 40k | Meta Analysis | Competitive Play | Goonhammer | 40K Competitive Innovations

Competitive Innovations in 10th: Cast of Thousand pt.3

by James "One_Wing" Grover | Nov 01 2025
Welcome to Competitive Innovations, our weekly feature for a number of game lines across the tabletop wargame space. Each week our army list and tactics experts canvass the top tournaments for their game of specialty, looking at the week’s top match-ups and how they played out on the tabletop to let you know what’s hot, what’s not, and what might be coming next as the competitive meta evolves year-round.

Part 3 on Saturday:
  • Battle Brothers GT Hosted by Away Games
  • BZU 40K GT 10/25/25 - 10/26/25
  • Dicing Death IV
  • SA40k Commissar Cup GT - Presented by Dragon's Lair
  • RCM: Night of the Wolf
  • Hell's Basement GT (2025)
Part 1 on Wednesday:
  • THE COVENTRY 40K : 3-Day
  • Rumble on the Rivers 40k GT 2025
  • ÖKtoberspelen
  • Orktoberfest 2025!!
  • KnightFall: The Tracy Crusade GT
  • Dukkehammer GT I
  • Volos GrailFest 2025
Part 2 on Friday:
  • THE COVENTRY 40K : 2-Day
  • NRW Winter 40K Singles 2025 - Alpine Cup
  • Gaelcon 2025
  • Paragon City Games Warhammer 40K Store Championships
  • Wicked City Wargaming Open 2025
  • Manse GT II

Battle Brothers GT Hosted by Away Games

75-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Aberdeen, NC, United States on October 25 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Ryan Karrer - Tyranids (Invasion Fleet) - 1st Place

Neurotyrant and Neuroloids Neurotyrant and Neuroloids. Credit: Pendulin

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Battle Brothers Bugs (2000 points)

Tyranids Strike Force (2000 points) Invasion Fleet

CHARACTERS

Deathleaper (80 points) • 1x Lictor claws and talons

Hive Tyrant (195 points) • 1x Monstrous bonesword and lash whip 1x Monstrous scything talons

Neurotyrant (105 points) • Warlord • 1x Neurotyrant claws and lashes 1x Psychic scream

BATTLELINE

Hormagaunts (65 points) • 10x Hormagaunt • 10x Hormagaunt talons

Termagants (60 points) • 10x Termagant • 10x Chitinous claws and teeth 1x Strangleweb 9x Termagant spinefists

Termagants (60 points) • 10x Termagant • 10x Chitinous claws and teeth 1x Strangleweb 9x Termagant spinefists

OTHER DATASHEETS

Biovores (50 points) • 1x Chitin-barbed limbs 1x Spore Mine launcher

Exocrine (140 points) • 1x Bio-plasmic cannon 1x Powerful limbs

Exocrine (140 points) • 1x Bio-plasmic cannon 1x Powerful limbs

Exocrine (140 points) • 1x Bio-plasmic cannon 1x Powerful limbs

Haruspex (125 points) • 1x Grasping tongue 1x Ravenous maw 1x Shovelling claws

Maleceptor (170 points) • 1x Massive scything talons 1x Psychic overload

Neurolictor (70 points) • 1x Piercing claws and talons

Tyrannofex (200 points) • 1x Powerful limbs 1x Rupture cannon 1x Stinger salvoes

Tyrannofex (200 points) • 1x Powerful limbs 1x Rupture cannon 1x Stinger salvoes

Zoanthropes (200 points) • 1x Neurothrope • 1x Chitinous claws and teeth 1x Warp Blast • 5x Zoanthrope • 5x Chitinous claws and teeth 5x Warp Blast

Exported with App Version: v1.42.1 (101), Data Version: v697

Archetype

Invasion Fleet Shooty Monsters

Thoughts

Old reliable here, going extra hard on the shooting by adding a squad of Zoanthropes for a reliable burst on a big target. Otherwise, business as usual - big bugs get the job done. Congratulations Ryan.

Riley Morris - Aeldari (Aspect Host) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Credit: Keewa

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
I'm going. to take this L (1995 points)

Aeldari Strike Force (2000 points) Aspect Host

CHARACTERS

Fuegan (120 points) • Warlord • 1x Fire Axe 1x Searsong

Jain Zar (105 points) • 1x Blade of Destruction 1x Silent Death

Lhykhis (120 points) • 1x Brood Twain 1x Spider's Fangs 1x Weaverender

BATTLELINE

Storm Guardians (100 points) • 10x Storm Guardian • 8x Close combat weapon 2x Flamer 2x Fusion gun 2x Power sword 6x Shuriken pistol • 1x Serpent's Scale Platform • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Serpent shield

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Wave Serpent (125 points) • 1x Shuriken cannon 1x Twin bright lance 1x Wraithbone hull

OTHER DATASHEETS

Dark Reapers (90 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Dark Reaper Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Tempest launcher • 4x Dark Reaper • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Reaper launcher

Dark Reapers (90 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Dark Reaper Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Tempest launcher • 4x Dark Reaper • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Reaper launcher

Dark Reapers (90 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Dark Reaper Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Tempest launcher • 4x Dark Reaper • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Reaper launcher

Fire Dragons (220 points) • 2x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Fire Dragon Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Firepike • 9x Fire Dragon • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Dragon fusion gun

Howling Banshees (95 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Howling Banshee Exarch • 1x Executioner 1x Shuriken pistol • 4x Howling Banshee • 4x Banshee blade 4x Shuriken pistol

Rangers (55 points) • 5x Ranger • 5x Close combat weapon 5x Long rifle 5x Shuriken pistol

Rangers (55 points) • 5x Ranger • 5x Close combat weapon 5x Long rifle 5x Shuriken pistol

Striking Scorpions (85 points) • 1x Striking Scorpion Exarch • 1x Scorpion chainsword 1x Scorpion's claw 1x Shuriken pistol • 4x Striking Scorpion • 4x Scorpion chainsword 4x Shuriken pistol

Swooping Hawks (190 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hawk's talon • 9x Swooping Hawk • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Lasblaster

Swooping Hawks (85 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hawk's talon • 4x Swooping Hawk • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Lasblaster

Swooping Hawks (85 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hawk's talon • 4x Swooping Hawk • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Lasblaster

Warp Spiders (95 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Powerblade array • 4x Warp Spider • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Death spinner

Warp Spiders (95 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Death weavers 1x Spinneret rifle • 4x Warp Spider • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Death spinner

Warp Spiders (95 points) • 1x Aspect Shrine Token • 1x Warp Spider Exarch • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Death weavers 1x Spinneret rifle • 4x Warp Spider • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Death spinner

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (98), Data Version: v687

Archetype

One Bus Aspects

Thoughts

Aspect Host takes undefeated second here, going for the big three Phoenixes, a Dragon Bus, lots of MSUs and one big Hawk squad. Triple Tempest Reapers is especially notable, being very good to have in the mirror, and a definite asset as Sororitas are on the rise as well, so a good metagame call given their big break this week (and they're especially good into Santifiers due to their poor base save). Well done Riley.

