Which is kinda unfortunate because I wanted a jump pack command squad to ride with Shrike and apparently that option is not available to Codex marines. Oh well, somebody help me out if I am wrong. I plan on a big army on this one. Possibly the entire battle company if that structure will allow me a fluffy build. Got a supply drop and Forgeworld goodies to start out. Also got another 20 or so marines and 5 scouts in my bits box. Along with the marines I am thinking of a nice IG allies attachment. They could represent the Imperial forces working along side/rescued by 3rd Company. I was thinking some sort of fortified fire base with the appropriate troops. An isolated force that would have survived an initial onslaught or forward position supporting the Raven Guard. Also good for the rumored upcoming Apocalypse. And here is the start........

I believe a Command squad can take jump packs, I haven't looked at C:SM but I'm sure you can. other then that, what forgeworld goodies did you get?

Edit: I really like the basing too.

Thanks on the bases. It's just a bunch of cork. Cheap and easy. From FW I got 2 sets of Rhino doors, 1 for a Land Raider, etched brass which looks really cool, Dreadnought auto cannon arms, and the big sheet of Raven Guard transfers. I think the transfers are the most impressive of the lot.

Yeah those bases look great.

The tank needs... something, imo. It's very bland, and it lacks the spot colours of the space marines themselves; perhaps more importabtly, it lacks the contrast colours of the bases. I'd seriously consider adding some mud or dust to the tracks ad lower hull, it would give it the contrast it needs (and make it look less like it just arrived on a parade ground... tanks get filthy real quick)

The other thing you might consider is adding some kind of weathering to it to break up the uniform black, although that works less well on black than it does on any other colour in my experience.

Anyway, the marines and their bases both look excellent.

 A Kvlt Ghost wrote:
Yeah those bases look great.

The tank needs... something, imo. It's very bland, and it lacks the spot colours of the space marines themselves; perhaps more importabtly, it lacks the contrast colours of the bases. I'd seriously consider adding some mud or dust to the tracks ad lower hull, it would give it the contrast it needs (and make it look less like it just arrived on a parade ground... tanks get filthy real quick)

I agree, try putting some white transfers on the doors as well and the company number on it as well

Other than that it looks great and i'm looking forward to seeing more from you

Young Logan

I got it covered gents, should have some pics later today or tomorrow. I should have listed the Rhino as WIP. Thanks for the input, always appreciate the comments.

 40kFSU wrote:
I got it covered gents, should have some pics later today or tomorrow. I should have listed the Rhino as WIP. Thanks for the input, always appreciate the comments.

you have started my second favorite chapter of space marines...

Glad to hear it panda and thanks for dropping in. Try this guy on for size.

And whats your favorite chapter?

 40kFSU wrote:
Glad to hear it panda and thanks for dropping in. Try this guy on for size.

And whats your favorite chapter?

Very sexy! that tank looks good and the dirty on the bottom is spot on.

I like them because of their paint and that they favor a fast attack approach.

subbed!

nice to see some raven guard painted nicely

ps. dont forget to drill out those gun barrels

@Noodles- Glad you like them sir, and I am searching for a drill now. Cant be undone by non drilled barrels again!

Second Tactical Squad is built, taking it kinda slow. I see all these Space Marine rumors and I dont want to end up building a whole bunch of useless stuff. I figure I will do 3 full tactical squads to serve as the hammer. Drop pods and a Storm Raven for them. Three 6 man squads can ride in Razorbacks as outriders. I guess that fits the lore of a hit and run guerilla force that hold back for the opportune moment to hit hard. Having said all that, a Scout squad is up next.

You've hit the nail on the head with the weathering and battle damage. Looks spot on now.

Tank looks great now that it's done, just what it needed keep up the good work, looking forward to seeing more

Young Logan

Thanks gents, weathering these really adds to these guys. Cant believe I haven't tried it sooner.

Finished the black on the second squad and made the bases. Ill put the grass on after I have glued on the marines. Moving along.......

Nice black, can still see detail and stuff.

Thanks Panda! I think I read somewhere somebody talking about painting black.......Anyway, finished 5 guys. Went with the alternate RG symbol on the Sgt. I need to brush off a little powder on their feet, I want a dirty look, not caked on. I also need to figure out these pictures. They are either washed out or glaring. Here they are....

Rolling along with the good times, 2nd tactical squad is finished.

Fast work. I like the basing, but making the mini's so tall might bite you in the backside where LOS is concerned.

@LeadLegion-Thanks, glad you like it. I usually have commitment issues when it comes to bases. I think this may stick, at least I hope so. As far as LOS issues, I have never played, so I didnt think about it.

I ended up starting an assault squad instead of the scouts. I just didnt feel like fighting the bits box for them right now. Not sure if they will remain regular assault guys or evolve into a large Vanguard squad. I think the Storm Raven is a HS choice, but still too many cool FA for only 3 options.

Not sure on the raven, but your speed of progress is very impressive. Well done 40kfsu, excited to see the assault marine work.

Thanks Panda, just posted this guy for your competition.....

Pushing along with the Razorback. I plan on building the regular top so these guys can be used as Rhino's as well. Turning out nicely I think....

Ok, second Razorback is finished. I figure on the 2 big Tactical squads being deployed by drop pod and a Sternguard squad via Stormraven. The Razorbacks will carry three 6 man Tactical squads and act as outriders or fast moving stike teams to support the scouts. I think that fits fluffily. Airborne assault and scouts. Also fits nicely in the FOC.

