Welcome to another Top 10 Warhammer 40K Lists article, the monthly overview from Grimhammer Tactics covering the top performing Warhammer 40K lists for the month.
See all previous versions and the current edition of my Top 10 Warhammer 40K lists here.
While August isn’t completely over yet and the NOVA Open is in full swing this weekend, the month is coming to a close and it’s time to highlight the other top 10 competitive 40K lists for August 2025.
Last week we saw a points update increase on Imperial and Chaos Knights as well as Death Guard. This top 10 list won’t feature any of those lists (since they are essentially null now). This month we will be focusing on other lists that either won major singles events or went undefeated.
It looks much different now going into the fall and a surprise army may be on the horizon ready to ascend to the top of the competitive mountain. Let’s dig into the top 10 Competitive 40K lists for August.
1. Brad Chester – Aeldari Warhost – The Salt City GT IV – 7-0
Click to see list
warhost part deux (1990 points)
Aeldari
Strike Force (2000 points)
Warhost
CHARACTERS
Autarch (85 points)
- 1x Dragon fusion gun
1x Star glaive
Autarch (85 points)
- Warlord
- 1x Reaper launcher
1x Star glaive
Fuegan (120 points)
- 1x Fire Axe
1x Searsong
Jain Zar (105 points)
- 1x Blade of Destruction
1x Silent Death
Lhykhis (120 points)
- 1x Brood Twain
1x Spider’s Fangs
1x Weaverender
BATTLELINE
Corsair Voidreavers (60 points)
- 1x Voidreaver Felarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Mistshield
1x Neuro disruptor
1x Power sword - 4x Corsair Voidreaver
- 1x Blaster
4x Close combat weapon
3x Power sword
4x Shuriken pistol
Corsair Voidreavers (60 points)
- 1x Voidreaver Felarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Mistshield
1x Neuro disruptor
1x Power sword - 4x Corsair Voidreaver
- 1x Blaster
4x Close combat weapon
3x Power sword
4x Shuriken pistol
DEDICATED TRANSPORTS
Wave Serpent (125 points)
- 1x Shuriken cannon
1x Twin bright lance
1x Wraithbone hull
OTHER DATASHEETS
Dark Reapers (195 points)
- 1x Dark Reaper Exarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Missile Launcher - 9x Dark Reaper
- 9x Close combat weapon
9x Reaper launcher - 2x Aspect Shrine Token
Dark Reapers (90 points)
- 1x Aspect Shrine Token
- 1x Dark Reaper Exarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Tempest launcher - 4x Dark Reaper
- 4x Close combat weapon
4x Reaper launcher
Fire Dragons (220 points)
- 1x Fire Dragon Exarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Exarch’s Dragon fusion gun - 9x Fire Dragon
- 9x Close combat weapon
9x Dragon fusion gun
2x Aspect Shrine Token
Fire Dragons (120 points)
- 1x Fire Dragon Exarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Firepike - 4x Fire Dragon
- 4x Close combat weapon
4x Dragon fusion gun
1x Aspect Shrine Token
Howling Banshees (95 points)
- 1x Howling Banshee Exarch
- 1x Executioner
1x Shuriken pistol - 4x Howling Banshee
- 4x Banshee blade
4x Shuriken pistol
1x Aspect Shrine Token
Howling Banshees (95 points)
- 1x Howling Banshee Exarch
- 1x Executioner
1x Shuriken pistol - 4x Howling Banshee
- 4x Banshee blade
4x Shuriken pistol
1x Aspect Shrine Token
Rangers (55 points)
- 5x Ranger
- 5x Close combat weapon
5x Long rifle
5x Shuriken pistol
Swooping Hawks (85 points)
- 1x Aspect Shrine Token
- 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Exarch’s lasblaster - 4x Swooping Hawk
- 4x Close combat weapon
4x Lasblaster
Swooping Hawks (85 points)
- 1x Aspect Shrine Token
- 1x Swooping Hawk Exarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Exarch’s lasblaster - 4x Swooping Hawk
- 4x Close combat weapon
4x Lasblaster
Warp Spiders (95 points)
- 1x Warp Spider Exarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Powerblade array - 4x Warp Spider
- 4x Close combat weapon
4x Death spinner
1x Aspect Shrine Token
Warp Spiders (95 points)
- 1x Warp Spider Exarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Death weavers
1x Spinneret rifle - 4x Warp Spider
- 4x Close combat weapon
4x Death spinner
1x Aspect Shrine Token
Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651
Warhost is quickly becoming the most popular of the competitive Aeldari detachments especially in the hands of highly skilled elite players like Brad. With lots of movement shenanigans and extra Battle Focus, they make up for the lack of rerolls from Aspect Host by delivering on maneuverability and doing what Aeldari do best–not getting shot! Also of note is the fact that Aeldari shine at murdering Knights which aren’t really going anywhere soon despite the points nerfs. A perfect start to the top 10 competitive 40k lists.
