Master the Warhammer 40k Baneblade, learn about its lore, strategic roles, and how each Baneblade tank variant can shape your Astra Militarum tactics for total battlefield dominance.
Unleash the Power of the Baneblade in Warhammer 40k: Variants & Strategy Guide
Click any of the links below to jump to the info you need the most, or just dig in from the beginning.
- Intro to the Baneblade Super Heavy tank in Warhammer 40k
- The History of the Baneblade in Warhammer 40k
- Lore of the Baneblade
- Inside the Baneblade: Exploring Its Armament and Interior
- Baneblade Variants: Which One is Best for Your 40k Army?
- Where to buy a Baneblade
- Baneblade In-Game Tactics: Maximizing Your Super-Heavy Tank in 40k
- Building and Customizing Your Own Baneblade Model
Intro to the Baneblade Super Heavy Tank in Warhammer 40k
When it comes to the colossal battlefields of Warhammer 40k, few sights are as awe-inspiring as the Baneblade tank rumbling into action. This behemoth isn’t just any vehicle—it’s the epitome of the Astra Militarum’s might, a super-heavy tank that embodies the grim darkness of the far future.
Whether you’re new to the universe or a long-time fan, the Baneblade stands as a testament to the Imperium’s industrial prowess and unyielding determination.
The Baneblade is not merely a tank; it’s a mobile fortress. With its labyrinthine corridors, multiple gun decks, and a crew complement that rivals a small platoon; this war machine is designed to dominate both the morale and the physical presence on the battlefield.
Its armor is thick enough to shrug off hits that would obliterate lesser vehicles, and its arsenal is versatile enough to engage any target—from swarms of infantry to towering alien monstrosities.
In the vast arsenal of the Astra Militarum, the Baneblade holds a special place. It’s the go-to choice when the situation demands overwhelming firepower and unbreakable defense.
Commanders deploy Baneblades when they need to make a statement—a loud, explosive statement that leaves nothing but scorched earth and enemy wreckage in its wake.
Baneblade Variants: Which One is Best for Your Warhammer 40k Army?
The Baneblade isn’t just a tank; it’s a family of super-heavy monstrosities, each variant designed to ruin your opponent’s day in a different way. Whether you need a jack-of-all-trades or a titan-slaying specialist, the Baneblade variants offer a solution for every battlefield problem.
Let’s break down each one so you can figure out which best suits your Warhammer 40k strategy.
An Overview of the 8 Baneblade Variants
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Why have one Baneblade when you can have eight?”—okay, maybe you haven’t, but you should. The Baneblade chassis is incredibly versatile, giving rise to eight distinct variants, each with its own set of toys.
From melting armor to shredding infantry, there’s a flavor of Baneblade for everyone. Here’s a quick rundown of the heavy hitters (literally):
Standard Baneblade Tank: The All-Rounder
The vanilla Baneblade is the tank equivalent of comfort food—it does everything well, without over-specializing. Equipped with a Baneblade Cannon, Demolisher Cannon, and enough heavy bolters to turn anything within range into a fine mist, this variant is the epitome of balance.
It’s ideal for crushing infantry, tackling light armor, and even giving enemy tanks a bad day. If you’re unsure which Baneblade variant to pick, the standard Baneblade is always a safe bet.
Shadowsword: The Titan-Killer
Got a problem with Knights or Titans looming on the other side of the battlefield? Enter the Shadowsword, armed with a Volcano Cannon—a weapon so powerful it could probably take out the Death Star (or at least make it flinch). This tank is built for one thing: slaying anything with the TITANIC keyword.
With high-strength shots that laugh at most armor saves, the Shadowsword isn’t here to mess around. Just point it at the biggest threat and let it do the talking.
Stormlord: Infantry Shredder and Transporter
The Stormlord is perfect for those who love the sight of infantry vaporizing in seconds. With its Vulcan Mega-Bolter firing a ridiculous number of shots per turn, it’s an infantry-killing machine. But wait—there’s more!