Nice work on those Razorbacks. I really like the weathering. The Grey and Black works well together. It's a subtle variation in colour, but for me the combination of dark green and black together just screams Raven Guard.

@LeadLegion- Thanks man, I appreciate it. Im starting on some scouts and am going to finish those assault guys. Next will be the Storm Raven. I am pretty excited about that one.

Your black is great. Its not so flat, and looks nice and worn. Truly an enjoyable piece of work there.

Thanks panda, hoping to maintain the same shade for the long run.

Speaking of which I got some done on the 4 assault marines. That fella in the back is finished, he was the test model. Im going to arm these guys as Vanguard so SHrike has someone tough to roll with. Unless I can find something that says a command squad can have jump packs. Maybe Ill just hold out until the next codex.

Looking good mate, best of luck with the tank painting competition.

going troop heavy then? I can't wait to see this all finished.

keep it up

The next codex is not far off from what I hear, but we will see whats going on.

@Noodles- Thanks man, fluff wise this should be infantry heavy, but I like tanks, So I am not sure. The driving point right now is my promise to my wife not to buy any more "little guys" until our son is born in September. I just have a ton of infantry in my bits box. And it really stinks because there is a bundle of a crap ton of Praetorians on ebay. Those guys are so sweet.

@Panda- Yes, it will probably be the only codex I buy this year. Used to buy all of them, fantasy books too. Love the lore and all that. But we can all guess why I am not doing that anymore.........

So, on track with 5 assault guys. I gave them the alternate chapter symbol just to differentiate them a little.

So, built a scout squad and some bikes. The scouts are a 10 man bolter squad with a heavy bolter and a sgt with a plasma pistol. Kinda a tactical squad with scout rules. Building on the fluffiness aspect of the army, I have the start of a bike squad. Army is developing into 3 categories. The Scouts, a fast moving mechanized ground force that can hit fast in support of the scouts, and an airborne hammer to finish the job or destroy a major objective. More on that later.....

First Bolter armed Scout squad I've seen in a while. Snipers work well, but I've always thought bolter scouts have been a little bit under represented in codex: space marine lists.

@LeadLegion- Yeah, I just think they look cool. Ive never played, but why wouldnt these guys work? Some snipers will happen though. They are just too cool not to.

In the meantime, the attack bike is finished. Worked out nicely I think.......

First 5 bolter scouts are done and I am telling you, the FW transfer sheet is worth every penny. It even has scout size symbols.

The way you painted the scouts skin is awesome. Follows the fluff perfectly but I noticed two had orange hair. The gene seed makes there skin turn white and hair turn coal black so fluff wise should be all black hair. Otherwise everything looks awesome. I love it.

@ravengatorfan- Thanks man, Im glad you like them. The orange hair was actually brown which didnt work out. I didnt want them to all look alike, but you have a point. They are supposed to kinda look alike.

A raven guard fanboy myself, your work is impressive. But why green on the assault units?

@IIvanbard- Thanks for posting. I am painting the weapons green to signify they belong to the same company. Except the scouts and terminators, who are attached to 3rd Company, but not assigned.

Speaking of which, the black is done on the 2 bikes and 5 scouts. Also built 5 Sternguard. 4 have combi-plasma, 1 combi-melta. The other 5 are forthcoming and will probably be 2 heavy flamers and 2 more combo's. Not sure how to arm the sgt. The squad is intended to drop in from the Storm Raven and blast apart everything they see.

The sgt could also have a combi weapon (I believe, bit rusty on the vanilla codex). No point giving him close combat weapons given that if Sterngaurd get into melee, you're doing something wrong.

(Actually, with two attacks they're not THAT bad in assaults, but your still wasting them if they get into hand-to-hand regularly).

Looks good.

The problem with bolter scouts in-game is that for just a few points more, you get full battle-brothers. The stat boost and armor save are generally better then the scout/infiltrate move. I know when I field scouts, I like to get stuff from them I can't get from a basic tactical squad. They do look cool though. But then, so do shotgun and BP/CCW scouts.

I can see a close combat toy for a sternguard sarge. If they are doing their job, they are in someone's charge range. I'm pretty sure they can take a lightning claw. You want to keep your bolter, so aren't going to get the extra attack anyway, might as well go with a specialist weapon.

I like your bikers. Getting ready to put a few more together myself. I was trying to think of what to do for plasma/meltagunners, might do what you did with the flamer, looks cool.

I'm waiting to see your shrike painted. I love the model they have for him and I've seen some good painted ones and they blow me away.

@LeadLegion- that's a good point. Sgt with a power weapon doesn't do much for a unit that is supposed to be for shooting.

@Nevelon- I didn't even think about the pont values for the scouts. Ive never actually played, I just build armies on what I think is cool. And thanks on the bikers. The flamed is from the old Whitescar upgrade pack. I think it's OOP now.

@ravengatorfan- I'm looking forward to Shrike myself. I wanted to give him a command squad to roll with, but I don't think they can have jump packs.

Unfortunately they cannot have jump packs but can ride bikes (load of crap I think). I do a Vanguard Squad with lightning claws and jump packs. expensive but I like them. the old codex had a special unit that was shrikes "command squad" that had all jump packs and lightning claws. awesome unit but expensive.