2. Christopher Radford – Blood Angels Liberator Assault Group – The Kent Major 2025 – 6-0
Click to see list
BA – Kent – Mephiston (2000 points)
Space Marines
Blood Angels
Strike Force (2000 points)
Liberator Assault Group
CHARACTERS
Blood Angels Captain (115 points)
- 1x Inferno pistol
1x Power fist - Enhancement: Rage-fuelled Warrior
Chief Librarian Mephiston (120 points)
- 1x Fury of the Ancients
1x Plasma pistol
1x Vitarus
Commander Dante (120 points)
- 1x Perdition Pistol
1x The Axe Mortalis
Death Company Captain with Jump Pack (75 points)
- 1x Hand flamer
1x Power fist
Death Company Captain with Jump Pack (100 points)
- 1x Hand flamer
1x Power fist - Enhancement: Speed of the Primarch
Lemartes (100 points)
- Warlord
- 1x Absolvor bolt pistol
1x The Blood Crozius
Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (70 points)
- 1x Combi-weapon
1x Paired combat blades
BATTLELINE
Intercessor Squad (80 points)
- 1x Intercessor Sergeant
- 1x Astartes grenade launcher
1x Bolt pistol
1x Bolt rifle
1x Power fist - 4x Intercessor
- 4x Bolt pistol
4x Bolt rifle
4x Close combat weapon
DEDICATED TRANSPORTS
Impulsor (80 points)
- 1x Armoured hull
2x Fragstorm grenade launcher
1x Ironhail heavy stubber
1x Shield Dome
OTHER DATASHEETS
Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs (90 points)
- 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack
- 1x Hand flamer
1x Power fist - 4x Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs
- 4x Astartes chainsword
3x Heavy bolt pistol
1x Plasma pistol
Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs (90 points)
- 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack
- 1x Hand flamer
1x Power fist - 4x Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs
- 4x Astartes chainsword
3x Heavy bolt pistol
1x Plasma pistol
Bladeguard Veteran Squad (80 points)
- 1x Bladeguard Veteran Sergeant
- 1x Master-crafted power weapon
1x Neo-volkite pistol - 2x Bladeguard Veteran
- 2x Heavy bolt pistol
2x Master-crafted power weapon
Death Company Marines with Jump Packs (230 points)
- 10x Death Company Marine with Jump Packs
- 5x Astartes chainsword
2x Eviscerator
6x Heavy bolt pistol
2x Inferno pistol
2x Plasma pistol
3x Power fist
Death Company Marines with Jump Packs (120 points)
- 5x Death Company Marine with Jump Packs
- 2x Astartes chainsword
1x Eviscerator
3x Heavy bolt pistol
1x Inferno pistol
1x Plasma pistol
2x Power fist
Death Company Marines with Jump Packs (120 points)
- 5x Death Company Marine with Jump Packs
- 2x Astartes chainsword
1x Eviscerator
3x Heavy bolt pistol
1x Inferno pistol
1x Plasma pistol
2x Power fist
Sanguinary Guard (240 points)
- 6x Sanguinary Guard
- 4x Angelus boltgun
6x Encarmine blade
2x Inferno pistol
1x Sanguinary Banner
Scout Squad (70 points)
- 1x Scout Sergeant
- 1x Astartes chainsword
1x Bolt pistol
1x Close combat weapon - 4x Scout
- 4x Bolt pistol
4x Close combat weapon
4x Combat knife
Sternguard Veteran Squad (100 points)
- 1x Sternguard Veteran Sergeant
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Power fist
1x Sternguard bolt pistol
1x Sternguard bolt rifle - 4x Sternguard Veteran
- 4x Close combat weapon
4x Sternguard bolt pistol
3x Sternguard bolt rifle
1x Sternguard heavy bolter
Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651
Another army poised to make a splash in the post-August dataslate meta; Blood Angels. This is my main army so this one is near and dear to my heart and definitely worthy of inclusion in this months top 10 competitive 40K lists. This list leans heavy into some MSU with some hard-hitting melee power with Lemartes and the 10 Death Company brick dropping in out of Rapid Ingress. Moving the Rage Fueled Captain into the Sternguard to get full hit and wound rerolls for the unit against the Oath target let’s him really capitalize on that once per game Sustained 3 on melee attacks with Finest Hour for Dev Wounds. This list packs a heck of a punch.