It can also carry 40 troops, which makes it a great line-breaker and objective-grabber. Park it on an objective, unload the passengers, and watch as it turns hordes of enemy foot soldiers into a fine paste.
Hellhammer: Siege Specialist
If you enjoy close-quarters mayhem and reducing bunkers to rubble, the Hellhammer is your go-to variant. Its Hellhammer Cannon ignores cover saves and hits like a truck.
It’s perfect for assaulting fortified positions, and with a shorter range than the Baneblade Cannon, it likes to get up close and personal. Throw in some heavy flamers, and the Hellhammer becomes a walking nightmare for any infantry or fortifications it encounters.
Banehammer: Slowing Down Enemy Advances
Ever wanted to literally slow down the enemy’s plans? The Banehammer’s Tremor Cannon does just that. It’s not the most lethal weapon in the Baneblade family, but it’s fantastic at halting the enemy in their tracks—literally.
When hit by the Tremor Cannon, units have their movement halved, turning your enemy’s grand charge into a frustrating crawl. Use it to mess with their strategy while your other units pick them off.
Doomhammer: Long-Range Melting Machine
The Doomhammer comes with a Magma Cannon, a weapon designed to melt through just about anything. With an impressive 60-inch range and a devastating damage profile, the Doomhammer is ideal for long-range anti-armor duties.
Its secondary role as a troop carrier adds versatility, making it a multi-purpose weapon of destruction. If you like sitting back and watching things melt from afar, this one’s for you.
Banesword: The Reliable Quake Cannon
The Banesword isn’t flashy, but it’s all about consistency. Armed with the Quake Cannon, it’s designed to blast enemy armor to bits.
While it doesn’t have the raw stopping power of the Shadowsword’s Volcano Cannon, the Quake Cannon is more reliable, dealing consistent damage without the risk of a bad roll. It’s the dependable choice for players who like their super-heavies with a bit more reliability and fewer “swingy” moments.
Stormsword: Close-Range Siege Powerhouse
If the Hellhammer is the siege expert, the Stormsword is its angry cousin. Sporting a massive Siege Cannon, it’s designed to obliterate infantry and fortified positions within a 36-inch radius.
The Stormsword trades range for sheer destructive power—its 2D6 shots ignore cover, making it perfect for clearing out those hard-to-reach spots. While its range may be shorter, anything that gets close enough to feel its wrath won’t be around much longer.
Building and Customizing Your Own Baneblade Model
Now that you’ve got your tactical approach sorted, it’s time to talk about the physical beauty of the Baneblade: assembling and customizing this beast of a model. Building a Baneblade is almost a rite of passage for any Warhammer 40k fan.
Tips for Assembling the Baneblade 40k Model Kit
Building a Baneblade is no small feat—literally and figuratively. With numerous sprues and intricate pieces, it’s important to follow the instructions closely. Start by organizing your parts, separating out the sponsons, cannons, and the chassis components.
The model comes with plenty of options for the different Baneblade variants, so decide which version you’re going for before you get too far into the assembly.
One major tip: don’t rush the gluing process! The Baneblade is hefty, and you want to make sure everything is secure before moving on to the next step. Take your time, make sure parts fit properly, and leave plenty of time for drying.
Choosing the Right Baneblade Variant for Your Collection
Before you start slapping pieces together, think about which Baneblade variant suits your playstyle—or your love of aesthetics. Do you want the all-purpose standard Baneblade, or are you drawn to the massive firepower of the Shadowsword? Each variant has slightly different build steps, so be sure to plan accordingly.
If you’re building for display, the standard Baneblade is a great choice—it’s the classic look, and you’ll be able to flex its impressive weaponry in your cabinet. For players who love customization, you might want to magnetize some of the weapon options so you can switch between variants for different games.