Simply awesome.. If they are done you should highlight that green to add some flavor to them. I like the alternate symbol as well.

 ravengatorfan wrote:
Unfortunately they cannot have jump packs but can ride bikes (load of crap I think). I do a Vanguard Squad with lightning claws and jump packs. expensive but I like them. the old codex had a special unit that was shrikes "command squad" that had all jump packs and lightning claws. awesome unit but expensive.

Unless you are playing Blood Angels, the options for elite/awesome jump troops are a little thin. While Vanguard Vets are massively overpriced, they can get the job done on the battlefield. And for all their faults, they do look very nice. If you are approaching the hobby primarily as a modeler/painter they are well worth including in your army. As a gamer, they can be made to work, but are a little sub-par.

I just hope that they get better rules support some day...

@panda- Thanks man, maybe they are done, maybe they are waiting for round 6.........

@ravengatorfan- Thanks for the conformation, but rats on the news. Im thinking I may use a different leader, just a generic commander. I plan on a chaplain and librarian anyway. Just got my mind set on a cool command squad.

@Nevelon- I keep telling myself I am going to learn and play. Never do. In the meantime, cool minis are the way to go. So, yeah, more Vanguard on the way. I considered making this army based on the BA codex. It just didnt seem right to use one Legions army list to build another. BA's use jump packs to control the sky. Raven Guard for fast, pinpoint attacks. Kinda the same thing but different.

Anyway, 2 bikes finished. May have to buy the 3rd to make a legal squad. Will consult my bits box first........

On your bikes, did you just paint the ammo in the bolter's magazines green? You normally see that done in a brass color.

Just something that I just noticed. Looking good overall.

@Nevelon- Yes, I painted the magazines green as a change of pace. I usually paint the rounds like a chain of ammo, but figured I would try to make the casing look more enclosing.

I have finished up the last 5 scouts and the squad is finished. I put some squad numbers on their right arms, they are 4th Squad of the 10th Company. On many of my past threads folks have suggested I drill the weapon barrels. Well, I went and bought a grip and a drill bit and it is too small. I have to get a slightly bigger head before proceeding on it.

AWESOME. Shrike is shadow captain of 3rd so you got to do him. Please lol.

Looks very good to me! Would you give up the recipe for the scouts skin color?

Loving that skin! I would also like the recipe!

Very epic work! I am impressed. Really am.

Nice work so far, really liking the bikers and the attack bike, any chance of a group shot of all you have done so far? Looks like it would make a very fine looking army.

And for the OP the new codex might be coming out soon and there is apparently a Raven Guard supplement so your jet pack command squad could happen.

@ravengatorfan- Thanks man, Shrike will be getting done at some point. Stay tuned! He may get a jump pack command squad regardless of the damn rules!!

@gretar and vent- Well gents, Im glad you like the army. The recipe for the skin is absurdly easy. I like easy, easy and I get along really well. Its just Pallid Wych Flesh with a Nuln Oil wash.

@Panda- Thank you sir!

@BurnHeretic- Group shot you say? Here you go........

I love it and lol I like that. Shrike gets what shrike wants.

Awesome, they are indeed looking mighty fine. Whats up next? Started work on a Shrike yet?

Whats next? How about some Storm Raven?

 40kFSU wrote:
Whats next? How about some Storm Raven?

this is a perfect timing for a well place competition. You might wanna go and see this.

So the Storm Raven is coming along. I plan to attach various banners and things to this guy. They will be at an angle to simulate flight. I should have built the landing gear up, oh well, its my first. Rookie mistake.

Looking forward to see how it turns out. You can just say the landing gear is still deployed on the grounds that it has only just taken off!

@BurnHeretic- Yeah, thats an idea, but to be honest the landing gear is driving me freaking crazy. May have to take drastic steps.

On the positive side the Storm Raven is finished. Just need to put some weathering powder on him. In the meantime......

Are those forgeworld Bisters?

Yes they are. Rhino size.

The doors?

Yes, I'm sorry I thought that's what you were asking. Was there something else?

Yes thank you, I was wondering what was in the blisters and that answered it, Got confused sorry.

Looks awesome man, I'm considering doing White Scar successor chapter after i round out my Angels of Vengeance. I like what you did with the bikes!

Thanks Master Azalle, those bikes were originally intended for a Ravenwing army, decided against it. I think the storage gives the impression they are out on their own for ong periods. Proper outriders.....

Ok, Stormraven is finished,

I actually think the only thing you need to do is paint the canopy glass slightly more to really give the impression of glass. If you have gloss varnish, black and white you can easily do this. Maybe a tinge of blue as well. Just to give a shimmer of reflective transparent surface.
I know the grey works, but that last little bit will really do it in my opinion.

The storm Raven is looking good, I love the streaking, makes it look like well used, as you imagine it would be. I second cormadepanda's comments on the canopy, a little extra effort on that would make quite a difference I think.

I see your point gents. Ill get on it.

Storm raven looks awesome, ill have to try something similar with my nephilim jet fighters for the canopies

Love the sand-blasted look. I'll be keeping that in mind for my own Stormraven project.

Thanks gents, glad you like the Stormraven. Should have the first 5 Sternguard ready tomorrow.

Glad I caught your new thread. Looking good!

This is a cool blog. I really really like those bikes. May i ask how you did the weathering did you just use leadbelcher? Cuz you should probable give it a wash and some highlights for a little more realism.

@Dinamarth- Thanks man, glad you found and approve!

@Largeblastmarker- Ah, the Stormraven weathering. Its powder, from Vallejo. Now I did put little nicks and scratches around the corners, which is only ledbelcher. Ive tried all sorts of techniques from mixing black and brown, to just dark brown, to black and ledbelcher highlights. This is simple and looks pretty good. I like simple. And Im glad you like the blog.

So, finally an update. I ran out of a few key paints. I think these will be the last of the Raven Guard for a while since the new SM stuff is coming out. Dont want to buy a bunch of obsolete stuff. I do have a couple of ebay rescues on the way too. Im switching to the guard allies.

Got my first ebay rescue yesterday. He is currently taking a simple green bath. Actually looks far better than I was expecting. Also finished up the first terminator squad.

The Dreadnought body is finished. I decided to make it as subdued as possible. I have all the arm options, including both autocannon, and will paint them as time goes along. Im pretty disappointed with the base. I thought it would turn out much better. Rats. Anyway, I just saw a rumor post of the new SM release. Glad Ive left some room, dont know what a Hunter is but I want one.

The termis look awesome. love your paintings.

@Ravengatorfan- thanks man, glad you are liking them.

I have 5 tactical guys done. Like I was saying earlier its the last of the infantry for a while. I figure the new kits will have plenty of new bits to adorn these guys and others. Should mix well.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Ok the pics were upside down. I'll repost in a bit.

Try again

Quick update. Dreadnought weapons.

Loving the dreadnought, your RG fit the bill perfectly, exactly as I imagine RG would look, all about efficiency, well maintained but well utilised.

dude your guard is coming along splendidly! Cant wait to see a group shot.

Thanks gents, glad you approve. I think Ill take a pause and start with the IG allied unit. Im still not sure the direction but I want it kinda fluffy and something that would compliment the Raven Guard. Some sort of mobile firebase is what I am thinking. Say a Manticore, 2 Veteran squads, a CCS with MoO (all in Chimeras of course) and possibly sentinels. You know a mobile force that can support the fast moving RG. The vets are enough to defend the Manticore and the sentinels can scout ahead. I dunno, just a thought.

One thing for sure, a new codex, a box each of Tactical, Sternguard, and Vanguard marines and a Hunter tank are all in this armies future. Centurions, meh.

All right the good times keep rolling. I started the Predator by replacing the front panel with the FW Raven Guard one. Next came all the black. Looking good so far. Hopefully I can get these pics up without them being upside down.

Fail. Try again.

Nice salvage so far.

You should make some custom objective markers.

Well panda, the restoration was going fine untl I really started to work on this guy. There are sots with really thick glue which I thought was paint. So one of the side weapons is messed up. Overall it worked out ok.

As for your suggestion Largeblastmarker, Im going to make some objectives using some leftover terminator homer beacons. I may dress them up with some brass.

Keep it up! Drill those barrels! Haha

Thanks Dinamarth, Im going to! I have a drill, just the current bit is too small. Havent made it back to get a new one. But I will.

In the meantime. Ive always wanted to magnetize a Rhino for all the options. And behold, I have finally done it. It can be a Predator with autocannon and heavy bolters, a Razorback, or a Rhino. The assault cannons are the simple conversion from the heavy bolter turret. The other 5 Vanguard should be done tomorrow. For some reason these guys were a beating and took forever.

Very nicely done! I love your weathering. I run Angels of Vengenace but didnt trust my weathering skills to do anything other than paint them black and highlight... impresed brother!

You know i'm just giving you trouble. Nice job on the magnetized rhino chassis! Imagine an entire army like that, it'd be so versatile.

@Master Azalle- The weatering was super easy. I took a large tank brush and gave a very, very light dry brush of ledbelcher. Then I took the same brush, which must be bone dry, and brushed on weathering powder. And Im glad you like it!

@Dinamarth- I know man, all good times. If you look at the Hvy Bolter Razorback you can kinda see two little holes I drilled with the bit I have. Way too small. As for magnetizing a whole army, thoughts are forming in my head sir.....

And here are the Vanguards. Also 2 more Dreadnought weapons. I decided against the IG allies. Its just too expensive. I think I have everything I need of the current range. 20 more marines, 8 scouts, a Storm Talon, a bike, a drop pod, and a Land Raider. Ill grab the new stuff and some HQ models then I guess Ill be done. Land Raider isnt really RG fluffy, you see the Terminators need a ride too.

Great vanguard, recognisable but not over-cluttered. Good stuff!

great work 40kfsu.

Nice poses on the Vanguard.

Thanks gents. Finished up the Dreadnought and all his weapons. Im pretty pleased with this guy.

phenominal work as always brother

That is the dread with all the arms. My favorite thing about your army is you bring out the black nicely.

Really nice stuff in here!

I've always preferred my Raven Guard veterans to go with the 'all white shoulder pads and arms' look, but white is a hard color to pull off nicely.

Anyway, I can't believe I've missed this P&M Blog until now - looking forward to more!

@Master Azalle- Thanks man I appreciate the kind words. Looking forward to getting some of those new kits.

@Panda- you know, the black is just kind meh black. The weathering makes it look good.

@Alpharius-Always nice to hear from a MOD. I like the look of the white arms too but feel it would be hard to sneak around with half your armor painted white. I like the subdued, darker style. Also, yeah, it would be tough to paint. As for more...........