Tivi Piechocki - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs) - 3rd Place

Credit: Greg Narro

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Order of the Viridian Bastion (1990 points)

Adepta Sororitas Strike Force (2000 points) Hallowed Martyrs

CHARACTERS

Canoness with Jump Pack (100 points) • 1x Blessed halberd • Enhancement: Through Suffering, Strength

Hospitaller (50 points) • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Chirurgeon's tools

Hospitaller (50 points) • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Chirurgeon's tools

Palatine (60 points) • 1x Palatine blade 1x Plasma pistol • Enhancement: Saintly Example

Saint Celestine (150 points) • 1x Celestine • Warlord • 1x The Ardent Blade • 2x Geminae Superia • 2x Bolt pistol 2x Power weapon

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Immolator (115 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Twin multi-melta

Immolator (115 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Twin multi-melta

Immolator (115 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Twin multi-melta

Sororitas Rhino (75 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

Sororitas Rhino (75 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

OTHER DATASHEETS

Castigator (160 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Castigator autocannons 3x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

Castigator (160 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Castigator autocannons 3x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

Celestian Sacresants (130 points) • 1x Sacresant Superior • 1x Hallowed mace 1x Inferno pistol • 9x Celestian Sacresant • 9x Bolt pistol 9x Hallowed mace

Celestian Sacresants (130 points) • 1x Sacresant Superior • 1x Hallowed mace 1x Inferno pistol • 9x Celestian Sacresant • 9x Bolt pistol 9x Hallowed mace

Dominion Squad (115 points) • 1x Dominion Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Inferno pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Dominion • 9x Bolt pistol 5x Boltgun 9x Close combat weapon 4x Meltagun 1x Simulacrum Imperialis

Dominion Squad (115 points) • 1x Dominion Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Inferno pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Dominion • 9x Bolt pistol 5x Boltgun 9x Close combat weapon 4x Meltagun 1x Simulacrum Imperialis

Dominion Squad (115 points) • 1x Dominion Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Inferno pistol 1x Power weapon • 9x Dominion • 9x Bolt pistol 5x Boltgun 9x Close combat weapon 4x Meltagun 1x Simulacrum Imperialis

Zephyrim Squad (80 points) • 1x Zephyrim Superior • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon 1x Sacred Banner • 4x Zephyrim • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Power weapon

Zephyrim Squad (80 points) • 1x Zephyrim Superior • 1x Plasma pistol 1x Power weapon 1x Sacred Banner • 4x Zephyrim • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Power weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (98), Data Version: v687

Archetype

Sacresant Martyrs

Thoughts

Double Sacresant Martyrs here, combining the solid all-rounder toolbox of Martyrs with the powerful trump of Fight on Death (potentially with the Detachment bonus) against melee Marines. Melee Marine meta has ebbed a little this week, which could reduce the appeal of this compared to the gut punch Bringers version if it continues, but there's still a healthy number of Khorne Berzerkers to punish as things stand, and the list is plenty versatile even if it doesn't hit its ideal prey. Good stuff from Tivi.

Ronnie Kinney - Leagues of Votann (Hearthband) - 4th Place

Trans-Hyperion Alliance Kahl - Leagues of Votann. Credit: Colin Ward

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
You said AP minus what? What's an invul? (1995 Points)

Leagues of Votann Hearthband Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Einhyr Champion (70 Points) • 1x Autoch-pattern combi-bolter • 1x Mass hammer • 1x Teleport Crest

Einhyr Champion (70 Points) • 1x Autoch-pattern combi-bolter • 1x Mass hammer • 1x Teleport Crest

Kâhl (95 Points) • Warlord • 1x Mass gauntlet • 1x Rampart Crest • 1x Volkanite disintegrator • Enhancements: Bastion Shield

BATTLELINE

Hearthkyn Warriors (100 Points) • 1x Theyn ◦ 1x Autoch-pattern bolt pistol ◦ 1x Autoch-pattern bolter ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Theyn's melee weapon ◦ 1x Weavefield crest • 9x Hearthkyn Warrior ◦ 9x Autoch-pattern bolt pistol ◦ 7x Autoch-pattern bolter ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x HYLas auto rifle ◦ 1x HYLas rotary cannon

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Kapricus Carrier (75 Points) • 1x Armoured hull • 1x Magna-coil autocannon • 1x Smoke Launcher • 1x Twin magna‑coil autocannon

Sagitaur (95 Points) • 1x Armoured wheels • 1x MATR autocannon • 1x Twin bolt cannon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn (80 Points) • 3x Brôkhyr Thunderkyn ◦ 3x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Graviton blast cannon

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn (80 Points) • 3x Brôkhyr Thunderkyn ◦ 3x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Graviton blast cannon

Brôkhyr Thunderkyn (80 Points) • 3x Brôkhyr Thunderkyn ◦ 3x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Graviton blast cannon

Cthonian Beserks (100 Points) • 5x Cthonian Beserk ◦ 5x Concussion maul ◦ 1x Mole grenade launcher

Cthonian Beserks (100 Points) • 5x Cthonian Beserk ◦ 5x Concussion maul ◦ 1x Mole grenade launcher

Einhyr Hearthguard (270 Points) • 1x Hesyr ◦ 1x EtaCarn plasma gun ◦ 1x Exoarmour grenade launcher ◦ 1x Graviton hammer ◦ 1x Teleport Crest • 9x Einhyr Hearthguard ◦ 9x Concussion gauntlet ◦ 9x EtaCarn plasma gun ◦ 9x Exoarmour grenade launcher

Einhyr Hearthguard (135 Points) • 1x Hesyr ◦ 1x EtaCarn plasma gun ◦ 1x Exoarmour grenade launcher ◦ 1x Graviton hammer ◦ 1x Weavefield crest • 4x Einhyr Hearthguard ◦ 4x Concussion gauntlet ◦ 4x EtaCarn plasma gun ◦ 4x Exoarmour grenade launcher

Einhyr Hearthguard (135 Points) • 1x Hesyr ◦ 1x EtaCarn plasma gun ◦ 1x Exoarmour grenade launcher ◦ 1x Graviton hammer ◦ 1x Weavefield crest • 4x Einhyr Hearthguard ◦ 4x Concussion gauntlet ◦ 4x EtaCarn plasma gun ◦ 4x Exoarmour grenade launcher

Hernkyn Pioneers (80 Points) • 3x Hernkyn Pioneer ◦ 3x Bolt revolver ◦ 3x Bolt shotgun ◦ 1x HYLas rotary cannon ◦ 3x Magna-coil autocannon ◦ 1x Panspectral Scanner ◦ 3x Plasma knife ◦ 1x Rollbar Searchlight

