Cloud Giants - Homebrew Space Marines

[primeministersinister]

Okay dudes. These are my homebrew marines.

Name: Cloud Giants
Home-world: Respite
Gene-seed: Unknown - Records lost
War cry: "By His blood and light."


The Cloud Giants are stalwart and implacable warriors, preferring a slow, steady advance, but only after enemy supply lines and fortifications have been disrupted through a series of simultaneous lightening raids. One of their favoured tactics is to pull an small segment of an enemy force away from the main body, through use of strategic retreats and terrain features, and then overwhelm that segment with vicious force.
Most historians believe they were formed in response to the Emperor's Tarot predicting a great upheaval near the Dalburtus Sector. 101 years after that reading, the planet Respite in that self same sector was given to the Cloud Giants.
Early in the history of chapter, The Cloud Giants had, within their ranks, two sects. Those that believed that The Emperor a God-being, a Divinity which gifted Itself to mankind, and those that believed that He was a leader of men unparalleled, but not a supernatural being. Fearing a rift that would lead to decreased battle field efficiency or even rend the Chapter apart, the first Masters of the Chapter decreed, after much passionate debate, discussion and scholarship, that both views could be held simultaneously. The Emperor was a man who elevated himself to Godhood for the future of men. The white the Cloud Giants wear symbolizes His purity and divinity, and the red represents the body and blood that He gave up for the unity of his Imperium.
Rumours of this open discussion within the chapter has put them at odds with members of Ecclesiarchy and has even earned the undue attention of the Ordo Hereticus at times. This has led the Cloud Giants to be reserved and standoffish with outsiders, even other Astartes. Though, once trust and respect is earned in battle, the Cloud Giants are allies whose commitment to honour is unparalleled. It is often said that the Cloud Giants repay friends and foes with equal totality.
As a relatively young chapter, they lack many of the more advanced or ancient pieces of equipment that older chapters can muster. There are less than 20 suits of Terminator armour in the whole chapter and only 2 landraiders.

I've noticed that better photos lead to better criticisms and comments, so to that end I went ahead and made myself a light-box. I think it really makes a difference. I'll likely repost some of my finished squads and minis as I put up new stuff. I've also started the process of re-basing and retouching the entirety of my Cloud Giants army while replacing some of my less dynamic models with more interesting ones. This initiative has been spurred on by the rumours of the new codex and the fact that I have finally settled on a chapter symbol -- the skull in a red/white halo.
So if anyone knows where to get some Sons of Medusa shoulder pads for a sensible price, hit me up, please.
Now, please check out Tactical Squad Angriff. Missing from the group photo is the battle brother armed with a heavy bolter.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514566_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
The Sargent, brother Roddert Krelwich, is a bellicose commander who encourages fierce competition between the Astartes under his command. He is armed with a Rivitsgard pattern power maul, awarded to him for his heroic actions during the dark campaign which proved to be the bitter salvation of the forge-world. Over Krelwich's twenty years of command, he has honed Squad Angriff into a vicious anti-infantry force, and has managed to requisition several full and partial suits of MK IV armour for the squad, preferring the agility provided by the advanced suits.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514568_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514569_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
Noteworthy is Brother Helio's Rivitsgard pattern flamer. Instead of an external pilot light, this pattern uses an electrical arc to ignite the promethium.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514567_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
Brother Testa's helmet bares the yellow stripe of a Devastator, designating him as the heavy-weapons specialist for squad Angriff.

What do you guys think?

[Dragonlv8]

Looks pretty solid. Would like to see more!

[energongoodie]

Nice stuff BOLS chum. More please :)

[primeministersinister]

Thanks guys! It's great to get so much encouragement from BOLS.
I finished another tactical squad at the same time as squad Angriff and I managed to get some pictures of them. So I present to you, Tactical Squad Obcisor.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514573_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
Squad Obcisor is one composed of the youngest members of the 3rd company, and as such they are often the most eager to prove themselves to their more elder battle brothers. To this end, Sargent Jad Abbenrod has expertly drilled the Astartes in his charge with plasma weapons --a rare weapon set among the Cloud Giants. This load-out sees that Squad Obcisor is usually found in the path of enemy armour and heavy infantry; each battle brother can proudly point to a dozen scars earned in combat.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514574_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
Sargent Abbenrod himself is armed with an ancient plasma pistol, Sunspit, and chain-sword, Hextor, awarded to him after The Crowley Incident where Squad Obcisor played an instrumental role in disrupting the armoured columns of a traitor guard force. He strides into battle wearing a heavily modified suit of MKIV armour, with the notable addition of a MKIII helmet. This helmet lacks the targeting systems of the more advanced suits of power armour, something that the Sargent is proud to tell his fellow battle brothers. Abbenrod is also a skilled diplomat, a trait fostered in all commanders of the Cloud Giants. And as such, he and his squad are often seen in advisory roles to Imperial Guard forces in the systems near Respite, expecting that their favours will be returned at some point.
Obcisor's 2IC is a brash and argumentative Astartes named Barter Reynard (he's they 3ed Veteran Sargent from the old, metal command squad box. One of my favourite models named for a friend and pillar of the hobby who isn't with us anymore). In diplomatic matters, Abbenrod often unleashes Rynard's verbal fury before himself stepping in to smooth things over, allowing the Sargent to look like the good brother.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514580_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
Brother Timmin is armed with one of the few plasma guns in the 3rd company's armoury. His power armour is modified with a MKIII chest plate and a MKVIII helmet with integrated ocular targeter.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514581_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
Squad Obscior exclusively uses the Tigrus pattern bolter, prized for its light weight and simplicity of action.
What do you guys think?

[primeministersinister]

I'm working on some scout bikes right now. They're mostly finished, but something about them feels a bit underbaked to me. I can't put my finger on it.
I love running these guys in games, but I haven't used them in 6th, so I'm not sure how they'll fare.
Anyhow, I'd like someone's keen eyes to let me know what they're obviously lacking. I need a hand with this one, fellas.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5321/9322512023_f16938d689_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7348/9325304058_9162ae5981_z.jpg
I know I have to finish this guy's scope.
I am at a loss. I love the models, but I feel they're not done. Has this happened to you before? Ideas?

[interrogator_chaplain]

Umm, they all look really solid except for minor edge highlighting and the transfers on the shoulder pads. Otherwise they look pretty good.

[Cap'nSmurfs]

These look great, nice colour scheme, conversions and background! Looking forward to seeing more.

[primeministersinister]

So, I just finished some work on my scouts. They had dark-brown fatigues that looked at home in a muddy trench, but once they were re-based, I found them a little too blah. They did blend in, but not in a way that was fun for me, so I repainted their fatigues and did some work on their faces. You can see the old paint job a few pages back along with a bit of fluff about the squad.
Check them out.
Here is Scout Squad Furtiue.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514582_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514583_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
Not being full Astartes, they aren't permitted to wear the chapter's white livery. They're only permitted to wear their red scarves, representing the blood and flesh of The Emperor, once they get their first kill with their knives. Normally used for small search and destroy missions, Squad Furtiue earned a large amount of glory for the chapter when they reclaimed an ancient Predator during a scouting raid in the early days of the Crowley Incident.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514585_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
The scouts use the ash from incinerated vegetation to blacken the blades of their combat knives to cut down on the chance that glare would give them away while hiding in the bush. This is a tradition among raiding parties in the forests of Respite and has found its way into the Cloud Giants' practices. Even full Astartes sometimes go though this pre-battle ritual.
http://images.dakkadakka.com/gallery/2013/7/8/514584_md-Space%20Marines.jpg
Aspirant Asche is the only member that has found much success with the Astartes shotgun.

[Cactus]

Awesome, I love the color scheme!

I would suggest finishing off the sides of their bases with either black or some of the brown from the soil. I think that will really make your mini look finished and not a WIP.