Customization Ideas for Painting Your Baneblade Tank
Now comes the fun part: painting. The Baneblade’s massive surface area is perfect for creative paint jobs, from weathered battle-scarred hulls to crisp, clean parade colors.
Try experimenting with dry-brushing and washes to give your tank that grimy, worn look that’s perfect for an Astra Militarum war machine.
For added flair, consider adding some custom decals or freehand insignia—think kill markings, banners, or even a detailed mural on the side. You’re not just building a tank; you’re crafting a legend that’s going to lead your army to victory (or, you know, a glorious defeat).
Since this is such a giant model, you want to future-proof it! Check out Rob’s tutorial on how to make all eight variants from one kit.
The History of the Baneblade in Warhammer 40k
Origins of the Baneblade in the Great Crusade
The Baneblade’s storied history stretches back to the days of the Great Crusade. During this era of expansion, the Imperium sought to reclaim lost human worlds and needed war machines capable of subjugating any opposition.
Enter the Baneblade: born from ancient Standard Template Constructs (STCs), it was the pinnacle of super-heavy tank design.
Forged in the vast manufactorums of Mars and other Forge Worlds, the Baneblade was initially produced in the tens of thousands. Its design was so effective that it remained largely unchanged for millennia.
The Tech-Priests of the Adeptus Mechanicus held the Baneblade in reverence, seeing it as a sacred relic of the Machine God’s wisdom.
During the Great Crusade, Baneblades spearheaded assaults across countless worlds. Their immense firepower and durability made them ideal for breaching enemy fortifications and turning the tide in protracted sieges. They became legends on tracks, with each tank accruing its own legacy of battles and honors.
The Role of the Baneblade in the Astra Militarum
In the grim darkness of the 41st millennium, the Baneblade continues to serve as the backbone of the Astra Militarum’s armored divisions. While their numbers have dwindled due to the loss of many STCs and the scarcity of resources, Baneblades are still revered assets on the battlefield.
These tanks often serve as command vehicles, with high-ranking officers leading armored companies from within their armored hulls. The Baneblade’s communications arrays and tactical interfaces allow commanders to coordinate vast armies while remaining in the thick of combat.
In warfare, Baneblades fulfill multiple roles. They can serve as line breakers, crushing enemy defenses under their tracks, or as stalwart defenders, anchoring a defensive line with their sheer presence.
Their psychological impact on both allies and enemies cannot be overstated; the morale boost to Imperial troops is matched only by the dread they instill in foes.
Baneblade Lore: A Rolling Fortress of Destruction
Baneblade as a Command Vehicle
When the Astra Militarum needs to make a statement, they roll out the Baneblade. Serving as more than just a weapons platform, it’s a mobile headquarters. Commanders favor the Baneblade for its advanced communications systems, allowing real-time coordination with units across the battlefield.
Inside, the command deck is a hive of activity. Tactical officers monitor auspex readings, issue orders, and adjust strategies on the fly. The tank’s stature provides an unparalleled vantage point, both physically and electronically, making it the ideal hub for orchestrating large-scale engagements.
Moreover, the Baneblade’s durability ensures that the command structure remains intact even under heavy fire. Enemy forces must contend with the daunting task of disabling a fortress on treads before they can disrupt Imperial command and control—a task easier said than done.
The Crew and Machine Spirit of the Baneblade
Operating a Baneblade is no small feat; it requires a dedicated crew, often numbering ten or more. Each member has a specialized role, from the commander and driver to the gunners and engineers. The crew works in unison, a well-oiled machine mirroring the mechanical efficiency of the tank itself.
But let’s not forget the Baneblade’s Machine Spirit—a semi-sentient entity that resides within the tank’s systems. Treated with reverence bordering on worship, the Machine Spirit is believed to have moods and desires. Tech-Priests perform rituals and offer unguents to keep it appeased. A content Machine Spirit means smoother operations and fewer mechanical hiccups in the heat of battle.
