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So I have small army painted (see http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/627587.page). It just hits 500 point. Currently its a Librarian for my HQ and two tactical squads with Rhino transport. What units/character should I get next?

What chapter tactics are you thinking of using?

Sternguard in a drop pod are a very effective and versatile all round unit.

Thunderfire cannons also seem to pull their weight for the cheap 100 point price tag.

I think most competitive lists run a captain or chapter master on a bike to unlock bikes as troops and then just max squads of those with grav guns

Yeah, whatever you do don't fall into the trap of believing basic heavy vehicles like the Predator, Vindicator, or Dreadnoughts are any good. Most of the time those units are slow, can only bring one weapon to bear at a short range (because of moving), can still get one-shotted by melta (which there's a lot of out there.. every army will have it) and often have confusing load-outs that aren't efficient.

Marines do best with Objective Secured troops and lots of infantry to fullfill most roles. The suggestion about Sternguard in a drop pod is great. I'd also consider a basic Devastator Squad with 4 lascannons. If you play Ultramarines or Imperial fists, power armoured troops are going to do you well as the bulk of your army.

Thunderfire Cannons are amazing heavy choices, and if you are going to need anti-air, a Stormraven is a nice option.

Hope that helps!

I will be honest, devastates with a Libby with prescience are brutal. Plasma, las cannon or missile launcher it doesn't really matter. I love plasma cannons.

I agree with the clincher but with one exception. Tri-las cannon predators can be brutal.

Basically the idea is to add heavy weapons.

Sternguard, Thunderfire Cannons, Stormtalons and Devastator Centurions are perhaps of the most effective units currently

Thanks everyone. What would be the best set up for a Sternguard unit?