Hernkyn Pioneers (80 Points) • 3x Hernkyn Pioneer ◦ 3x Bolt revolver ◦ 3x Bolt shotgun ◦ 1x HYLas rotary cannon ◦ 3x Magna-coil autocannon ◦ 1x Panspectral Scanner ◦ 3x Plasma knife ◦ 1x Rollbar Searchlight

Hernkyn Pioneers (80 Points) • 3x Hernkyn Pioneer ◦ 3x Bolt revolver ◦ 3x Bolt shotgun ◦ 1x HYLas rotary cannon ◦ 3x Magna-coil autocannon ◦ 1x Panspectral Scanner ◦ 3x Plasma knife ◦ 1x Rollbar Searchlight

Hernkyn Yaegirs (90 Points) • 1x Yaegir Theyn ◦ 1x Bolt shotgun ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 9x Hernkyn Yaegir ◦ 1x APM launcher ◦ 7x Bolt shotgun ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Magna-coil rifle

Ironkin Steeljacks with Heavy Volkanite Disintegrators (180 Points) • 1x Steeljack Theyn ◦ 1x Heavy volkanite disintegrator ◦ 1x Plasma knife ◦ 1x Preymark Crest • 5x Ironkin Steeljack ◦ 5x Heavy volkanite disintegrator ◦ 5x Plasma knife

Exported with App Version: v1.41.0 (3), Data Version: v685

Archetype

Fortless Hearthband

Thoughts

A second showing this week for the new Fortless Hearthband archetype, which I assume means that somewhere deep on a faction Discord server some mad list alchemists have landed on a bold new take. Can't fault the results here - Hearthband makes your already efficient MSUs even more so, and lets you use one turbo-charged Hearthguard unit as an extremely durable anvil, which the rest of the build can work around. Lots of units also means plenty of reliable scoring options, and taking out the Forts blunts the value of big alpha pieces like Fire Dragons. Will be interested to see if this new archetype sticks around or if it's a flash in the pan, but great stuff from Ronnie in helping put it on the map.

The Best of the Rest

There were 11 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Mark Hertel - Ultramarines (Gladius Task Force): The Mark Hertel triple Land Raider special.
  • 6th - Austin Wingfield - Death Guard (Death Lord’s Chosen): A big Blightlord block backed by triple Deathshroud and Bloat-Drone.
  • 7th - Christopher Johnson - Leagues of Votann (Brandfast Oathband): Transport-heavy Votann with double Fort and double big Thunderkyn unit.
  • 8th - Brandon Owens - Orks (Kult of Speed): Fifteen Orktober buggies and 9 Deffkoptas. Incredible stuff.
  • 9th - Chris Overstreet - Genestealer Cult (Biosanctic Broodsurge): Aberrant, Purestrain and Metamorph pressure.
  • 10th - Noah Belue - Astra Militarum (Combined Arms): Double Dorn commander, one Bullgryn unit, and lots of supporting pieces, including a full Ratling unit.
  • 11th - Don Belec - Blood Angels (Angelic Inheritors): All-Infantry Inheritors, adding yet another Detachment to the list that Devastator Centurions are good in.
  • 12th - Thomas Fields - Tyranids (Subterranean Assault): Super Ravener-heavy Assault, going for the full three Hyperadapted units, and supporitng them with a reduced cadre of shooty monsters and a Zoanthrope unit.
  • 13th - Justin Crain - Drukhari (Kabalite Cartel): Lots of Incubi, Ravagers and Scourges, with some Hellions and Lelith Wyches as shock pieces.
  • 14th - Aidan Barkley - Raven Guard (Shadowmark Talon): Infantry Shadowmark with a Desolation Squad instead of the second Centurion unit.
  • 15th - Michael Ross - Black Templars (Gladius Task Force): Brethren/RepEx Templars with the Grimaldus/Assault Intercessor brick.

BZU 40K GT 10/25/25 - 10/26/25

49-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Anchorage, AK, United States on October 25 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Douglas Labov - World Eaters (Vessels of Wrath) - 1st Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Princes (2000 points)

World Eaters Strike Force (2000 points) Vessels of Wrath

CHARACTERS

Angron (360 points) • Warlord • 1x Samni'arius and Spinegrinder

Daemon Prince of Khorne with Wings (180 points) • 1x Hellforged weapons 1x Infernal cannon

Daemon Prince of Khorne with Wings (190 points) • 1x Hellforged weapons 1x Infernal cannon • Enhancement: Gateways to Glory

Lord on Juggernaut (90 points) • 1x Bladed horn 1x Exalted chainblade 1x Plasma pistol

Lord on Juggernaut (90 points) • 1x Bladed horn 1x Exalted chainblade 1x Plasma pistol

Lord on Juggernaut (90 points) • 1x Bladed horn 1x Exalted chainblade 1x Plasma pistol

Slaughterbound (110 points) • 1x Lacerator and daemonic claw • Enhancement: Archslaughterer

BATTLELINE

Khorne Berzerkers (180 points) • 1x Khorne Berzerker Champion • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Chainblade • 9x Khorne Berzerker • 7x Bolt pistol 7x Chainblade 1x Icon of Khorne 2x Khornate eviscerator 2x Plasma pistol

OTHER DATASHEETS

Chaos Spawn (90 points) • 2x Chaos Spawn • 2x Hideous mutations

Eightbound (135 points) • 1x Eightbound Champion • 1x Chainblades • 2x Eightbound • 2x Chainblades

Exalted Eightbound (280 points) • 1x Exalted Eightbound Champion • 1x Chainblades • 5x Exalted Eightbound • 5x Chainblades

Exalted Eightbound (140 points) • 1x Exalted Eightbound Champion • 1x Chainblades • 2x Exalted Eightbound • 2x Chainblades

Jakhals (65 points) • 1x Jakhal Pack Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Chainblades • 1x Dishonoured • 1x Paired manglers • 8x Jakhal • 8x Autopistol 8x Chainblades

Exported with App Version: v1.42.1 (101), Data Version: v687

Archetype

Antiherohammer World Eaters

Thoughts

A monster mash/herohammer Vessels build here, super-charging Daemon Princes, Angron, and an Exalted unit from hell to obliterate foes. The Exalted/upgraded Slaughterbound stack is so prepostorously deadly that I imagine you sometimes put the Character with the smaller unit instead to balance resources, and the spare Juggernaut Lord makes me think that's probably often the plan, as he's also really good with the big squad. Meanwhile, access to the Aspire to Infamy strat to drop on the one Berzerker unit with the other Lord means that squad is nearly as nasty as it will be in Warband, and helps this build mount multi-front pressure despite not having many units. The final touch is that the Vessels detachment rule makes Angron much more exciting than normal, as you can still have your most critical Blessing of Khorne up on your key units on a turn you revive the big man. This feels very well put together, it ends up losing less of the core World Eaters juice than is sometimes the case for running Vessels, and carved up a good mix of opponents on the way to the top. Great work from Douglas.