Have you done any vehicles yet? Land speeders seem to be a natural fit for your theme.

[primeministersinister]

@Cactus I think you're right. I will be cleaning up the base edges with black. As for the speeders, I'm going to get a Stormtalon next. I feel that they would allow a rapidly re-deployed, floating firebase that these fellows would really dig. Though I just bought a gently used Contemptor from the internet, so my model budget is done for July. A man needs limits.

I've mulled this over and I think it's okay for the scouts to be a little plainer. So I've not done a whole lot with them, aside from adding some highlights to the wheels and some streaks of grime and dirt on the flatter areas. I also repainted the locking mechanism of the grenade drums to a metallic. I love those weapons. They're such a nasty surprise.
I'm glad you guys like the fluff too. That's the biggest draw for me in collecting.

So moving on, here's the completed Recon Squad Crimea.
The Cloud Giants' 10th company, as per codex rules, maintains a small motor pool of reconnaissance vehicles. Only the most senior of the aspirant Astartes are allowed to ride recon bikes well beyond the safety of secure territory to harry enemy supply lines and strike at supposed safe zones. The mortality rate of these troopers is astonishingly low considering how isolated their engagements are.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3816/9330682748_e5931b54fe_c.jpg
Each aspirant that has been inducted into the 10th's Mounted Recon is then referred to by the title of trooper. Troopers of the Cloud Giants are known for their independent, yet highly fraternal, mentality, often adjusting their orders in the field to allow for attacked on targets of opportunity. It is in Mounted Recon that Cloud Giants learn in earnest to depend on their fellow Astartes and bonds formed knit the strongest armour a warrior is ever clad in: brotherhood.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7368/9327887763_43b1079b3c_z.jpg
Trooper Sargent Crécy has been offered the honour of bringing death to the enemies of the Emperor with a Pugilist Model powerfist. He is often called vainglorious by other aspirants in the 10th, but his superiors know him to be an effective and reliable asset.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3788/9327887455_c8c947dd96_z.jpg
Trooper Allyent is the foremost tracker in the 10th. With his guidance, Squad Crimea has ridden down dozens of foes and struck at dug-in enemy HQ elements, teaching those that would oppose the Cloud Giants that shelter nor flight will keep them from their wrath.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3778/9327887535_83af25eee0_z.jpg
Recon Troopers are cosily at home in the field, and to that end, their bikes are often loaded with whatever supplies they might need to survive days or even weeks without re-supply. Trooper Vasque is the squad's expert in demolitions, and is known for his smirking glee when setting cluster-mines.

[SotonShades]

Great work mate. Those last little touches really make the models pop!

[Popsical]

Great work. More please.
Well done with the fluff too. One reason i bailed on my last gaming group was the lack of depth involved.
I know its not important to most, but i feel an army given fluff and fighting themed battles, is better to fight with and against.
Keep it up.

[magickbk]

Looks awesome!

May I recommend that you edge your bases in Scorched Brown(or current equivalent), rather than black? Brown will have a tendency to blend in with the base more, whereas black will stand out significantly between your model and the table, drawing the eyes away from your paint job.

[GallandroX]

Totally agree re bases. Brown edges compliment the colour of a decent playing surface and blend in to the basing so the base "fades" away and he model stands out better. Also totally love the fluff you have made for these guys, I feel its a massive part of the gane and helps shape the theme. Great work!!!

[Siyanis]

110% Serious, on all fronts. The ash rub on the scout blades is a detail that really transported me to their side, in the thick of it. The scout bikes are amazing. Ditto on the brown base edge. Do the scout bike tires need a bit of muck, or are they already mucked a bit?

*edit* I see some grit and grime in the treads, and the ground does look pretty dry. I think they're mucked enough.

[rusty84]

Great work. More please.
Well done with the fluff too. One reason i bailed on my last gaming group was the lack of depth involved.
I know its not important to most, but i feel an army given fluff and fighting themed battles, is better to fight with and against.
Keep it up.

I completely agree!
Your models look awesome and in my opinion are made even better by the time and effort you have put into creating great background fluff, its something im trying to acheive with my Knights of the Emperor Chapter.
Look forward to seeing more of your models!

[primeministersinister]

Thanks guys! I'm glad you all like the fluff. I totally agree with all you guys and I've started the process of edging my bases with brown. It's attention to detail that we war-gamers are known for and I wouldn't want to make us look sloppy.

Here's some more. This time around, it's a squad of devastators. They still have the black edge, but I'll fix it on the weekend if I get time.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2875/9239600644_0b9a4f2b39_c.jpg
The Cloud Giants' 9th co. operates more like a living armoury rather than a full battle company. As such and in a slight deviation from the Codex, there is no traditional captain of the 9th, instead, a senior tech-marine, known within the chapter as the Mastersmith, holds this office. Being a young and less affluent chapter, each marine of the 9th learns the basics of maintenance of almost every piece of field equipment in an effort to prolong the favour of the machine spirits within. This respect of wargear is prevalent throughout the entire chapter. Here are my representatives of the 9th company, Devestator Squad Střelec. These newly armoured Astartes are attached to the 3rd company in the field.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7343/9236820665_00ea9686fc_z.jpg
Led by Veteran Sargent Aspicio Tireur, clad in his power armour composed of parts from many different MKs. Tireur is a patient yet exacting Sargent, traits that allows him to recommend weapon streams for the Astartes under his command.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2825/9236820945_3c1e123ed1_z.jpg
Bother Hoplite is wearing one of a rare few suits of MKVII power armour available to the 9th, as this armour is usually reserved for more veteran battle brothers. This armour was bestowed to him by the Mastersmith after Hoplite soothed its machine spirit with a preternatural skill.

[primeministersinister]

Double post Tuesday! Holy crow!
It's not much of post, but here's a comparison of the before/after the touch ups on these guys.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3777/9325304544_496634577c_z.jpg
Obviously, I started by changing the eye lens colour to green as opposed to orange. I also made sure that they were highlighted like glass or gems. After that, I decided that the ornaments on regular (insofar as they can be) guys should be bone versus green. Then, I re-applied the base colour, now "The Fang," though this step has happened to both. I'm re-basing the ENTIRE army because of that damned green ring. I think they're looking better, don't you?

[magickbk]

This comparison really shows the differences a few small changes make. The new eyes look great. Keep up the good work!

[Galgaroth]

Cool colour scheme. And the green eyes really pop. Looking forward to seeing more.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks guys. BoLS is the nicest part of the community I've seen lately. So I've scaled back production because of the slew of new boxes that are in the pipe, but I'm still working on updating miniatures and squads. To that end, here is one unit of Sternguard.
As a slight deviation from the Codex, the veterans of the Chapter wear red helmets, and sport the characteristic red and white paldrons of their brothers.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3758/9325304296_181345598f_c.jpg
Squad Standhaft is one of The Cloud Giants most seasoned and battle-proven formations within the chapter. They have formed the implacable backbone of hundreds of engagements within the Dalburtus sub-sector. As the sector is located on the fringes of the Halo Stars, the Cloud Giants have seen and repulsed intrusions into Imperial space from the twisted denizens of that haunted place. Squad Standhalft is drawn from survivors that served in one of the most bloody and distressing of these actions during the Flesh Tithe which saw the population of planet of Letto beset by a blood hungry Necron warhost. The Necron attack was blunted, but only after 60% of the population had been culled and the 3rd company had sustained the loss 4 full tactical squads and the majority of their motorpool.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2807/9325304188_d191cfbbcc_z.jpg
It is the proximity to the Ghoul Stars that has seen the Ordo Xenos pull many Cloud Giants into the Deathwatch, as specialized as they are now in dealing with threats beyond imagination. Honoured Brother Sargent Milton is one such Astarte. He, like the rest of Standhaft, is a quiet and a haunted warrior. He is armed with a Pugilist model powerfist which is produced on the forgeworld of Rivetsgrad near the chapter's homeworld. Additionally, he prefers his ancient bolter, Haldapur, which lacks many of the more advanced systems of newer marks, but is much easier to maintain.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3696/9325304132_5d106f5717_z.jpg
The squad itself prefers the use of Umbra and Godwyn patterns of bolter, citing their compatibility with advanced targeting systems and magazine loadouts as well the barrel durability as the chief reasons for this.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5442/9322511659_fef705a1fd_z.jpg
The Devilspit pattern heavy flamer has found much use within the Sternguard of the Cloud Giants. Here, Brother Promeaunt carries the same one which he carries when clad in one the the chapter's rare suits of Terminator armour.