3. James Walsh – Dark Angels Company of Hunters – The Big Sky Open – 5-0-1
Click to see list
Dark Angels – Still D Tier (2000 Points)
Space Marines
Dark Angels
Company of Hunters
Strike Force (2,000 Points)
CHARACTERS
Ravenwing Command Squad (120 Points)
- 1x Ravenwing Champion
- Warlord
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Master-crafted power weapon
◦ 1x Plasma talon - 1x Ravenwing Apothecary
◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Plasma talon - 1x Ravenwing Ancient
◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Plasma talon
Ravenwing Command Squad (140 Points)
- 1x Ravenwing Champion
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Master-crafted power weapon
◦ 1x Plasma talon
◦ Enhancements: Recon Hunter - 1x Ravenwing Apothecary
◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Plasma talon - 1x Ravenwing Ancient
◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Plasma talon
Ravenwing Command Squad (135 Points)
- 1x Ravenwing Champion
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Master-crafted power weapon
◦ 1x Plasma talon
◦ Enhancements: Master of Manoeuvre - 1x Ravenwing Apothecary
◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Plasma talon - 1x Ravenwing Ancient
◦ 1x Black Knight combat weapon
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Plasma talon
BATTLELINE
Outrider Squad (80 Points)
- 1x Outrider Sergeant
◦ 1x Astartes chainsword
◦ 1x Heavy bolt pistol
◦ 1x Twin bolt rifle - 2x Outrider
◦ 2x Astartes chainsword
◦ 2x Heavy bolt pistol
◦ 2x Twin bolt rifle
Outrider Squad (80 Points)
- 1x Outrider Sergeant
◦ 1x Astartes chainsword
◦ 1x Heavy bolt pistol
◦ 1x Twin bolt rifle - 2x Outrider
◦ 2x Astartes chainsword
◦ 2x Heavy bolt pistol
◦ 2x Twin bolt rifle
Outrider Squad (80 Points)
- 1x Outrider Sergeant
◦ 1x Astartes chainsword
◦ 1x Heavy bolt pistol
◦ 1x Twin bolt rifle - 2x Outrider
◦ 2x Astartes chainsword
◦ 2x Heavy bolt pistol
◦ 2x Twin bolt rifle
OTHER DATASHEETS
Ballistus Dreadnought (140 Points)
- 1x Armoured feet
- 1x Ballistus lascannon
- 1x Ballistus missile launcher
- 1x Twin storm bolter
Ballistus Dreadnought (140 Points)
- 1x Armoured feet
- 1x Ballistus lascannon
- 1x Ballistus missile launcher
- 1x Twin storm bolter
Ballistus Dreadnought (140 Points)
- 1x Armoured feet
- 1x Ballistus lascannon
- 1x Ballistus missile launcher
- 1x Twin storm bolter
Centurion Devastator Squad (165 Points)
- 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant
◦ 1x Centurion fists
◦ 1x Centurion missile launcher
◦ 1x Grav-cannon - 2x Devastator Centurion
◦ 2x Centurion fists
◦ 2x Centurion missile launcher
◦ 2x Grav-cannon
Centurion Devastator Squad (165 Points)
- 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant
◦ 1x Centurion fists
◦ 1x Centurion missile launcher
◦ 1x Grav-cannon - 2x Devastator Centurion
◦ 2x Centurion fists
◦ 2x Centurion missile launcher
◦ 2x Grav-cannon
Centurion Devastator Squad (165 Points)
- 1x Devastator Centurion Sergeant
◦ 1x Centurion fists
◦ 1x Centurion missile launcher
◦ 1x Grav-cannon - 2x Devastator Centurion
◦ 2x Centurion fists
◦ 2x Centurion missile launcher
◦ 2x Grav-cannon
Invader ATV (60 Points)
- 1x Bolt pistol
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Multi-melta
- 1x Twin bolt rifle
Scout Squad (70 Points)
- 1x Scout Sergeant
◦ 1x Astartes chainsword
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Close combat weapon - 4x Scout
◦ 2x Astartes shotgun
◦ 4x Bolt pistol
◦ 4x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Missile launcher
◦ 1x Scout sniper rifle
Scout Squad (70 Points)
- 1x Scout Sergeant
◦ 1x Astartes chainsword
◦ 1x Bolt pistol
◦ 1x Close combat weapon - 4x Scout
◦ 2x Astartes shotgun
◦ 4x Bolt pistol
◦ 4x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Missile launcher
◦ 1x Scout sniper rifle
Storm Speeder Hammerstrike (125 Points)
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Hammerstrike missile launcher
- 2x Krakstorm grenade launcher
- 1x Melta destroyer
Storm Speeder Hammerstrike (125 Points)
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Hammerstrike missile launcher
- 2x Krakstorm grenade launcher
- 1x Melta destroyer
Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (3), Data Version: v651
This is one of the more interesting lists from the month of August. While James didn’t win the event, he went 5 wins and 1 draw with a unique list featuring Ravenwing. The interesting take here are the 3 squads of Centurion Devastators. They can Advance and shoot in the detachment which really gives a lot of flexibility in getting where they need to get to blast the enemy apart. With plenty of Grav Cannon shots, they are a great answer to the Knights meta as well. Awesome job taking this unique list to a great finish!