Cameron Glodowski - T'au Empire (Mont'ka) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Tau Riptide Tau Riptide. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
So anyways, I started blastin (1995 points)

T'au Empire Strike Force (2000 points) Mont'ka

CHARACTERS

Cadre Fireblade (50 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Fireblade pulse rifle 2x Gun Drone

Commander in Enforcer Battlesuit (105 points) • Warlord • 1x Battlesuit fists 4x Missile pod 2x Shield Drone • Enhancement: Strike Swiftly

BATTLELINE

Breacher Team (100 points) • 1x Support turret • 1x Breacher Fire Warrior Shas'ui • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Guardian Drone 1x Gun Drone 1x Pulse blaster 1x Pulse pistol • 9x Breacher Fire Warrior • 9x Close combat weapon 9x Pulse blaster 9x Pulse pistol

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Devilfish (85 points) • 1x Accelerator burst cannon 1x Armoured hull 2x Seeker missile 2x Smart missile system

OTHER DATASHEETS

Broadside Battlesuits (80 points) • 1x Crushing bulk 1x Heavy rail rifle 2x Missile Drone 1x Seeker missile 1x Weapon Support System

Broadside Battlesuits (80 points) • 1x Crushing bulk 1x Heavy rail rifle 2x Missile Drone 1x Seeker missile 1x Weapon Support System

Crisis Fireknife Battlesuits (120 points) • 1x Crisis Fireknife Shas'vre • 1x Battlesuit fists 1x Gun Drone 2x Missile pod 1x Shield Drone • 2x Crisis Fireknife Shas'ui • 2x Battlesuit fists 2x Gun Drone 4x Missile pod 2x Shield Drone

Ghostkeel Battlesuit (160 points) • 1x Battlesuit Support System 1x Cyclic ion raker 1x Ghostkeel fists 1x Twin fusion blaster

Hammerhead Gunship (145 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Railgun 2x Seeker missile 2x Smart missile system

Kroot Carnivores (65 points) • 1x Long-quill • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Kroot carbine 1x Kroot pistol • 9x Kroot Carnivore • 9x Close combat weapon 8x Kroot rifle 1x Tanglebomb launcher

Pathfinder Team (90 points) • 1x Pathfinder Shas'ui • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Gun Drone 1x Pulse carbine 1x Pulse pistol 1x Recon Drone 1x Shield Drone • 9x Pathfinder • 9x Close combat weapon 3x Ion rifle 6x Pulse carbine 9x Pulse pistol

Piranhas (60 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Piranha fusion blaster 2x Seeker missile 2x Twin pulse carbine

Piranhas (60 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Piranha fusion blaster 2x Seeker missile 2x Twin pulse carbine

Riptide Battlesuit (190 points) • 1x Ion accelerator 2x Missile Drone 1x Riptide fists 1x Twin smart missile system

Riptide Battlesuit (190 points) • 1x Ion accelerator 2x Missile Drone 1x Riptide fists 1x Twin smart missile system

Riptide Battlesuit (190 points) • 1x Ion accelerator 2x Missile Drone 1x Riptide fists 1x Twin smart missile system

Stealth Battlesuits (80 points) • 1x Stealth Shas'vre • 1x Battlesuit Support System 1x Battlesuit fists 1x Fusion blaster 1x Homing Beacon 1x Marker Drone 1x Shield Drone • 2x Stealth Shas'ui • 2x Battlesuit fists 2x Burst cannon

Stealth Battlesuits (80 points) • 1x Stealth Shas'vre • 1x Battlesuit Support System 1x Battlesuit fists 1x Fusion blaster 1x Homing Beacon 1x Marker Drone 1x Shield Drone • 2x Stealth Shas'ui • 2x Battlesuit fists 2x Burst cannon

Vespid Stingwings (65 points) • 1x Vespid Strain Leader • 1x Neutron blaster 1x Stingwing claws • 4x Vespid Stingwing • 4x Neutron blaster 4x Stingwing claws

Exported with App Version: v1.42.0 (100), Data Version: v696

Archetype

Mont'ka Hulls

Thoughts

Mont'ka Riptides go brrr, supplemented withe ability to launch devastating alpha strikes thanks to being able to Scouting out with the Breacherfish and Fireknife squad if needed. Nothing especially insightful to say beyond that - T'au are just super efficient at the moment. Congratulations on undefeated second place to Cameron.

The Best of the Rest

There were 6 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 3rd - Derek Swift - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Two gatling Despoilers and a Desecrator to boss around the War Dogs.
  • 4th - Levi Chester - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade): Double Breacher, double Disintegrator Haloscreed.
  • 5th - Jeff Roe - Black Templars (Wrathful Procession): A full Crusader unit, supported by lots of the standard Templar tools like Brethren and a RepEx.
  • 6th - Alex Kismarton - Orks (War Horde): Pressure melee War Horde with a big Boyz unit, Snaggas in Trukks, and extra Kommandos.
  • 7th - Gabriel Brown - Necrons (Starshatter Arsenal): Silent King, Doomsdays and one enmitic Lokhust unit.
  • 8th - Dakota Pfeiffer - Space Wolves (Saga of the Beastslayer): A big Wolf Guard brick, ThunderCav/Wulfen MSUs and Predator Annihilators.

Dicing Death IV

43-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Portland, OR, United States on October 25 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

The Showdown

Take and Hold - Tipping Point

Jonathan Sebert - Orks (War Horde)
Army List - Click to Expand
Ghaz's New Toyz 2.0 (2000 Points)

Orks War Horde Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Beastboss (100 Points) • 1x Beast Snagga klaw • 1x Beastchoppa • 1x Shoota • Enhancements: Headwoppa's Killchoppa

Big Mek (95 Points) • 1x Drilla • 1x Kustom mega-blasta • Enhancements: Follow Me Ladz

Big Mek with Shokk Attack Gun (80 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Grot Assistant • 1x Shokk attack gun

Boss Snikrot (75 Points) • 1x Mork's Teeth • 1x Slugga

Ghazghkull Thraka (235 Points) • 1x Ghazghkull Thraka • Warlord ◦ 1x Gork's Klaw ◦ 1x Mork's Roar • 1x Makari ◦ 1x Makari's stabba

Warboss (75 Points) • 1x Attack squig • 1x Kombi-weapon • 1x Power klaw • 1x Twin sluggas