As a side-note, I hate painting the Umbra pattern bolters. I wish they had released the Seeker ones before I started this. There is also another Sternguard squad to finish rebasing, but that might have to wait.
What do you guys think?

[primeministersinister]

Just a small update, this little fella is what I've been working on lately. http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7332/9538670944_f8e20811d6_z.jpg
I bought him from someone on warseer but he arrived without a head or knee pads. Seeing as they're both on the same sprue, I figure it didn't get packed or got nabbed by customs or something.
I've got to purchace the weapons for him from FW. I might see if they'll sell me the head sprue separately, but I have my doubts. Weaponwise, I'm thinking twin assault cannons with one being magnetized to accept a CCW arm.
In the background, you can see another re-based Sternguard squad. I'll get pictures and fluff up today or tomorrow.

[primeministersinister]

So, I've got the pictures of the 2nd re-based Sternguard.
This is Squad Fest. Brother Sargent Salis has pulled his squad members from members of the chapter who show a predilection for siegecraft. As such, Squad Fest is often used to establish beachheads on the battlefield or to lead the tip of a boarding party.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2815/9595889490_41182cf0ee_c.jpg
Brother Sargent is armed with an Schlag pattern powerfist, a gift from members of the Ghost Wardens.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3705/9595888734_47b2ed6782_z.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5506/9595889012_9c8317c251_z.jpg
Like every Sternguard Veteran squad, squad Fest is always equipped with a heavy flamer for close-quarter engagements.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5335/9595888840_e1a2cd95cf_z.jpg
Squad Fest is known for it's eclectic mix of bolter patterns and armours, though it is skewed towards newer marks of both. As veterans, each Astarte is given much more leeway with their personal armament.

[primeministersinister]

TWO POST SUNDAY!
Additionally to the Sternguard, I finished the base for High Chaplain Guillermo Constans, Master of Sanctity.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2889/9593096427_e4c098be35_z.jpg
I tried to make the bolter casing look like it was a wood grain.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5502/9593096513_36e5acbe92_z.jpg

[interrogator_chaplain]

Wow. These are really great.

I love the little touches like the Deathwatch Sergeant, it gives them history and character which is awesome with armies that have no real backstory. Showing them to be a chapter of distinction and honour.

The 2nd Sternguard squad looks the business. Loving it.

Keep up the good work.

[Azhrarnx]

Awesome looking Marines. Kudos! I like the color scheme. Excellent basework. Nice detail work. Overall very well done.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks guys! Such kind words.
@interrogator_chaplain: I'm trying to fill out the back story for these guys as I go. Each post of finished models is going to have some fluff in it. Also, as they're so close to the Ghoul Stars, the Cloud Giants make great Death-watch members and offer their services as often as they are needed.
I do find that the 2nd Sternguard squad looks a bit ramshackle, but what can you do? They look great on the table top.

So I'm working on the final tac squad for this army (maybe). I started a new, big-kid job recently, and we're in the middle of a huge project, so I've been way busier than I anticipated. Which sadly means I have less time to split between my social life and 40k.
Moving on, these guys will be the ones that get the buff from my count-as Sicarus, so I want them to look very tactical, so they'll have little in the way of purity seals and scrolls and a lot in the way of grenades, knives, and ammo packs. Also, I'm scouring my bitz box for as many MK8 torsos as I can find. These boys are going to be well protected.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3745/9715376726_4b5ca33d19.jpg
The Sarg is armed with a FW bolt pistol and chainsword. Also, he has a few bitz and bobs from the command box.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7334/9715376690_d46bdf8698.jpg
I really like that you can build two full sets of beaky armour. Normally I dislike the Corvus helmets, but they've grown on me.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3832/9712145073_687ddfca86.jpg
More FW parts. I trimmed the outer section of the wings on the torso off with a hobby knife, just to make it look a little less ornate. I did the same thing with the scroll work on the grav-gun. It had to go to fit in with the direction of the squad.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3705/9715376704_b7a1bce65a.jpg
I really like that you get some aiming arms. Such a good addition to the box set.
Does the neck of the guy in the back seem too long? Should I trim something to really fit the helmet in?

[primeministersinister]

I've fixed the head so it rests a little deeper in the gorget.
I'm halfway done with these guys, so I figured I'd show you a quick pic. I didn't bother busting out the photo box, so bear with the quick snap.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2846/9914704943_1db1315470_c.jpg
I didn't drill out the grav-gun because I wanted it to look more like a ray gun or an electro-magnet or something. There's one more set of MKVIII that will go in this squad FYI.
Thoughts? What have you guys been doing with the grav-guns, and how have you found the new kits at large?

[Cpt Codpiece]

i love the auspex beaky but why no FW umbra for him ;P that would have made him even more baddonkey.

i am in the middle of painting up a new tact squad ATM and i love the new kit, the poses seem more natural and the minis are better scaled too, hopefully getting a few sternguard boxes and some vanguard to use as plain assault guys :)

[primeministersinister]

Here's Squad Cesarette, the 1st Tactical Squad of the 3rd company, and is composed of the most veteran Astartes of the company and thusly they are armed and armoured with some of the most advanced equipment available to bring to bare against the enemies of the Imperium. Their most recent and notable achievement was carrying out a mission to assassinate the monstrous leader of a Birchmen Colony and its retinue casting the invasion on Mastodon III into complete disarray, allowing the rest of the chapter to defeat by details, moving the timetable of the planet's defence by several months. It was in this action that Brother Meurta lost his right leg, since replaced by a bionic prosthesis.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7301/10682719316_c3af713ef2_c.jpg
Sargent Mısarque has spent years ensuring that he could clad the Astartes under his command in the MKVIII plate,valuing it's high gorget that eliminates the shell-trap around the neck of older MKs. These four warriors along with Misarque form an implacable bulwark of the squad. Innumerable attacks have been broken against these giants and the added protection of the MKVIII will see that many more will.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5506/10682676315_acbcafc2f4_c.jpg
Given their elite status, the individuals in Squad Cesarette are given leeway to arm themselves as they see fit to a certain degree, which accounts for the amount of variation in the choice of boltguns. While any member of the squad could serve as a designated marksman, but that honour is split between Brothers Rede and Casteur (far left and right) both armed with Umbra Pattern boltguns, prised for the large ammo capacity and integrated targeting systems.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7328/10682676045_1673d42a5d_c.jpg

So that's this squad finally finished. I think it'll be the last tac squad that I'll be doing for a long time. Thoughts, guys?
Also, I still haven't gotten a head or knee pads for the contemptor, so he's sitting unfinished right now, which is KILLING ME. Does anyone have a spare or an idea on what to use a replacement? I'd pay money or pray to a dark god for you if you did.

[phil035]

I'd say go buy a new one and then call up FW and tell them it didn't come with it

[hunterbob]

Just a small update, this little fella is what I've been working on lately. http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7332/9538670944_f8e20811d6_z.jpg
I bought him from someone on warseer but he arrived without a head or knee pads. Seeing as they're both on the same sprue, I figure it didn't get packed or got nabbed by customs or something.
I've got to purchace the weapons for him from FW. I might see if they'll sell me the head sprue separately, but I have my doubts. Weaponwise, I'm thinking twin assault cannons with one being magnetized to accept a CCW arm.
In the background, you can see another re-based Sternguard squad. I'll get pictures and fluff up today or tomorrow.

