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Is a unit of 15 viable? they cost 190 points with full comand, i would only use them to warmachine kill as they come on the enemys board edge wherever i like, perfect for taking out artillery and easily earning their points back, but, are they really viable?

I would go the whole hog and get that steam drill for the unit champion. Increased chance of them arriving when intended and the plus 3 strength weapon hits are nice. They're definitely viable for sneaky flank charges, hunting wizards and destroying warmachines.

But 25 points? Its a expensive upgrade.

True but if I was investing in 15 miners I'd be wanting them showing up when I want them to. If you don't get veterans for your core units you'll likely save more than enough points to afford it. I don't use those as I don't see the point in one in ranged units and usually have combat characters in the infantry blocks anyway. I guess its not necessary if you don't mind the added risk of them not showing up.

The steam drill is certainly worth the pts, IMO. If your sole purpose is WM hunting, then maybe you don't need 15, or even the FC. But that Drill increases the unit's reliability, and as such is an auto include, IMO. Still wouldn't field them against Hellcannons.

I used miners last edition and found them good. This edition they have several extra bonuses:
-Great Weapons are better for Dwarves, with their low intitiative and small bases, you are mitigating the main weakness and reap a the reward (10 or so attacks) nicely.
-Charge ranges are pretty extended these days, so they can realistically do more than just kill one or two warmachines. (My miners did more than that anyway, but now it's even more likely)
-Dwarves play an overall more aggressive game now, and having that unit behind the enemy to make him sweat helps that along.

I would say miners are a good choice depending on build, and if you're taking them, take the drill. The anvil makes them MUCH more reliable though, and allows them to get off charges the turn they arrive, which can be a nightmare for your opponent. (I am biased though because I love the fluff and models for miners.)