Bladeguard Veterans: The Complete Guide to Warhammer 40K’s Elite Primaris Warriors

Bladeguard Veterans: Complete Guide to Warhammer 40k’s Elite Primaris Warriors

Bladeguard Veterans are elite Primaris Space Marines who serve in a Chapter’s 1st Company, wielding master-crafted power swords and storm shields to lead devastating close-quarters assaults. These inexorable warriors advance relentlessly into battle, clad in ornate armor that marks them as the noble knights of myth, armed with heavy bolt pistols and protected by powerful force-field generators built into their storm shields .

Quick Facts

What Are Bladeguard Veterans?

Bladeguard Veterans are the elite close-combat specialists of the Primaris Space Marines, serving as the premier melee unit of a Chapter’s 1st Company . They are the image of noble knights of myth, advancing relentlessly with blades held high to carve through the enemies of the Emperor.

Bladeguard Veterans are those Primaris Marines who have earned the right to serve in the elite 1st Company of a Primaris-only Chapter raised during the Ultima Founding, or those who have crossed the Rubicon Primaris to join the 1st Company of an already-existing Chapter .

What Makes Them Elite:

• Experienced veterans who have fought on countless worlds

• Personally selected for the Chapter’s 1st Company

• Armed with relic-grade equipment from the Chapter’s armories

• Charged with honoring the legacy of their Chapter

Why They Matter: Bladeguard Veterans represent the pinnacle of Primaris close-combat capability. They are the units that break enemy lines, hold critical objectives, and inspire nearby battle-brothers with their unwavering courage.

Wargear and Equipment

Standard Equipment

Master-crafted Power Sword: The bladeguard’s primary weapon is a master-crafted power sword, a blade of exceptional quality that serves as an MEQ and TEQ killer extraordinaire with its S+1, AP-3, and Damage 2 profile . These are no ordinary power swords—they are crafted by the Chapter’s finest artisans and represent centuries of tradition.

Storm Shield: Each Bladeguard Veteran carries an imposing storm shield, a work of entire generations of Chapter Serfs. These shields house powerful force-field generators said to protect the soul of the wearer as well as their flesh . In gameplay terms, the storm shield provides a 4+ invulnerable save, making the unit exceptionally durable .

Sergeant Options: The Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant can replace their heavy bolt pistol with:

• Plasma Pistol: Offers ranged firepower with optional supercharged mode

• Neo-Volkite Pistol: Range 15″, S5, AP 0, Damage 2

Bladeguard Veterans in Gameplay

Statline Overview

Key Rules:

• Angels of Death: Grants And They Shall Know No Fear, Bolter Discipline, Shock Assault, and Combat Doctrines

• Combat Squads: Allows the squad to be split into smaller units before deployment

Tactical Role

What They Do: Bladeguard Veterans are MEQ and TEQ killers extraordinaire, and they are also effective at killing lighter units . With WS3+ (2+ near a Bladeguard Ancient), S4, and A3 each, they can carve through enemy infantry with devastating efficiency.

Special Note on Wounds: For some reason they get 3 wounds despite not wearing Gravis armour, which is what gives Aggressors and Inceptors their 3 wounds . This durability, combined with their 4+ invulnerable save from the storm shield, makes them one of the most resilient infantry units in the Space Marines roster.

Transport Compatibility: They can fit into an Impulsor or a Repulsor, making deployment to the front lines straightforward.

Chapter Variations

Dark Angels

Dark Angels Bladeguard Veterans serve in the Deathwing, after having earned the hard-won trust of the Chapter’s Inner Circle . This is a sharp break from tradition, as normal power-armored members wearing the company colors haven’t been an official thing since Second Edition. The Deathwing keyword grants them access to additional stratagems and synergy within a Dark Angels army.

Space Wolves

Space Wolves Bladeguard Veterans fight as part of the Chapter’s elite Wolf Guard . They receive the Wolf Guard keyword when in a Space Wolf army, reflecting their status as the Chapter’s finest warriors.

Howling Griffons

As with all Chapters, Howling Griffons Bladeguard Veterans are depicted in the Chapter’s distinctive quartered heraldry.