I have Knee pads and Head if you need them. :)

[hunterbob]

Just give me a shout.

[energongoodie]

I'm loving these marines!
Great work :)
I'm looking forward to more.

[Craig Boyce]

I don't play anymore but I love your work keep it up...ps: any thoughts on adding termies or it doesn't fit with your chapter?

[Peter Coleman]

I am really digging these man keep it up.

[Richard Barnes]

I think I've got an idea on why you think the bikers are unfinished: they'd look great with mud detailing on the wheels, footplate and the lower legs. Shows they've been out in the dust and dirt for a while...

[primeministersinister]

Thanks for the feed back guys, it's all really helpful in getting this army as characterful as I want.
@hunterbob: shout given.
@craig: I will be adding terminators. In this chapter, suits of terminator armour are rarer than in most forces due to how far out on the fringes they are. I can't imagine I'll be doing more than ten total.

[hunterbob]

In-boxed you. :)

[primeministersinister]

"Brothers, prepare for greatness."
-Knight-Lord Tyrion deGrasse, Master of Chapter, High Regent of Respite, Bearer of the Vernier Blade.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2820/10787929823_6ba1f9d852_z.jpg
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2847/10787929483_e334e0b242_c.jpg

I'm finally finished my chapter master. He's based on the new chaplain model with a bunch of FW parts. I'll get some fluff up for you guys eventually.

[Darren Richardson]

Wow your conversion work on your Chaptermaster is amazing.

Just a quick question, how did you get the sword to really POP like that? The paintwork on it is amazing.


"Brothers, prepare for greatness."
-Knight-Lord Tyrion deGrasse, Master of Chapter, High Regent of Respite, Bearer of the Vernier Blade.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2820/10787929823_6ba1f9d852_z.jpg


I'm finally finished my chapter master. He's based on the new chaplain model with a bunch of FW parts. I'll get some fluff up for you guys eventually.

[Cpt Codpiece]

i love the use of the new chaplain, way better than stock model.

the whole force has a very 2nd ed feel to it, at least from my eyes..... i likey

[Wolfshade]

I very much love these.

use of older armour marks very swish. I think my favourite unit is the sternguard so far.

[primeministersinister]

Gee, thanks guys. It's mighty nice to know there are people out there liking what I'm doing with these guys.
@Darren Richardson: Thanks a lot. I can do a tutorial for the power weapon if you like. It's pretty easy. I did the energy arcs in three steps with P3 Necrotite Green, then I added a little white and painted within the shape I just made, then went with straight white inside that, taking care to focus on the areas where the energy splits. Then, I used one layer of a straight Necrotite Green glaze (water down your paint to the consistency of milk)to blend the layers.
@Cpt Codpiece: Yeah, the pose is awesome, but the armour isn't very chaplainy itself. These guys are totally inspired by that era. I just love the art around the space marines from that time.

[Sarp3Don]

Wow, great looking Marines! Love the different MK types! Very nice indeed! :) Only thing you could add/change, is to use one brighter colour to accent the scorpion green(?). At least for the eyes, to make them a bit more shiny. But thats just my opinion :) Nice armour-colour and conversions (even if all stays the same of course! ;) )

[primeministersinister]

So thanks to the excellent gentleman, hunterbob, a head and knee pads for the contemptor arrived in the mail for me this week. I've also been silly busy this week with real life nonsense/Grey Cup coverage. But some wise painter once said that a few minutes a day is all it takes to finish big projects quickly. So tonight, while my girlfriend was at the gym, I managed to get a small part of the project done.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5515/10956369106_7cd0b4ff40_z.jpg http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5540/10956510973_bfbfbcfffc_z.jpg
I'm pretty pleased with it, especially the chipping on the white stripe. They eyes do look a little more jewelled in person. Also, that's a Wild Turkey cork he's sitting on. There are a lot of those around.

[phil035]

We've got to love the community for sharing bits all over the world =D

[Darren Richardson]

Love the weathering work on the contemptor helmet....

It's great that fellow members of the community are willing to help out like that.

[Deadlift]

I'm really enjoying your posts. It's very rare for me to actually like home brew chapters. But what you've done with yours is very fine work indeed.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks Deadlift, that great to hear. I try to make them fun to read about.
So for the next little while, I'll have to put the breaks on new models and supplies. My cat, Beast, had a terrible allergic reaction to a vaccine last weekend.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5543/11126619685_b223fdf0f7_z.jpg
Long story short, thanks to some great emergency room vets, my girlfriend and I are lucky that she's still with us but we're out around $2000. The pharmaceutical company might help with expenses, but I'm still going to have to slow things down for now and into the new year.
Luckily, look who showed up in the mail yesterday. I ordered them well before Catageddon started and I had completely forgotten about them until the arrived like foundlings on my step. While I don't exactly have room for these guys in a list or anything, I don't care, I love the models.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7416/11126136134_436874aaf4_c.jpg
I don't love how the shoulder pads are designed. I feel that they might have been able to accomplish this look by attaching the minor pad to the upper part of the arm itself, but aside from that, I think these guys are the business.
I'm toying around with the idea of painting these guys drastically different from the regular rank and file. Think deathwing. The ideas I've been playing around with are halved or quartered red and white or slate grey. However, I also like the idea of them being painted in the chapter colours.
What do you guys think?

[Darren Richardson]

Sorry to hear about your cat, so glad she has recovered.

As for the Termy's great posing espcially the middle one!



Thanks Deadlift, that great to hear. I try to make them fun to read about.
So for the next little while, I'll have to put the breaks on new models and supplies. My cat, Beast, had a terrible allergic reaction to a vaccine last weekend.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5543/11126619685_b223fdf0f7_z.jpg
Long story short, thanks to some great emergency room vets, my girlfriend and I are lucky that she's still with us but we're out around $2000. The pharmaceutical company might help with expenses, but I'm still going to have to slow things down for now and into the new year.

[hunterbob]

Glad the Bits got to you ok. :)

Hope the Cat gets well soon.

Keep up the painting Dude.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks again, hunterbob. You're a real excellent dude.
The cat is doing well and still spending our money like it's her job. Imagination Christmas!
So I wussed out and went with my chapter colours painted standard on the terminators. Here's some quick snaps of the scheme I settled on.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5522/11216127014_b308b086ab.jpg
I tried to make the white look a little chipped and whatnot. If anyone has a good suggestion for how to make the main colour (navy) looked chipped and worn, I'd like to hear it.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7365/11216143576_ee15e695ec.jpg
I'd like more than one colour to look chipped, you know?
Take a look and thanks for all the great feed back so far.

[Darren Richardson]

I tried to make the white look a little chipped and whatnot. If anyone has a good suggestion for how to make the main colour (navy) looked chipped and worn, I'd like to hear it.

I'd like more than one colour to look chipped, you know?
Take a look and thanks for all the great feed back so far.

I'd personally concentrate on weathering the edges of the armour plating on the termy's rather then do anything on the middles of the panels, as most damage other then battle damage occurs on the edges of metal plates first where the edges get banged and scuffed, the protective paintwork then chips and rust then sets in underneath the rest of the paintwork, think infected wounds when picturing such damage.

Or don't if that image is too disturbing :)

[Pauly Addams]

Wonderfully characterful army, must look smashing on the table top. :)

Really like your mix of older armours among your forces and the 'un-blinged' Sternguard are a favourite. I hate bling on marines.

Army shot?

~Pauly

[primeministersinister]

Darren: That's a good thing to keep in mind and it'll really help it look natural. Thanks.
Pauly: They don't look too bad, I'll try and get an army shot soon. I like to keep the bling to a minimum on the rank and file.

