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

Competitive Innovations in 10th: Grizzly Gifts pt.1

by James "One_Wing" Grover | Dec 17 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.

It's all change this week, as the tournament scene has adopted the new Grotmas detachments and Dataslate with laudable agility, with our events for the week split neatly down the middle between those that did and did not pick it up. You may be asking how that's possible, given we have thirteen events, but one tournament stuck to a hard cutoff and thus had some of the Detachments in, but not the Dataslate, thus perfectly balancing the scales.

As always when this happens, we'll be bringing the events with the new rules live to the front of the queue in each part (and selecting our showdowns from amongst them), and while it's obviously early days, there are some definite signs of some breakout strategies arising from the update. Both the Blood Angels and Astra Militarum's new detachments have landed very hot, and both look to have a solid game into Victrix Guard, and the Dark Angels also seem to be consolidating the already strong position they were in pre-Dataslate. The flip side of that, of course, is that plenty of people seem to have left the Victrix at home in favour of trying out the new new hotness, so don't be surprised if they snap back over the next few weeks.

Santa's elves, of course, appear to be screaming, crying and throwing up in the corner.

Anyway - the events, starting with...

Part 1 on Wednesday:
  • Rise of The Empire GT 2025
  • Jingle Bombz 5
  • Fight Before Christmas 2025 - 40K Grand Tournament
  • 13 & 14 December 2025 - OWN's Breaking Point GT at Game HQ (partial use of the Dataslate - looks like just Grizzled saw use, so I'd guess cut rules on the Saturday).
  • Rogue City Rumble GT
Part 2 on Friday:
  • Safety's Off's Second Coming of the Double Critmas Charity GT
  • Gothic Games Canterbury: December 40k GT
  • King of Blades, the 2nd - 40k Grand Tournament
  • Christmas Hammer
Part 3 on Saturday:
  • Da Winter Waaagh 2025
  • Twin Dragons - Dragons Cup
  • Warhammer: 40,000 Charity GT for NFBNJ
  • Grim GT

Rise of The Empire GT 2025

82-player, 6-round Grand Tournament in Houston, TX, US on December 13 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

The Showdown

Take and Hold - Search and Destroy

David Smith - Astra Militarum (Grizzled Company)
Army List - Click to Expand
63rd Drop Bears Veterans (1990 Points)

Astra Militarum Grizzled Company Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Cadian Command Squad (65 Points) • 1x Cadian Commander ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Plasma gun • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Master Vox • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Medi-pack • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Plasma gun

Commissar (50 Points) • 1x Plasma pistol • 1x Power weapon • Enhancements: Abhuman Detail

Gaunt's Ghosts (100 Points) • 1x Ibram Gaunt ◦ 1x Bolt Pistol ◦ 1x Gaunt's chainsword • 1x Colm Corbec ◦ 1x Corbec's hot-shot lascarbine ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x Elim Rawne ◦ 1x Rawne's lascarbine ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x Hlaine Larkin ◦ 1x Larkin's long-las ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x 'Try Again' Bragg ◦ 1x Bragg's autocannon ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x Oan Mkoll ◦ 1x Lascarbine ◦ 1x Mkoll's straight silver knife

Lord Solar Leontus (130 Points) • Warlord • 1x Conquest • 1x Konstantin's hooves • 1x Sol's Righteous Gaze

BATTLELINE

Cadian Shock Troops (65 Points) • 1x Shock Trooper Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Sergeant's autogun • 9x Shock Trooper ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chimera (85 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lasgun array

Chimera (85 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lasgun array

OTHER DATASHEETS

Attilan Rough Riders (120 Points) • 1x Rough Rider Sergeant ◦ 1x Hunting lance ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Steed's hooves • 9x Rough Rider ◦ 9x Hunting lance ◦ 9x Lasgun ◦ 9x Laspistol ◦ 9x Steed's hooves

Attilan Rough Riders (120 Points) • 1x Rough Rider Sergeant ◦ 1x Hunting lance ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Steed's hooves • 9x Rough Rider ◦ 9x Hunting lance ◦ 9x Lasgun ◦ 9x Laspistol ◦ 9x Steed's hooves

Bullgryn Squad (200 Points) • 1x Bullgryn Bone 'ead ◦ 1x Brute Shield ◦ 1x Bullgryn maul ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 5x Bullgryn ◦ 5x Brute Shield ◦ 5x Bullgryn maul ◦ 5x Close combat weapon

Cadian Heavy Weapons Squad (65 Points) • 3x Heavy Weapon Team ◦ 3x Laspistol ◦ 3x Mortar ◦ 3x Weapons team close combat weapons

Kasrkin (110 Points) • 1x Kasrkin Sergeant ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 9x Kasrkin ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 1x Hot-shot marksman rifle ◦ 1x Melta Mine ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Kasrkin (110 Points) • 1x Kasrkin Sergeant ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 9x Kasrkin ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 1x Hot-shot marksman rifle ◦ 1x Melta Mine ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Leman Russ Vanquisher (145 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy flamer • 2x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Vanquisher battle cannon

Leman Russ Vanquisher (145 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Vanquisher battle cannon

Leman Russ Vanquisher (145 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Vanquisher battle cannon

Rogal Dorn Battle Tank (250 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Coaxial autocannon • 1x Heavy stubber • 2x Heavy stubber • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Oppressor cannon • 1x Pulveriser cannon

Exported with App Version: v1.45.0 (1), Data Version: v720



vs.

Raul Valencia - Dark Angels (Wrath of the Rock)
Army List - Click to Expand
Deathwing Knights? Bro they used to be Damage 3 and have a 6” deepstrike. And they costed LESS back then (1995 Points)

Space Marines Dark Angels Wrath of the Rock Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Azrael (125 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 (145 Points) • 1x Ravenwing Champion ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Master-crafted power weapon ◦ 1x Plasma talon ◦ Enhancements: 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

BATTLELINE

Intercessor Squad (80 Points) • 1x Intercessor Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes grenade launcher ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Bolt rifle ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Intercessor ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 4x Bolt rifle ◦ 4x Close combat weapon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Centurion Devastator Squad (175 Points) • 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant ◦ 1x Centurion fists ◦ 1x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 1x Twin lascannon • 2x Devastator Centurion ◦ 2x Centurion fists ◦ 2x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 2x Twin lascannon

Centurion Devastator Squad (175 Points) • 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant ◦ 1x Centurion fists ◦ 1x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 1x Twin lascannon • 2x Devastator Centurion ◦ 2x Centurion fists ◦ 2x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 2x Twin lascannon

Hellblaster Squad (220 Points) • 1x Hellblaster Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Plasma incinerator ◦ 1x Plasma pistol • 9x Hellblaster ◦ 9x Bolt pistol ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 9x Plasma incinerator

Incursor Squad (80 Points) • 1x Incursor Sergeant ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Occulus bolt carbine ◦ 1x Paired combat blades • 4x Incursor ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Haywire Mine ◦ 4x Occulus bolt carbine ◦ 4x Paired combat blades

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

Invader ATV (60 Points) • 1x Bolt pistol • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Multi-melta • 1x Twin bolt rifle

Ravenwing Black Knights (80 Points) • 1x Ravenwing Huntmaster ◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Plasma talon • 2x Ravenwing Black Knight ◦ 2x Black Knight combat weapon ◦ 2x Bolt pistol ◦ 2x Plasma talon

Ravenwing Black Knights (80 Points) • 1x Ravenwing Huntmaster ◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Plasma talon • 2x Ravenwing Black Knight ◦ 2x Black Knight combat weapon ◦ 2x Bolt pistol ◦ 2x Plasma talon

Scout Squad (70 Points) • 1x Scout Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes chainsword ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Combat knife

Scout Squad (70 Points) • 1x Scout Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes chainsword ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Boltgun ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Combat knife ◦ 1x Missile launcher ◦ 1x Scout sniper rifle

Exported with App Version: v1.45.0 (1), Data Version: v720

Thoughts

Grizzled Company gets top billing right out the gate here, facing off against an elite Infantry Dark Angels list at the biggest event of the week. Grizzled can be built several different ways, but the thing that's going to unify most builds is the presence of at least one Rough Rider unit, because they become ultra strong missiles when you tack Fix Bayonets on them, dangerous into anything but perfect into elite Infantry without Invulnerable saves such as Victrix Guard. If you want, one squad can also theoretically be extra crunchy with Lord Solar, with the other as a cheap trade piece (though I imagine in practice he'll just lurk at the back with the Cadians ordering Russes in most games). You will also almost always see one or more squads of Bullgryn with an Abhuman Detail Commissar, because being able to get either extra OC or hit much more reliably on demand makes an already top-tier unit great. Kasrkin provide their usual highly effective support to that core, again rocking even harder than normal here, and you can fill out with tanks to taste from there (here, Vanquishers for big targets).

Across the table there are certainly some good targets for Grizzled, but some threats as well. On the one hand, Centurion Devastators sit next to Victrix Guard as being pretty much the perfect trade-up target for Rough Riders (and the Ravenwing Command Squad/Black Knight squad is somewhat juicy too). On the other, a full Hellblaster unit and the Lion are both extremely good counters - Hellblasters will scythe through a squad without breaking a sweat at range, while a Lion Heroic will lift a whole squad in melee. There's also a second big Fight First threat from the Judiciar/ICC squad, making it harder to avoid Heroic coverage. Finally, the Vanquishers also aren't fantastic here, they're short of any great targets, and will kind of have to satisfy themselves trying to pick off the odd Centurion.

I think on a raw damage race the Dark Angels probably win this, so it'll come down to whether the Guard can force an advantageous engagement on their terms. They do have a bit more leeway to use their faster threats, Bullgryn to pivot around, and Kasrkin in transports are great as ever, but I think I still end up favouring the Dark Angels, as having two squads of Scouts helps enough with setting the table to their advantage to mitigate that. The Guard were clearly eager to prove themselves, and managed to (just about) prove me wrong, taking a narrow victory in what must have been a pretty intense game - this is very much a matchup where one seriously wrong move is game over territory.

Result

Astra Militarum (Grizzled Company) Victory - 79 - 77

David Smith - Astra Militarum (Grizzled Company) - 1st Place

Bullgryn. Credit: Rockfish Bullgryn. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
63rd Drop Bears Veterans (1990 Points)

Astra Militarum Grizzled Company Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Cadian Command Squad (65 Points) • 1x Cadian Commander ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Plasma gun • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Master Vox • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Medi-pack • 1x Cadian Veteran Guardsman ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Plasma gun

Commissar (50 Points) • 1x Plasma pistol • 1x Power weapon • Enhancements: Abhuman Detail

Gaunt's Ghosts (100 Points) • 1x Ibram Gaunt ◦ 1x Bolt Pistol ◦ 1x Gaunt's chainsword • 1x Colm Corbec ◦ 1x Corbec's hot-shot lascarbine ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x Elim Rawne ◦ 1x Rawne's lascarbine ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x Hlaine Larkin ◦ 1x Larkin's long-las ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x 'Try Again' Bragg ◦ 1x Bragg's autocannon ◦ 1x Straight silver knife • 1x Oan Mkoll ◦ 1x Lascarbine ◦ 1x Mkoll's straight silver knife

Lord Solar Leontus (130 Points) • Warlord • 1x Conquest • 1x Konstantin's hooves • 1x Sol's Righteous Gaze

BATTLELINE

Cadian Shock Troops (65 Points) • 1x Shock Trooper Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Sergeant's autogun • 9x Shock Trooper ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 7x Lasgun ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chimera (85 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lasgun array

Chimera (85 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lasgun array

OTHER DATASHEETS

Attilan Rough Riders (120 Points) • 1x Rough Rider Sergeant ◦ 1x Hunting lance ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Steed's hooves • 9x Rough Rider ◦ 9x Hunting lance ◦ 9x Lasgun ◦ 9x Laspistol ◦ 9x Steed's hooves

Attilan Rough Riders (120 Points) • 1x Rough Rider Sergeant ◦ 1x Hunting lance ◦ 1x Lasgun ◦ 1x Laspistol ◦ 1x Steed's hooves • 9x Rough Rider ◦ 9x Hunting lance ◦ 9x Lasgun ◦ 9x Laspistol ◦ 9x Steed's hooves

Bullgryn Squad (200 Points) • 1x Bullgryn Bone 'ead ◦ 1x Brute Shield ◦ 1x Bullgryn maul ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 5x Bullgryn ◦ 5x Brute Shield ◦ 5x Bullgryn maul ◦ 5x Close combat weapon

Cadian Heavy Weapons Squad (65 Points) • 3x Heavy Weapon Team ◦ 3x Laspistol ◦ 3x Mortar ◦ 3x Weapons team close combat weapons

Kasrkin (110 Points) • 1x Kasrkin Sergeant ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 9x Kasrkin ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 1x Hot-shot marksman rifle ◦ 1x Melta Mine ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Kasrkin (110 Points) • 1x Kasrkin Sergeant ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 9x Kasrkin ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Hot-shot lasgun ◦ 1x Hot-shot laspistol ◦ 1x Hot-shot marksman rifle ◦ 1x Melta Mine ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 2x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Vox-caster

Leman Russ Vanquisher (145 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy flamer • 2x Heavy flamer • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Vanquisher battle cannon

Leman Russ Vanquisher (145 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Vanquisher battle cannon

Leman Russ Vanquisher (145 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy stubber • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 1x Lascannon • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Vanquisher battle cannon

Rogal Dorn Battle Tank (250 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Coaxial autocannon • 1x Heavy stubber • 2x Heavy stubber • 2x Multi-melta • 1x Oppressor cannon • 1x Pulveriser cannon

Exported with App Version: v1.45.0 (1), Data Version: v720

Archetype

Rough Rider Grizzled

Thoughts

It's off to the races for the Guard here, using Grizzled Company to add a potent counter to mid-weight targets to a fairly all-rounder list, with triple Vanquisher to handle extremely heavy stuff. Far from the only way you can go, but clearly a very effective one, congratulations to David for putting this straight on the map.

Raul Valencia - Dark Angels (Wrath of the Rock) - 2nd Place

Rainbow Warriors Inner Circle Companions by Craig "MasterSlowPoke" Sniffen

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Deathwing Knights? Bro they used to be Damage 3 and have a 6” deepstrike. And they costed LESS back then (1995 Points)

Space Marines Dark Angels Wrath of the Rock Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Azrael (125 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 (145 Points) • 1x Ravenwing Champion ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Master-crafted power weapon ◦ 1x Plasma talon ◦ Enhancements: 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

BATTLELINE

Intercessor Squad (80 Points) • 1x Intercessor Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes grenade launcher ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Bolt rifle ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Intercessor ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 4x Bolt rifle ◦ 4x Close combat weapon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Centurion Devastator Squad (175 Points) • 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant ◦ 1x Centurion fists ◦ 1x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 1x Twin lascannon • 2x Devastator Centurion ◦ 2x Centurion fists ◦ 2x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 2x Twin lascannon

Centurion Devastator Squad (175 Points) • 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant ◦ 1x Centurion fists ◦ 1x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 1x Twin lascannon • 2x Devastator Centurion ◦ 2x Centurion fists ◦ 2x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 2x Twin lascannon

Hellblaster Squad (220 Points) • 1x Hellblaster Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Plasma incinerator ◦ 1x Plasma pistol • 9x Hellblaster ◦ 9x Bolt pistol ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 9x Plasma incinerator

Incursor Squad (80 Points) • 1x Incursor Sergeant ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Occulus bolt carbine ◦ 1x Paired combat blades • 4x Incursor ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Haywire Mine ◦ 4x Occulus bolt carbine ◦ 4x Paired combat blades

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

Invader ATV (60 Points) • 1x Bolt pistol • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Multi-melta • 1x Twin bolt rifle

Ravenwing Black Knights (80 Points) • 1x Ravenwing Huntmaster ◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Plasma talon • 2x Ravenwing Black Knight ◦ 2x Black Knight combat weapon ◦ 2x Bolt pistol ◦ 2x Plasma talon

Ravenwing Black Knights (80 Points) • 1x Ravenwing Huntmaster ◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Plasma talon • 2x Ravenwing Black Knight ◦ 2x Black Knight combat weapon ◦ 2x Bolt pistol ◦ 2x Plasma talon

Scout Squad (70 Points) • 1x Scout Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes chainsword ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Combat knife

Scout Squad (70 Points) • 1x Scout Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes chainsword ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Boltgun ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Combat knife ◦ 1x Missile launcher ◦ 1x Scout sniper rifle

Exported with App Version: v1.45.0 (1), Data Version: v720

Archetype

Centurion Rock

Thoughts

No Deathwing Knights is definitely a statement, and it helps this build get a nice, broad mix of tools onto the table, making it very adaptable in the post-Dataslate rush, while still being able to go for the throat with power pieces when required. Dark Angels look very well set up to participate in the new metagame, well done to Raul for leading the charge.

Jensen Simmons - Death Guard (Champions of Contagion) - 3rd Place (4.5-0.5)

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Hammered (2000 Points)

Death Guard Champions of Contagion Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Biologus Putrifier (80 Points) • 1x Hyper blight grenades • 1x Injector pistol • 1x Plague knives • Enhancements: Final Ingredient

Lord of Contagion (120 Points) • Warlord • 1x Manreaper

Lord of Contagion (120 Points) • 1x Manreaper

Malignant Plaguecaster (60 Points) • 1x Bolt pistol • 1x Corrupted staff • 1x Plague Wind

Tallyman (50 Points) • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Plasma pistol

BATTLELINE

Plague Marines (190 Points) • 1x Plague Champion ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Power fist • 9x Plague Marine ◦ 1x Blight launcher ◦ 4x Heavy plague weapon ◦ 9x Plague knives ◦ 2x Plague spewer ◦ 2x Plasma gun

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chaos Rhino (85 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Combi-bolter • 1x Combi-bolter • 1x Havoc launcher

OTHER DATASHEETS

Chaos Land Raider (220 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Combi-bolter • 1x Havoc launcher • 2x Soulshatter lascannon • 1x Twin heavy bolter

Deathshroud Terminators (320 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 5x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 5x Manreaper ◦ 5x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (160 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 2x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (160 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 2x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (120 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (120 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

Poxwalkers (65 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (65 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (65 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.45.0 (1), Data Version: v720

Archetype

Champions of Contagion

Thoughts

In third place the Death Guard deploy a newly discounted Land Raider to soup up a Champions build. A fully operational Plague Marine doomstack is one of the best things you can drop out of these, as they're extremely capable of immediately lifting a high value unit in two phases, and protecting them within the Raider makes it much harder for foes to get a swing at them before they do their thing. With a lot of armies dealing the bulk of their damage up close (even Guard are packing more melee tools now), and fewer Fire Dragons to worry about, the Land Raider looks ready to have a moment, and this is a solid example of how to do it - add some inevitability and heft to an already solid collection of units. Well done Jensen.

Nick "Doots" Toomey - Chaos Space Marines (Unknown Detachment) - 4th Place (4.5-0.5)

Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
This Detachment Has A 37% Winrate

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + FACTION KEYWORD: Chaos - Chaos Space Marines + DETACHMENT: Fellhammer Siege‑host + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 2000pts + + WARLORD: Char1: Abaddon the Despoiler + ENHANCEMENT: Bastion Plate (on Char5: Chaos Lord in Terminator Armour) & Ironbound Enmity (on Char6: Lord Discordant on Helstalker) + NUMBER OF UNITS: 13 + SECONDARY: - Bring It Down: (2x2) - Assassination: 6 Characters +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

OTHER DATASHEETS

Char1: 1x Abaddon the Despoiler (270 pts) 1 with Drach'nyen, Talon of Horus • Warlord

Char2: 1x Cypher (90 pts) 1 with Cypher's bolt pistol, Cypher's plasma pistol

Char3: 2x Fabius Bile (100 pts) • 1x Fabius Bile 1 with Rod of Torment, The Chirurgeon, Xyclos needler • Fabius Bile • 1x Surgeon Acolyte 1 with Surgeon Acolyte's tools • Surgeon Acolyte

Char4: 1x Vashtorr the Arkifane (175 pts) 1 with Vashtorr's claw, Vashtorr's hammer

Char5: 1x Chaos Lord in Terminator Armour (95 pts) 1 with Combi-weapon, Chainfist Enhancement: Bastion Plate (+10 pts)

Char6: 1x Lord Discordant on Helstalker (175 pts) 1 with Bladed limbs, Bolt pistol, Impaler chainglaive, Baleflamer, Magma cutter Enhancement: Ironbound Enmity (+15 pts)

10x Cultist Mob (50 pts) • 1x Cultist Champion 1 with Brutal assault weapon, Autopistol • 9x Cultist 9 with Autopistol, Brutal assault weapon

10x Chaos Terminator Squad (360 pts) • 1x Terminator Champion 1 with Chainfist, Combi-weapon • Terminator Champion • 1x Chainfist and combi-weapon 1 with Chainfist, Combi-weapon • Chaos Terminator • 2x Heavy weapon 2 with Power fist, Reaper autocannon • Chaos Terminator • 2x Paired accursed weapons 2 with Paired accursed weapons • Chaos Terminator • 4x Power fist and combi-weapon 4 with Combi-weapon, Power fist • Chaos Terminator

10x Chosen (250 pts) • 1x Chosen Champion 1 with Plasma pistol, Power fist, Boltgun • Chaos icon, Chosen Champion • 9x Chosen 2 with Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Boltgun • Chosen 4 with Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Combi-weapon • Chosen 2 with Paired accursed weapons, Plasma pistol • Chosen 1 with Boltgun, Plasma pistol, Power fist • Chosen

5x Chosen (125 pts) • 1x Chosen Champion 1 with Plasma pistol, Power fist, Boltgun • Chaos icon, Chosen Champion • 4x Chosen 1 with Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Boltgun • Chosen 2 with Accursed weapon, Bolt pistol, Combi-weapon • Chosen 1 with Paired accursed weapons, Plasma pistol • Chosen

10x Traitor Guardsmen Squad (70 pts) • 1x Traitor Sergeant 1 with Power weapon, Corrupted pistol • 9x Guardsman 6 with Close combat weapon, Lasgun 1 with Close combat weapon, Cultist grenade launcher 1 with Close combat weapon, Meltagun 1 with Close combat weapon, Plasma gun

3x Chaos Bikers (70 pts) • 1x Biker Champion 1 with Close combat weapon, Combi-bolter, Power fist • Chaos icon • 2x Biker 2 with Close combat weapon, Combi-bolter, Plasma gun, Astartes chainsword

1x Forgefiend (170 pts) 1 with 2x Ectoplasma cannon, Armoured limbs, Ectoplasma cannon

Archetype

Sandpaper Hellhammer

Thoughts

Somehow he's done it again - for the second week running Nick stunts on everyone else by getting into the column with one of the game's very worst detachments. Once again, this uses the fact that it's moderately OK at sucking up ranged punishment to draw foes in close, at which point a mixture of counter-charge damage and Stratagems will sandpaper them to death, hopefully. It even gets an extra enhancement because it went down net 5pts in the Dataslate, and had 10pts floating, isn't that neat? Anyway - this would almost certainly be more powerful with an identical roster of Datasheets in at least three of the other CSM Detachments, but I respect the flex of taking it to a top four like this, well done Nick.

The Best of the Rest

There was 12 more player on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Adam Haecker - Drukhari (Kabalite Cartel): Drukhari goodstuff skewed slightly towards the shooty with double Ravager, and packing extra Incubi for the Cartel fun.
  • 6th - David Hall - World Eaters (Goretrack Onslaught): Lots of Foregefiends and Helbrutes plus one Rhino full of Berzerkers to do all the tricks.
  • 7th - Bob Fischbeck - Orks (Bully Boyz): Speedy/Hordey Bully Boyz, using a big Warbiker unit and a medium Squighog one alongside a full Beast Snagga Boyx brick and the Supa Grotz.
  • 8th - Thomas Greer - Astra Militarum (Grizzled Company): A more tank-heavy version of Grizzled using an Aquilian Eye Dorn Commander, while still slotting in one full squad each of Bullgryn and Rough Riders.
  • 9th - Grant Nichols - Chaos Daemons (Plague Legion): Morale menaces with a shooty Knight Tyrant behind them. Plague Legion stocks seem to be up quite a bit this week, presumably due to the loss of the Endless Gift no longer being such a big downside compared to Incursion!
  • 10th - Jared Gomez - Deathwatch (Black Spear Task Force): Double Indomitor Deathwatch with a big melee Veteran squad and some Inceptors on top.
  • 11th - Eric Tadt - Genestealer Cult (Final Day): Pressure-focused Final Day with Metamorphs and Hyperadapted Raveners.
  • 12th - Noah Lockard - Dark Angels (Gladius Task Force): Deathwing/Lion Gladius.
  • 13th - Mark Drobena - Emperor's Children (Court of the Phoenician): Fulgrim and friends, the friends here being lots of Exultant/Infractor units, Noise Marines, and a foot Daemon Prince with Spiritsilver.
  • 14th - David Villareal - Adeptus Mechanicus (Haloscreed Battle Clade): Heavy-hitting Haloscreed with a Kataphron Breacher unit and a full Sydonian Dragoon squad.
  • 15th - Jason "Buck" Shelton - Genestealer Cult (Biosanctic Broodsurge): Lots of Aberrant and Purestrain MSUs plus a larger Metamorph squad.
  • 16th - Oscar Ruiz - Drukhari (Spectacle of Spite): Scourgeless Spectacle with lots fo Wyches, Hellions and Reavers.

Jingle Bombz 5

48-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Coeur d'Alene, ID, US on December 13 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Keaton Marschman - Orks (War Horde) - 1st Place

Ghazghkull Thraka. Credit: Corrode

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
You think im loosing? No bitch we loosing This how we gunna do this Roses are red Weapons against me wont prosper With this sacred treasure I summon Big Thrakka Da Opp Stompa

Orks Strike Force (2000 points) Warhorde

Beastboss (80 Points) Ghazghkull Thraka (235 Points) • Warlord Big Mek (99 Points) • Kustom Mega Blasta, Drilla • Enhancement: Follow Me Lads Warboss (75 Points) • 1x Attack squig Boss Snikrot (75 Points)

BATTLELINE 20x Choppa Boyz (170 Points) • 1x Power Klaw 10x Boyz (85 Points) • 1x Power Klaw 10x Beast Snagga Boyz (95 Points)

OTHER DATASHEETS Battlewagon (160 Points) • Grabba Klaw, Deffrolla, 3x Big Shootas, Kannon, Ard Case Battlewagon (160 Points) • Grabba Klaw, Deffrolla, 4x Big Shootas, Zapp Gun, Ard Case 6x Breaka Boyz (140 Points) ◦ 1x Tankhammer 11x Gretchin (40 Points) 11x Gretchin (40 Points) 10x Flash Gitz (160 Points) • 1x Ammo Runt 10x Kommandos (120 Points) ◦ Power klaw, Breach Ram, Rokkit, Burna, 2x Kustom Shootas, Distraction Grot, Bombsquig 10x Nobz (210 Points) ◦ Power klaws x10 5x Stormboyz (65 Points) ◦ Power klaw

Archetype

Heavy Mechanised Warhorde

Thoughts

Big transports flourish here as well, ferrying lots of Nobz, Gitz and Breakas into battle alongside Ghaz's footslogging speedy horde, allowing a bow wave of Ork brutality to arrive amongt the enemy's lines in good health, thenget to punching. Effective pre-Dataslate as seen here, should be very solid post-Dataslate as well, though Rage-Cursed is probably better at fighting it than most Marines, and this variant felt especially well-tuned for Aeldari (beating Warhost with a 100VP triumph in the finals), who aren't as much of a consideration now. Still, that's next week's problem, congratulations Keaton.

Jay Lowe - Black Templars (Stormlance Task Force) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Black Templars Castellan. Credit: SRM

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Capital Storm! (2000 Points)

Space Marines Black Templars Stormlance Task Force Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Captain with Jump Pack (75 Points) • 1x Plasma pistol • 1x Relic weapon

Castellan (60 Points) • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Master-crafted power weapon

Castellan (60 Points) • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Master-crafted power weapon

Chaplain Grimaldus (110 Points) • 1x Chaplain Grimaldus ◦ 1x Artificer crozius ◦ 1x Plasma pistol • 3x Cenobyte Servitor ◦ 3x Close combat weapon

Emperor's Champion (90 Points) • 1x Black Sword • 1x Bolt Pistol

High Marshal Helbrecht (120 Points) • Warlord • 1x Ferocity • 1x Sword of the High Marshals

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

Marshal (80 Points) • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Master-crafted power weapon

BATTLELINE

Assault Intercessor Squad (75 Points) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Assault Intercessor ◦ 4x Astartes chainsword ◦ 4x Heavy bolt pistol

Crusader Squad (310 Points) • 1x Sword Brother ◦ 1x Heavy bolt pistol ◦ 1x Master-crafted power weapon • 11x Initiate ◦ 7x Astartes chainsword ◦ 11x Bolt pistol ◦ 11x Close combat weapon ◦ 11x Heavy bolt pistol ◦ 4x Power fist • 8x Neophyte ◦ 8x Astartes chainsword ◦ 8x Bolt pistol

Intercessor Squad (80 Points) • 1x Intercessor Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes grenade launcher ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Bolt rifle ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Intercessor ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 4x Bolt rifle ◦ 4x Close combat weapon

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Impulsor (85 Points) • 1x Armoured hull • 2x Fragstorm grenade launcher • 1x Multi-melta • 1x Orbital Comms Array (Aura)

Impulsor (85 Points) • 1x Armoured hull • 2x Fragstorm grenade launcher • 1x Multi-melta • 1x Shield Dome

OTHER DATASHEETS

Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs (170 Points) • 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 9x Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs ◦ 9x Astartes chainsword ◦ 9x Heavy bolt pistol

Outrider Squad (160 Points) • 1x Outrider Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes chainsword ◦ 1x Heavy bolt pistol ◦ 1x Twin bolt rifle • 5x Outrider ◦ 5x Astartes chainsword ◦ 5x Heavy bolt pistol ◦ 5x Twin bolt rifle

Scout Squad (70 Points) • 1x Scout Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes chainsword ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Combat knife

Scout Squad (70 Points) • 1x Scout Sergeant ◦ 1x Astartes chainsword ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Combat knife

Sword Brethren Squad (130 Points) • 5x Sword Brother ◦ 5x Heavy bolt pistol ◦ 5x Master-crafted power weapon

ALLIED UNITS

Callidus Assassin (100 Points) • 1x Neural shredder • 1x Phase sword and poison blades

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (2), Data Version: v715

Archetype

YOLO Templars

Thoughts

An unusual Templars list takes undefeated Second here, and by dint of being unusual it absorbs the point increases a little better than the norm. No messing around with diving in and out of Repulsor Executioners - just hurling some big bricks forward at top speed to pin down the foe, then using smaller explosive damage units out of the Impulsors to pick off key threats, including (I think) an unattached Helbrecht as a pure missile. Obviously still needs to make some adjustments post-Dataslate, but I can definitely see big Crusader units getting more play, just on the basis of having the volume of bodies to shrug off some of the popular melee/anti-melee tools, and being good against multi-phase armies like Grizzled due to the surge move. Kind of a shame you can't double attach a Crusade Ancient with Grimaldus, because it feels like you legtimately might want to here. Perfect Templar vibes on this plan despite the lack of a fancy flag, well done to Jay.

The Best of the Rest

There were 6 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 3rd - Kirk Powell - Tyranids (Crusher Stampede): Just lots of mid-weight monsters. Don't know what to tell you. Presumably very excited for the Dataslate since it's already packing a Screamer Killer and could easily work in some Carnifexes to go with OOE.
  • 4th - Wyatt Hammond - Chaos Space Marines (Renegade Raiders): Daemon Engine Raiders with Vashtorr, Venomcrawlers and double Disco.
  • 5th - Josh Long - Ultramarines (Blade of Ultramar): Victrix and Vindicators.
  • 6th - Damon Jenkins - Aeldari (Warhost): Four Phoenix Warhost with Maugan and Fuegan as evasive pieces. Pour one out.
  • 7th - Austin Cary - Grey Knights (Brotherhood Strike): Two Dreadknights, the big Purifier unit, and a full Paladin stack.
  • 8th - Kane Anderson - Leagues of Votann (Needgaârd Oathband): Double Fort goodstuff with a big Thunderkyn squad and a couple of Arkanysts.

Fight Before Christmas 2025 - 40K Grand Tournament

42-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Dickson City, Pennsylvania, US on December 13 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Derek Apsche - T'au Empire (Kroot Hunting Pack) - 1st Place

Kroot Lone-spear. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
1 kroot 2 riptides (1990 points)

T'au Empire Strike Force (2000 points) Kroot Hunting Pack

CHARACTERS

Kroot Flesh Shaper (45 points) • 1x Kroot scattergun 1x Twin ritualistic blades

Kroot Lone-spear (80 points) • 1x Blast javelin 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hunting javelin 1x Kalamandra's bite

Kroot Lone-spear (90 points) • Warlord • 1x Blast javelin 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hunting javelin 1x Kalamandra's bite • Enhancement: Kroothawk Flock

Kroot War Shaper (60 points) • 1x Dart-bow and tri-blade 1x Kroot pistol 1x Shaper's blade • Enhancement: Root-carved Weapons

BATTLELINE

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

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

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

Kroot Carnivores (140 points) • 1x Long-quill • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Kroot pistol 1x Kroot rifle • 19x Kroot Carnivore • 19x Close combat weapon 17x Kroot rifle 2x Tanglebomb launcher

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

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

Kroot Hounds (40 points) • 5x Kroot Hound • 5x Ripping fangs

Kroot Hounds (40 points) • 5x Kroot Hound • 5x Ripping fangs

Krootox Rampagers (85 points) • 3x Krootox Rampagers • 3x Hunting blades 3x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins 3x Rampager fists

Krootox Rampagers (85 points) • 3x Krootox Rampagers • 3x Hunting blades 3x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins 3x Rampager fists

Krootox Rampagers (85 points) • 3x Krootox Rampagers • 3x Hunting blades 3x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins 3x Rampager fists

Krootox Riders (60 points) • 2x Krootox Rider • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Krootox fists 2x Repeater cannon

Krootox Riders (60 points) • 2x Krootox Rider • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Krootox fists 2x Repeater cannon

Krootox Riders (60 points) • 2x Krootox Rider • 2x Close combat weapon 2x Krootox fists 2x Repeater cannon

Pathfinder Team (90 points) • 1x Pathfinder Shas'ui • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Pulse carbine 1x Pulse pistol 1x Recon Drone 1x Semi-automatic grenade launcher 2x Shield Drone • 9x Pathfinder • 9x Close combat weapon 3x Ion rifle 6x Pulse carbine 9x Pulse pistol

Pathfinder Team (90 points) • 1x Pathfinder Shas'ui • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Pulse carbine 1x Pulse pistol 1x Recon Drone 1x Semi-automatic grenade launcher 2x Shield Drone • 9x Pathfinder • 9x Close combat weapon 3x Ion rifle 6x Pulse carbine 9x Pulse pistol

Riptide Battlesuit (190 points) • 1x Ion accelerator 2x Missile Drone 1x Riptide fists 1x Twin fusion blaster

Riptide Battlesuit (190 points) • 1x Ion accelerator 2x Missile Drone 1x Riptide fists 1x Twin fusion blaster

Stealth Battlesuits (110 points) • 1x Stealth Shas'vre • 1x Battlesuit fists 1x Fusion blaster 1x Gun Drone 1x Marker Drone 1x Pulse pistol • 4x Stealth Shas'ui • 4x Battlesuit fists 3x Burst cannon 1x Fusion blaster 1x Homing Beacon

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: v1.44.0 (104), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Board Flood Hunting Pack and Riptides

Thoughts

Surprising to see Derek not packing a Chaos army, but perhaps unsurprising given previous escapades with Chaos Cult that he's taken down an event here with a very go-wide, board control spin on Hunting Pack. Endless numbers of units to occupy the whole table and flip objectives, leveraging lots of Infiltrate/Scout units to do so from the word go, and a couple of Riptides to discourage Victrix guard from standing too flagrantly in the middle of the board. Doesn't do much damage outside the Riptides, but doesn't super need to - pushing this off the table needs quite a specific set of tool that not all armies can muster, and Derek was able to keep all his opponents in check to win the trophy here.

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Chris Martens - Aeldari (Aspect Host): Five Phoenix, double Falcon Aspect Host. We may never see its like again.
  • 3rd - Jake Dennie - Necrons (Obeisance Phalanx): Hull-heavy Obeisance Phalanx with Doomsdays, Triarch Stalkers and Doom Scythes to blast the foe.
  • 4th - Dan Meloro - Thousand Sons (Rubricae Phalanx): 30 Scarabs and some Robots.
  • 5th - Zach Hilts - Blood Angels (Angelic Inheritors): Sanguinary Guard-heavy Inheritors with Inceptors and Devastators for fire support.
  • 6th - Karl Vela - Chaos Space Marines (Pactbound Zealots): Shooty-skewed Pactbound with Vindicators and Forgefiends.

13 & 14 December 2025 - OWN's Breaking Point GT at Game HQ

32-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Oklahoma City, OK, United States on December 13 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

This event had Grizzled Company (at least) live, but not the full Dataslate.

Colin Kay - Ultramarines (Blade of Ultramar) - 1st Place

Ultramarines Eradicators. Credit: SRM

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
DEVASTATORS (1990 Points)

Space Marines Ultramarines Blade of Ultramar Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Apothecary Biologis (95 Points) • 1x Absolvor bolt pistol • 1x Close combat weapon • Enhancements: Veteran of Behemoth

Captain in Gravis Armour (90 Points) • 1x Boltstorm gauntlet • 1x Power fist • 1x Relic fist • Enhancements: Armour of Antoninus

Chief Librarian Tigurius (75 Points) • 1x Bolt Pistol • 1x Rod of Tigurius • 1x Storm of the Emperor's Wrath

Lieutenant in Phobos Armour (55 Points) • 1x Bolt Pistol • 1x Master-crafted bolt carbine • 1x Paired combat blades

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

Marneus Calgar (200 Points) • 1x Marneus Calgar • Warlord ◦ 1x Gauntlets of Ultramar • 2x Victrix Honour Guard ◦ 2x Victrix power sword

Uriel Ventris (95 Points) • 1x Bolt Pistol • 1x Invictus • 1x Sword of Idaeus

OTHER DATASHEETS

Ballistus Dreadnought (150 Points) • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Ballistus lascannon • 1x Ballistus missile launcher • 1x Twin storm bolter

Centurion Devastator Squad (330 Points) • 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant ◦ 1x Centurion fists ◦ 1x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 1x Twin heavy bolter • 5x Devastator Centurion ◦ 5x Centurion fists ◦ 5x Centurion missile launcher ◦ 5x Twin heavy bolter

Devastator Squad (120 Points) • 1x Devastator Sergeant ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power fist • 4x Devastator ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 4x Close combat weapon ◦ 4x Grav-cannon

Eradicator Squad (200 Points) • 1x Eradicator Sergeant ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Melta rifle • 5x Eradicator ◦ 5x Bolt pistol ◦ 5x Close combat weapon ◦ 3x Melta rifle ◦ 2x Multi-melta

Incursor Squad (80 Points) • 1x Incursor Sergeant ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Occulus bolt carbine ◦ 1x Paired combat blades • 4x Incursor ◦ 4x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Haywire Mine ◦ 4x Occulus bolt carbine ◦ 4x Paired combat blades

Repulsor Executioner (220 Points) • 1x Armoured hull • 1x Heavy laser destroyer • 1x Heavy onslaught gatling cannon • 1x Icarus rocket pod • 1x Ironhail heavy stubber • 1x Repulsor Executioner defensive array • 1x Twin Icarus ironhail heavy stubber • 1x Twin heavy bolter

Victrix Honour Guard (210 Points) • 1x Chapter Ancient ◦ 1x Banner of Macragge ◦ 1x Master-crafted power weapon • 1x Chapter Champion ◦ 1x Blades of honour • 4x Victrix Honour Guard ◦ 4x Master-crafted bolt carbine ◦ 4x Master-crafted power weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (2), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Shooty Blade

Thoughts

Our one winning Victrix list of the day is, admittedly, fairly modest in how it uses them; a mere single unit to act as a bruising troubleshooter for an otherwise shooting-focused Ultramarines list. Being able to dip into multiple turns of Devastator Doctrine allows this build to stay mobile while blasting enemies into dust, particularly enemy hulls. You've got plenty of the normal Marine shooting toys like Centurions on show, but being able to reliably switch on both halves of Exemplary Vigilance while on the move also makes grav Devastators quite spicy - AP-2 ignore cover grav is obviously vastly superior to what you normally get out of it. Obviously there are some points increases this will need to pay for post-Dataslate, but I think there's a decent chance people are going to be a little less prepared for all-in shooting strategies in the new metagame, so there could definitely be a space for this kind of Ultramarine build to prosper. Well done Colin.

The Best of the Rest

There were 4 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Cody Middleton - Chaos Daemons (Daemonic Incursion): Khorne/Nurgle Monster mash.
  • 3rd - Brian Moody - Astra Militarum (Grizzled Company): Cavalry-spam Company with loads of Rough Riders and Death Riders alongside many Catachans to control the table.
  • 4th - Caleb Faver - Tyranids (Subterranean Assault): All-rounder Assault.
  • 5th - Brent Simon - Necrons (Starshatter Arsenal): Tarpit Starshatter using the Silent King, Doomsdays, and a unit each of Wraiths and Warriors to block.

Rogue City Rumble GT

28-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Medford, OR, United States on December 13 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Jofonz Bow - Dark Angels (Company of Hunters) - 1st Place

On nuclear-powered motorbikes, the enemies of Unst will burn Ravenwing Outriders. Credit: Kevin Stillman

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
We are the Wraiths of the Emperor, born of night, We ride in silence, wielding His might. Not for glory, nor for fame, In shadows deep, we etch His name.

Our path is hidden, our strike is clean, Ghosts in the dark, silent, unseen. No trace we leave, no sign remains, Only echoes, where darkness reigns.

The road is long, the battle rough, But with my brothers, we are enough. Through shadow alone, our spirits soar, Together we ride, our engines roar. (2000 points)

Space Marines Dark Angels Strike Force (2000 points) Company of Hunters

CHARACTERS

Ravenwing Command Squad (120 points) • 1x Ravenwing Champion • Warlord • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Master-crafted power weapon 1x Plasma talon • 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 (120 points) • 1x Ravenwing Champion • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Master-crafted power weapon 1x Plasma talon • 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 (120 points) • 1x Ravenwing Champion • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Master-crafted power weapon 1x Plasma talon • 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

BATTLELINE

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

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

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

Gladiator Lancer (160 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Icarus rocket pod 1x Ironhail heavy stubber 1x Lancer laser destroyer 2x Storm bolter

Gladiator Lancer (160 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Icarus rocket pod 1x Ironhail heavy stubber 1x Lancer laser destroyer 2x Storm bolter

Gladiator Lancer (160 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Icarus rocket pod 1x Ironhail heavy stubber 1x Lancer laser destroyer 2x Storm bolter

Infiltrator Squad (100 points) • 1x Infiltrator Sergeant • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Marksman bolt carbine • 4x Infiltrator • 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 1x Helix Gauntlet 1x Infiltrator Comms Array 4x Marksman bolt carbine

Invader ATV (60 points) • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Multi-melta 1x 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

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

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 shotgun 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon • 4x Scout • 2x Astartes shotgun 4x Bolt pistol 4x Close combat weapon 1x Missile launcher 1x Scout sniper rifle

Storm Speeder Thunderstrike (150 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Stormfury missiles 1x Thunderstrike las-talon 1x Twin Icarus rocket pod

Exported with App Version: v1.44.0 (104), Data Version: v715

Archetype

Black Knight Spam

Thoughts

We finish with a Marine build that's very excited for the Dataslate. As seen here, it could already unleash a blisteringly fast assault on foes pre-Dataslate, and it picks up enough extra points for literally a whole extra unit of Scouts, which is wild. I like the Lancers as support here too, they're very well tuned to what the Ravenwing toys need help with, and can line up shots easily with Advance/Shoot. I was a little surprised to see a big drop for Black Knights in the slate, because they were already doing pretty well out there as this shows, but I guess Ravenwing managing to stay under the radar is on brand. Congratulations on the win Jofonz, and I hope you're hyped for the metagame to come.

The Best of the Rest

There were 4 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Alex Schoenhard - Tyranids (Subterranean Assault): All-rounder Assault with a Norn Assimilator.
  • 3rd - Alex Najdek - Necrons (Starshatter Arsenal): Skorpekh/Lord MSUs, Doomsdays and the Silent King.
  • 4th - Austin Flasch - Death Guard (Tallyband Summoners): Deathshrouds, Drones, Nurglings, Plaguebearers, and Rotigus.
  • 5th - AJ Edman - Leagues of Votann (Hearthband): Double Fort Hearthband Goodstuff.

Wrap Up

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Tags: Space Marines | chaos space marines | Death Guard | Dark Angels | Black Templars | Orks | Astra Militarum | tau | ultramarnes

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