The relationship between the crew and the Machine Spirit is symbiotic. Veterans swear that their Baneblade responds quicker, aims truer, and endures longer because of the bond they’ve forged over countless campaigns.
Whether it’s superstition or sacred truth, one thing is certain: together, they form one of the most formidable forces in the Imperium’s arsenal.
Inside the Baneblade: Exploring Its Armament and Interior
Baneblade Tank Armaments: A Versatile Arsenal
At the heart of the Baneblade’s fearsome reputation is the Baneblade Cannon. This massive weapon is capable of firing shells the size of a small car at targets miles away.
With a thunderous boom that can be felt as much as heard, the cannon delivers devastating payloads that can obliterate enemy formations and fortifications alike.
The Baneblade Cannon’s versatility is one of its greatest strengths. It can fire a variety of ammunition types, from high-explosive shells that send infantry flying to armor-piercing rounds that punch through the toughest armor. When the Baneblade Cannon speaks, enemies listen—or they would if they weren’t too busy running for cover.
Secondary Weapons: Heavy Bolters, Lascannons, and More
But why stop at one big gun when you can have an entire arsenal? The Baneblade bristles with additional weaponry designed to handle any situation.
Its hull and sponsons are mounted with heavy bolters, ideal for shredding infantry foolish enough to get close. These rapid-fire weapons create a wall of lead that’s as impenetrable as it is lethal.
For heavier targets, the Baneblade sports lascannons capable of slicing through armored units with beams of concentrated light. And let’s not overlook the Demolisher Cannon mounted on the front hull—a short-range siege weapon that turns bunkers into rubble in a single shot.
This array of weapons allows the Baneblade to engage multiple targets simultaneously. Whether it’s swarms of infantry, agile light vehicles, or enemy armor, the Baneblade has a solution, usually involving high explosives or searing energy beams.
A Glimpse Into the Baneblade Interior
Crew Positions and Roles
Step inside the Baneblade, and you’ll find a maze of corridors and compartments, each humming with activity. The driver sits at the front, navigating this metal leviathan through war-torn landscapes. Above him is the commander, who surveys the battlefield from the cupola, issuing orders and identifying targets.
Gunners and loaders are stationed at their respective weapons, communicating via vox-casters to coordinate their actions. The engineer and Tech-Priest tend to the Machine Spirit and perform on-the-fly repairs, ensuring that the Baneblade remains operational even under heavy fire.
Each crew member plays a vital role. There’s no room for slackers when operating a machine of this magnitude. Miscommunication or error can mean the difference between victory and a fiery demise. Check out more about being inside the tank here!
The Command Deck and Combat Operations
The command deck is the nerve center of the Baneblade. Here, tactical displays flicker with data, auspex arrays scan for threats, and vox units relay communications from across the battlefield.
The atmosphere is tense but focused; every crew member knows their duty and performs it with practiced precision.
From this vantage point, the commander can coordinate not just the Baneblade but also nearby units. Real-time intel allows for rapid decision-making, turning the tide of battle through strategic maneuvers and overwhelming firepower.
Combat operations inside the Baneblade are a symphony of steel and fury. Orders are barked, confirmations shouted, and the air is thick with the smell of machine oil and cordite.
It’s a harsh environment, but for those who serve within, it’s also a place of honor and purpose.
Where To Buy the Baneblade & Customization Bits- Retail Price: $185
Click on these links to order yours for less from these retailers: | Amazon | Dicehead Games | Bazooka Games | Frontline Gaming | Element Games (UK) | eBay | or | Games Workshop’s Store. This site contains affiliate links and Spikey Bits earns from qualifying purchases.
This colossal plastic kit lets you build a Baneblade, the super-heavy tank of Warhammer 40k, equipped to the teeth with enough firepower to lay waste to an army and tank hits that would crush lesser units.
With its Baneblade cannon, demolisher cannon, autocannons, lascannons, and an array of heavy bolters or flamers, this beast is ready to spearhead any armored assault. Customizable sponsons and pintle mounts offer even more firepower options, making it an absolute fortress on tracks.