So I've not been totally lax since Christmas. I did manage to get an assault marine Sargent painted today and get a little more work in on the terminator squad.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3800/12039463376_1346ec34db_z.jpg
I sculpted the mohawk myself. All the assault marines are going to sport that do. I think it looks super aggressive and is a bit of a throw back to the early models. Also, his hammer is from the FW kit.
As a fun aside, I found this guy and around 15 of his friends while I was back at my parent's house. You can see how far my painting has come.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/12039006804_e878a68880.jpg
They've been cleaned and I'm going to paint them up just for kicks.
Anyhow, any comments are always accepted and I hope you guys are having good new year's.

[phil035]

seems like over the past few days everyone is digging out their old models

[Darren Richardson]

Darren: That's a good thing to keep in mind and it'll really help it look natural. Thanks.

No problems, thats the method I intend to use on my tanks when I finally get round to painting them next month (waiting for payday later this week then I'm ordering several cans of red base colour for my red Templars army, must get a digital camera as well....)


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/12039006804_e878a68880.jpg
They've been cleaned and I'm going to paint them up just for kicks.

Good grief, what were you using to paint them with back then, I am so glad you've stripped them, leaving them like that would be "A Crime Against The Emperor!"

[primeministersinister]

So guys. I finally have a squad finished to show you. I have been working on these terminators since before Christmas so it's nice to get them finished. Next up is my Contemptor because in my head, they're connected, if not by function than by form.
Regardless, these are the guys you want to see.

Unlike other squads in Cloud Giants which are given names upon their formation, The Nephilim as a unit, is as old as the chapter itself. The organization takes its name from the powerful governing warrior councils of Respite before the stability that the influence of the Astartes began to trickle down to trickle into the population of the planet.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7362/12980147684_e266f0547e_c.jpg
Within the chapter, The Nephilim is always composed of five Astartes, drawn from the most respected members of the 1st company. Within the chapter itself, the views on The Nephilim are a mixture of awe and disgust. There are some who feel, thought seldom voice, that their presence brings dishonour to the Cloud Giants. On the battle-field, they are given a singular objective: wounding the moral of the enemy in the most arrogant and cruel ways possible. The halls of the Cloud Giants' fortress-monastery are draped in trophies -- banners, weapons, bones -- taken by The Nephilim. They have crushed artefacts, burned libraries, and killed heroes all in an effort to show the weakness and futility of standing against the Imperium.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2312/12979725525_d5ab118bb4_z.jpg
The current leader of The Nephilim, Rife deGalle, was instrumental in leading the Astartes in his charge against Jan, the Poet-Tyrant of Lim. Without the fervent verse of their leader, the Lim's spirit was shattered and all that remains of them is a footnote in the victories of the Cloud Giants.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2876/12980146894_caa374bbd4_z.jpg
As they often stride into the thickest opposition, the five of The Nephilim are clad in the chapter's only suits of Tartaros terminator armour. They are proud warriors, and each one takes a quiet joy from the barbarism they inflict on their foes.

[Darren Richardson]

Unlike other squads in Cloud Giants which are given names upon their formation, The Nephilim as a unit, is as old as the chapter itself. The organization takes its name from the powerful governing warrior councils of Respite before the stability that the influence of the Astartes began to trickle down to trickle into the population of the planet.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7362/12980147684_e266f0547e_c.jpg

Wow Love the work gone into these guys, and not just the paintwork either, your fluff is very interesting and creative as well.

[Levaticus]

I'm glad to see you've got enough time to paint again. I've been keeping tabs on this project since it started and i absolutely love it. Your work (on your miniatures and your fluff) serves to continually inspire my own efforts in making a homebrew chapter.

[primeministersinister]

So guys, I got some progress made on the Contemptor. These models are a joy to paint and I've been enjoying sourcing lots of photos of other people's dreads. I'm lucky we're such sharing community.
I've been trying out some marco photography apps lately on the ol' smart phone and I think it's pretty handy for crappy-light snaps of in-progress work. I'll keep it on the phone.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3698/13233340404_0e35f6b300.jpg
Here's a close up of the head in the recess. I'm pleased with the lenses on the eyes, I gotta say. That was last night's progress
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7194/13233341504_c121c5fa1c_z.jpg
And here's how far I am tonight. I'm just waiting for a wash to dry so I figured I'd snap some pics and get them up for you guys to see.
Thoughts?

[Levaticus]

Looks great. Just curious what you've been using to base the army with?

[interrogator_chaplain]

Looks like cork and basing sand if I'm not mistaken...

[Darren Richardson]

the new contemptor looks a right fearsome beast, good work!

[primeministersinister]

Thanks guys!
Yup--Basing is just cork and Gale Force 9 gravel or sand, I can't remember which. The cork was purchased as a tile from a dollar store. It's a bit thicker than I need sometimes, so I usually split it with a utility knife or something. It'll dull the blade very quickly, so you should use a cheap one. Some people say it's a good idea to seal the cork with diluted PVA glue, but I think as long as you hit it with a solid coat of primer, you'll be good. Note that I try to prime my bases separately.
You can find lots of gravel and sand cheaper at model railway places too.

[primeministersinister]

In life, Hiron Delle was the first Sargent of the Nephilim. His last mission as a natural Astarte was leading his men on a daring raid against a radical and clandestine Mechanicus cult that had begun to twist their tendrils into the upper echelons of the leadership of Rivitsgrad, a forgeworld in high-standing with the Cloud Giants. It was agreed by the masters of the chapter that this taint had to be ripped out by the root, quietly, before it could spread, so the most brutal, hateful Astartes within the chapter, the Nephilim were employed.
The attack was swift and spared few; the terminators teleported inside the factory-shrine and began the cleansing with little resistance.
Hiron was the unlucky individual who stumbled upon the leader of the cult, Magos Al'Rey Dim. The two clashed, the Magos' altered body an even match for a Nephilite.
When the rest of the squad found them, flesh and machine were torn asunder, but lift still clung to Hiron. The loyal elements of the Mechanicus on Rivitsgrad bore his body away in an attempt to help and for years, that was the end of it.
Eventually, he was returned to the chapter as a living artefact.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/13278663975_45e5355efb_z.jpg
Since his return, he has been known as Rephaite, the Unslain, so named for the legends of ghosts that haunt the mountains of Respite.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7329/13278996544_d970c3020f_z.jpg
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3812/13278997174_61c8a1d397_z.jpg
Rephaite still watches over his Nephilim whenever they are deployed along side a regular detachment of Astates, but he is most often awakened as council as his ability to understand the battlefield psychology of foes, both traitors and xenos, is unmatched within the chapter.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3732/13278994964_b7343fba51_z.jpg

[Darren Richardson]

love your paintwork, and your fluff is very well thought out as well

Great Work

[primeministersinister]

Thanks Darren.

I've been reading the new(ish) Crimson Slaughter book and the character of Captain Eli Dzarton really struck a chord with me. I've always been into the individuals that stick to their principals in the face of rebellion. So once I read about him, I just knew I was going to build Dzarton of the 4th company of the Crimson Sabres.
And I did.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3739/13907877672_856fb31d69.jpg https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3675/13930994605_7a2753d9eb.jpg https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7391/13907865511_90e9780514.jpg
Obviously, I had to arm him with a sabre. I also thought that he should have a plasma weapon because it mirrored Kranon's pistol and it's great for blowing open chaos marines. I went with a combi-plasma over a pistol because it seemed like a more disciplined weapon, and I imagine something that Dzarton would be constantly wrestling with discipline; both of his men and in himself.
As for notes on the crimson colour, I used whatever the blue was that GW has out over their base red. I like to shade cool colours with warm and warm with cool. I think it turned out.
I think I might do a small army of the 4th company. It's a nice break from blue and it would make me practice my weathering quite a bit. I might finally get around to getting some powders. Can someone recommend any?
Thoughts?