4. Justin Moore – Necrons Awakened Dynasty – The Lone Star Open 2025 – 6-0
Click to see list
Crons(1995 points)
On my challenge, by the ancient laws of combat we are met at this chosen ground to settle for good and all who holds sway over the five points, Us xenos born right wise to this fine galaxy, or the imperial hordes defiling it
Necrons
Strike Force (2000 points)
Awakened Dynasty
CHARACTERS
Hexmark Destroyer (75 points)
Warlord
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Enmitic disintegrator pistols
Orikan the Diviner (80 points)
- 1x Staff of Tomorrow
Royal Warden (70 points)
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Relic gauss blaster
- Enhancement: Nether-realm Casket
Technomancer (80 points)
- 1x Staff of light
Technomancer (80 points)
- 1x Staff of light
BATTLELINE
Necron Warriors (200 points)
- 20x Necron Warrior
- 20x Close combat weapon
- 20x Gauss reaper
DEDICATED TRANSPORTS
Ghost Ark (115 points)
- 1x Armoured bulk
- 2x Gauss flayer array
OTHER DATASHEETS
Canoptek Reanimator (75 points)
- 2x Atomiser beam
- 1x Reanimator’s claws
Canoptek Wraiths (220 points)
- 6x Canoptek Wraith
- 6x Particle caster
- 6x Vicious claws
Canoptek Wraiths (220 points)
- 6x Canoptek Wraith
- 6x Particle caster
- 6x Vicious claws
Cryptothralls (60 points)
- 2x Cryptothrall
- 2x Scouring eye
- 2x Scythed limbs
Deathmarks (60 points)
- 5x Deathmark
- 5x Close combat weapon
- 5x Synaptic disintegrator
Doomsday Ark (200 points)
- 1x Armoured bulk
- 1x Doomsday cannon
- 2x Gauss flayer array
Doomsday Ark (200 points)
- 1x Armoured bulk
- 1x Doomsday cannon
- 2x Gauss flayer array
Doomsday Ark (200 points)
- 1x Armoured bulk
- 1x Doomsday cannon
- 2x Gauss flayer array
Flayed Ones (60 points)
- 5x Flayed One
- 5x Flayer claws
Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651
Awakened Dynasty goodness with Orikan and a Warrior brick that is super tough with a 4++ invuln backed by a few ways to keep regenerating models with the Reanimator and Reanimation Protocols gimmicks. Two Wraith squads with Technomancers for that sweet 5+ Feel No Pain and 3 Doomsday Arks to blast away enemy…everything. Awakened Dynasty continues to see strong play and Justin took this list to an undefeated finish at the LSO (and he didn’t even need an extra Helbrute to do it.)
5. Randy Brigham – Tau Kroot Hunting Pack – Ragnarok GT 2025 – 6-0
Click to see list
Today is Kroot appreciation day, so I would appreciate everyone saying hello to the Kroot and letting them know you’re glad to see em. (1995 Points)
T’au Empire
Kroot Hunting Pack
Strike Force (2,000 Points)
CHARACTERS
Kroot Flesh Shaper (45 Points)
- 1x Kroot scattergun
- 1x Twin ritualistic blades
Kroot Flesh Shaper (45 Points)
- 1x Kroot scattergun
- 1x Twin ritualistic blades
Kroot Lone-spear (80 Points)
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Kalamandra’s bite
- 1x Kroot long gun
Kroot Lone-spear (80 Points)
- Warlord
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Kalamandra’s bite
- 1x Kroot long gun
Kroot Trail Shaper (75 Points)
- 1x Kroot rifle
- 1x Shaper’s blade
- Enhancements: Nomadic Hunter
Kroot War Shaper (60 Points)
- 1x Dart-bow and tri-blade
- 1x Kroot pistol
- 1x Shaper’s blade
- Enhancements: Root-carved Weapons
BATTLELINE
Kroot Carnivores (140 Points)
- 1x Long-quill
◦ 1x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Kroot pistol
◦ 1x Kroot rifle - 19x Kroot Carnivore
◦ 19x Close combat weapon
◦ 17x Kroot rifle
◦ 2x Tanglebomb launcher
Kroot Carnivores (140 Points)
- 1x Long-quill
◦ 1x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Kroot pistol
◦ 1x Kroot rifle - 19x Kroot Carnivore
◦ 19x Close combat weapon
◦ 17x Kroot rifle
◦ 2x Tanglebomb launcher
Kroot Carnivores (65 Points)
- 1x Long-quill
◦ 1x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Kroot pistol
◦ 1x Kroot rifle - 9x Kroot Carnivore
◦ 9x Close combat weapon
◦ 8x Kroot rifle
◦ 1x Tanglebomb launcher
Kroot Carnivores (65 Points)
- 1x Long-quill
◦ 1x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Kroot pistol
◦ 1x Kroot rifle - 9x Kroot Carnivore
◦ 9x Close combat weapon
◦ 8x Kroot rifle
◦ 1x Tanglebomb launcher
Kroot Carnivores (65 Points)
- 1x Long-quill
◦ 1x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Kroot pistol
◦ 1x Kroot rifle - 9x Kroot Carnivore
◦ 9x Close combat weapon
◦ 8x Kroot rifle
◦ 1x Tanglebomb launcher
Kroot Carnivores (65 Points)
- 1x Long-quill
◦ 1x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Kroot pistol
◦ 1x Kroot rifle - 9x Kroot Carnivore
◦ 9x Close combat weapon
◦ 8x Kroot rifle
◦ 1x Tanglebomb launcher
OTHER DATASHEETS
Kroot Farstalkers (85 Points)
- 1x Kroot Kill-broker
◦ 1x Farstalker firearm
◦ 1x Kroot pistol
◦ 1x Ritual blade - 9x Kroot Farstalker
◦ 9x Close combat weapon
◦ 9x Farstalker firearm
◦ 9x Kroot pistol - 2x Kroot Hound
◦ 2x Ripping fangs
Kroot Farstalkers (85 Points)
- 1x Kroot Kill-broker
◦ 1x Farstalker firearm
◦ 1x Kroot pistol
◦ 1x Ritual blade - 9x Kroot Farstalker
◦ 9x Close combat weapon
◦ 9x Farstalker firearm
◦ 9x Kroot pistol - 2x Kroot Hound
◦ 2x Ripping fangs
Kroot Hounds (40 Points)
- 5x Kroot Hound
◦ 5x Ripping fangs
Kroot Hounds (40 Points)
- 5x Kroot Hound