The Black Reach Commander. Poor guy has been in my bits box for who knows how long. Now a happy member of the Raven Guard.

Stupid pic is sideways. I'll repost in the morning.

The turtle gods approve of the thread! Awesome thread, love the pics!! Will be subing!!

Senortaco- Cool, thanks for stopping by and Im glad you like what you see.

Speaking of which, I should know better than try to post from my phone. Here is the commander and the next batch of Raven Guard. This project is slowly winding down. Well not slowly.

Alright, got the black on the Rhino and Drop Pod. Also put together and base coated the Stormtalon. Pretty sharp!

So I knocked out the magnetized Rhino. The Predator/Razorback parts are still on the table but hould be done soon. After I finish up the Drop Pod Ill finish the sniper scouts.

Your models are coming about really well! Keep up the good work!

It's looking great. I can see your progression in skill and style from the Crimson Fists to these guys, definite improvements. What is the next project on the horizon? Battle Companies will be able to be ordered pretty soon maybe a revisit to the Rynn's World Defenders?

@senortaco- Thanks man, Im on it!

@Dinamarth- Thanks man. I considered making this army Crimson Fists I just couldnt get it to look right. If Ihad that battle company set again I would really trick it out. Cant believe how much a little weathering adds. As for the next project, I dont know. I love IG, and the Waaaaaaauugghhhh! has been calling. Truth is these prices are starting to make me think twice.

In the meantime Drop Pod is finished. I wimped out on the interior. For some reason I just cant get motivated to paint the interior of a pod. I also included a shot of the army so far. I have 10 assault marines and 6 sniper scouts on deck. Planning on getting new Vanguard and Sternguard, a Hunter, maybe a Tactical Squad or Centurions. That should do it.

That is one great-looking army, the painting, modelling and basing are all awesome.

I gotta say, that pod is my favorite. It's got the perfect amount of contrast to it. I think your tanks could benefit with a little white maybe on the roof hatch or something. But overall another superb job. I'd like to see your new take on Crimson Fists one day then I'd be forced to buy it, lol. Take a break from marines for a bit?

@Paradigm- Thanks man, glad you like it.

@Dinamarth- I thought about putting more white on them. Decided not to for two reasons. Didn't want them to look too much like Templars and figure these guys would rather be blacked out given their fluff. I think the white makes it pop a little more, so yeah, you are right there. Damn 40k lore. Oh and I got you PM. This army has a long way to go. I was so wrong when I said I was getting close.

Got the Storm Talon finished. Snipers should be ready tomorrow.

How is the stormtalon in a game? Oh yes, and of course, great job as always.

Man your army is awesome. Pm me when your going to move it! I want your work .

Seriously great army shot, and great work pace.

@Largeblastmarker- Well, I dont know how to play so I dont know how well the Storm Talon does. But it looks freakin sweet.

@panda- Thanks man, its gonna be a few more months at least. Im really digging those Eldar of yours.

In the meantime, start of the Assault Squad and better pics of the Talon. Snipers are done too. Tried to make the cloaks resemble the grass.

I have to agree the pace you paint at is admirable. Really impressive man.

Love your work.

Is that cork you have on the bases and how did you do the rocks? I may have to steal that for a Nid army I'm contemplating for an escalation league.

@Master Azalle- Its easy to keep a rapid pace when you use basic techniques. The basing is the thin version of cork boars. The one I buy is the same one they use to make tack boards. The rocks are also the cork. I use my fingers to bereak up the edges. I then take the extra pieces, trim some off the top so its not flat, then glue on to the base. Easy and cheap. I bought 4 12X12 pieces about 8 months ago and still have plenty. Like 5 bucks.

Speaking of a rapid pace, 5 assault guys are finished as are the alternate pieces to the magnetized Rhino.

sweet rides man!

Those poses are sooooo badass.

Thanks gents. More to come in the form of brand new kits! I got the codex, very nice. Centurions, which I planned to skip, actually look pretty good. Sternguard present a slight problem. Gorgeous sculpts and sprues. Tons of pieces and details. Worth every penny. Problem is they are far more ornate than the rest if the army. I don't think they fit the look very well so I am toning them down.

On another note. Codex page 7, picture of the Emperor, I think, addressing his marines. Right foreground, Emperors Children. Far left, Luna Wolves. There is another banner to the right of the Wolves, under the Emperors billowing cloak. Only other banner visible. Snake? Dragon? What legion is that? One of the two lost ones?

You've got a great force building up her 40kFSU, for me though the jewel in the crown is that drop pod, it absolutely pops. Gorgeous paintwork, the white is so smooth and crystal bright, then the weathering is spot on

 40kFSU wrote:
Thanks gents. More to come in the form of brand new kits! I got the codex, very nice. Centurions, which I planned to skip, actually look pretty good. Sternguard present a slight problem. Gorgeous sculpts and sprues. Tons of pieces and details. Worth every penny. Problem is they are far more ornate than the rest if the army. I don't think they fit the look very well so I am toning them down.

On another note. Codex page 7, picture of the Emperor, I think, addressing his marines. Right foreground, Emperors Children. Far left, Luna Wolves. There is another banner to the right of the Wolves, under the Emperors billowing cloak. Only other banner visible. Snake? Dragon? What legion is that? One of the two lost ones?