Known Bladeguard Veterans

Torvald (Ultramarines)

Torvald was a Bladeguard Veteran in the Ultramarines Chapter who served in a squadron alongside Veteran Sergeant Metaurus and Primaris Lieutenant Demetrian Titus . During a mission to destroy a Chaos relic on Zsah’Uj, Torvald was killed by a Tzeentch Sorcerer who attacked the squadron’s minds. Though the lore depicts Torvald, a Warhammer Community article (and the introductory screen for “And They Shall Know No Fear”) indicates it was actually Icaron who served on the mission.

Levantus (Ultramarines)

Levantus was another Bladeguard Veteran who fell during the same ill-fated mission to Zsah’Uj.

The Bladeguard Veteran Kit

The Bladeguard Veteran kit contains:

• 3 plastic miniatures for Warhammer 40,000

• 78 plastic parts

• 3 x Citadel 40mm Round Bases

• Multiple head and helmet variants

• Tilting plate options

• Various pistol and holster variants

• Plasma pistol option for the Sergeant

• Neo-Volkite pistol option for the Sergeant

• Ultramarines Infantry Transfer Sheet

Note: Models are unassembled and unpainted. Recommended for ages 14+ .

How to Build and Paint Bladeguard Veterans

Assembly Tips

1. Plan your loadout before assembly

2. Consider magnetizing the Sergeant’s weapon options (plasma pistol vs neo-volkite pistol)

3. Dry-fit pieces before gluing to ensure proper fit

Painting Inspiration

• Ornate armor details make them ideal for showcasing your Chapter’s heraldry

• The storm shields provide excellent canvas for freehand designs

• Consider painting the purity seals and victory icons to contrast with the armor

Common Questions

1. What are Bladeguard Veterans in Warhammer 40k?

Bladeguard Veterans are elite Primaris Space Marine veterans who serve in a Chapter’s 1st Company. They are close-combat specialists armed with master-crafted power swords and storm shields, advancing relentlessly to break enemy lines and hold critical positions . They represent the pinnacle of Primaris melee capability.

2. What wargear do Bladeguard Veterans carry?

Each Bladeguard Veteran is armed with a master-crafted power sword, a storm shield (providing a 4+ invulnerable save), and a heavy bolt pistol. The Sergeant can replace their heavy bolt pistol with either a plasma pistol or a neo-volkite pistol .

3. How many Bladeguard Veterans come in a box?

The Games Workshop kit contains 3 miniatures with 78 plastic parts, 3 x 40mm Citadel round bases, and an Ultramarines Infantry transfer sheet . The kit is designed for ages 14+ and requires assembly and painting.

4. Can Bladeguard Veterans be used in any Space Marines Chapter?

Yes. Bladeguard Veterans are a generic Space Marines unit available to all Chapters. They also gain Chapter-specific keywords in certain armies: Dark Angels Bladeguard serve in the Deathwing, and Space Wolves Bladeguard fight as Wolf Guard .

5. How do Bladeguard Veterans perform in game?

Bladeguard Veterans are excellent at killing MEQ and TEQ units, with WS3+ (2+ near a Bladeguard Ancient), S4, 3 attacks each, and AP-3 damage 2 power swords . They are also highly durable with 3 wounds each and a 4+ invulnerable save from their storm shields.

6. What is the difference between Bladeguard Veterans and other Veteran units?

Bladeguard Veterans are specifically Primaris melee specialists. Unlike Sternguard Veterans (ranged focus) or Vanguard Veterans (jump pack assault), Bladeguard are ground-based close-combat experts with storm shields. They also have 3 wounds despite not wearing Gravis armour .

7. Can Bladeguard Veterans fit in transports?

Yes. They are not Gravis-armoured, so they can fit into an Impulsor or Repulsor transport, allowing them to deploy to the front lines effectively .

8. What special rules do Bladeguard Veterans have?

They have the Angels of Death rule (And They Shall Know No Fear, Bolter Discipline, Shock Assault, and Combat Doctrines) and Combat Squads, allowing them to split into smaller units before deployment .