◦ 5x Ripping fangs
Kroot Hounds (40 Points)
- 5x Kroot Hound
◦ 5x Ripping fangs
Krootox Rampagers (170 Points)
- 6x Krootox Rampagers
◦ 6x Hunting blades
◦ 6x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins
◦ 6x Rampager fists
Krootox Rampagers (170 Points)
- 6x Krootox Rampagers
◦ 6x Hunting blades
◦ 6x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins
◦ 6x Rampager fists
Krootox Rampagers (170 Points)
- 6x Krootox Rampagers
◦ 6x Hunting blades
◦ 6x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins
◦ 6x Rampager fists
Krootox Riders (90 Points)
- 3x Krootox Rider
◦ 3x Close combat weapon
◦ 3x Krootox fists
◦ 3x Repeater cannon
Krootox Riders (90 Points)
- 3x Krootox Rider
◦ 3x Close combat weapon
◦ 3x Krootox fists
◦ 3x Repeater cannon
Krootox Riders (90 Points)
- 3x Krootox Rider
◦ 3x Close combat weapon
◦ 3x Krootox fists
◦ 3x Repeater cannon
Exported with App Version: v1.39.0 (1), Data Version: v662
It may come as a surprise to most but Tau are on the rise and the first of these featured lists is…a Kroot Hunting Pack? Isn’t this supposed to be a meme? Well, maybe it is but Randy managed to still pull off an undefeated finish with them! The Kroot build may have some teeth. With 2 big blobs of Karnivores with a 5+ invuln to shooting, Stealth and “sticky” along with some decent skirmish units, this is an interesting build that swarms the board denying Primary while being annoying to remove. And when you finally do finish off that 20 man Karnivore blob? Well, for 2 CP they just come right back. If the Thousand Sons Tzaangor build gave us any indication a list like this could work, this certainly drives home the point.
6. Ben Neal – Black Templars Gladius – Denver 40K Fight Club August Open – 6-0
Click to see list
BT (Bonk Time) (2000 points)
Space Marines
Black Templars
Strike Force (2000 points)
Gladius Task Force
CHARACTERS
Captain in Gravis Armour (90 points)
- 1x Boltstorm gauntlet
1x Power fist
1x Relic chainsword - Enhancement: Artificer Armour
Castellan (60 points)
- 1x Combi-weapon
1x Master-crafted power weapon
Castellan (60 points)
- 1x Combi-weapon
1x Master-crafted power weapon
Chaplain Grimaldus (110 points)
- 1x Chaplain Grimaldus
- 1x Artificer crozius
1x Plasma pistol - 3x Cenobyte Servitor
- 3x Close combat weapon
Emperor’s Champion (105 points)
- 1x Black Sword
1x Bolt Pistol - Enhancement: The Honour Vehement
Lieutenant with Combi-weapon (70 points)
- 1x Combi-weapon
1x Paired combat blades
Marshal (80 points)
- Warlord
- 1x Combi-weapon
1x Master-crafted power weapon
Marshal (80 points)
- 1x Combi-weapon
1x Master-crafted power weapon
BATTLELINE
Assault Intercessor Squad (75 points)
- 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant
- 1x Hand flamer
1x Power fist - 4x Assault Intercessor
- 4x Astartes chainsword
4x Heavy bolt pistol
Assault Intercessor Squad (75 points)
- 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant
- 1x Hand flamer
1x Power fist - 4x Assault Intercessor
- 4x Astartes chainsword
4x Heavy bolt pistol
DEDICATED TRANSPORTS
Impulsor (85 points)
- 1x Armoured hull
2x Fragstorm grenade launcher
1x Multi-melta
1x Shield Dome
OTHER DATASHEETS
Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs (90 points)
- 1x Assault Intercessor Sergeant with Jump Pack
- 1x Plasma pistol
1x Power fist - 4x Assault Intercessors with Jump Packs
- 4x Astartes chainsword
3x Heavy bolt pistol
1x Plasma pistol
Ballistus Dreadnought (140 points)
- 1x Armoured feet
1x Ballistus lascannon
1x Ballistus missile launcher
1x Twin storm bolter
Gladiator Lancer (160 points)
- 1x Armoured hull
2x Fragstorm grenade launcher
1x Icarus rocket pod
1x Lancer laser destroyer
1x Multi-melta
Repulsor Executioner (220 points)
- 1x Armoured hull
1x Heavy laser destroyer
1x Heavy onslaught gatling cannon
1x Icarus rocket pod
1x Multi-melta
1x Repulsor Executioner defensive array
1x Twin Icarus ironhail heavy stubber
1x Twin heavy bolter
Repulsor Executioner (220 points)
- 1x Armoured hull
1x Heavy laser destroyer
1x Heavy onslaught gatling cannon
1x Icarus rocket pod
1x Multi-melta
1x Repulsor Executioner defensive array
1x Twin Icarus ironhail heavy stubber
1x Twin heavy bolter
Scout Squad (70 points)
- 1x Scout Sergeant
- 1x Astartes chainsword
1x Bolt pistol
1x Close combat weapon - 4x Scout
- 4x Bolt pistol
4x Close combat weapon
4x Combat knife
Sword Brethren Squad (105 points)
- 4x Sword Brother
- 4x Heavy bolt pistol
4x Master-crafted power weapon
Sword Brethren Squad (105 points)
- 4x Sword Brother
- 4x Heavy bolt pistol
4x Master-crafted power weapon
Exported with App Version: v1.39.0 (92), Data Version: v662
Are you ready for reactive moving Sword Brethren hopping back into Repulsors and Impulsors? Well, you better get ready! Oh and losing Oaths? Meh their characters just give them rerolls so basically they get a free upgrade by getting Vows. Unfortunately the Black Templars Detachments leave a lot to be desired, but then there’s old faithful Gladius. Designed with tools to help maximize the value of the units, it’s not a surprise to see Black Templars shine in this Detachment. This is one you will see more commonly as the new meta evolves.