Zodgrod Wortsnagga (90 Points) • 1x Da Grabzappa • 1x Squigstoppa

BATTLELINE

Beast Snagga Boyz (95 Points) • 9x Beast Snagga Boy ◦ 9x Choppa ◦ 9x Slugga • 1x Beast Snagga Nob ◦ 1x Power snappa ◦ 1x Slugga

Boyz (170 Points) • 19x Boy ◦ 19x Choppa ◦ 19x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Trukk (70 Points) • 1x Big shoota • 1x Spiked wheels

Trukk (70 Points) • 1x Big shoota • 1x Spiked wheels

Trukk (70 Points) • 1x Big shoota • 1x Spiked wheels

OTHER DATASHEETS

Flash Gitz (80 Points) • 1x Ammo Runt • 1x Kaptin ◦ 1x Choppa ◦ 1x Snazzgun • 4x Flash Git ◦ 4x Choppa ◦ 4x Snazzgun

Flash Gitz (80 Points) • 1x Ammo Runt • 1x Kaptin ◦ 1x Choppa ◦ 1x Snazzgun • 4x Flash Git ◦ 4x Choppa ◦ 4x Snazzgun

Gretchin (40 Points) • 10x Gretchin ◦ 10x Close combat weapon ◦ 10x Grot blasta • 1x Runtherd ◦ 1x Runtherd tools ◦ 1x Slugga

Gretchin (80 Points) • 20x Gretchin ◦ 20x Close combat weapon ◦ 20x Grot blasta • 2x Runtherd ◦ 2x Runtherd tools ◦ 2x Slugga

Kommandos (120 Points) • 1x Bomb Squig • 1x Distraction Grot • 9x Kommando ◦ 1x Breacha ram ◦ 1x Burna ◦ 6x Choppa ◦ 2x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Rokkit launcha ◦ 6x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

Nobz (105 Points) • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga • 4x Nob ◦ 4x Power klaw ◦ 4x Slugga

Stormboyz (65 Points) • 4x Stormboy ◦ 4x Choppa ◦ 4x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

Stormboyz (65 Points) • 4x Stormboy ◦ 4x Choppa ◦ 4x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Power klaw ◦ 1x Slugga

Tankbustas (140 Points) • 1x Boss Nob ◦ 1x Choppa ◦ 1x Rokkit pistol ◦ 1x Smash hammer • 5x Tankbusta ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Pulsa Rokkit ◦ 5x Rokkit launcha

Exported with App Version: v1.42.1 (1), Data Version: v697



vs.

Lukas Troller - Orks (War Horde)
Army List - Click to Expand
Wait, snore horde is the best detachment?

Always has been.

CHARACTERS

Beastboss (80 points) • 1x Beast Snagga klaw 1x Beastchoppa 1x Shoota

Big Mek (95 points) • 1x Drilla 1x Kustom mega-blasta • Enhancement: Follow Me Ladz

Ghazghkull Thraka (235 points) • 1x Ghazghkull Thraka • Warlord • 1x Gork's Klaw 1x Mork's Roar • 1x Makari • 1x Makari's stabba

Mek (45 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Kustom mega-slugga

Painboy (80 points) • 1x Grot Orderly 1x Power klaw 1x 'Urty syringe

Warboss (90 points) • 1x Attack squig 1x Kombi-weapon 1x Power klaw 1x Twin sluggas • Enhancement: Kunnin' but Brutal

BATTLELINE

Beast Snagga Boyz (95 points) • 9x Beast Snagga Boy • 9x Choppa 9x Slugga • 1x Beast Snagga Nob • 1x Power snappa 1x Slugga

Boyz (170 points) • 19x Boy • 19x Choppa 19x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Boyz (170 points) • 19x Boy • 19x Choppa 19x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Trukk (70 points) • 1x Big shoota 1x Spiked wheels

Trukk (70 points) • 1x Big shoota 1x Spiked wheels

OTHER DATASHEETS

Battlewagon (160 points) • 1x Deff rolla 1x Grabbin' klaw 1x Wreckin' ball 1x 'Ard Case

Gretchin (40 points) • 10x Gretchin • 10x Close combat weapon 10x Grot blasta • 1x Runtherd • 1x Runtherd tools 1x Slugga

Kommandos (120 points) • 1x Bomb Squig 1x Distraction Grot • 9x Kommando • 1x Breacha ram 8x Choppa 8x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Stormboyz (65 points) • 4x Stormboy • 4x Choppa 4x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Stormboyz (65 points) • 4x Stormboy • 4x Choppa 4x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Stormboyz (65 points) • 4x Stormboy • 4x Choppa 4x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Tankbustas (140 points) • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Choppa 1x Rokkit pistol 1x Smash hammer • 5x Tankbusta • 5x Close combat weapon 1x Pulsa Rokkit 5x Rokkit launcha

Tankbustas (140 points) • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Choppa 1x Rokkit pistol 1x Smash hammer • 5x Tankbusta • 5x Close combat weapon 1x Pulsa Rokkit 5x Rokkit launcha

Thoughts

As ever, the patrons love to torment me, and as soon as I saw this mirror was in the voting I had a pretty good idea I'd be writing about it. Sure enough, here we are.

Happily, while it's a War Horde faceoff, there are some differences between the two builds to anchor analysis on. Jonathan's build is a bit more toolboxy/go-wide, with more MSUs to spread out with, and the Super Grots as a big bait piece. Lukas' build is much heavier hitting but more concentrated, doubling up on big Boyz units and bringing a Battlewagon for the second squad to ride out in.

That last choice is what blows open the mirror for me, particularly given that Jonathan's on a single squad of Tankbustas, which are firmly a "maybe" on killing the Wagon. He can't reliably force the transport open, and having that big Boyz unit staged in it gives Lukas a fairly dominant ability to react after the first big exchange of violence. The Super Grots in Jonathan's build are also quite handy, but aren't enough to counteract the advantage Lukas has, especially as the Beast Snagga unit will evaporate them, meaning there's no need to commit anything bigger. I think there's a world in which the Super Grots go for a jail play and Jonathan's Tankbustas spike the wagon, at which point his more flexible forces coult pull ahead, but I don't think it's the likely outcome, and I'm not surprised to see Lukas pull off the win.

Result

Orks (War Horde) Victory - 93 - 76

Lukas Troller - Orks (War Horde) - 1st Place

Ork Bad Moons Choppa Boyz. Credit: Greggles

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Wait, snore horde is the best detachment?

Always has been.