9. What is a Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant?

The Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant is the squad leader who can replace their heavy bolt pistol with a plasma pistol or neo-volkite pistol . They also have +1 attack compared to the other squad members.

10. Are Bladeguard Veterans in the Deathwing?

Yes, if the Chapter is the Dark Angels. Dark Angels Bladeguard Veterans serve in the Deathwing after earning the hard-won trust of the Inner Circle .

11. Where can I buy Bladeguard Veterans?

Bladeguard Veterans are available from Games Workshop directly, through official retailers, and online via stores like Amazon, Wonderland Models, and Gamemat.eu . The kit retails for approximately $54 USD / £38 GBP.

12. Are Bladeguard Veterans Primaris or Firstborn?

Bladeguard Veterans are Primaris Space Marines. They were introduced with the 9th Edition Indomitus box set and represent the Primaris 1st Company veterans.

Key Takeaways

• Bladeguard Veterans are Primaris 1st Company melee specialists armed with master-crafted power swords and storm shields .

• They have 3 wounds each and a 4+ invulnerable save, making them highly durable despite not wearing Gravis armour .

• Dark Angels Bladeguard serve in the Deathwing, and Space Wolves Bladeguard are part of the Wolf Guard .

• The kit includes 3 miniatures with options for a Sergeant with plasma pistol or neo-volkite pistol .

• They are MEQ and TEK killers with WS3+ (2+ near a Bladeguard Ancient), S+1, AP-3, Damage 2 power swords .

• Transport compatibility includes Impulsors and Repulsors .

• Torvald and Levantus are named Bladeguard Veterans in Ultramarines lore .

• Bladeguard Veterans do not fit in Transport vehicles that require Gravis because they are not Gravis-armoured .

• The storm shield is said to protect the soul of the wearer as well as the flesh .

• They are the noble knights of myth—inexorable warriors who advance relentlessly with blades held high .

Official Resources

• Games Workshop: www.warhammer.com

• Warhammer Community: www.warhammer-community.com

• Citadel Colour (Painting Guides): www.citadelcolour.com

• Space Marines Codex: Available from Games Workshop

Bladeguard Veterans: Elite Primaris Melee Specialists

Bladeguard Veterans represent a distinguished and elite unit in the expansive universe of Warhammer 40K, embodying the pinnacle of the Primaris Space Marines. These warriors are not simply infantry; they are stalwart defenders of their Chapter, equipped to face the most formidable threats of the grimdark future. Originating from the Indomitus Crusade that revitalized the Space Marine forces, Bladeguard Veterans reflect the Emperor’s desire for a resilient and multifaceted force capable of safeguarding humanity.

Servicing specifically in a Chapter’s 1st company, Bladeguard Veterans assume a critical role in frontline battles and critical missions. Unlike their standard counterparts, these elite warriors are reinforced by advanced power armor and wield formidable weaponry. Their signature weaponry includes the Master-crafted power sword, which not only serves as a deadly instrument in combat but also symbolizes their position as protectors of their Chapter’s ideals and legacies.

Notably, Bladeguard Veterans act as the bulwark against the horrors of the galaxy. With their ability to withstand devastating assaults while executing counter-offensives, they are essential in turning the tide of battle. Their training is complemented by unique abilities that bolster their resilience and leadership on the battlefield, making them not just warriors but assets to any tactical endeavor undertaken by their Chapter. The Bladeguard Veterans symbolize the unwavering commitment of the Primaris Space Marines to their holy mission and represent a blend of martial prowess and unwavering resolve.

The Lore Behind Bladeguard Veterans

Bladeguard Veterans are a venerable and revered unit within the expansive lore of Warhammer 40,000, representing the pinnacle of Primaris Space Marine evolution. Introduced initially in the more recent chapter of the ongoing narrative, they are depicted as the elite protectors of the Chapter Master and symbols of hope amid the grim darkness of the far future. Their genesis can be traced to the Indomitus Crusade, initiated by Roboute Guilliman, where new Primaris Marines were created using advanced technology and the combined genetic legacy of humanity’s greatest warriors.