7. John Kilcommons – Tau Auxiliary Cadre – Denver 40K Fight Club August Open – 6-0
Click to see list
In GK’s we trust (2000 Points)
T’au Empire
Auxiliary Cadre
Strike Force (2,000 Points)
CHARACTERS
Commander Shadowsun (100 Points)
- Warlord
- 1x Advanced Guardian Drone
- 1x Battlesuit fists
- 1x Command-link Drone (Aura)
- 1x Flechette launcher
- 2x High-energy fusion blaster
- 1x Light missile pod
- 1x Pulse pistol
OTHER DATASHEETS
Broadside Battlesuits (90 Points)
- 1x Broadside Shas’vre
◦ 1x Crushing bulk
◦ 1x Heavy rail rifle
◦ 2x Missile Drone
◦ 1x Seeker missile
◦ 1x Weapon Support System
Broadside Battlesuits (90 Points)
- 1x Broadside Shas’vre
◦ 1x Crushing bulk
◦ 1x Heavy rail rifle
◦ 2x Missile Drone
◦ 1x Seeker missile
◦ 1x Weapon Support System
Broadside Battlesuits (90 Points)
- 1x Broadside Shas’vre
◦ 1x Crushing bulk
◦ 1x Heavy rail rifle
◦ 2x Missile Drone
◦ 1x Seeker missile
◦ 1x Weapon Support System
Ghostkeel Battlesuit (160 Points)
- 1x Battlesuit Support System
- 1x Cyclic ion raker
- 1x Ghostkeel fists
- 1x Twin fusion blaster
Ghostkeel Battlesuit (160 Points)
- 1x Battlesuit Support System
- 1x Cyclic ion raker
- 1x Ghostkeel fists
- 1x Twin fusion blaster
Ghostkeel Battlesuit (160 Points)
- 1x Battlesuit Support System
- 1x Cyclic ion raker
- 1x Ghostkeel fists
- 1x Twin fusion blaster
Kroot Carnivores (65 Points)
- 1x Long-quill
◦ 1x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Kroot pistol
◦ 1x Kroot rifle - 9x Kroot Carnivore
◦ 9x Close combat weapon
◦ 8x Kroot rifle
◦ 1x Tanglebomb launcher
Krootox Rampagers (170 Points)
- 6x Krootox Rampagers
◦ 6x Hunting blades
◦ 6x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins
◦ 6x Rampager fists
Krootox Rampagers (170 Points)
- 6x Krootox Rampagers
◦ 6x Hunting blades
◦ 6x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins
◦ 6x Rampager fists
Krootox Rampagers (85 Points)
- 3x Krootox Rampagers
◦ 3x Hunting blades
◦ 3x Kroot pistol and hunting javelins
◦ 3x Rampager fists
Pathfinder Team (90 Points)
- 1x Pathfinder Shas’ui
◦ 1x Close combat weapon
◦ 1x Gun Drone
◦ 1x Pulse carbine
◦ 1x Pulse pistol
◦ 1x Recon Drone
◦ 1x Semi-automatic grenade launcher
◦ 1x Shield Drone - 9x Pathfinder
◦ 9x Close combat weapon
◦ 3x Ion rifle
◦ 6x Pulse carbine
◦ 9x Pulse pistol
Sky Ray Gunship (140 Points)
- 2x Accelerator burst cannon
- 1x Armoured hull
- 1x Seeker missile rack
Sky Ray Gunship (140 Points)
- 2x Accelerator burst cannon
- 1x Armoured hull
- 1x Seeker missile rack
Stealth Battlesuits (80 Points)
- 1x Stealth Shas’vre
◦ 1x Battlesuit Support System
◦ 1x Battlesuit fists
◦ 1x Fusion blaster
◦ 1x Homing Beacon
◦ 1x Marker Drone
◦ 1x Shield Drone - 2x Stealth Shas’ui
◦ 2x Battlesuit fists
◦ 2x Burst cannon
Stealth Battlesuits (80 Points)
- 1x Stealth Shas’vre
◦ 1x Battlesuit Support System
◦ 1x Battlesuit fists
◦ 1x Fusion blaster
◦ 1x Homing Beacon
◦ 1x Marker Drone
◦ 1x Shield Drone - 2x Stealth Shas’ui
◦ 2x Battlesuit fists
◦ 2x Burst cannon
Vespid Stingwings (65 Points)
- 1x Vespid Strain Leader
◦ 1x Neutron blaster
◦ 1x Stingwing claws - 4x Vespid Stingwing
◦ 4x Neutron blaster
◦ 4x Stingwing claws
Vespid Stingwings (65 Points)
- 1x Vespid Strain Leader
◦ 1x Neutron blaster
◦ 1x Stingwing claws - 4x Vespid Stingwing
◦ 4x Neutron blaster
◦ 4x Stingwing claws
Exported with App Version: v1.39.0 (1), Data Version: v662
The second Tau list in the top 10 emerges with Auxiliary Cadre. This one takes full advantage of the Detachment rule for giving the Kroot and Vespids 18″ lone op while within 6″ of the Tau units letting them scoot up the board for a massive go turn with an AP boost for the heavy hitters later. The Guided Fire stratagem is especially useful here for the Broadsides camping near those hiding Kroot Carnivores to give them a +2 Strength boost to the Heavy Rail Rifles to make them Strength 14. This army has some great synergy with lots of layered buffs in an unusual list that the opponent will have problems picking apart until it’s too late.