[Darren Richardson]

wow that guy is beautiful....

Sadly I haven't used any weathering powers before, I'm interested in them myself.

[primeministersinister]

So I picked up some Secret Weapon weathering powders from Meeplemart on the weekend. Turns out I live 15 minutes away from their brick and mortar. Anyhow, I've been trying them out on a few test models, I used the rubbing alcohol technique at first, but that seems a bit out of my league right now, so I just dusted them on with an old brush.
Anyhow, this is my first attempt at using them, so any advice on powders is welcomed. I figured Rephaite and the Nephilim would be the best candidates once I got the hang of it.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5588/13983270473_c34f9499e6_z.jpg
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5318/13940192206_0da2c98a66.jpg
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2917/13983270233_3fd11e7df2_z.jpg

What do you guys think of the weathering?

[Darren Richardson]

looks amazing

[Levaticus]

This really adds to the model.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks guys!
Here's a look at what I've been working on lately. The beginnings of the Crimson Sabres 4th co.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2932/13891306919_3e2dc0abe6.jpg https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2940/13891306799_c8cdc026e0.jpg
I will weather him and chip up the chapter symbol before he's done. I'm waiting on bitz so I can start building the rest of this tac squad. If anyone has any ideas on how to make thee guys looks super desperate and cut off from normal supply chains, I'd love to hear it.

Additionally, I am going back and adding weathering to my Cloud Giants a squad at a time.
Check it out.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7397/13891300807_322d412dbf_c.jpg

[primeministersinister]

Howdy guys. I've made a small bit more progress on the Crimson Sabres 4th company project.
So far I've managed to get half a tac squad done.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3724/14299049381_967b3faea4_c.jpg
There's a little weathering powder on them, but once I hit them with some dull coat, it all but vanished. I would love to hear someone else's experience with this.
Also, I think the dullcoat might have moved the blue value of the red, but I think I might just be crazy.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3787/14322573023_301fd9cee5.jpg
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3675/14302401615_506ca56c3b.jpg
I'm really pleased how the shaved down wings look on the fella on the left.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2927/14115773570_310019dcb8.jpg
Also, I love making squad marksmen, so I figured I'd give this one a bolter with a big box mag just for the heck of it.
Let me know what you fellas think and if you have any advice on weathering powders. I'd love to hear it.

[Levaticus]

I can't give you advice about weathering, but you could try adding some apprent battle damage to help with the "cut off from supply lines" look. As usual they look great!

[primeministersinister]

Hey guys,
So I've managed to finish the world's slowest tac squad on Friday.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2934/14401471688_57813b9074_c.jpg
I managed to rough them up a little with a chipping technique and the new(ish) technical line from GW. The technical paints are an okay method, but I found I don't love the affect against red. It does look a lot better over metal. Painting chips out of the armour I found gave me a more satisfying look, but didn't stress the fact that they were cut off from normal supply lines.
I sprayed the backpacks/power plants and shoulder pads with white primer separately and unattached. Then I hit them with a heavy was and reapplied white to get the depth and finish I wanted. That saved a lot of time and mental anguish of painting white over black.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3837/14401470658_307e220afa_c.jpg
I tossed in a few Forge World parts I had lying around just to make them look a little more ramshackle. I just received a bunch of FW bolters, but I can't find the motivation to remove and replace all these. I think the next squad will get them.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2927/14565030066_f7eb084ebb_b.jpg
The blonde guy with the flipped up hair is an idea I shamelessly ripped off of Lil'loser's Blood Angels. I find he's a great source of ideas to steal. :) I wanted to have at least one Astarte with his combat knife out, just to show how these guys are a little crazed.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5551/14401470468_3a654dc266_z.jpg
The marine with the metagun has one leg from Kromlech's Legionary Bionic legs (though not the bionic one) that I picked up while bumming around Meeplemart here in Toronto.

So that's the squad as it stands now.

And here's a quick sneak peak on what I'm working on next.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2917/14586220364_4624547d60.jpg

[Darren Richardson]

great work, love the marine with the melta, really looks like he's putting all his bodyweight into the blast recoil with that pose.

and the WIP looks mega bad ***....

[primeministersinister]

Thanks, Darren.
So to go with that jump-pack marine, I'm working on a 5-man assault squad for the Sabres. Here are the rest of them.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2896/14634593574_3dd84295ee_c.jpg
They're mostly exactly how the come out of the box, but I did use some of those bionic legs from kromlech. Also, I'm please how the marine with the chain blade and knife. I wanted him to look nuts and blood thirsty. I think I've been looking at the fabracator general's World Eater's (http://www.warseer.com/forums/showthread.php?396870-The-Bloody-12th) log too much, lol.
Also, I kept looking at the model I put together for Eli Dzarton and just felt that he was a little flat. So I went back into my bitz box to see what I could come up with. Take a look and let me know what you think.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/14636296592_3fc050ee42_z.jpg
I thought I would arm him with a giant chain blade to represent The Teeth of Terra relic. I'm not married to the idea, so I might replace it --what do you guys think?
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3916/14634593204_e9cd9fb66d_z.jpg
Finally, with the old Eli parts back in my bitz box, I'm working up a sternguard squad for this project. I am waiting on some ammo boxes and sights from Anvil to jazz up some phobos bolters. This is the squad leader so far.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3888/14636738265_244fd0a6cd.jpg.

Thoughts guys?

[Darren Richardson]

I like the assualt squad, I just brought a set of Kromlech's Bionic legs myself today from Dark Sphere, the look great, and with all the extra bits I've got from my various marine boxsets, I'll be able to make myself up a very nice veteran unit.

To be honest, that sword just looks too big to be held in the one hand, so I would perhaps try something else, perhaps look around for a shorter style one made by one of the 3rd party parts companies?

Your last guy for your Sternguard looks good so far.

[Levaticus]

I like the assault squad as well. Love the new Eli, especially the maximus helmet with the crest. Maybe use one of the more ornate chainswords from the vanguard vets.

[elcheapodeca]

Very cool. Love the color scheme.

[Meph]

Wow, good stuff, man. Very flavourful marines, great colour schemes.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks guys. I think I am going to use a smaller chainsword on Eli. If anyone has an idea on how to gussy up a MK IV one or has fancy chainsword kicking around, send me a PM and we'll work something out.

Anyway, I got a pretty decent update for you.
So I've been working on a few scouts for this army, just to get that 2nd troop choice. I give you Scout Squad Cable.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2937/14543325968_3330e24290_b.jpg
I wanted them to look a bit more able and grizzled so I used a bunch of the bare heads from the Sternguard set. I always like to mix skin tones, I find that it's a bit more fun and breaks up the monotony of painting only white people's faces. Like all my squads, there is one Astarte kitted out to be the squad marksman, in this case, it's the chap with the scope on his bolter. Go figure.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5557/14543325718_967dde5a90_z.jpg
Oddly, the Sargent looks like my old boss from Kobo. I gave him a bolter from the Sternguard kit, just to make him look like he's armed better than his charges.
I intentionally didn't use any white on these guys because I figured it wouldn't help to skulk around. I went with the grey fatigues just because I thought it went well with the red. I tried a test mini with brown boots, but they looked too much like moccasins, which, while hella comfy, not exactly tough looking.

There's also been some progress made on the assault squad.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3898/14543330999_436392254f_c.jpg
I figure that I'll weather them all at the same time.
I found some tiny ceramic bricks out at a hobby store while poking around on a day trip with my girlfriend. You can see them on the assault marine bases. I think I'll do the whole army like this. I can go back and add a brick here or there on the other squads just tie everything together.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2896/14749831213_fefd90bccb_z.jpg
It's such tiny work, but man, is it ever meditative.

What do you all think?

[Levaticus]

The crimson sabres inducted the ever lovable BA Baracus.

