Unlock victory with the top 40k tournament army lists featuring Blood Angels, Space Marines, and Deathwatch from the LVO 2025 Champs.
Final Standings:
The tournament is over, and now we can look at which 40k factions’ playstyles and army lists managed to secure a place at the top! Check out what these winners brought in their armies with our expert commentary on their selections.
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1st Place: Mark Hertel – Deathwatch Army Lists
If there’s one thing the Deathwatch are known for, it’s their relentless adaptability, and Mark’s winning list at the LVO 2025 Championships showcased just how far that philosophy can be pushed. Bringing together a well-honed balance of durability, firepower, and mobility, the Deathwatch made a statement.
At the heart of the force stands a Captain in Gravis Armour, a steadfast leader who can take a beating and still keep issuing orders like nothing happened. Alongside him, the Judiciar ensures that anything foolish enough to get too close gets a firsthand lesson in the art of close-quarters combat.
A Lieutenant armed with a combi-weapon brings some much-needed tactical flexibility, allowing key re-rolls to keep the offensive rolling. Overseeing it all is the Watch Master, directing the Indomitor Kill Team with the precision you’d expect from the Deathwatch’s finest.
Troop choices see the tried-and-true Deathwatch Veterans deployed in three solid units. These aren’t just filler—they provide the backbone of the force, capable of holding objectives and applying pressure where it’s needed. Getting them where they need to be are two trusty Rhinos, offering a solid mix of protection and early-game positioning.
When it comes to resilience and sheer punch, Mark leaned into not one but two units of Terminators. These warriors bring the kind of staying power that forces opponents to think twice before engaging, and when they do, they’ll find out just how devastating their combat prowess can be.
The Indomitor Kill Team, an anchor of ranged firepower, ensures there’s never a lull in the barrage. When paired with the mobility provided by a Stormspeeder and a Talonstrike Kill Team, the list gains the flexibility to control key parts of the battlefield and respond to threats with lightning efficiency.
2nd Place: Ben Neal – Space Marines / Astartes Army Lists
3rd Place: Jack Harpster – Blood Angels Army Lists
Final Thoughts on Army Lists From The LVO 2025 Champs
It’s easy to see why this list took the top spot. It’s a well-oiled machine that leverages the Deathwatch’s unique strengths—versatility, durability, and precision. So, whether you’re a newcomer looking to get into the faction or a veteran looking to refine your own strategy, there’s plenty of inspiration to take from Mark’s approach.
Just remember, with the Deathwatch, the mission always comes first.
These top army lists from the LVO 2025 Champs are a reminder that the Deathwatch can win if built with every unit having a purpose, and every move is part of a grand strategy. With a little bit of finesse, they can hold their own against even the deadliest Space Marines and Blood Angels.
The performance of these armies serves as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of the competitive Warhammer 40k meta. Studying these winning army lists for their tactical synergies provides valuable insights for honing your strategic approach.
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What do you think of the results and top Warhammer 40k army lists at LVO 2025 Champs for Blood Angels, Space Marines, and Deathwatch?
About the Author: Andrew Schrank
Andrew Schrank
Job Title: Miniatures & Warhammer Hobby Staff Writer
Socials: Facebook
About Andrew Schrank: Over the past 15 years, Andrew has played all the games, including tabletop and video games, and immersed himself in the associated lore. Andrew joined the Spikey Bits team in 2018 and covers the Warhammer hobby and tournament scene, along with the latest in tabletop miniatures, each week.
Aspiring diplomat, Lord of Fluff, and Master of Ice Hammer, He loves Star Wars, Chaos Undivided, and Gundam. During his free time, he hunts Platinum trophies on PS5 and reads international news. On weekends, Andrew plays commander and cEDH games, often with unique strategies that push the limits.
He believes each day presents a new opportunity to grow and be challenged.