8. Durante “Glynisir” Bozzini – Tau Kauyon – Utah Cup 2025 – 6-0
Click to see list
Railguns Have 2 Shots & Ignore Mods
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
- PLAYER NAME: Dante (Glynisir)
- FACTION KEYWORD: Xenos – T’au Empire
- DETACHMENT: Kauyon
- TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 2000pts
- WARLORD: Char1: Commander Shadowsun
- NUMBER OF UNITS: 18
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Char1: 1x Commander Shadowsun (100 pts): Warlord, Battlesuit fists, Flechette launcher, 2x High-energy fusion blaster, Light missile pod, Pulse pistol
10x Breacher Team (100 pts)
- 1x Breacher Fire Warrior Shas’ui: Guardian Drone, Shield Drone, Close combat weapon, Pulse blaster, Pulse pistol, Support turret
- 9x Breacher Fire Warriors: 9 with Close combat weapon, Pulse blaster, Pulse pistol
10x Kroot Carnivores (65 pts)
- 1x Long-quill: Close combat weapon, Kroot pistol, Kroot carbine
- 1x Kroot Carnivore: Close combat weapon, Tanglebomb launcher
- 8x Kroot Carnivores: 8 with Close combat weapon, Kroot rifle
10x Pathfinder Team (90 pts)
- 9x Pathfinders
6 with Close combat weapon, Pulse carbine, Pulse pistol
3 with Close combat weapon, Ion rifle, Pulse pistol - 1x Pathfinder Shas’ui: Shield Drone, Recon drone, Drone burst cannon, Close combat weapon, Pulse carbine, Pulse pistol, Semi-automatic grenade launcher, Twin pulse carbine
3x Stealth Battlesuits (80 pts)
- 1x Stealth Shas’vre: Battlesuit support system, Homing beacon, Marker Drone, Shield Drone, Battlesuit fists, Fusion blaster
- 2x Stealth Shas’ui: 2 with Battlesuit fists, Burst cannon
3x Stealth Battlesuits (80 pts)
- 1x Stealth Shas’vre: Battlesuit support system, Homing beacon, Marker Drone, Shield Drone, Battlesuit fists, Fusion blaster
- 2x Stealth Shas’ui: 2 with Battlesuit fists, Burst cannon
5x Vespid Stingwings (65 pts)
- 1x Vespid Strain Leader: Neutron blaster, Stingwing claws
- 4x Vespid Stingwings: 4 with Neutron blaster, Stingwing claws
2x Krootox Riders (60 pts): 2x Close combat weapon, 2x Krootox fists, 2x Repeater cannon
1x Ghostkeel Battlesuit (160 pts): Battlesuit support system, Ghostkeel fists, Cyclic ion raker, Twin fusion blaster
1x Piranha (60 pts): Armoured hull, 2x Twin pulse carbine, Piranha fusion blaster, 2x Seeker missile
1x Piranha (60 pts): Armoured hull, 2x Twin pulse carbine, Piranha fusion blaster, 2x Seeker missile
1x Riptide Battlesuit (190 pts): Riptide fists, Ion accelerator, 2x Missile pod, Twin smart missile system
1x Riptide Battlesuit (190 pts): Riptide fists, Ion accelerator, 2x Missile pod, Twin smart missile system
1x Riptide Battlesuit (190 pts): Riptide fists, Ion accelerator, 2x Missile pod, Twin smart missile system
1x Hammerhead Gunship (145 pts): Armoured hull, Railgun, 2x Seeker missile, 2x Smart missile system
1x Sky Ray Gunship (140 pts): Armoured hull, Seeker missile rack, 2x Smart missile system
1x Sky Ray Gunship (140 pts): Armoured hull, Seeker missile rack, 2x Smart missile system
1x Devilfish (85 pts): Accelerator burst cannon, Armoured hull, 2x Seeker missile, 2x Smart missile system
The third of the featured Tau lists comes in a more traditional Kauyon build featuring triple Riptides, Skyrays, and Piranhas. Keeping the heavy hitters alive until Turn 3 where Sustained Hits 1 turns on can be a bit of a challenge, but in the mid-late game this army can really put out some devastating firepower to the enemy. It will be interesting to see if Tau can continue to climb in the post-August dataslate but all signs point to yes.