Their distinctive armor, known as the Bladeguard, is equipped with a formidable storm shield, embodying their role as bastions against a myriad of threats. This ancient design serves both functional and symbolic purposes, conveying their status and determination to protect their allies in battle. Over the years, these warriors have participated in numerous critical engagements, demonstrating their strategic importance and effectiveness on the battlefield.

Prominently featured in significant campaigns such as the Plague Wars against the forces of Nurgle and the assault on the planet of Vigilus, Bladeguard Veterans have upheld the honor of the Imperium of Man. Their prowess and resilience shine during these conflicts, where they consistently demonstrate their allegiance to the Emperor and their brothers-in-arms. As veteran warriors, they are not only key players in skirmishes but also carriers of the rich traditions of their Chapters, merging the old with the new as they face ever-evolving threats.

With each battle, the legacy of Bladeguard Veterans continues to expand within the Warhammer 40K universe, ensuring their place as enduring icons in the rich tapestry of humanity’s struggle for survival against the darkness of the galaxy.

Equipment and Weaponry of Bladeguard Veterans

Bladeguard Veterans are renowned for their exceptional combat capabilities, largely attributed to the specialized equipment and weaponry they wield on the battlefield. At the heart of their arsenal are master-crafted power swords, which are not only symbols of their elite status but also instruments of tremendous lethality. These power swords are engineered to deliver devastating energy-based strikes, allowing Bladeguard Veterans to cut through enemy armor with ease. The precision and reliability of these master-crafted weapons ensure that each swing is not only powerful but also accurate, maximizing their effectiveness in close-quarter engagements.

Complementing their power swords, Bladeguard Veterans utilize storm shields. These formidable defensive tools provide unparalleled protection against ranged and melee attacks alike, enhancing the veterans’ survivability on the front lines. The storm shields utilize advanced technology to intercept incoming fire, allowing the Bladeguard to maintain their offensive capabilities while standing firm against adversity. In the heat of battle, this combination of offense and defense is crucial, enabling them to engage with ferocity while minimizing the risk of incapacitation.

In addition to their primary weapons, Bladeguard Veterans are also armed with heavy bolt pistols. These sidearms extend their combat range without sacrificing maneuverability. Heavy bolt pistols deliver significant firepower in a compact form, providing the veterans with the ability to engage foes at various distances. This flexibility is essential in the chaotic environment of Warhammer 40K, where threats may arise both near and far.

Overall, the weaponry and equipment utilized by Bladeguard Veterans—comprising master-crafted power swords, storm shields, and heavy bolt pistols—serve to enhance their combat effectiveness. Their unique combination of offensive capabilities and robust defensive measures makes them a formidable presence on the battlefield.

Combat Tactics and Strategies for Bladeguard Veterans

Bladeguard Veterans represent a pivotal component of a Space Marine army, known for their prowess in both offense and defense. Armed with formidable weaponry and clad in resilient armor, they excel in close-quarters combat, making them ideal for leading assaults or holding critical positions on the battlefield. Understanding how to effectively utilize Bladeguard Veterans involves maximizing their unique capabilities while considering their synergy with other units.

In close-quarters engagements, Bladeguard Veterans can dominate due to their high strength and access to powerful melee weapons such as the master-crafted power sword. Their ability to withstand significant damage allows them to act as a buffer for more vulnerable units, absorbing enemy fire while other Space Marine elements reposition or initiate their assault phases.

Positioning is crucial in determining the success of these elite warriors. Utilizing terrain to create natural cover and bottlenecks can enhance their effectiveness. Deploying Bladeguard Veterans in places where they force opponents to engage in narrow passages can give them a strategic advantage, allowing their superior resilience to shine through. Furthermore, keeping them within proximity to other advantageous units, such as Techmarines or Apothecaries, ensures they remain supported via repairs or regrowth of lost warriors.

When integrated with ranged units, Bladeguard Veterans can serve as an effective deterrent, drawing fire away from more vital shooting elements, such as Devastator Squads or Eliminators. Their presence on the front lines can disrupt enemy tactics, forcing opponents to allocate resources toward eliminating this resilient threat. In scenarios where mobility is compromised, protecting objective markers becomes paramount, and Bladeguard Veterans are well suited to defend these critical points robustly.

