Unlock victory with the top tournament army lists featuring Adeptus Custodes, Guard, and Space Marines from the Warhammer 40k World Championships.
Final Standings:
The tournament is over, and now we can look at which lists managed to secure a place at the top! Check out what these winners brought in their armies with our commentary on their selections. Thanks to Best Coast Pairings, we can look back at the event as if we were all there ourselves. Click this special promo link to save $20 on a year’s subscription to BCP.
1st Place: Folger Pyles – Adeptus Custodes Army Lists
At the Warhammer World Championships, Folger’s Adeptus Custodes army proved that the Emperor’s golden boys aren’t just a pretty face—they’re a powerhouse on the battlefield. This wasn’t just a win; it was a shining example of what happens when raw melee power, durable fire support, and tactical flexibility come together in perfect harmony.
Let’s take a closer look at how Folger’s gilded warriors stormed their way to victory and reminded everyone why the Custodes are the pinnacle of the Imperium’s might.
Leading the charge were three Blade Champions, each ready to carve a bloody path through the enemy ranks. These combat monsters didn’t just swing their blades with precision—they orchestrated the battle with abilities that gave re-rolls on all charges and a once-per-game advance and charge option. This mobility turned what could have been a slow-moving force into a deadly whirlwind of ceramite and steel.
The backbone of the list came in the form of a single Custodian Guard unit. These iconic warriors might be considered the “standard” Custodes, but there’s nothing standard about their durability and versatility. Holding objectives or anchoring the battle line, they were as reliable as ever.
To add some mobility, Folger included an Anathema Psykana Rhino. This transport isn’t flashy, but it’s practical—shielding a key unit early in the game and delivering them to critical positions without taking unnecessary risks. For an army that thrives on keeping its units alive, this humble vehicle was a smart addition.
No Custodes list is complete without some heavy armor, and Folger’s two Caladius Grav-Tanks were the perfect blend of mobility and firepower. These sleek, jet-powered tanks not only laid down devastating ranged attacks but also soaked up punishment that would cripple lesser vehicles. Their ability to reposition and adapt made them invaluable, providing a long-range threat that complemented the army’s melee dominance.
The real stars of the list’s melee game were three units of Wardens, who paired perfectly with the Blade Champions to form a deadly vanguard. These warriors didn’t just charge into combat—they obliterated anything unfortunate enough to stand in their way. With their enhanced durability and devastating melee power, they ensured that when the Custodes hit, they hit hard and didn’t stop.
The Wardens weren’t just brutes—they were adaptable. Whether holding objectives, counter-charging, or leading the charge themselves, they brought the flexibility needed to keep Folger’s game plan on track.
While the Custodes are known for their elite warriors, Folger’s list also included some cost-effective additions in the form of Prosecutors and Witchseekers. These units brought some much-needed numbers to the field, providing a screen for the heavy hitters and helping to hold objectives without risking the more valuable Custodes units.
Prosecutors offered a solid defensive option, while Witchseekers added a touch of offense, especially against psykers. For a faction that often struggles with body count, these units filled a vital role, showing that even the Emperor’s finest can benefit from a little backup.
Rounding out the list was Inquisitor Draxus, a cunning ally who added a unique dimension to the army. As a lone operative, Draxus could move independently, disrupting enemy plans and securing objectives without drawing too much attention. Her inclusion was a savvy choice, bringing a touch of unpredictability to an otherwise methodical force.
2nd Place: John Lennon – Astra Militarum / Imperial Guard Army Lists
3rd Place: John Winter Russel – Astra Militarum / Imperial Guard Army Lists
4th Place: Jesper Unander-Scharin – Space Marine / Adeptus Astartes Army Lists
These top army lists from Warhammer 40k World Championships are a reminder that the Custodes 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 (and some dense bodies), they can hold their own against even the deadliest Space Marines and Imperial Guard.
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 World Championship army lists for Adeptus Custodes, Space Marine, and Imperial Guard / Astra Militarum?
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.
