Rethinking Veterans

Im reconsidering adding Veterans to my Red Scorpions. To be more specific, Im rethinking the metal Sternguard and Vanguard models. I love the models, but between sculpted details on the shoulders, lack of choice on gear without conversion, and just plain cost, I think Id be better served by using plastic assault and tactical marines. One of the benefits of playing 15+ years is an extensive bits box. Marking these models as veterans is as simple as pulling out a set of Crux power armor shoulder pads (Ive got about 25 in my box). Vanguard Veterans will also need a few power weapons, already included in that kit. Of course, Ill be using the Forge World Vanguard kit for these guys, which shoots down my cost complaint! ;)

Sternguard require a bit more thought. One thing I considered was all combi-guns, but thats a bit more expensive point-wise then I want. Im thinking 2-3 add on combiweapons in the 10-man squad, plus whatever I give the Sgt. So, what about the rest? How will I show that they are carting around more then your average boltgun? Simple. Ive usually added a single ammo pouch to each marine, Ill just overload the vets with them, two of the long pouches, and maybe a smaller one as well if there is space after the grenades. That and a scope oughta do it, right?

Monday Gaming

Had a game against Mikie's Witch Hunters this afternoon, 1000 points. Seize Ground with Spearhead deployment.

We all know Im horrid at battle reports, so as usual we have lessons.

1. Deathcult Assassins are brutal in melee, but drop like flies when faced with a combat squad's worth of fire.
2. I swapped out the Captain for a combat squad of assault marines from my Imperial Fists, to test the list out. They worked about as well as I expected.
3.... err, I need more terrain.
4. I need to add more models to my Devastator squad, to soak casualties.

Monday Top Ten #1

So, I was thinking last week that I should take a look at the posts Ive read from the community as a whole, and share what I thought was the best... My original thought was the three most useful or interesting.... I managed to cut down what I liked to 10, almost. Keep in mind this is what I found most entertaining or useful, its entirely possible someone else will think they are less then useful... oh well. :)

Im planning on making this a weekly effort, so if you see something I should consider for inclusion, email me at my google email, Heretic0977.

With no further ado, and in no particular order:
1. Nick has some nice looking terrain.
2. Jabberjabber's Oblitorater conversion is giving me evil thoughts.
3. Spiffy Pre-Heresy Terminator shoulderpad guide on the FtW site.
4. Death Guard are one of my favorite armies, and John did nice work.
5. Nice looking Novamarines from Natsirtm.
6. Very useful guide to making Daemon armies dual-based for both 40k and Fantasy by John.
7. This post on BoLS just made me laugh.
8. Another useful post from John, I think this rust guide also has potential for making mud.
9. Malcolm's list of slang for his IG Regiment, I lurve the fluff.
10. Disorderly's Tyrant is trying to get back to his blog, lets encourage him!