CHARACTERS

Beastboss (80 points) • 1x Beast Snagga klaw 1x Beastchoppa 1x Shoota

Big Mek (95 points) • 1x Drilla 1x Kustom mega-blasta • Enhancement: Follow Me Ladz

Ghazghkull Thraka (235 points) • 1x Ghazghkull Thraka • Warlord • 1x Gork's Klaw 1x Mork's Roar • 1x Makari • 1x Makari's stabba

Mek (45 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Kustom mega-slugga

Painboy (80 points) • 1x Grot Orderly 1x Power klaw 1x 'Urty syringe

Warboss (90 points) • 1x Attack squig 1x Kombi-weapon 1x Power klaw 1x Twin sluggas • Enhancement: Kunnin' but Brutal

BATTLELINE

Beast Snagga Boyz (95 points) • 9x Beast Snagga Boy • 9x Choppa 9x Slugga • 1x Beast Snagga Nob • 1x Power snappa 1x Slugga

Boyz (170 points) • 19x Boy • 19x Choppa 19x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Boyz (170 points) • 19x Boy • 19x Choppa 19x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Trukk (70 points) • 1x Big shoota 1x Spiked wheels

Trukk (70 points) • 1x Big shoota 1x Spiked wheels

OTHER DATASHEETS

Battlewagon (160 points) • 1x Deff rolla 1x Grabbin' klaw 1x Wreckin' ball 1x 'Ard Case

Gretchin (40 points) • 10x Gretchin • 10x Close combat weapon 10x Grot blasta • 1x Runtherd • 1x Runtherd tools 1x Slugga

Kommandos (120 points) • 1x Bomb Squig 1x Distraction Grot • 9x Kommando • 1x Breacha ram 8x Choppa 8x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Stormboyz (65 points) • 4x Stormboy • 4x Choppa 4x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Stormboyz (65 points) • 4x Stormboy • 4x Choppa 4x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Stormboyz (65 points) • 4x Stormboy • 4x Choppa 4x Slugga • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Power klaw 1x Slugga

Tankbustas (140 points) • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Choppa 1x Rokkit pistol 1x Smash hammer • 5x Tankbusta • 5x Close combat weapon 1x Pulsa Rokkit 5x Rokkit launcha

Tankbustas (140 points) • 1x Boss Nob • 1x Choppa 1x Rokkit pistol 1x Smash hammer • 5x Tankbusta • 5x Close combat weapon 1x Pulsa Rokkit 5x Rokkit launcha

Archetype

Pressure War Horde

Thoughts

I think this is my favourite War Horde build I've seen since the big buff to Ghaz, it hits the perfect balance of being able to front overwhelming pressure, stage, and deal with enemy heavy stuff. Lukas is a well renowned warboss, so seeing him bust out such an effective build isn't surprising, congratulations!

Tanner Hebert - Dark Angels (Wrath of the Rock) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
schoolofthehouseofthewrathoftherock (1995 points)

Space Marines Dark Angels Strike Force (2000 points) Wrath of the Rock

CHARACTERS

Azrael (115 points) • 1x Lion's Wrath 1x The Lion Helm 1x The Sword of Secrets

Judiciar (70 points) • 1x Absolvor bolt pistol 1x Executioner relic blade

Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (70 points) • 1x Combi-weapon 1x Paired combat blades

Lion El'Jonson (315 points) • Warlord • 1x Arma Luminis 1x Fealty

Ravenwing Command Squad (130 points) • 1x Ravenwing Champion • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Master-crafted power weapon 1x Plasma talon • Enhancement: Lord of the Ravenwing • 1x Ravenwing Apothecary • 1x Black Knight combat weapon 1x Bolt pistol 1x Plasma talon • 1x Ravenwing Ancient • 1x Black Knight combat weapon 1x Bolt pistol 1x Plasma talon

Ravenwing Command Squad (145 points) • 1x Ravenwing Champion • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Master-crafted power weapon 1x Plasma talon • Enhancement: Ancient Weapons • 1x Ravenwing Apothecary • 1x Black Knight combat weapon 1x Bolt pistol 1x Plasma talon • 1x Ravenwing Ancient • 1x Black Knight combat weapon 1x Bolt pistol 1x Plasma talon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Deathwing Knights (250 points) • 1x Watcher in the Dark • 1x Knight Master • 1x Great weapon of the Unforgiven • 4x Deathwing Knight • 4x Power weapon

Deathwing Knights (250 points) • 1x Watcher in the Dark • 1x Knight Master • 1x Great weapon of the Unforgiven • 4x Deathwing Knight • 4x Mace of absolution

Inner Circle Companions (180 points) • 6x Inner Circle Companion • 6x Calibanite greatsword 6x Heavy bolt pistol

Outrider Squad (80 points) • 1x Outrider Sergeant • 1x Astartes chainsword 1x Heavy bolt pistol 1x Twin bolt rifle • 2x Outrider • 2x Astartes chainsword 2x Heavy bolt pistol 2x Twin bolt rifle

Ravenwing Black Knights (180 points) • 1x Ravenwing Huntmaster • 1x Black Knight combat weapon 1x Bolt pistol 1x Plasma talon • 5x Ravenwing Black Knight • 5x Black Knight combat weapon 5x Bolt pistol 5x Plasma talon

Scout Squad (70 points) • 1x Scout Sergeant • 1x Astartes chainsword 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout • 2x Astartes shotgun 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 1x Heavy bolter 1x Scout sniper rifle

Sternguard Veteran Squad (100 points) • 1x Sternguard Veteran Sergeant • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Power fist 1x Sternguard bolt pistol 1x Sternguard bolt rifle • 4x Sternguard Veteran • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Sternguard bolt pistol 3x Sternguard bolt rifle 1x Sternguard heavy bolter

ALLIED UNITS

Ministorum Priest (40 points) • 1x Zealot's vindictor

Exported with App Version: v1.42.1 (101), Data Version: v697

Archetype

Melee Wrath

Thoughts

Ultra Pressure Dark Angels here, eschewing most guns in favour of maximum punching. It has a fairly diverse suite of melee tools to apply, depending on what the foe is least able to deal with, and gets a good clip of speed from the Ravenwing units when it matters against gunlines, or lots of Fight First from the ICCs and Lion for melee foes. Azrael with the Sternguard is a nice sole shooting unit too, as their ability to spike something with Mortals means opponent's can't completely disrespect ranged damage as a factor. Otherwise, wow I do not want to run into this with Aeldari. We love to see Dark Angels winning at Goonhammer, so good stuff from Tanner.

The Best of the Rest

There was 6 more player on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 3rd - Ian Swallow - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): Berzerker horde.
  • 4th - Tom Martin - Chaos Space Marines (Renegade Raiders): All-rounder Raiders with Predator Annihilators, Noise Marines and an Accursed Commune.
  • 5th - Jonathan Sebert - Orks (War Horde): Mech War Horde with a few Gitz and Tankbustas to add firepower.
  • 6th - Donald Plummer - T'au Empire (Auxiliary Cadre): Lots of Rampagers with double Sky Ray and double Riptide for firepower.
  • 7th - Harry Gieringer - Salamanders (Forgefather's Seekers): Vulkan leading a bunch of VanVets and also two Tactical Squads in 2025, somehow.
  • 8th - Nicolas Ohlsen-Johnson - Chaos Daemons (Blood Legion): Be'lakor, Skarbrand and a Bloodthirster leading Bloodletters with Rendmaster buffs.