[Peter Zuidgeest]

Love the army so far.
Great work, keep it up! :)

[Darren Richardson]

great work on the scouts, and those assualt Marines :drool:

What's the name of those bricks? who makes them? they look interesting....

I might try to get hold of them if I can and use them on my Empire army....

[primeministersinister]

@Leviticus: Burn the Heretic. Kill the Mutant. Purge the Unclean. Pity the Fool.
@Darren: They're from Secret Weapon. I like the look of them a lot. They're really easy to use. I employ thinned pva glue like I would with flock or gravel. You can seal them again with the pva, but I don't think you'd need to once you hit it with a spray undercoat. They also break well, if you want to do ruins or some such thing. Here's the meeplemart linke: http://www.meeplemart.com/store/Search.aspx?SearchTerms=ceramic%20bricks

I got the assault squad finished. I'll get pics up tomorrow with some words about weathering.

[primeministersinister]

So, I got an update for you guys.
I finished the Assault Squad and I am really pleased with how they turned out. I think the finish on the reds could have been a bit smoother, but I'm okay with it.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2907/14602875657_f219b3552c_b.jpg
The jump packs we weathered with black and brown. The two on the left were dry brushed with pigments and then sealed with Testor's dull coat. The two on the right were hit with two pigment washes.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3858/14787032134_5e99cff074_c.jpg
I like the effect of the dry brush more, but I think my pigment wash was too thick. I can see how useful the wash is though. I would use it on tanks and vehicles more than infantry though. There's a great tutorial on youtube by Secret Weapon. check it out if you're interested.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3904/14602720069_044359de55_z.jpg
Okay, I know I said they were done, but I need to finish ONE chapter symbol and a yellow stripe on a chain sword. I got antsy to get pictures and forgot to do it last night. I'll fix it soon eventually.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2898/14602719969_62d866ff8e.jpg
Lastly, here's a close up of the guy with the Kromlech legs. I would really recommend keeping a set of them in your bits box.
So, thoughts?

[Darren Richardson]

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2898/14602719969_62d866ff8e.jpg
Lastly, here's a close up of the guy with the Kromlech legs. I would really recommend keeping a set of them in your bits box.
So, thoughts?

The squad looks fantastic, this guy with the Krmolech legs looks real badass, I really must start building some marines with the set I brought earlier this month....

[Meph]

Looks great, nothing much to add, really. Except maybe a dusting of the feet and lower legs was somengrey weathering powder to blend in with the base.

[primeministersinister]

Hey guys,
I got my five man sternguard squad finished, though I might go back and add a sixth (-tenth, maybe) member armed with a heavy flamer.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5595/14879752546_3cfa311bfd_b.jpg
I'm really pleased with how they turned out. I totally stole the gold face mask from Elfaen's Emperor's Children (http://www.warseer.com/forums/showthread.php?385621-Elfaen-s-Loyalist-Pre-Heresy-Emperor-s-Children&p=7226573#post7226573), but considering how cool it looks, I don't he'll mind.

I was a bit hesitant to use the corrosion effect on them, so pleased as I was with the paint job, but I figured these guys would be in the middle of the thickest firefights, so I had to ding them up a little. All in all I think the weathering turned out okay. I'm still getting the hang of pigments and the like.

Also, I picked up the "Blood for the Blood God" technical paint to make a few guys look slaughter hungry. Check it out.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3873/14902403132_26b9c18912.jpg

Let me know what you guys think.

[Darren Richardson]

they look amazing mate, like real veterans, weathered and beat up, but still kicking butt!

Really liking the blood splatter on the Assualt Marines as well

[Levaticus]

The added blood all over the assault marines along with their poses really works for them. Slowly falling to the madness within.... Also the Sternguard look stellar.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks you two. I can always depend on you for feedback.

As for hobby progress, I bought a Stormtalon from a guy on kijiji and it needed a lot of work.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5582/15023533081_bcc1479c4d.jpg
It was provided with only las-cannons, and I wanted to give it missile launchers, so into my bitz box I went. I came up with the Contemptor missile launchers and with some sawing and sanding, fit these bad boys into place.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5591/15003601096_10f83e4511_z.jpg
I couldn't get the cockpit glass off without destroying it, which was a big bummer because I wanted to paint it as though it were lit by the controls at night. Oh well. Next time, right?
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5552/15026601035_e1b618d08a_z.jpg
I'm really pleased with how the weathering on the engines went. I think I managed to make them look used, but not neglected.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5586/14839864779_d163bb906e_z.jpg
Where I couldn't get the cockpit open, I had to paint it as tinted glass, I'm not thrilled with the result, but I'll take what I can get at this point. If anyone has tips for painting glass, I'd love to hear it.
Also, I just realized I forgot to do the chapter symbols (I am so smrt) so I'll go do those tomorrow. I think I'll do the cross sabres in white on the tail.

Additionally, a friend of mine wanted me to do a trial run of an Astral Claw for him and this is what I came up with.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3862/14839864579_6ef6e4a570_z.jpg
Thoughts on what I've been up to?

[Meph]

Your marines bring my heart to joy. They are outstanding. And that little blue line on the loincloth... nice touch! The corrosion & blood effects are done nicely, it seems that GW did something good with those.
The contemptor missiles on that Storm Talon suit it very well, better than the original ones. But one wonders how something valuable like a FW cyclone launcher ended up in your bitz box anyways... ;) But I cry wails of woe that you didn't attack that thing with a hack saw and plasticard... :D

The Astral Claw, I'd give his left kneepad a different colour (blue, black, or white) to break up the grey mass a bit.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks Meph. That means a lot coming from the owner of one of my favourite Blood Angel projects.


Captain of the 4th Company of the Crimson Sabres Chapter, Dzarton was a powerfully built man, even by Space Marine standards, popular not only among his fellow captains but also the lower-ranked Brothers of the Chapter. Though he did not covet Sevastus Kranon's position, it was no secret that Dzarton would likely lead the Crimson Sabres in the future. Following the massacre on Umidia, and the Crimson Sabres' excommunication after the genocide committed on Demetra, Dzarton willingly followed Chapter Master Kranon into the Eye of Terror in a suicidal campaign to seek glorious martyrdom.

When Kranon changed his mind several standard years later and abandoned their cause, Captain Dzarton departed, taking with him many of the men of his former company and the Chapter warship Pride of Rhogon. He swore that if they ever met again with the rest of the Chapter they would be foes. Captain Dzarton and his fifty-nine followers of the 4th Company re-established a secret base upon their old homeworld of Rhoghon in realspace. It is still rad-contaminated, but it is Dzarton's hope to restore the old Crimson Sabres Chapter to Loyalist purity and service to the Emperor. He vowed to hunt down and slay Kranon as his penance to the Emperor.


So I've got the new Captain Eli Dzarton all ready.
Tell me what you think:
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3886/14965759198_2e64a00f88.jpg
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5568/14965610939_b9080b1e81.jpg
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3882/15152334955_f58c5c9058.jpg
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3916/14965653290_b956232fe0.jpg
And here's a shot of the unlikely view of an Astarte running away.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5570/15129301616_57743976ca.jpg

Now that I'm posting pictures I can see a few things I need to do. Weathering, obviously. (How did I forget?!) I might have been in a rush to get pictures up. Also, the shape of this model makes it almost impossible to get a good snap without weird shadows, so sorry for the uglier than usual pics.

I think I like the green power sword, but I'm not sure. The other option was to have done it blue, but I didn't want to get into a situation where he turned out two toned.

Though, I am really happy I went back and remodelled this guy. It gave me an excuse to use one of my favourite models that I've had knocking around for some time, that special edition captain with the thunder-hammer from 6 or 7 years ago.

Anyhow, that's what I've been up to.

[40kGamer]

The green power sword contrasts nicely with the armour and I love the little blue accents you sneak in. They really stand out! :)

[Levaticus]

Amazing as usual, I really like the helmet comb on the maximus pattern helm.