Could that be the multi-headed hydra of the Alpha Legion? Did they use that pre-heresy? I'm not very well versed on my traitor legions.

One thing that could help with the sternguard is just to dilute them with tac marines. Or just don't use all the pauldrons, as that is one of more distinct pieces of the kit. I just finished drooling over the sprues myself, trying to decide what to build first. It's nice that GW decided to switch the vets (both stern and van) from finecast to being made out of pure awesome. All it would take would be one or two bits from the new kits to add a lot of class and flavor to normal marines and elevate them to veteran status. Assembling a marine out of just the vet kits is a good way to make captains. I picked up the new strike force, and when I pulled the included multi-part captain out of the box, he was looking forlorn and dejected. Luckily the boys from the first company should have plenty of extras to share. Which is ironic, as the old captain box used to be a treasure trove of bits.

@Ruglud- Thanks man. I was planning on 2 pods but I only had the one giant black RG symbol. I think it makes the model.

@Nevelon- I didn't think of Alpha Legion. I'll take a second look. As for Sternguard, I decided to use weapons, some purity seals and the old command squad shoulder pads like the first 5. The legs will be regular marine legs. New SG legs for the command squad. It makes better sense in my head. May have some pics tomorrow.

And a quick update. Got two Centurions built. I decided to go with the heavy bolted because I want a least one unit that can stand up to a large unit of infantry. These boys should be able to take it and dish it out better. MIssle launchers mounted in the chest gives them a little extra punch I think.

Argh! Sideways pics again! I'll fix later. Sorry.

Your army is coming along nicely

There is something about the centurions that are just not to my taste, I can see the use for them in-game and they would be great to magnetize the weapons for but I don't know they seem like something out of starcraft or some sort of chibi robot thing ,

What are they like to build?

Good to hear from you Noodles. I kinda agree on the Centurion look. They are better than I thought they would be, but arent really Space Marine-y. The aesthetic doesnt really match the other SM stuff. Like the Storm Raven really does resemble a flying Land Raider and the Talon is just as boxy.

They assemble very cleanly and easily. The sprues are easy to work with and pieces come off clean. They were actually funner to build than to look at!

Yeah, i agree. They look like babies taking their first steps. But i love the iron halo on the greaves. Can wait to see what you make of these, regardless of the fact that they aren't ravenguardey at all.

@Largeblastmarker- You want not Raven Guardey? Wait till you see the Land Raider!! These guys have great potential, we shall see soon.

A better shot of all 3 Centurions. Also I have to reconfigure the Vanguard and Sternguard guys. SG will be easy enough, just a weapon swap. Vanguard to Assault will take some major surgery. You can see the first member of the Command Squad. The SG legs will look good on them and really set them apart. I think I will arm them as an assault group.

stern guard box buy... i sees it and i loved that kit.

True that Panda, lots of extra's.

For example, this command squad. I decided not to use the typical squad with the champion and standard. I opted to kit them out as a hard close combat unit. I figure, why not? It's a free slot on the FOC, may as well use it.

Everything looks great, I'm glad you are tricking the army out with the new kits.

Since you're magnetizing a lot in this army, may I suggest magnetizing the back packs on the TH/SS Command Squad that way they can double as Vanguard Vets as needed with jump packs?

Oh and, is any way I could get the extra Centurion head off you for a project of mine? I need a mean-looking helmet to go with an addition to my Imperial Fists.

Really liking that command squad, very cool idea especially with the apoc in the unit keep up the awesome

3++ and FnP. Just try finish of these guys! Game wise these guys would cost almost double the price of a TAS but they look really cool.

@Dinamarth- Yeah these kits really make for a great addition. I think the haunted is going to look really good. Already glued the packs so I am stuck. The thought had occurred to me but the apothecary would require an extra guy for a vanguard squad. PM me your address and I'll get you those parts. Always happy to help!

@bigfish- Thanks man, good to see you are still around.

@Largeblastmarker- "Just try to finish them off". Man that could also apply to painting them!

Centurions. Meh.

PMed!

Not happy with them? They look good and will pump out a lot of firepower with the Heavy Bolters and Missile Launchers!

lookin good.

They look great with those bases.

Your paint job improves those figures greatly.

Wow, thanks for all the comments gents. I'm working on the command squad now. Also rearming the jump pack marines. I will have a 10 man and an 8 man assault squad. Also a 5 man vanguard squad who will roll with Shrike. Also upping the Sternguard to 10. Moving along.....

 40kFSU wrote:
Wow, thanks for all the comments gents. I'm working on the command squad now. Also rearming the jump pack marines. I will have a 10 man and an 8 man assault squad. Also a 5 man vanguard squad who will roll with Shrike. Also upping the Sternguard to 10. Moving along.....

Fantastic!

So what is your ultimate goal unit-wise for this army? Just when I think it's close to done you pound out more units!!

These look beautiful. Can't wait to see more -Feasible

Thanks for the comments guys, glad everyone is liking the army. As for new units and where we are going, no idea. But here is the command squad. I soured a bit on the new models. I think its all well and good to have the ornate armor, especially for elites, but it gets a tad ridiculous. I mean every space on the model doesnt have to have something does it? I dont know, maybe Im just grumpy. The molded scroll work is a beat down.

great squad. really love the feel.

Nice work as usual, that command squad looks nice and elite while still being understated, Not only that, you've made the centurions look amazing, which is quite the feat! I can't quite put my finger on it, but you've made them look more like mini-dreads, rather than upscaled marines.

It's hammer time! Nice command squad.

@panda- Thanks Panda, they are pretty good, not quite bad ass though......

@Paradigm- hey, thanks for that centurion comment. It's funny, usually when a new kit comes out they are all over the place. Especially in the showcase thread. I haven't seen any. I don't think I will be buying another set.

@Dinamarth- Thanks man!

So I rearmed the Sternguard with the new weapons. Also redid the shoulders. Those weapons pop. Will be adding 5 more guys.

Those are some pimp sternguard.

Thanks Largeblastmarker. The new kits are great and all but too ornamental for RG. I just used the weapons and Crux Termanix symbols to mark their veteran status. Now, the Vanguard are totally different story. These guys look awesome. They are just right and I think look great. I was looking over things and I only have 2 tanks, 2 bikes, and 8 marines left.......

Oh, and these guys are gonna roll with Shrike.

Nice squad of mini-Shrikes, very dynamically posed.

That squad should be devastating against power armored foes.

Excellent Vanguard and Sternguard! Super awesome. However, on the plasma you should add just a touch of white to the corner of it to add a small glowing effect. I also enjoy that you don't have your power weapons radiate power.

Thanks or all the comments, gents. I do appreciate them. Panda I plan to redo he coils when I fix the rest of the power weapons in the army. In the meantime I kit bashed a librarian using parts from the Sternguard and Grey Knights sets. I think he turned out nicely. I really like the new librarian model but I guess I am too cheap to buy him.

Why is he mounted on such a large base? also he should have a more dynamic pose!

I love the mini shrikes. very killy in cc. and well painted!

Nice libby, I actually prefer them fairly static, like he's concentrating really hard on melting some poor xenos guy's brain. The larger base is also nice, it really emphasises the pose and is something I do on most HQs.

I really like your kit bashed libby over the new libby.

The kitbashed Libby is top notch. Good job on him. Could also add a book or something to his belt if you wanted.

@Largeblastmarker- Just mounted him on that base to paint him. he gets a regular sized one. As for the pose, see below.

@Paradigm- Thaks man, I was going for a Darth Vader pose Like the scene in Star Wars when he chokes the guy out and explains "I find your lack of faith disturbing".

@Panda- Thanks man. Your competition is rolling along, everything looks great.

@Dinamarth- I threw a scroll on him for good measure. Also I should have your package out today.

And now, the finished Librarian.......

IMpressive Librarian man! Well done!

The blue needs highlights. trust me, I know this. Otherwise, solid model, but you know I know you can do better, but what you don't know is that I know you know you wana do better.

Aha, I understand the pose more now. Not sure how I didn't see that before, as I've always associated that with the DV libby, to which this one is similarly posed.

Nice paintjob, but I'd second the call for more highlighting on the blue, as compared to the rest of the army he looks a little flat. Great work on the face and weathering, though.

Thanks gents glad y'all like him. You are correct on the highlights. I was trying a new combination of blue and washes and thought it Would work a little better.

In the meantime, the next batch is ready to go. The Hunter is a great model by the way.

Sweet land raider. IT seems abnormally fearsome.. i bet it is because the symbol doors you use.

I like the Hunter/Stalker but I'm just not keen on the stabilizers.

Eager to see this batch finished...

@panda- Thanks, those FW doors add a lot.

@Dinamarth- I agree totally. I thought about cutting them off. As for the next batch.....

2nd Assault Squad is finished.

Nice ASM, great use of kitbashing and nice dynamic posing.

Thanks Paradigm. How about a little Hunter action, this guy is pretty sharp.

 40kFSU wrote:
this guy is pretty sharp.

Wow. I agree.

That is an awesome hunter. Props to the paint.

You know blast marker, those ultras oaf yours could use some AA support!

Thanks panda. Say, isn't it a little late to be surfing Dakka?

 40kFSU wrote:
You know blast marker, those ultras oaf yours could use some AA support!

Thanks panda. Say, isn't it a little late to be surfing Dakka?

never to late.

Looking good. Can side panels from a regular rhino be used when building a Hunter/Stalker?

 Dinamarth wrote:
Looking good. Can side panels from a regular rhino be used when building a Hunter/Stalker?

Disclaimer: This info is from me researching pictures, not first hand

You can see the sprue pics on GWs site for the stalker/hunter. It -looks- like they are just add-ons replacing the normal doors (which are still included in the kit). If you left them off, I'd be concerned that the tank would end up looking very top heavy with the massive cannon. But it looks like it would be possible to do. I think a better option would to just carve off the pegs, so it looks like they are retracted while the tank re-deploys. This way you still get the mass of the side panels to balance out the cannon, but not the nailed to the ground look.

But on the topic of the one in this thread, excelent as always!

 40kFSU wrote:
You know blast marker, those ultras of yours could use some AA support!

They have a quad gun, and a nice whirlwind which will double as a stalker, and like 4 guys with missile launchers in case I really need flak. I should probably take a pic of it...

Yeah those panels are like the Vindicator extra armor. You don't have to use them, but you should because the Rhino isn't hefty enough looking for that gun. There is one great thing about this kit. I think you have the parts to build both weapons. It's not an either/or. I'll let you know.

 40kFSU wrote:
Yeah those panels are like the Vindicator extra armor. You don't have to use them, but you should because the Rhino isn't hefty enough looking for that gun. There is one great thing about this kit. I think you have the parts to build both weapons. It's not an either/or. I'll let you know.

you do, newer kits seem to have all the bits.

Thanks for the info. I think I'd only ever run a Stalker with my local meta, I think it's better against skimmers. So maybe it'd look fine with the smaller guns?

Yeah, I think it would.

Finished the last 2 Sternguard and the Land Raider. Because that's how I roll.

Great work. That LR is awesome, really menacing.

Sweet raider box. You paint so fast, I am impressed.

I love the weathering. Not too much , just right

A truly menacing army, that LR however is nothing but a snack for my Ymgarls...

A sternguard sarge with no boltgun? pure heresy man. good work!

EDIT; i noticed that the cases around the las are green, but the hb case is black. Lol. interesting.

 Largeblastmarker wrote:
A sternguard sarge with no boltgun? pure heresy man. good work!

EDIT; i noticed that the cases around the las are green, but the hb case is black. Lol. interesting.

Well variety is the spice of life! It's also heresy.

Holy cow that's a lot of responses. Thanks everyone I'm glad you are all enjoying the army.

The last pieces have come in. A couple bike guys, one of which I am making up as a Captain. Notice the other bikers have a little work done. I replaced the flames and guy pointing with melta guns. I figure this squad is pretty hard hitting now, 2 meltas, a plasma pistol, and a multimelta. That's gotta ruin somebody's day. Shrike has also made an appearance. I figure this project should be finished by the end of the week.

Omg finaly, shrike! Can't wait to see.

Awesome work on the Landraider 40k, I do love your vehicles and flyers...

Thanks Ruglud and blastmarker! It's winding down. Here is the rearmed bike squad and mounted captain. Shrike is all that's left then we are done.

Excellente! such fast work!

How's this for fast work?

a LC is missing a blade!

Naw, he just left it in a xeno's torso; he knows where it is.

Awesome and fast work on the bikers and Shrike, both are looking epic!

How do you paint your bases?

@blastmarker- Yes, I managed to cut it off when I was cleaning him from the sprue. Nice move n my part.

@DarkSoldier- Ha! Better than my story!

@Paradigm- Thanks man, I appreciate it. I don't care for Shrike that much. He has too much stuff on him. I don't get how he moves super fast and stealthily with all that crap hanging o him.

@Master Azale- it's a thin cork base I got at Target. Bandit black, Rhinox hide watered down, wash Agrax Earthshade. Dry brush of Mournfang brown. rocks are bits of cork painted Stormvermin fur, washed in Nuln oil, dry brush in administration grey

So here is the finished army. It's about to be packed up and may go on eBay in a few days. Anyway thanks for all the views and comments, you guys are great. See you on the next one.

That is a great army and should fetch a nice price, very rarely do entire armies of this quality surface, for sale or otherwise, so you should be justifiably proud.

It's a shame to see this blog end, the quality and speed were both great. I look forward to the next project.

Very Nice!

Wow brother, that's an awesome army shot. Sooo many different lists can be made out of what you have there.

I'm guessing (roughly with out actual numbers) that you dropped a little over a grand on the whole shabang. How much do yuo plan on selling it for? if you don't mind me asking, lol if you do, i understand.

Wow, you've finished already

Looks fantastic, It's a really great looking army. Best of luck with the sale mate, make sure you get the model cost back.

Any thoughts on where you are going to go next?

Thanks a lot everyone. I have a huge bits box and can build a squad with only a few new bits. Also made a few smooth eBay buys so this army didn't run me the 1200 or so it would have cost new. I'm figuring out the price now, just try to recoup what I can for the next project. This is just a hobby for me. I just sell them to justify buying more. At one point I had 6 huge armies.

For the next project I am probably going back to IG. The look is what's giving me problems. Mordians have the look I like. I'm trying to see if there are other options. My all time Favorite are Praetorians. But they are only available on eBay and are stupid expensive. We shall see.

Wow. what a great army. Absolutely fantastic work!

 40kFSU wrote:
Thanks a lot everyone. I have a huge bits box and can build a squad with only a few new bits. Also made a few smooth eBay buys so this army didn't run me the 1200 or so it would have cost new. I'm figuring out the price now, just try to recoup what I can for the next project. This is just a hobby for me. I just sell them to justify buying more. At one point I had 6 huge armies.

For the next project I am probably going back to IG. The look is what's giving me problems. Mordians have the look I like. I'm trying to see if there are other options. My all time Favorite are Praetorians. But they are only available on eBay and are stupid expensive. We shall see.

Hey! I would love to talk to you about the army before you hit it up on ebay. Awesome work as always!

These are a great Mordian alternative;



http://victoriaminiatures.highwire.com/product/tannenburg-palace-guard-complete-10-man-squad

Oh btw, congrats on a nice looking army!

@Largeblastmarker- Thanks man!

@Dinamarth- I've been looking hard at Vic's site. She has a lot of fantastic alternatives. There has always been something I couldn't place about them, then I realized what it is. GW guys are "Heroic" right? Slightly larger weapons. I guess I am use to that because I find Vic's weapons a little small. If I go this route I may use her stuff for heavy weapons crews. The models are great though. GW just ruined me is all.

I hear you. I'm wondering if you could just use Cadian arms/weapons on them though?


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