9. David Purcell – Astra Militarum (w Canis Rex) Combined Arms – Slaanesh Summer Slam 2 Shalaxi’s Revenge – 5-0
Click to see list
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
- FACTION KEYWORD: Imperium – Astra Militarum
- DETACHMENT: Combined Arms
- TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 2000pts
- ALLIED UNITS: Imperial Knights
+ - WARLORD: Char1: Ursula Creed
- ENHANCEMENT: Death Mask of Ollanius (on Char2: Rogal Dorn Commander)
- NUMBER OF UNITS: 16
- SECONDARY: – Bring It Down: (5×2) + (2×4) + (1×6) – Assassination: 5 Characters – Cull The Horde: 1×5
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
“Take a good guard list, remove units at random, add Canis”
https://suno.com/song/d2894c8e-dd28-4537-a5bd-8a4e9db94460
CHARACTER
1x Ursula Creed (85 pts)
- 1x Duty and Vengeance
- 1x Power weapon
- Warlord
5x Cadian Command Squad (65 pts)
- 1x Cadian Commander
- 1x Power fist
- 1x Plasma pistol
- Cadian Commander
- 4x Cadian Veteran Guardsman
- 4x Close combat weapon
- 1x Meltagun
- 1x Plasma pistol
- 3x Lasgun
- 1x Regimental standard
- 4x Cadian Veteran Guardsman, Master vox, Medi-pack
1x Rogal Dorn Commander (275 pts)
- 1x Armoured tracks
- 1x Heavy stubber
- 1x Coaxial autocannon
- 1x Oppressor cannon
- 1x Pulveriser cannon
- 2x Multi-melta
- 2x Heavy stubber
- Death Mask of Ollanius (+10 pts)
1x Rogal Dorn Commander (265 pts)
- 1x Armoured tracks
- 1x Heavy stubber
- 1x Coaxial autocannon
- 1x Oppressor cannon
- 1x Pulveriser cannon
- 2x Multi-melta
- 2x Heavy stubber
BATTLELINE
20x Cadian Shock Troops (120 pts)
- 2x Shock Trooper Sergeant
- 2x Chainsword
- 2x Laspistol
- 2x Shock Trooper
- 18x Shock Trooper
- 18x Close combat weapon
- 14x Lasgun
- 2x Meltagun
- 2x Plasma gun
- 18x Shock Trooper, 2x Vox-caster
10x Catachan Jungle Fighters (65 pts)
- 1x Jungle Fighter Sergeant
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Laspistol
- Catachan Jungle Fighter
- 9x Jungle Fighter
- 9x Close combat weapon
- 7x Lasgun
- 2x Flamer
- 9x Catachan Jungle Fighter, Vox-caster
10x Catachan Jungle Fighters (65 pts)
- 1x Jungle Fighter Sergeant
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Laspistol
- Catachan Jungle Fighter
- 9x Jungle Fighter
- 9x Close combat weapon
- 7x Lasgun
- 2x Flamer
- 9x Catachan Jungle Fighter, Vox-caster
OTHER DATASHEETS
3x Ogryn Squad (60 pts)
- 1x Ogryn Bone ‘ead
- 1x Ripper gun
- Ogryn Squad
- 2x Ogryn
- 2x Ripper gun
- 2x Ogryn Squad
3x Ogryn Squad (60 pts)
- 1x Ogryn Bone ‘ead
- 1x Ripper gun
- Ogryn Squad
- 2x Ogryn
- 2x Ripper gun
- 2x Ogryn Squad
10x Tempestus Aquilons (100 pts)
- 1x Tempestor Aquilon
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Hot-shot lascarbine
- 1x Bolt pistol
- 1x Sentry flamer
- 9x Tempestus Aquilon
- 9x Close combat weapon
- 7x Hot-shot lascarbine
- 1x Hot-shot long las
- 1x Melta carbine
1x Leman Russ Exterminator (180 pts)
- 1x Armoured tracks
- 1x Exterminator autocannon
- 1x Hunter-killer missile
- 1x Lascannon
- 2x Plasma cannon
- 1x Heavy stubber
1x Scout Sentinels (55 pts)
- 1x Scout Sentinel
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Hunter-killer missile
- 1x Sentinel chainsaw
- 1x Lascannon
- Scout Sentinel
1x Scout Sentinels (55 pts)
- 1x Scout Sentinel
- 1x Close combat weapon
- 1x Hunter-killer missile
- 1x Sentinel chainsaw
- 1x Lascannon
- Scout Sentinel
1x Chimera (85 pts)
- 1x Armoured tracks
- 1x Lasgun array
- 1x Hunter-killer missile
- 1x Heavy bolter
- 1x Heavy bolter
- 1x Heavy stubber
1x Chimera (85 pts)
- 1x Armoured tracks
- 1x Lasgun array
- 1x Hunter-killer missile
- 1x Heavy bolter
- 1x Heavy bolter
- 1x Heavy stubber
ALLIED UNITS
1x Canis Rex (380 pts)
As David’s list suggests, it’s Guard minus whatever units you want plus Canis Rex. Canis did go up in points but still stands as a great ally to take for armies like Astra Militarum who can really stand to benefit from the terrifying threat of a unit like Canis while their Leman Russ and Rogal Dorn Commander tanks sit back laying down punishing covering fire for the troops. This list packs an insane amount of firepower that should have most heavy mech players shaking in their boots.
10. