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

Competitive Innovations in 10th: Scaling Vectors pt.2

by Lowest of Men | Aug 15 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.

Look, it's still Death Guard and Knights, but there are some Genestealers too this time. That's something.

Part 2 today will cover:
  • WTC Warmaster GT 2025
  • Krootcon 2025 - NSWTC
  • Iowaaagh! Moose-tacular 2025
  • SUMMER SHOWDOWN 40K
  • The Great Game - Gongaii GT Summer 2025
Part 1 on Wednesday:
  • Lone Star Open 2025 - 40k Champs
  • KREFELD MAJOR 2025 40K
  • Arch City GT4
  • Your Hobby Place Road to NOVA 40K Event Hosted by Away Games
  • EagleHammer

WTC Warmaster GT 2025

250-player, 8-round Supermajor in Proleb, Steiermark, Austria on August 05 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Alban de Polignac - Death Guard (Virulent Vectorium) - 1st Place

Plague Marines. Credit: Rockfish Plague Marines. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + PLAYER NAME: Alban "LBS" de Polignac + TEAM NAME: FRANCE + FACTION KEYWORD: Chaos - Death Guard + DETACHMENT: Virulent Vectorium + DETACHEMENT RULE: WolrdBlight + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 2000pts + WARLORD: Char6: Tallyman + ENHANCEMENT: Char2: Daemon Prince - Revoluting Regeneration, Char3: Lord of Contqgion - Furnace of Plagues + NUMBER OF UNITS: 20 + SECONDARY: - Bring It Down: (8x2) - Assassination: 7 Characters +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

CHARACTERS

Char1: Biologus Putrifier (45 points) • 1x Hyper blight grenades 1x Injector pistol 1x Plague knives

Char2:Daemon Prince of Nurgle (215 points) • 1x Hellforged weapons 1x Infernal cannon • Enhancement: Revolting Regeneration

Char3:Lord of Contagion (135 points) • 1x Manreaper • Enhancement: Furnace of Plagues

Char4:Lord of Contagion (110 points) • 1x Manreaper

Char5:Lord of Virulence (90 points) • 1x Power fist 1x Twin plague spewer

Char6:Malignant Plaguecaster (60 points) • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Corrupted staff 1x Plague Wind

Char7:Tallyman (40 points) • Warlord • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Plasma pistol

BATTLELINE

Plague Marines (190 points) • 1x Plague Champion • 1x Plasma gun 1x Power fist • 9x Plague Marine • 2x Blight launcher 3x Heavy plague weapon 9x Plague knives 2x Plague spewer 2x Plasma gun

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Chaos Rhino (85 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 2x Combi-bolter 1x Havoc launcher

OTHER DATASHEETS

Deathshroud Terminators (140 points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion • 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) 1x Manreaper 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator • 2x Manreaper 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (140 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 (90 points) • 1x Fleshmower 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Myphitic Blight-Haulers (90 points) • 1x Bile spurt 1x Gnashing maw 1x Missile launcher 1x Multi-melta

Myphitic Blight-Haulers (90 points) • 1x Bile spurt 1x Gnashing maw 1x Missile launcher 1x Multi-melta

Poxwalkers (60 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

Archetype

Virulent Counter-Pressure

Thoughts

Alban taps into the wider global shift towards non-Hammer Death Guard we have seen in recent months. Virulent packs great anti-pressure and anti-combat tools, ruining 2 damage armies with the -1 damage stratagem (available on tap thanks to the Nurgle Daemon Prince), and still packs adequate shooting to cause heavy damage to anything attempting to push into it. Double Lord of Contagion Deathshroud give you your push / counter push damage, and once this army is jammed into mid-board it can be very difficult to engage. Extremely well done on the Warmasters triumph!

Innes Wilson - Genestealer Cult (Host of Ascension) - 2nd Place

Neophytes. Credit: Rockfish Neophytes. Credit: Rockfish

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Player Name: Innes “Damascus” Wilson Team Name: Scotland Factions Used: Genestealer Cult Army Points: 2000 Army Enhancements (list on which model): Benefictus - Assassination Edict, Primus - A Chink in their Armour Detachment Rule: A Perfect Ambush ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

I changed one thing from my WTC list (2000 points)

Genestealer Cults Strike Force (2000 points) Host of Ascension

CHARACTERS

Benefictus (70 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Psionic Cascade

Benefictus (85 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Psionic Cascade • Enhancement: Assassination Edict

Benefictus (70 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Psionic Cascade

Nexos (60 points) • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon

Primus (100 points) • 1x Cult bonesword 1x Scoped needle pistol 1x Toxin injector claw • Enhancement: A Chink In Their Armour

Reductus Saboteur (65 points) • Warlord • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Demolition charges 1x Remote explosives

BATTLELINE

Acolyte Hybrids with Autopistols (65 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 1x Cult Icon 1x Cult claws and knife 3x Heavy mining tool

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 1x Cult Icon 4x Cult claws and knife 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 1x Cult Icon 4x Cult claws and knife 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 1x Cult Icon 4x Cult claws and knife 3x Hand flamer

Neophyte Hybrids (145 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 19x Neophyte Hybrid • 19x Autopistol 19x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 2x Grenade launcher 11x Hybrid firearm 2x Mining laser 2x Seismic cannon 2x Webber

Neophyte Hybrids (145 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 19x Neophyte Hybrid • 19x Autopistol 19x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 2x Grenade launcher 11x Hybrid firearm 2x Mining laser 2x Seismic cannon 2x Webber

Neophyte Hybrids (145 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 19x Neophyte Hybrid • 19x Autopistol 19x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 2x Grenade launcher 11x Hybrid firearm 2x Mining laser 2x Seismic cannon 2x Webber

Neophyte Hybrids (145 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 19x Neophyte Hybrid • 19x Autopistol 19x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 2x Grenade launcher 11x Hybrid firearm 2x Mining laser 2x Seismic cannon 2x Webber

Neophyte Hybrids (65 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid • 9x Autopistol 9x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 1x Flamer 5x Hybrid firearm 1x Mining laser 1x Seismic cannon 1x Webber

OTHER DATASHEETS

Achilles Ridgerunners (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Heavy mortar 1x Spotter 1x Twin heavy stubber

Achilles Ridgerunners (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Heavy mortar 1x Survey Augur 1x Twin heavy stubber

Achilles Ridgerunners (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Heavy mortar 1x Survey Augur 1x Twin heavy stubber

Atalan Jackals (75 points) • 4x Atalan Jackal • 2x Atalan power weapon 3x Atalan small arms 2x Close combat weapon 1x Grenade launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad • 1x Atalan small arms 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mining laser

Atalan Jackals (75 points) • 4x Atalan Jackal • 2x Atalan power weapon 3x Atalan small arms 2x Close combat weapon 1x Grenade launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad • 1x Atalan small arms 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mining laser

Atalan Jackals (75 points) • 4x Atalan Jackal • 2x Atalan power weapon 3x Atalan small arms 2x Close combat weapon 1x Grenade launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad • 1x Atalan small arms 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mining laser

Purestrain Genestealers (75 points) • 5x Purestrain Genestealer • 5x Cult claws and talons

Purestrain Genestealers (75 points) • 5x Purestrain Genestealer • 5x Cult claws and talons

Exported with App Version: v1.36.1 (87), Data Version: v640

Archetype

Host of Ascension Horde

Thoughts

GSC mastermind Innes rolls out the Host of Ascension carpet to roll through to a podium. Host is very flexible, able to out position and body Knights lists, prey on many of the Knight hunting flavours (especially Elves), and leverage reserves damage to victory into marine lists with the carpet of MSU units out in front to buy time and space. One of the standout lists going into WTC, Innes demonstrated exactly why with a storming Warmasters run, incredible work.

Luis Stiemerling - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance) - 3rd Place

Loyalist Knight Atrapos Loyalist Knight Atrapos. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + FACTION KEYWORD: Imperium - Imperial Knights + DETACHMENT: Noble Lance + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 1995pts + WARLORD: Char1: Canis Rex + ENHANCEMENT: - + NUMBER OF UNITS: 8 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Push Push Push

Songs for Knight Turn:

Songs for Opponent Turn:

Char1: 1x Canis Rex (380 pts): Warlord • 1x Canis Rex: Chainbreaker las-impulsor, Chainbreaker multi-laser, Freedom's Hand • 1x Sir Hekhtur: Close combat weapon, Hekhtur's pistol Char2: 1x Cerastus Knight Atrapos (365 pts): Atrapos lascutter, Graviton singularity cannon Char3: 1x Cerastus Knight Atrapos (365 pts): Atrapos lascutter, Graviton singularity cannon Char4: 1x Cerastus Knight Atrapos (365 pts): Atrapos lascutter, Graviton singularity cannon

1x Armiger Helverin (130 pts): 2x Armiger autocannon, Armoured feet, Questoris heavy stubber 1x Armiger Helverin (130 pts): 2x Armiger autocannon, Armoured feet, Questoris heavy stubber 1x Armiger Helverin (130 pts): 2x Armiger autocannon, Armoured feet, Questoris heavy stubber 1x Armiger Helverin (130 pts): 2x Armiger autocannon, Armoured feet, Questoris heavy stubber

Archetype

IK Goodstuff

Thoughts

The textbook triple Atropos IK list storms to a top placing here. Simply insufferable on many boards, where Towering allows it to start picking holes in the defensive lines almost immediately, it has great profiles for Knight mirrors too. Every unit matters so you have to position faultlessly to get the most from it, but applied correctly IK are simply one of the strongest stat checks in the game right now, with huge runaway potential. Well done on the event placing.

Oliver Weiss - Space Wolves (Gladius Task Force) - 4th Place

Credit: Keewa

The List

Army List - Click to Expand


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Player Name: Olivier "Père Kstor" WEISS Team Name: FRANCE Factions Used: Space Marines / Space Wolves Army Points: 2000 Army Enhancements : Detachment Rule: Combat Doctrines (Gladius Task Force) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

CHARACTERS

Char 1 : Arjac Rockfist (95 Points) • 1x Foehammer

Char 2 : Iron Priest (60 Points) • 1x Helfrost pistol • 1x Tempest hammer and servo-arm

Char 3 : Iron Priest (60 Points) • 1x Helfrost pistol • 1x Tempest hammer and servo-arm

Char 4 : Iron Priest (60 Points) • Warlord • 1x Helfrost pistol • 1x Tempest hammer and servo-arm

Char 5 : Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (70 Points) • 1x Combi-weapon • 1x Paired combat blades

Char 6 : Logan Grimnar (110 Points) • 1x Axe Morkai • 1x Storm bolter • 1x Tyrnak and Fenrir

Char 7 : Ragnar Blackmane (90 Points) • 1x Bolt Pistol • 1x Frostfang

BATTLELINE

Blood Claws (270 Points) • 1x Blood Claw Pack Leader ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 19x Blood Claw ◦ 19x Astartes chainsword ◦ 19x 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

OTHER DATASHEETS

Ballistus Dreadnought (140 Points) • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Ballistus lascannon • 1x Ballistus missile launcher • 1x Twin storm bolter

Ballistus Dreadnought (140 Points) • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Ballistus lascannon • 1x Ballistus missile launcher • 1x Twin storm bolter

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

Predator Annihilator (135 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 2x Lascannon • 1x Predator twin lascannon • 1x Storm bolter

Predator Annihilator (135 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 2x Lascannon • 1x Predator twin lascannon • 1x Storm bolter

Predator Annihilator (135 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Hunter-killer missile • 2x Lascannon • 1x Predator twin lascannon • 1x Storm bolter

Wolf Guard Terminators (340 Points) • 1x Wolf Guard Terminator Pack Leader ◦ 1x Relic greataxe • 9x Wolf Guard Terminator ◦ 2x Assault cannon ◦ 7x Master-crafted power weapon ◦ 2x Power fist ◦ 7x Storm Shield

Archetype

Gladius Wolves

Thoughts

French Capitan Olivier only sat out the last rounds of Warmasters in order to attend the requisite captain meeting on the Thursday morning, but took many heads on his way through the event before retiring. His list takes advantage of an early drop-in from a big Terminator brick, forcing the opponent out or punishing their hesitance. That brick is a serious slab of wounds to punch through, and he builds heavily into tanks and supporting shooting alongside it. The Ragnar / Blood Claws brick gives you another phenomenal threat projection tool, and this list is extremely hard to secure an expansion against as a result. Wonderful work, very well done.

The Best of the Rest

There was 12 more player on 5-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - liam Vsl - Aeldari (Aspect Host): Brutal Fuegan / Swooping Hawk violence in an ideal meta for elves to hunt in.
  • 6th - Callum German - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance): Five big knights including a Lancer and a Castellan - full skew!
  • 7th - Leif Westermann - Aeldari (Aspect Host): More Aspect Host violence, this build plugs in some Dark Reapers for supporting shooting at range.
  • 8th - Dominik Tavernaro - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Double Karnivore / Five Bigs with triple Abominant.
  • 9th - William Fuhrimann - Chaos Space Marines (Renegade Raiders): Discolord inspired Renegade Raiders with plenty of Predators and Noise Marines in support.
  • 10th - Alexander Jessen - Thousand Sons (Grand Coven): Some unique tech pieces here in the Daemon Prince with Wings and Vortex, and a big brick of Scarab Occult Terminators!
  • 11th - Grischa Gerwert - Space Wolves (Stormlance Task Force): Speedy Wolves with two Thunderwolf bricks, Predators and a Lancer for the backfield, and Wulfen / Headtaker MSU.
  • 12th - Thomas Wobak - Aeldari (War Host): Non-interactivity focused War Host, with bricks of Dragons and Dark Reapers exploiting the War Host toolkit.
  • 13th - David Castro - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance): Canis, a Castellan, a Crusader, and a Castigator as David techs more into volume shooting guns for the Knight hunters.
  • 14th - Qifan Zhu - Aeldari (Seer Council): Deliciously techy Seer Council with Asurman, Maugan Ra, and MSU Shining Spear Squads and Warlock Conclaves.
  • 15th - Riccardo Ghio - Grey Knights (Teleport Strike Force): A heroic run from OG Grey Knights with a Terminator brick, some Paladins and even a cheeky Ven Dread!
  • 16th - Yann TRAN - Deathwatch (Black Spear Task Force): Classic Terminator / Kill team Deathwatch.

Krootcon 2025 - NSWTC

75-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Padstow, NSW, AU on August 08 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

The Showdown

Matchup & Mission - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance) versus Genestealer Cults (Outlander Claw)

Cody Howden - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance)
Army List - Click to Expand
EVERYONE LOVES A KNIGHT META (2000 points)

Imperial Knights Strike Force (2000 points) Noble Lance

CHARACTERS

Canis Rex (380 points) • 1x Chainbreaker las-impulsor 1x Chainbreaker multi-laser 1x Freedom's Hand

Cerastus Knight Atrapos (395 points) • 1x Atrapos lascutter 1x Graviton singularity cannon • Enhancement: Banner of Macharius Triumphant

Cerastus Knight Atrapos (365 points) • Warlord • 1x Atrapos lascutter 1x Graviton singularity cannon

Knight Errant (345 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Stormspear rocket pod 1x Thermal cannon 1x Thunderstrike gauntlet

BATTLELINE

Armiger Warglaive (140 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Reaper chain-cleaver 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (140 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Reaper chain-cleaver 1x Thermal spear

ALLIED UNITS

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

Voidsmen-at-Arms (70 points) • 1x Voidmaster • 1x Artificer shotgun 1x Close combat weapon 1x Laspistol • 4x Voidsman • 4x Close combat weapon 3x Lasgun 4x Laspistol 1x Voidsman rotor cannon • 1x Canid • 1x Vicious bite

Watch Captain Artemis (65 points) • 1x Hellfire Extremis 1x Master-crafted power weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651



vs.

Michael House - Genestealer Cult (Outlander Claw)
Army List - Click to Expand
A - Outlander (1995 points)

Genestealer Cults Strike Force (2000 points) Outlander Claw

CHARACTERS

Benefictus (80 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Psionic Cascade • Enhancement: Cartographic Data-leech

Benefictus (70 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Psionic Cascade

Benefictus (70 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Psionic Cascade

Reductus Saboteur (65 points) • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Demolition charges 1x Remote explosives

Reductus Saboteur (65 points) • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Demolition charges 1x Remote explosives

Reductus Saboteur (65 points) • Warlord • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Demolition charges 1x Remote explosives

BATTLELINE

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 1x Cult Icon 4x Cult claws and knife 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 1x Cult Icon 4x Cult claws and knife 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 4x Cult claws and knife 4x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 4x Cult claws and knife 4x Hand flamer

Neophyte Hybrids (65 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid • 9x Autopistol 9x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 1x Grenade launcher 5x Hybrid firearm 1x Mining laser 1x Seismic cannon 1x Webber

Neophyte Hybrids (65 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid • 9x Autopistol 9x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 1x Grenade launcher 5x Hybrid firearm 1x Mining laser 1x Seismic cannon 1x Webber

Neophyte Hybrids (65 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid • 9x Autopistol 9x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 1x Grenade launcher 5x Hybrid firearm 1x Mining laser 1x Seismic cannon 1x Webber

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Goliath Truck (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Heavy stubber 1x Twin autocannon

Goliath Truck (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Heavy stubber 1x Twin autocannon

Goliath Truck (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Heavy stubber 1x Twin autocannon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Achilles Ridgerunners (170 points) • 2x Achilles Ridgerunner • 2x Armoured hull 2x Heavy mining laser 2x Spotter 2x Twin heavy stubber

Achilles Ridgerunners (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Heavy mortar 1x Survey Augur 1x Twin heavy stubber

Achilles Ridgerunners (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Heavy mortar 1x Survey Augur 1x Twin heavy stubber

Atalan Jackals (75 points) • 4x Atalan Jackal • 2x Atalan power weapon 3x Atalan small arms 2x Close combat weapon 1x Grenade launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad • 1x Atalan small arms 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mining laser

Atalan Jackals (75 points) • 4x Atalan Jackal • 2x Atalan power weapon 3x Atalan small arms 2x Close combat weapon 1x Grenade launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad • 1x Atalan small arms 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mining laser

Goliath Rockgrinder (120 points) • 1x Clearance incinerator 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Drilldozer blade 1x Heavy stubber

Goliath Rockgrinder (120 points) • 1x Clearance incinerator 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Drilldozer blade 1x Heavy stubber

Goliath Rockgrinder (120 points) • 1x Clearance incinerator 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Drilldozer blade 1x Heavy stubber

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651

Thoughts

A very intriguing game here, which pitches the Imperial Knight menace against one of the armies that has enjoyed a new lease of life in the Knight meta, the GSC Outlander claw. No massive surprises in the Knight list - it has some Atropos, it has lots of big Knights, and it has some Armigers and Assassins. So how does one go about beating it?!

Michael has opted for endless waves of OC and the old GSC favourite, Activation locking. Once the Knights get mid-board the GSC have more than enough units to tie up and out-score their opponents. It will be a scary game - Outlander isn't rich in output (you need your lasers and Benefictus triplets to go big, and then you are styling through Knight chassis with the myriad forms of pocket sand you have available) - but it should beat the Knights comfortably on secondaries, and then it just needs to leverage the primary to victory. Lots of high-OC vehicles and squads give you a path to doing this, and once the Knights are tagged their shooting into an army like this becomes extremely unreliable. In the event, the Cults got the job done handsomely!

Note the single Saboteur Warlord - if in doubt, simply make your Warlord a lone op who can stand at the back - Knights hate this one simple trick!

Result

Genestealer Cult (Outlander Claw) Victory - 91 - 65

Michael House - Genestealer Cult (Outlander Claw) - 1st Place

GSC Rockgrinders. Credit - Soggy

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
A - Outlander (1995 points)

Genestealer Cults Strike Force (2000 points) Outlander Claw

CHARACTERS

Benefictus (80 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Psionic Cascade • Enhancement: Cartographic Data-leech

Benefictus (70 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Psionic Cascade

Benefictus (70 points) • 1x Close combat weapon 1x Psionic Cascade

Reductus Saboteur (65 points) • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Demolition charges 1x Remote explosives

Reductus Saboteur (65 points) • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Demolition charges 1x Remote explosives

Reductus Saboteur (65 points) • Warlord • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Demolition charges 1x Remote explosives

BATTLELINE

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 1x Cult Icon 4x Cult claws and knife 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 1x Cult Icon 4x Cult claws and knife 3x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 4x Cult claws and knife 4x Hand flamer

Acolyte Hybrids with Hand Flamers (70 points) • 1x Acolyte Leader • 1x Hand flamer 1x Leader's bio-weapons • 4x Acolyte Hybrid • 4x Cult claws and knife 4x Hand flamer

Neophyte Hybrids (65 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid • 9x Autopistol 9x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 1x Grenade launcher 5x Hybrid firearm 1x Mining laser 1x Seismic cannon 1x Webber

Neophyte Hybrids (65 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid • 9x Autopistol 9x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 1x Grenade launcher 5x Hybrid firearm 1x Mining laser 1x Seismic cannon 1x Webber

Neophyte Hybrids (65 points) • 1x Neophyte Leader • 1x Autopistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Hybrid firearm • 9x Neophyte Hybrid • 9x Autopistol 9x Close combat weapon 1x Cult Icon 1x Grenade launcher 5x Hybrid firearm 1x Mining laser 1x Seismic cannon 1x Webber

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

Goliath Truck (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Heavy stubber 1x Twin autocannon

Goliath Truck (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Heavy stubber 1x Twin autocannon

Goliath Truck (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Heavy stubber 1x Twin autocannon

OTHER DATASHEETS

Achilles Ridgerunners (170 points) • 2x Achilles Ridgerunner • 2x Armoured hull 2x Heavy mining laser 2x Spotter 2x Twin heavy stubber

Achilles Ridgerunners (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Heavy mortar 1x Survey Augur 1x Twin heavy stubber

Achilles Ridgerunners (85 points) • 1x Armoured hull 1x Heavy mortar 1x Survey Augur 1x Twin heavy stubber

Atalan Jackals (75 points) • 4x Atalan Jackal • 2x Atalan power weapon 3x Atalan small arms 2x Close combat weapon 1x Grenade launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad • 1x Atalan small arms 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mining laser

Atalan Jackals (75 points) • 4x Atalan Jackal • 2x Atalan power weapon 3x Atalan small arms 2x Close combat weapon 1x Grenade launcher • 1x Atalan Wolfquad • 1x Atalan small arms 1x Close combat weapon 1x Mining laser

Goliath Rockgrinder (120 points) • 1x Clearance incinerator 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Drilldozer blade 1x Heavy stubber

Goliath Rockgrinder (120 points) • 1x Clearance incinerator 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Drilldozer blade 1x Heavy stubber

Goliath Rockgrinder (120 points) • 1x Clearance incinerator 1x Demolition charge cache 1x Drilldozer blade 1x Heavy stubber

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Outlander Claw MSU

Thoughts

Some lovely adaptations to the Outlander Claw template with additional Benefictus to provie lots more Laser shooting from the hulls as you grapple with the opponent. GSC are having a resurgence and Outlander Claw appears to have joined the fray alongside Host as a valid meta-counter. Absolutely sensational work on the event win.

Tyler Visser - Adepta Sororitas (Champions of Faith) - 2nd Place (Undefeated)

Credit: Greg Narro

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
+ FACTION KEYWORD: Imperium - Adepta Sororitas + DETACHMENT: Champions of Faith + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 1990 + + WARLORD: Char1: Morvenn Vahl + ENHANCEMENT: Sanctified Amulet (on Char1: Hospitaller) + NUMBER OF UNITS: 16 + SECONDARY: - Bring It Down: (8x2) - Assassination: 4 Characters +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Char1: 1x Morvenn Vahl (170 pts): Warlord, Fidelis, Lance of Illumination, Paragon missile launcher Char2: 1x Hospitaller (75 pts): Sanctified Amulet, Bolt pistol, Chirugeon's tools Char3: 1x Hospitaller (50 pts): Bolt pistol, Chirugeon's tools Char4: 1x Hospitaller (50 pts): Bolt pistol, Chirugeon's tools

10x Battle Sisters Squad (105 pts) • 9x Battle Sister 6 with Battle Sister, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Close combat weapon 1 with Simulacrum Imperialis, Battle Sister, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Close combat weapon 1 with Battle Sister, Bolt pistol, Close combat weapon, Multi-melta 1 with Battle Sister, Bolt pistol, Close combat weapon, Meltagun • 1x Sister Superior: Bolt pistol, Close combat weapon, Power weapon, Plasma pistol

10x Celestian Sacresants (130 pts) • 1x Sacresant Superior: Spear of the Faithful, Plasma pistol • 9x Celestian Sacresant (Anointed Halberd): 9 with Anointed Halberd, Bolt pistol

10x Celestian Sacresants (130 pts) • 1x Sacresant Superior: Spear of the Faithful, Plasma pistol • 9x Celestian Sacresant (Hallowed Mace): 9 with Bolt pistol, Hallowed Mace

10x Celestian Sacresants (130 pts) • 1x Sacresant Superior: Spear of the Faithful, Plasma pistol • 9x Celestian Sacresant (Hallowed Mace): 9 with Bolt pistol, Hallowed Mace

10x Dominion Squad (115 pts) • 9x Dominion 4 with Dominion, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Close combat weapon 1 with Simulacrum Imperialis, Dominion, Bolt pistol, Boltgun, Close combat weapon 4 with Dominion, Bolt pistol, Close combat weapon, Meltagun • 1x Dominion Superior: Bolt pistol, Close combat weapon, Power weapon, Plasma pistol

1x Castigator (160 pts): Armoured tracks, 3x Heavy bolter, Castigator autocannons, Hunter-Killer Missile, Storm bolter 1x Castigator (160 pts): Armoured tracks, 3x Heavy bolter, Castigator battle cannon, Hunter-Killer Missile, Storm bolter 1x Castigator (160 pts): Armoured tracks, 3x Heavy bolter, Castigator autocannons, Hunter-Killer Missile, Storm bolter

3x Paragon Warsuits (210 pts) • 1x Paragon Superior: Bolt pistol, Paragon Storm Bolters, Paragon War Blade, Multi-melta • 2x Paragon Warsuit: 2 with Bolt pistol, Paragon Storm Bolters, Paragon War Blade, Multi-melta

1x Immolator (115 pts): Armoured tracks, Heavy Bolter, Hunter-Killer Missile, Twin Multi-melta 1x Immolator (115 pts): Armoured tracks, Heavy Bolter, Hunter-Killer Missile, Twin Multi-melta 1x Immolator (115 pts): Armoured tracks, Heavy Bolter, Hunter-Killer Missile, Twin Multi-melta

Archetype

Champions Sacrosanct Spam

Thoughts

Sacrosanct Tarpits are back, baby! Hospitaller led shield ladies get the job done, and take the defensive buffs in Champions of Faith really well. This list compliments that with Vahl, and lots of transport nonsense as well as Castigators. Sisters have been revitalised by the recent slate and appear to be quietly growing into the meta as a legitimate force. Fantastic work on the top placing.

Cody Howden - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance) - 3rd Place

Imperial Knight Atrapos. Credit: Magos Sockbert Imperial Knight Atrapos. Credit: Magos Sockbert

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
EVERYONE LOVES A KNIGHT META (2000 points)

Imperial Knights Strike Force (2000 points) Noble Lance

CHARACTERS

Canis Rex (380 points) • 1x Chainbreaker las-impulsor 1x Chainbreaker multi-laser 1x Freedom's Hand

Cerastus Knight Atrapos (395 points) • 1x Atrapos lascutter 1x Graviton singularity cannon • Enhancement: Banner of Macharius Triumphant

Cerastus Knight Atrapos (365 points) • Warlord • 1x Atrapos lascutter 1x Graviton singularity cannon

Knight Errant (345 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Stormspear rocket pod 1x Thermal cannon 1x Thunderstrike gauntlet

BATTLELINE

Armiger Warglaive (140 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Reaper chain-cleaver 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (140 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Reaper chain-cleaver 1x Thermal spear

ALLIED UNITS

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

Voidsmen-at-Arms (70 points) • 1x Voidmaster • 1x Artificer shotgun 1x Close combat weapon 1x Laspistol • 4x Voidsman • 4x Close combat weapon 3x Lasgun 4x Laspistol 1x Voidsman rotor cannon • 1x Canid • 1x Vicious bite

Watch Captain Artemis (65 points) • 1x Hellfire Extremis 1x Master-crafted power weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651

Archetype

IK Goodstuff

Thoughts

Knights continue to do Knight things- I like the smattering of Imperial Agents here, with Artemis giving you an activation - lock piece, and the Callidus helping to shut down enemy offensive tools for those knife-edge go turns. Loads to like, well done on the top placing!

Woody Wu - Death Guard (Mortarion's Hammer) - 4th Place

Plagueburst Crawler - Credit Beanith

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
I can't wait to pair into Taylor and ruin his weekend with challenger cards(2000 Points)

Death Guard Mortarion's Hammer Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Biologus Putrifier (65 Points) • 1x Hyper blight grenades • 1x Injector pistol • 1x Plague knives • Enhancements: Eye of Affliction

Lord of Contagion (110 Points) • 1x Manreaper

Lord of Contagion (110 Points) • 1x Manreaper

Lord of Virulence (90 Points) • 1x Power fist • 1x Twin plague spewer

Malignant Plaguecaster (70 Points) • 1x Bolt pistol • 1x Corrupted staff • 1x Plague Wind • Enhancements: Bilemaw Blight

Tallyman (40 Points) • Warlord • 1x Close combat weapon • 1x Plasma pistol

BATTLELINE

Plague Marines (190 Points) • 1x Plague Champion ◦ 1x Plasma gun ◦ 1x Power fist • 9x Plague Marine ◦ 2x Blight launcher ◦ 3x Heavy plague weapon ◦ 2x Meltagun ◦ 9x Plague knives ◦ 2x Plague spewer

DEDICATED TRANSPORTS

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

OTHER DATASHEETS

Deathshroud Terminators (140 Points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion ◦ 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) ◦ 1x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator ◦ 2x Manreaper ◦ 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (140 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 (90 Points) • 1x Plague probe • 2x Plaguespitter

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 Points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher • 1x Plague probe

Plagueburst Crawler (195 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 2x Entropy cannon • 1x Heavy slugger • 1x Plagueburst mortar

Plagueburst Crawler (195 Points) • 1x Armoured tracks • 1x Heavy slugger • 1x Plagueburst mortar • 2x Plaguespitter

Poxwalkers (60 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 Points) • 10x Poxwalker ◦ 10x Improvised weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (3), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Mortarion's Hammer Mixed Arms

Thoughts

A more diverse Mortarion's Hammer list that jams the Plague Marine brick in to give you a bit more counter-push. People have figured out that you run at Mortarion's Hammer in order to stand a chance - making this decision more costly is a smart play, and I really like the versatility you arrive at with this list! Great work on the top placing.

The Best of the Rest

There were 8 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Nathan Princi - Chaos Knights (Infernal Lance): Triple Abominant, triple Despoiler CK. Yikes.
  • 6th - Ryan Duchatel - Chaos Space Marines (Chaos Cult): Double Disco and Preds supporting the usual Chaos Cult shenanigans. A brutal list.
  • 7th - Alex Rigby - Chaos Knights (Lords of Dread): OG Lords of Dread with double Despoilers and a Lancer.
  • 8th - Kirby - T'au Empire (Mont'ka): Mont'ka pressure with massed Broadsides and triple Hammerhead. Don't go second lads.
  • 9th - Tim Zuber - Adeptus Custodes (Lions of the Emperor): Triple Blade Champ / Warden brick Custodes.
  • 10th - Joe Loke - World Eaters (Berzerker Warband): Vanella-style Angron / Maulerfiend / Forgefiend Berzerker Warband.
  • 11th - Robert Reimers - Chaos Knights (Lords of Dread): Five big, two small in Lords of Dread.
  • 12th - Tay Tay - Thousand Sons (Grand Coven): Non-Magnus triple MVB Tsons with lots of Rubrics and characters.

Iowaaagh! Moose-tacular 2025

60-player, 6-round Grand Tournament in Cedar Rapids, IA, United States on August 09 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

Jacob Ott - Astra Militarum (Combined Arms) - 1st Place

Rogal Dorn Tank Commander. Credit: SRM

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Why don't you walk a hundred yards out and stand still for me?

guard - Astra Militarum - Combined Arms (2000 Points)

Gaunt's Ghosts: Tanith Ghost w/ Bragg's autocannon, Tanith Ghost w/ Rawne's lascarbine, Tanith Ghost w/ Mkoll's Straight Silver Knife, Tanith Ghost w/ Larkin's long-las, Tanith Ghost w/ Corbec's hot-shot lascarbine, Ibram Gaunt (110 pts)

Ursula Creed: Duty and Vengeance, Power weapon, Warlord (85 pts)

Cadian Command Squad: Cadian Veteran Guardsman w/ Regimental standard, Cadian Veteran Guardsman w/ Chainsword, Cadian Veteran Guardsman w/ Master vox, Cadian Veteran Guardsman w/ Medi-pack, Cadian Commander (65 pts)

Rogal Dorn Commander: Armoured tracks, Heavy stubber, Pulveriser cannon, Oppressor cannon and coaxial autocannon, 2 Meltaguns, 2 Multi-meltas, E: Grand Strategist (280 pts)

Cadian Shock Troops: 1 Shock Trooper Sergeant and 9 Shock Troopers (65 pts)

Death Korps of Krieg: 1 Death Korps Watchmaster and 9 Death Korps Troopers (65 pts)

3x Attilan Rough Riders: Rough Rider Sergeant, Rough Rider w/ Goad lance, 3x Rough Rider w/ Hunting lance (180 pts)

Hellhound: Armoured tracks, Hunter-killer missile, Multi-melta, Inferno cannon (125 pts) 3x Leman Russ Vanquisher: Armoured tracks, Vanquisher battle cannon, Heavy stubber, Hunter-killer missile, Lascannon, 2 Multi-meltas (435 pts) 2x Rogal Dorn Battle Tank: Armoured tracks, Pulveriser cannon, Oppressor cannon and coaxial autocannon, 2 Meltaguns, Heavy stubber, 2 Multi-meltas (480 pts) 2x Scout Sentinels: Scout Sentinel (110 pts)

Archetype

Hell Yeah Rough Riders

Thoughts

Hell yeah Rough Riders! 3 bricks of death horses running out ahead of an absolute car park of tank shooting. Guard are still plugging away admirably in a meta of horrors, and this list looks teched to the gills for Knight hunting with triple Dorn and triple Vanquisher. Fantastic work on the event win.

David Clark - Death Guard (Mortarion's Hammer) - 2nd Place

Heavy Blight Launcher Bloat-drone Credit: Robert "TheChirurgeon" Jones

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
🔨-Time (1995 points)

Death Guard Strike Force (2000 points) Mortarion's Hammer

CHARACTERS

Lord of Contagion (110 points) • 1x Manreaper

Lord of Contagion (110 points) • 1x Manreaper

Lord of Virulence (110 points) • Warlord • 1x Power fist 1x Twin plague spewer • Enhancement: Tendrilous Emissions

OTHER DATASHEETS

Deathshroud Terminators (140 points) • 1x Deathshroud Champion • 1x Icon of Despair (Aura) 1x Manreaper 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet • 2x Deathshroud Terminator • 2x Manreaper 2x Plaguespurt gauntlet

Deathshroud Terminators (140 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 (100 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Foetid Bloat-Drone with Heavy Blight Launcher (100 points) • 1x Heavy blight launcher 1x Plague probe

Myphitic Blight-Haulers (90 points) • 1x Bile spurt 1x Gnashing maw 1x Missile launcher 1x Multi-melta

Myphitic Blight-Haulers (90 points) • 1x Bile spurt 1x Gnashing maw 1x Missile launcher 1x Multi-melta

Plagueburst Crawler (195 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 2x Entropy cannon 1x Heavy slugger 1x Plagueburst mortar

Plagueburst Crawler (195 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 2x Entropy cannon 1x Heavy slugger 1x Plagueburst mortar

Poxwalkers (60 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

Poxwalkers (60 points) • 10x Poxwalker • 10x Improvised weapon

ALLIED UNITS

Knight Despoiler (335 points) • 2x Despoiler battle cannon 3x Diabolus heavy stubber 1x Ruinspear rocket pod 1x Titanic feet

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Hammer with Despoiler

Thoughts

A run out for the new WTC hotness of Death Guard with a Despoiler plugged in. A brutal shooting list with just enough Deathshroud punishment waiting if you try and push into it. One of the armies to beat allying in one of the other armies to beat- it doesn't feel fair really does it?! Amazing work on the top placing.

Dan Sammons - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance) - 3rd Place

Imperial Knight Armiger Helverin Imperial Knight Armiger Helverin. Credit: Pendulin

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Butt Stuff (1995 points)

Imperial Knights Strike Force (2000 points) Noble Lance

CHARACTERS

Canis Rex (380 points) • Warlord • 1x Chainbreaker las-impulsor 1x Chainbreaker multi-laser 1x Freedom's Hand

BATTLELINE

Armiger Helverin (130 points) • 2x Armiger autocannon 1x Armoured feet 1x Questoris heavy stubber

Armiger Helverin (130 points) • 2x Armiger autocannon 1x Armoured feet 1x Questoris heavy stubber

Armiger Helverin (130 points) • 2x Armiger autocannon 1x Armoured feet 1x Questoris heavy stubber

Armiger Helverin (130 points) • 2x Armiger autocannon 1x Armoured feet 1x Questoris heavy stubber

Armiger Warglaive (140 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Reaper chain-cleaver 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (140 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Reaper chain-cleaver 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (140 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Reaper chain-cleaver 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (140 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Reaper chain-cleaver 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (140 points) • 1x Meltagun 1x Reaper chain-cleaver 1x Thermal spear

ALLIED UNITS

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

Sisters of Battle Immolator (115 points) • 1x Armoured tracks 1x Heavy bolter 1x Hunter-killer missile 1x Immolation flamers

Sisters of Battle Squad (115 points) • 1x Sister Superior • 1x Bolt pistol 1x Close combat weapon 1x Ministorum hand flamer 1x Power weapon • 9x Battle Sister • 9x Bolt pistol 7x Boltgun 9x Close combat weapon 1x Ministorum flamer 1x Ministorum heavy flamer 1x Simulacrum Imperialis

Watch Captain Sharktemis (65 points) • 1x Hellfire Extremis 1x Master-crafted power weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Canis and the Armigers

Thoughts

Canis and the Armigers remains a valid build, lurking below the surface for when somebody punts the Atropos back into the sun. Loads of scoring and damage potential and more asset play than the big-skew lists, expect to see this pop up more once adjustments have come! Well done on the top placing.

Kyle McCord - Dark Angels (Wrath of the Rock) - 4th Place

Credit: Kevin Stillman

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Angels of the Silent Blade (2000 points)

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

CHARACTERS

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

Captain in Gravis Armour (105 points) • 1x Boltstorm gauntlet 1x Power fist 1x Relic chainsword • Enhancement: Ancient Weapons

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

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 (165 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 (165 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 (165 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

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

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

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

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

Vanguard Veteran Squad with Jump Packs (95 points) • 1x Vanguard Veteran Sergeant with Jump Pack • 1x Storm Shield 1x Vanguard Veteran weapon • 4x Vanguard Veteran with Jump Pack • 4x Storm Shield 4x Vanguard Veteran weapon

Vanguard Veteran Squad with Jump Packs (95 points) • 1x Vanguard Veteran Sergeant with Jump Pack • 1x Storm Shield 1x Vanguard Veteran weapon • 4x Vanguard Veteran with Jump Pack • 4x Storm Shield 4x Vanguard Veteran weapon

Vanguard Veteran Squad with Jump Packs (95 points) • 1x Vanguard Veteran Sergeant with Jump Pack • 1x Storm Shield 1x Vanguard Veteran weapon • 4x Vanguard Veteran with Jump Pack • 4x Storm Shield 4x Vanguard Veteran weapon

Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651

Archetype

Wrath of the Rock 2+ Spam

Thoughts

A genuinely delicious list here that slams in some Centurion Devastators to compliment the Deathwing Knight push of Wrath of the Rock. This gives you some better anti-mech shooting at range, and leans into the general vibe of 'stoic guys with 2+ saves and emotional regulation issues' that Dark Angels can do so well. Fantastic work on the top placing!

The Best of the Rest

There were 3 more players on 5-1 records. They were:
  • 5th - Treynor Wolfe - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance): Canis, two Atropos, double Immolators and some Armigers.
  • 6th - Ryan Hayes - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs): Vahl, Castigators, and MSU in Hallowed Martyrs.
  • 7th - Blake Kittrell - Adeptus Custodes (Solar Spearhead): Old school Solar Spearhead Dreadnought spam, hell yeah.