In conclusion, maximizing the combat effectiveness of Bladeguard Veterans requires careful planning around their deployment and interactions with other units in a Space Marine army. With their close combat prowess and resilience, they can significantly influence the outcome of battles when used strategically.

Choosing the Right Loadout for Bladeguard Veterans

Bladeguard Veterans, as elite Primaris Warriors in Warhammer 40K, offer a diverse range of loadouts that can be tailored to meet the specific demands of different battles. Selecting the optimal loadout for your Bladeguard Veterans will depend on several factors, including the composition of your army, the strengths and weaknesses of your opponents, and the tactical roles you wish to assign to these formidable warriors.

One of the primary options available for Bladeguard Veterans is their weaponry, which predominantly includes the Master-crafted Power Sword and the Heavy Bolt Pistol. The Master-crafted Power Sword excels in close combat, providing a solid balance between attack strength and reliability. This weapon is particularly effective against heavily armored enemies, as it allows Bladeguard Veterans to strike reliably with a considerable number of attacks.

For ranged engagements, equipping Bladeguard Veterans with Heavy Bolt Pistols can provide them with the flexibility to engage across the battlefield effectively. This option allows them to contribute to both offensive and defensive strategies while still being capable of moving into close combat when necessary. Furthermore, players might consider the inclusion of a shield, which enhances the durability of these elite troops against incoming attacks.

Additionally, the use of stratagems can significantly augment the efficacy of your Bladeguard Veterans. For instance, employing strategies to reinforce their durability, such as improving their armor saves or allowing for heroic interventions, can turn these warriors into near-unstoppable forces on the battlefield. Take into account the synergy that your chosen loadouts will have with the rest of your army to ensure that your Bladeguard Veterans remain an integral part of your overall battle plan.

Painting and Modeling Bladeguard Veterans

Painting and modeling Bladeguard Veterans requires attention to detail and an understanding of their design aesthetics. As elite Primaris warriors within the Warhammer 40K universe, these figures represent a formidable force, demanding a paint job that reflects their heroic attributes and elite status. To begin, selecting an appropriate color scheme is crucial. While the traditional Space Marine colors are a popular choice, incorporating unique shades and subtle contrasts can significantly enhance their visual appeal. Many hobbyists opt for deep blues, vibrant reds, or even metallic tones, depending on the desired chapter theme.

When it comes to techniques, layering is essential for achieving depth and realism. Start with a base coat, then gradually build up highlight layers using lighter shades to bring out the contours of the armor. For the specific armor details, a technique called “washing” can be used, allowing paint to settle into the recesses of the model, thus emphasizing the intricate designs. Moreover, dry brushing with a lighter color can help create a worn and battle-hardened look that is suitable for such elite warriors.

The intricate armor and weaponry of the Bladeguard Veterans are key elements that need to be effectively showcased. Utilizing fine-tuned brushes will facilitate precision when painting smaller details like insignias or other decorations. Adding weathering effects can also contribute to the realism of the model, giving the impression that these heroes have faced innumerable battles. Finally, consider using a suitable base to present your Bladeguard Veterans effectively. A thematic base can further enhance their narrative, emphasizing their role as stalwart defenders in the Warhammer 40K universe. This attention to detail will elevate your painting and modeling game, allowing your Bladeguard Veterans to truly stand out on the tabletop.

Customization Options for Bladeguard Veterans

Bladeguard Veterans are not only known for their prowess in battle but also for their significant ability to be customized, allowing players to express their individuality through their miniature models. Customization options for these elite Primaris warriors offer various opportunities to enhance both their aesthetic appeal and battlefield functionality.

One primary method of customization is through the selection of accessories. These can include a range of items such as purity seals, grenades, and tactical pouches that can be attached to the miniature. Each of these additions serves to not only personalize the veterans but also to reflect their battlefield role or personal history, thus enriching the narrative behind the model.