[mjw690]

It gave me an excuse to use one of my favourite models that I've had knocking around for some time, that special edition captain with the thunder-hammer from 6 or 7 years ago.

I love that classic captain from games day. i ended up with about 3 of them for some reason. i use the body for my DA company master with jump pack, great movement.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks, dudes.
So, final touches on Dzarton are finished. I did some glaze work on on his helmet and his lenses, I weathered his legs below the knees with a pigment wash (I've grown to love that technique), and rehighlighted a few parts. I'm always satisfied when I go back and finish these little details, especially on characters.
Also, I decided on the gladius style blade because it fit with the whole comb and Roman style talbard. I find what when you're making your own characters, it's important to find cohesive bitz.
Any way, take a look and tell me what you think of the improvements.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5569/14984251610_8e46ba5238.jpg https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3911/14984174049_e668c11b1c.jpg https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3905/14984327348_b2873b3422.jpg

[Darren Richardson]

he's looking much better now he's properly worn and dirty! :D

[primeministersinister]

Up next is a wonderful Razorback with FW assault cannon turret. This is a little thing for the sternguard to tool around in, just causing trouble.

The FW turret is a joy. Easy to assemble with no fiddly stupid parts. 10/10 would Forgeworld again.
The rhino is part of a lot I picked up on Kijiji. I cleaned it up as best I could, but there are still some ugly, huge joins where glue has just piled up. Get what you pay for, kids.

Anyhow, it's not in a light box this time, but take a look:
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2944/15333972401_3c790550af_c.jpg
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2942/15314117256_7b23445e11_c.jpg

I'm really pleased with the weathering effects. The chipping was done with a sponge and the rust effects are secret weapon powders as usual.
Pro tip: the powders that go on top of dried Typhus Corrosion are going to be super hard to soften with a brush. I had to wet them again to get them back down to acceptable levels of brightness. I haven't varnished it yet, so the weathering should be a little more subtle again when it's sealed.

What do you think?

[Levaticus]

It looks like that Razorback has seen its fair share of battles.

[Meph]

Lovely, lovely. Nice weathering and the FW razorback turrets are a joy, I have three lying around, only one painted though, lol.

Minor gripe; I would have taken more time with some greenstuff and files to clean and camouflage the Rhino's assembly seams. No matter ancient glue, most of it could have been made flush again?

[40kGamer]

Minor gripe; I would have taken more time with some greenstuff and files to clean and camouflage the Rhino's assembly seams. No matter ancient glue, most of it could have been made flush again?

I have personally skimped on this step many times and regret not taking the extra time. Flushing up and hiding all the seams is well worth the trouble.

Outside of that it is a gorgeous paint job and I am envious of your weathering skills. :D

[eetdestroyer]

I love Cpt Dzarton's sword, something about the green tint to the blade actually gives it a kind of glassy impression.

Please tell us what your process was for painting that.

Cheers :)

[primeministersinister]

@eetdestroyer - I used a method similar to this here (http://www.bolterandchainsword.com/topic/223101-tutorial-painting-power-weapons/) though I adapted it for green.

So, I wish I had something more exciting to show you guys. I did managed to fix up a Rhino for my tac squad.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5609/15594232881_fc88c7f2b0.jpg
This was another one that I got used that didn't come with a front visor so I though I would pull something together from plastic card. I think I should have made the viewport a little smaller, but eh, what are you gonna do? I managed to clean up all the joins a bit better this time because of the great advice (and chastising) I got here.

And here it, completed, aside from a coat of varnish. It's raining too hard right now for me to go outside and do it. I did pick up a can of low odour Krylon matte coat which works great and I might be able to use inside when my GF isn't at home. Shhhhhhh....
Anyway, on to the pics!
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3942/15573218486_d4b5eb87c6_z.jpg
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5609/15597738452_64ce71a661_z.jpg
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3944/14976743863_4b4a98e0e6_z.jpg

I've been getting lazy with the pics, I haven't been busting out the photo box as much, but I feel that with tanks, it's okay. Right?!

Anyhow, what do you dudes think?

[primeministersinister]

Also, I managed to squeeze a game in this weekend at meeplemart in Toronto. They have a great space and a great bunch of people there. Highly recommended if you're in the area, and be sure to look me up.
Any how, here are a few shots of my first 7th edition game.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5599/15573432266_92e178037b_c.jpg
The Sternguard left their Rhino to grab an objective and to get out of sight of the approaching Wraith Lord in the background.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5600/14976957773_fbb9999c9d_z.jpg
Assault Squad Sharpe slammed into a vulnerable Guardian squad, but got bogged down in their numbers until a Farseer with a witchblade dispatched them.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3951/15410500229_b05ac70072_c.jpg
The iron spine of the 4th Company, Tac Squad Bradbury along with Librarian Vonneget hold on to the main objective, a secure dustoff point. Librarian Vonneget managed to battle though the Farseer's mental siege to crush a xenos craft designated as a Waveserpent from the sky.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3942/15597950172_aa490f15d2_z.jpg
And here, Captain Dzarton rushes forward to slay the xenos leader in single combat.

[Meph]

That Rhino window is cool, gives it a unique look. And the army looks good on the table! W00pw00p!

[Levaticus]

Very nice pictures! I agree with Meph, they look great on the table.

[primeministersinister]

Thanks guys. I sort of feel that the Rhino looks like a shell trap, but whatever.
I have some updates for you, since everyone has been good.
First off, I've finished the Tac Squad with the bionics I was planning. Most of the bionics are from the Iron Hands command squad, while some are home-made. I didn't doa great job of photographing the bionics, so let me know if you want to see better pics.
I've got these guys completed to a standard that I am okay with putting on the table, but there is a bit more to do to them before I can call them finished.
Any how, check them out.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7526/15724443447_a6a8e53556_c.jpg
Among the astartes of the Crimson Sabres, Squad Tasitus has always been known as the beating heart of the 4th Company. They are known as the boldest of battle brothers, whose comradery and devotion to one another is beyond reproach. And in the less dire times before the betrayal of their former chapter master, their deeds inspired song and poetry as well as mighty deeds among the rest of the chapter. Insofar as astartes can be, Squad Tasitus are affable and compassionate.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7521/15290558693_53d81d61c1_c.jpg
Now, in the dark days of exile, these qualities are more important than ever for the refugees of Drogsh. They often act as a de facto chaplaincy, offering counsel and guidance to their brothers who are more deeply affected by the Voices.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7583/15722913780_200a4d82a1.jpghttps://farm8.staticflickr.com/7512/15287955004_0038375d82.jpg
As veteran as they are, they bear hosts of bionics, as the Sabres are unable to grow vat replacement limbs in timely fashion. However, they bear these burdens lightly, often saying that any leg is a good one as long as they can stand together. Each member of the squad now proudly displays these bionic prostheses as marks of honour, though in his more private moments, Sargent Bristol worries that his men have begun to fetishize the replacements.

In addition to the tac squad, I've been working on a new Librarian, as the one I've been gaming with is painted up to run with my Cloud Giants.
Check him out:
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8623/15722731758_9229dd8ce2.jpg
Nothing too fancy, just an arm swap, but I like it.
And lastly, I decided to treat myself for my birthday last month with these little fellas.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7498/15722913720_94ec161d75_c.jpg
I've made a few changes here and there. I used the blank butt armour as the groin plates because I think they look a little more practical, which fits the motif I'm trying to go with.

Let me know what you think.

[Darren Richardson]

I like the Bionic Vet's they look great even as they are.

Still can't get my head around Marine Teletubbies though....

- - - Updated - - -

oh and I think you really should start a new thread for your Sabre's

[Levaticus]

As always love the models and your fluff

[Meph]

Looking good, man. Very flavourful, me likes!