SA40k Commissar Cup GT - Presented by Dragon's Lair

36-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Edwardstown, SA, Australia on October 24 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Sam Young - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs) - 1st Place

Credit: Keewa

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
🌶️🦏

Adepta Sororitas Strike Force (2000 points) Hallowed Martyrs

CHARACTERS

Aestred Thurga and Agathae Dolan (70 points) • 1x Aestred Thurga • 1x Blade of Vigil 1x Bolt pistol • 1x Agathae Dolan • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Scribe's staff

Dialogus (40 points) • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Dialogus staff

Hospitaller (50 points) • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Chirurgeon's tools

Junith Eruita (80 points) • 1x Mace of Castigation 1x Twin Ministorum heavy flamer

Ministorum Priest (60 points) • 1x Zealot's vindictor • Enhancement: Saintly Example

Ministorum Priest (50 points) • 1x Zealot's vindictor

Morvenn Vahl (170 points) • Warlord • 1x Fidelis 1x Lance of Illumination 1x Paragon missile launcher

Palatine (75 points) • 1x Bolt Pistol 1x Palatine blade • Enhancement: Through Suffering, Strength

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Sororitas Rhino (75 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

Sororitas Rhino (75 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Storm bolter

OTHER DATASHEETS

Arco-flagellants (140 points) • 10x Arco-flagellant • 10x Arco-flails

Celestian Sacresants (130 points) • 1x Sacresant Superior • 1x Inferno pistol 1x Spear of the faithful • 9x Celestian Sacresant • 9x Bolt pistol 9x Hallowed mace

Celestian Sacresants (130 points) • 1x Sacresant Superior • 1x Inferno pistol 1x Spear of the faithful • 9x Celestian Sacresant • 9x Anointed halberd 9x Bolt pistol

Celestian Sacresants (130 points) • 1x Sacresant Superior • 1x Inferno pistol 1x Spear of the faithful • 9x Celestian Sacresant • 9x Anointed halberd 9x Bolt pistol

Paragon Warsuits (210 points) • 1x Paragon Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Multi-melta 1x Paragon storm bolters 1x Paragon war mace • 2x Paragon • 2x Bolt pistol 2x Multi-melta 2x Paragon storm bolters 2x Paragon war mace

Retributor Squad (105 points) • 1x Retributor Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Condemnor boltgun 1x Power weapon • 4x Retributor • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 4x Multi-melta

Retributor Squad (105 points) • 1x Retributor Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Condemnor boltgun 1x Power weapon • 4x Retributor • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 4x Multi-melta

Retributor Squad (105 points) • 1x Retributor Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Condemnor boltgun 1x Power weapon • 4x Retributor • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 4x Multi-melta

Sanctifiers (100 points) • 1x Miraculist • 1x Burning hands 1x Holy fire • 1x Salvationist • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Salvationist Medikit • 1x Death Cult Assassin • 1x Death Cult blades • 2x Missionary • 1x Ministorum flamer 1x Plasma gun 2x Sanctifier melee weapon • 4x Sanctifier • 4x Ministorum hand flamer 4x Sanctifier melee weapon

Sanctifiers (100 points) • 1x Miraculist • 1x Burning hands 1x Holy fire • 1x Salvationist • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Salvationist Medikit • 1x Death Cult Assassin • 1x Death Cult blades • 2x Missionary • 1x Ministorum flamer 1x Plasma gun 2x Sanctifier melee weapon • 4x Sanctifier • 4x Ministorum hand flamer 4x Sanctifier melee weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.42.1 (101), Data Version: v697

Archetype

Sacresant/Retributor Martyrs

Thoughts

Another Sacresant-heavy Martyrs build on top at this event, here with a much more polarised supporting strategy - Scout and screen with the Sanctifiers, neutralise anything heavy with the Retibutors and Vahl, and lean on the Sacresants to hold the line. Given that, I'm slightly surprised there aren't Hospitallers in all the units, but I guess the thinking is that if you're setting up to trade at least one unit off via the Fight on Death, the long-term staying power doesn't matter as much. Stacking this build on top of the Sororitas lists we've covered already this week really highlights how broad the build options are - none of the shooty hulls here at all, just a solid wall of Sisters and melta weaponry. Great work Sam.

The Best of the Rest

There were 3 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd (4.5-0.5) - Stephen MacGregor - Thousand Sons (Rubricae Phalanx): 30 Scarabs.
  • 3rd - Evan Wolfendale - Adeptus Custodes (Lions of the Emperor): Custodian Guard, a full Allarus block, and some supporting Sororitas with an Immolator.
  • 4th - Sam Marshall - Ultramarines (Gladius Task Force): Shooty Gladisu Ultras with dakka hulls and a full Hellblaster unit in a Land Raider.

RCM: Night of the Wolf

32-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Longview, TX, United States on October 25 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Justin Moore - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade) - 1st Place

Ironstrider Ballistarius. Credit: Rockfish Ironstrider Ballistarius. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Robot Chicken part 2: Buns of steel (1995 points)

Adeptus Mechanicus Strike Force (2000 points) Haloscreed Battle Clade

CHARACTERS

Belisarius Cawl (175 points) • 1x Arc scourge 1x Cawl's Omnissian axe 1x Mechadendrite hive 1x Solar atomiser

BATTLELINE

Skitarii Rangers (85 points) • 1x Skitarii Ranger Alpha • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Galvanic rifle • 9x Skitarii Ranger • 1x Arc rifle 9x Close combat weapon 7x Galvanic rifle 1x Omnispex 1x Plasma caliver

Skitarii Rangers (85 points) • 1x Skitarii Ranger Alpha • 1x Alpha combat weapon 1x Close combat weapon 1x Galvanic rifle • 9x Skitarii Ranger • 1x Arc rifle 9x Close combat weapon 7x Galvanic rifle 1x Omnispex 1x Plasma caliver

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Skorpius Dunerider (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Cognis heavy stubber array

OTHER DATASHEETS

Ironstrider Ballistarii (225 points) • 3x Ironstrider Ballistarii • 3x Ironstrider feet 3x Twin cognis lascannon

Ironstrider Ballistarii (225 points) • 3x Ironstrider Ballistarii • 3x Ironstrider feet 3x Twin cognis lascannon

Pteraxii Skystalkers (70 points) • 1x Pteraxii Skystalker Alpha • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Taser goad • 4x Pteraxii Skystalker • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Flechette carbine