SUMMER SHOWDOWN 40K

38-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Levittown, NY, United States on August 09 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

David Decker - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance) - 1st Place

Imperial Knight Lancer. Credit: Jack Hunter

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + FACTION KEYWORD: Imperium - Imperial Knights + DETACHMENT: Noble Lance + TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 1995pts + ALLIED UNITS: Agents of the Imperium + + WARLORD: Char1: Canis Rex + ENHANCEMENT: Banner of Macharius Triumphant (on Char1: Cerastus Knight Atrapos) + NUMBER OF UNITS: 8 + SECONDARY: - Bring It Down: (3x2) + (4x6) - Assassination: 5 Characters +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Char1: 1x Canis Rex (380 pts): Warlord • 1x Canis Rex: Chainbreaker las-impulsor, Chainbreaker multi-laser, Freedom's Hand • 1x Sir Hekhtur: Close combat weapon, Hekhtur's pistol Char2: 1x Cerastus Knight Atrapos (395 pts): Atrapos lascutter, Graviton singularity cannon Enhancement: Banner of Macharius Triumphant (+30 pts) Char3: 1x Cerastus Knight Atrapos (365 pts): Atrapos lascutter, Graviton singularity cannon Char4: 1x Cerastus Knight Lancer (365 pts): Cerastus shock lance

1x Armiger Helverin (130 pts): 2x Armiger autocannon, Armoured feet, Questoris heavy stubber 1x Armiger Helverin (130 pts): 2x Armiger autocannon, Armoured feet, Questoris heavy stubber 1x Armiger Helverin (130 pts): 2x Armiger autocannon, Armoured feet, Questoris heavy stubber

Char5: 1x Callidus Assassin (100 pts): Neural shredder, Phase sword and poison blades

Archetype

IK Goodstuff

Thoughts

Another romp for the meta menace, with Atropos, Canis, Armigers and an Assassin doing the business. The value of the Callidus is considerable into IK - a lot of enemy armies that hunt Knights (Drukhari, Chaos Cults, etc) really need to get value out of 1 CP strats to do work - the more expensive you can make this, the better your chances of pulling through are! Fantastic work on the event win.

The Best of the Rest

There were 6 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Connor Cip - Blood Angels (Liberator Assault Group): Big DC bricks of murder, some MSU Sang Guard, and double Vindicators.
  • 3rd - Thomas Ferrante - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance): IK Goodstuff.
  • 4th - Garrett Yablonski - Dark Angels (Wrath of the Rock): Deathwing Knight and ICC push with some Outrider MSU.
  • 5th - Richard Deary IV - Thousand Sons (Grand Coven): Classic Magnus / Rubric / MVB Grand Coven.
  • 6th - Matthew McCarthy - Adepta Sororitas (Hallowed Martyrs): Massed Paragons, Canis Rex, Castigators and Infantry.
  • 7th - Ben Coiro - Death Guard (Virulent Vectorium): Mortarion / Plague Marine Virulent.

The Great Game - Gongaii GT Summer 2025

32-player, 5-round Grand Tournament in Forest Grove, OR, United States on August 09 2025. All the lists for this event can be found in Best Coast Pairings.

John Garrison - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance) - 1st Place

Cerastus Knight-Castigator Cerastus Knight-Castigator. Credit: That Gobbo

The List

Army List - Click to Expand
Tourney List (1995 Points)

Imperial Knights Noble Lance Strike Force (2,000 Points)

CHARACTERS

Canis Rex (380 Points) • Warlord • 1x Chainbreaker las-impulsor • 1x Chainbreaker multi-laser • 1x Freedom's Hand

Cerastus Knight Atrapos (365 Points) • 1x Atrapos lascutter • 1x Graviton singularity cannon

Cerastus Knight Castigator (365 Points) • 1x Castigator bolt cannon • 1x Tempest warblade

BATTLELINE

Armiger Helverin (130 Points) • 2x Armiger autocannon • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Meltagun

Armiger Helverin (130 Points) • 2x Armiger autocannon • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Questoris heavy stubber

Armiger Helverin (130 Points) • 2x Armiger autocannon • 1x Armoured feet • 1x Questoris heavy stubber

Armiger Warglaive (140 Points) • 1x Questoris heavy stubber • 1x Reaper chain-cleaver • 1x Thermal spear

Armiger Warglaive (140 Points) • 1x Questoris heavy stubber • 1x Reaper chain-cleaver • 1x Thermal spear

ALLIED UNITS

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

Sisters of Battle Squad (115 Points) • 1x Sister Superior ◦ 1x Bolt pistol ◦ 1x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Plasma pistol ◦ 1x Power weapon • 9x Battle Sister ◦ 9x Bolt pistol ◦ 7x Boltgun ◦ 9x Close combat weapon ◦ 1x Meltagun ◦ 1x Ministorum heavy flamer ◦ 1x Simulacrum Imperialis

Exported with App Version: v1.39.0 (1), Data Version: v662

Archetype

IK Goodstuff

Thoughts

Look, more Knights!

The Best of the Rest

There were 5 more players on 4-1 records. They were:
  • 2nd - Alex Najdek - Astra Militarum (Combined Arms): Dorns, Chimaera infantry, and some Engineers too.
  • 3rd - Andrew Russo - Death Guard (Mortarion's Hammer): Mortarion's Hammer mech-skew with two Karnivores for counter punch.
  • 4th - David Bierek - Chaos Space Marines (Pactbound Zealots): Old School Pactbound with Abaddon, but Vashtorr and some Discos sneak in too!
  • 5th - Andrew Bierek - Chaos Daemons (Daemonic Incursion): Punchy double Bloodthirster Incursion.
  • 6th - Karl Gatke - Imperial Knights (Noble Lance): Canis and a mix of non-Atropos big Knights.

Wrap Up

There we are folks! Skew meta continues to skew, and one imagines we will see WTC builds starting to trickle through more as we go into the autumn. The horrors persist, but so do we!

Lowest of Men, out.

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Tags: Space Marines | imperial knights | space wolves | Death Guard | Warhammer 40k | Dark Angels | Genestealer Cults | Astra Militarum | adepta sororitas | Meta Analysis | Competitive Innovations

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