Another avenue for customization lies in battlefield decorations. Adding elements like decorative banners or unique insignia can further differentiate each Bladeguard Veteran. Players might choose to paint their models with personalized chapter colors or symbols, thereby allowing them to stand out among other units on the tabletop. This aspect of customization not only enhances the visual appeal but also strengthens the connection between the player and their army.

Moreover, choices regarding weaponry also provide significant customization opportunities. Bladeguard Veterans can be equipped with a variety of weapons, including the impressive power sword or the heavy flamer, which not only varies their combat effectiveness but also offers a unique aesthetic. Each option allows players to tailor their combat style, adapting the model to their strategic needs on the battlefield.

In summary, customization options for Bladeguard Veterans encompass a wide range of accessories, decorations, and weapons. These features collectively allow players to create unique representations of their veterans, enhancing both their gameplay experience and their connection to the Warhammer 40K universe.

Bladeguard Veterans in Competitive Play

In the competitive landscape of Warhammer 40K, Bladeguard Veterans have emerged as a potent option for players seeking to enhance their army’s effectiveness. These elite Primaris warriors are characterized by their resilience, versatility, and ability to take on various roles in a battle. Their participation in competitive lists can often mean the difference between victory and defeat in closely contested matches.

One of the primary strengths of Bladeguard Veterans lies in their high Toughness and significant durability. Armed with their unique storm shields and master-crafted power swords, they can withstand significant firepower while delivering a formidable melee threat. Their ability to ignore mortal wounds through the invulnerable save provided by their shields makes them an essential unit for holding objectives and defending against enemy charges.

Moreover, Bladeguard Veterans can seamlessly fit into a variety of army compositions. Whether integrated into a Space Marine detachment, or served alongside diverse factions, their adaptability allows them to synergize well with other units. For instance, supported by a Lieutenant or Chaplain to enhance their offensive capabilities, these veterans can eliminate key threats efficiently. Players have noted that they often fulfill the role of an anchor unit, providing both offense and defense within a core army build.

However, it’s crucial to also consider their weaknesses. While exceptionally durable, Bladeguard Veterans may struggle against armies that employ high volumes of low-strength shots or those that rely on mortal wound mechanics. Consequently, effective positioning in conjunction with army synergy is critical. Players who have successfully integrated Bladeguard Veterans into their lists advocate for using them to control key points on the battlefield, ensuring they capitalize on their strengths against opposing units.

By carefully assessing Bladeguard Veterans’ attributes, players can enhance their tactical approach, leveraging these elite Primaris warriors effectively in the competitive scene.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Bladeguard Veterans

In conclusion, the Bladeguard Veterans stand as a formidable and iconic unit within the lore and gameplay of Warhammer 40,000. Their reputation is not merely anecdotal; it is built upon a foundation of exceptional resilience and combat prowess that resonates with both seasoned players and newcomers alike. The unique attributes of these elite Primaris warriors amplify their significance on the battlefield, allowing them to serve as both an offensive powerhouse and a tactical bulwark to protect others.

Throughout this guide, we have explored the rich narrative that encompasses the Bladeguard Veterans, illustrating their role not just as soldiers, but as key figures within the larger tapestry of the Imperium’s conflict. Their dedication, training, and augmented capabilities position them as essential components of any tactical formation. Moreover, the synergy they provide when placed alongside other units can turn the tide of war, transforming desperate situations into tactical victories.

From a gameplay perspective, incorporating Bladeguard Veterans into your army mechanics can enhance your strategic options, offering both offensive and defensive versatility. Their close-combat skills, augmented by impressive armor, allow them to withstand heavy assaults while dealing substantial damage. Players are encouraged to experiment with different strategies to leverage their strengths effectively.

The Bladeguard Veterans are a prime example of the intricate balance of lore and mechanics in Warhammer 40,000, enriching the narrative layer that players enjoy. As you dive deeper into your encounters, appreciating the potential of these elite Primaris warriors will undoubtedly elevate your overall gaming experience. Engaging with Bladeguard Veterans is not just a tactical choice, but an opportunity to immerse oneself in the epic saga that defines Warhammer 40K.