Pteraxii Skystalkers (70 points) • 1x Pteraxii Skystalker Alpha • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Taser goad • 4x Pteraxii Skystalker • 4x Close combat weapon 4x Flechette carbine

Sicarian Infiltrators (70 points) • 1x Sicarian Infiltrator Princeps • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Taser goad • 4x Sicarian Infiltrator • 4x Flechette blaster 4x Taser goad

Sicarian Infiltrators (140 points) • 1x Sicarian Infiltrator Princeps • 1x Flechette blaster 1x Taser goad • 9x Sicarian Infiltrator • 9x Flechette blaster 9x Taser goad

Sicarian Ruststalkers (150 points) • 1x Sicarian Ruststalker Princeps • 1x Transonic blades and chordclaw • 9x Sicarian Ruststalker • 9x Transonic blades

Sicarian Ruststalkers (150 points) • 1x Sicarian Ruststalker Princeps • 1x Transonic razor and chordclaw • 9x Sicarian Ruststalker • 9x Transonic razor and chordclaw

Sicarian Ruststalkers (75 points) • 1x Sicarian Ruststalker Princeps • 1x Transonic blades and chordclaw • 4x Sicarian Ruststalker • 4x Transonic razor and chordclaw

Sydonian Dragoons with Taser Lances (130 points) • 2x Sydonian Dragoon • 2x Phosphor serpenta 2x Taser lance

Sydonian Dragoons with Taser Lances (130 points) • 2x Sydonian Dragoon • 2x Phosphor serpenta 2x Taser lance

Sydonian Dragoons with Taser Lances (130 points) • 2x Sydonian Dragoon • 2x Phosphor serpenta 2x Taser lance

Exported with App Version: v1.42.1 (101), Data Version: v697

Archetype

Strider Haloscreed

Thoughts

While Sisters stole the limelight this week, AdMech are also on a tear and also have quite a few different options to work with (as long as you take Cawl, anyway). This variant of Haloscreed eschews any of the powerful but pondorous Kataphron units in favour of lots of chicken walkers of both flavours. This makes it very mobile and adaptable, able to do both a massive Advance/Charge alpha strike and also line up good shooting lines. It also sets a relatively high durability floor on the key units - the walkers take real killing, and 7W is the perfect number to ensure neither mid volume D2 nor D3 is super efficient at clearing them. Where you might worry with them is getting rolled by massed melee Infantry, but the Ruststalkers very much address that concern, ready and willing to dice up pretty much any Infantry hordes they see.

AdMech are another faction with a tonne of depth and power right now, and this adds up to a great demonstration of why from Justin.

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Kit Smith Hanna - Dark Angels (Ironstorm Spearhead): A novel Ravenwing Ironstorm setup, combining Redemptors and Storm Speeders from the core range with Land Speeders Vengeance and a Darkshroud.
  • 3rd - Lewis Hersman - Dark Angels (Wrath of the Rock): Lion/Deathwing Wrath with some Speeders.
  • 4th - Christian Alessi - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade): Ruststalkers, Ironstriders and Sydonians galore.
  • 5th - Peyton Beard - Grey Knights (Warpbane Task Force): Dreadknights and Purifiers.
  • 6th - Dominic Gierber - Genestealer Cult (Host of Ascension): 60 Neophytes for shooting and a big squad each of Aberrants and Metamorphs for melee output.

Hell's Basement GT (2025)

26-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Medicine Hat, AB, Canada on October 25 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Jake Chalmers - Chaos Daemons (Daemonic Incursion) - 1st Place

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
John Lennon beat this list, you can too! (1995 Points)

Chaos Daemons Daemonic Incursion Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Exalted Flamer (65 Points) • 1x Fire of Tzeentch • 1x Flamer mouths

Great Unclean One (295 Points) • Warlord • 1x Bileblade • 1x Bilesword • 1x Putrid vomit • Enhancements: The Endless Gift

Great Unclean One (250 Points) • 1x Bileblade • 1x Bilesword • 1x Putrid vomit

Rendmaster on Blood Throne (165 Points) • 1x Attendants' hellblades • 1x Blade of blood

Rotigus (250 Points) • 1x Gnarlrod • 1x Streams of brackish filth

BATTLELINE

Plaguebearers (110 Points) • 1x Plagueridden ◦ 1x Plaguesword • 9x Plaguebearer ◦ 1x Daemonic Icon ◦ 1x Instrument of Chaos ◦ 9x Plaguesword

OTHER DATASHEETS

Beasts of Nurgle (65 Points) • 1x Putrid appendages

Beasts of Nurgle (65 Points) • 1x Putrid appendages

Bloodcrushers (220 Points) • 1x Bloodhunter ◦ 1x Hellblade ◦ 1x Juggernaut's bladed horn • 5x Bloodcrusher ◦ 1x Daemonic Icon ◦ 5x Hellblade ◦ 1x Instrument of Chaos ◦ 5x Juggernaut's bladed horn

Bloodcrushers (220 Points) • 1x Bloodhunter ◦ 1x Hellblade ◦ 1x Juggernaut's bladed horn • 5x Bloodcrusher ◦ 1x Daemonic Icon ◦ 5x Hellblade ◦ 1x Instrument of Chaos ◦ 5x Juggernaut's bladed horn

Flamers (130 Points) • 1x Pyrocaster ◦ 1x Flamer mouths ◦ 1x Flickering flames • 5x Flamer ◦ 5x Flamer mouths ◦ 5x Flickering flames

Screamers (160 Points) • 6x Screamer ◦ 6x Lamprey bite

Archetype

Hammer and Anvil Daemons

Thoughts

A fun Daemonic Incursion build to finish, returning to the classic plan of bogging foes down with a Great Unclean One anvil, then unleashing a stampede of Bloodcrushers to smash stuff. They're supplemented by a big Flamer/Exalted unit, which helps handle any hordes that might be able to lock down and out-score the Nurgle toys, and also act as a potent threat for bouncing via The Realm of Chaos. Solid for handling Orks or Ruststalkers if they're about, and a good addition to the build. Well done Jake, closing out this week's events.

The Best of the Rest

There were 3 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Brian Brown - Necrons (Starshatter Arsenal):  Double C'tan, double Wraith, double Doomsday, plus a full Flayed One unit to try and tie up enemies.
  • 3rd - Payton Wilde - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Triple gatling Despoiler with Rotigus.
  • 4th - Elizabeth Beyak - Adeptus Mechanicus (Cohort Cybernetica): Hull dakka Cohort, going for a big Kastelan unit, triple Dunecrawler and double Disintegrator.

Wrap Up

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Tags: Space Marines | tyranids | world eaters | Warhammer 40k | Aeldari | Dark Angels | Adeptus Mechanicus | chaos daemons | Orks | tau | adepta sororitas | Meta Analysis | Competitive Innovations | Leagues of Votann

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