- Makes multiple variations
- Material: Plastic
- Theme: Action
- Item Dimensions: 0.0 inches
- Language: english
Last update on 2025-01-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Customization Third-Party Bits
Elrik’s Hobbies is basically a treasure trove for customizing your Baneblade and taking it to the next level. If you’re not feeling the stock version or just want to add some extra flair, they’ve got a ton of awesome bits to mix and match.
From detailed armor plates to unique weapons, you’ll find everything you need to truly make your Baneblade one-of-a-kind. Why stick to the basics when you can deck out your super-heavy tank with some seriously cool upgrades? Definitely worth checking out!
Grab Your Conversion Bits Here
Baneblade In-Game Tactics: Maximizing Your Super-Heavy Tank in 40k
The Baneblade in 40k isn’t just a massive block of steel and firepower—it’s a tool for battlefield domination, but only if you know how to wield it. Whether you’re trying to annihilate enemy units or make your opponent question their life choices, it all comes down to tactics. Here’s how to get the most out of your Baneblade tank when you bring it to the table.
Banebalde Rules in Warhammer 40k
Datasheet from Wahapedia.
The Baneblade is a beast on the battlefield, and its stats show why. With a Movement of 9 inches, it may not be the fastest, but with a Toughness of 13 and a whopping 24 Wounds, it’s built to take a pounding. Its 2+ Save ensures it shrugs off a good deal of the fire thrown its way. Good luck to anyone trying to bring this fortress down!
Baneblade Weapon Loadout
Let’s talk about the Baneblade’s arsenal. The Baneblade Cannon has a 72-inch range, unleashing 3D6 attacks at Strength 12 with AP -2 and 3 Damage (Blast).
When things get up close and personal, it brings out the Demolisher Cannon: a 24-inch range, Strength 14, AP -3, and D6 damage. Add in a mix of lascannons, bolters, and flamers, and you’ve got a truly terrifying war machine.
Abilities
The Baneblade comes with a couple of fun tricks. Its Rolling Fortress ability provides cover for allies behind it, making it an essential part of any armored formation. And if it’s finally taken down? Its Deadly Demise causes mortal wounds when it explodes, taking a few enemies with it in a final blaze of glory!
How to Use the Baneblade in Warhammer 40k
In large-scale battles, the Baneblade shines when you let it be the unstoppable juggernaut it was designed to be. Keep it central, where its massive range and firepower can reach everything from enemy tanks to hordes of infantry (read all about playing the Astra Militarum here).
You’ll want to leverage its high toughness and enormous wound pool, making it a priority target that soaks up damage while dishing out plenty in return. Don’t forget about its Steel Behemoth rule, which allows it to fire in combat—getting too close to this beast isn’t a great survival strategy for your opponent!
However, don’t be reckless. A Baneblade is a points-heavy unit, and a well-placed enemy heavy weapon can take it out faster than you’d like.
Keep it supported by other units to prevent it from getting overwhelmed. Always be aware of potential threats, especially those with high-strength, high-AP weapons.
Baneblade Deployment: Supporting Infantry and Smaller Tanks
The Baneblade works best as a centerpiece in your army, anchoring your battle line and supporting infantry or smaller tanks. Place it where its wide array of weapons can hit multiple types of targets: demolisher cannon for enemy armor, heavy bolters for infantry, and that iconic Baneblade Cannon for anything unlucky enough to be in range.
Surround your Baneblade with infantry units, using them as a screen to absorb incoming fire and protect your tank from getting overwhelmed by melee-focused units.
Meanwhile, lighter tanks like the Leman Russ can provide additional firepower, helping your Baneblade focus on the biggest threats.
Baneblade Variants in 40k: Which One Fits Your Playstyle?
Each Baneblade variant is designed with a particular tactical niche in mind. So, whether you want to vaporize infantry or take down a Titan, there’s a variant for you.
When to Choose the Shadowsword for Anti-Titan Tactics
The Shadowsword is your go-to tank when dealing with massive threats like Imperial Knights or enemy Titans. Its Volcano Cannon can make even the toughest foes weep with fear, especially when it rolls for multiple high-damage hits.
If your opponent has something enormous on the table, the Shadowsword is built for that moment. It’s not great against infantry, but who cares when you’re vaporizing behemoths?
Using the Stormlord for Infantry Support and Objective Control
The Stormlord, on the other hand, is the king of infantry annihilation. With its Vulcan Mega-Bolter, it can send out a withering hail of bullets capable of shredding large groups of infantry.
This variant also comes with a troop transport option, letting you move 40 models around while you mow down your enemies. Stick it near objectives to dominate the battlefield and keep your forces advancing under cover.
Conclusion: Why the Baneblade is a Must-Have for Warhammer 40k Enthusiasts
Whether you’re just starting your Astra Militarum army or looking to add some serious weight to your collection, the Baneblade tank is more than just a model—it’s a statement. No other unit screams “Imperial might” quite like this rolling fortress.
It’s the perfect combination of epic lore, jaw-dropping firepower, and endless customization options. In both Warhammer 40k gameplay and the fictional universe, the Baneblade dominates battlefields and imaginations alike. Here’s why you need one in your collection.
The Importance of the Baneblade in Lore and Gameplay
In the grimdark universe of Warhammer 40k, the Baneblade is not just another tank; it’s a symbol of the Imperium’s undying resilience. First rolling out during the Great Crusade, these super-heavy tanks have become legends in their own right. Every Baneblade has a storied history, earning a place in the annals of the Astra Militarum’s countless wars.
From a gameplay perspective, the Baneblade represents pure, unfiltered destruction. With more guns than most armies field on their own, it’s a game-changer when deployed.
In large battles, it can serve as a one-man army, drawing fire away from your infantry and crushing enemy armor like it’s swatting flies. Sure, it’s a massive investment in points, but the look on your opponent’s face when you unveil it? Priceless.
The Baneblade is equally versatile in narrative-driven games, where its presence can turn the tide of an entire campaign. The lore and gravitas it brings to the table make every battle feel like a climactic set-piece in an epic saga.
Whether you’re smashing through enemy defenses or leading an Imperial Crusade, the Baneblade has always been the machine that gets the job done.
How the Baneblade and Its Variants Shape Astra Militarum Strategies
In Warhammer 40k, the Baneblade isn’t just a hulking monstrosity. It’s a strategic tool that can redefine how your Astra Militarum army operates on the tabletop. Each Baneblade variant offers something different, and tailoring your super-heavy tank to your battle plan can give you a real edge.
For instance, the Shadowsword is designed to take out enemy Titans and Knights with pinpoint Volcano Cannon strikes. If you’re facing off against super-heavies or monstrous creatures, the Shadowsword delivers.
On the flip side, the Stormlord variant excels at mowing down infantry with its Vulcan Mega-Bolter, turning swarms of foes into a pile of ash before they can even blink.
Then there’s the Hellhammer for all you city fighters out there, a tank designed to tear through fortifications and entrenched enemy positions. Each variant has a specific role, allowing the Baneblade to become the backbone of different Astra Militarum strategies.
Whether you need raw firepower, tactical flexibility, or just a big distraction, the Baneblade is the tool for the job.
All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors
What do you think about Warhammer 40k Baneblade and all of its variants?
About the Author: John Von Canon
John Von Canon
Job Title: Miniatures & Trading Card Games Writer
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About John Von Cannon: Tabletop gaming since 2016; John joined the Spikey Bits team in 2023 and covers new miniature products, trading card games, and RPGs.
He spends his evenings working at his local game store for the full hobby experience. So if you’re looking for niche and convoluted ways to sneak out a win in your next Commander game or a cool new hobby product for miniatures, he’s your guy.
