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This may seem like a simple answer, but this topic is sort of a carry over from the Dwarfen Gunline thread, in which, different setups for Hammerers were discussed, and how they work with Cannons and the like. Well, after seeing many different opinions, I thought it would be best to start an actual discussion about them.

Hammerers being probably the most important, or one of the most important units in Dwarfs 8th edition particularly because I regularly run two big blocks of them in my competitve/tournament lits. I find that there is more to them than simply having a big block of 30-40 and smashing away. So my question is, horde? Or no horde? How does a block of 30 in horde with an Organ Gun, compare to a one of 40 in horde. Or, is it better to run them in. 7x5 formation or 6x6. Also something I have been thinking of recently, what is the best Runic Standard to give them, if you were to? I was looking at. The RoBattle, MRoGrungi, and the Rune of Slowness, as all can have benifitial effects.

So, what do you think of the Hammerers? What is really the most affective way to set them up.

IMO 7 wide to maximize attacks if you have 40 or more then horde as they will be striking last and if you horde you want enough bodies for them to take considerable loses and still hit back with full attacks.

I agree on both, however I think that 30 in horde could also be good. The 120pts for a 4th rank could be used for an Organ Gun, which could be used to attack coming infantry before they hit the Hammerers line. As well as assist elsewhere.

I'm not a fan of 40+ because of the points cost. It depends on your tactics I guess whether It's a worthwhile investment. I also find hordes in generally to be a bit too unwieldy, rarely get to fight anything they want to (because low unit-count dwarves are easy to out deploy) and interfere with your IP/BSB coverage unless they go in the horde which you don't always want.

I usually run a pretty balanced list and try to play a smart shooting phase to then win combats. I run either 6*5 or 7*5 (depending on game size) because that's enough to see off weakened units if my shooting is going well and, in the worst case scenario, to put out as much damage as possible (short of horde) until they get wiped out if things don't go their way.

As far as runes go as long as your bsb is around they won't really need anything break test related, although giving them ro Determination is a cheesy option. Mro Grugni is good against the right opponents but if they don't need that then I wouldn't bother giving them one. I don't think the ro Battle is worth it, I'd rather spend the points elsewhere. And I'm bitter that ro Slowness isn't worth 50pts in 8th.

Yeah I also run 7x5 usually two units. It works really well. But I am the same about horde, I feel it can be really good in the right circumstances. Also that 40 is a lot of points, and will throw things off balance really.

I am thinking of MRoGrungi for battling against Lizardmen and Elves and such. The ward save will help,same with RoSlowness, to help against cavalry. But I suppose you are right. If the unt is within range, RoBattle and alike wont really be neccesary.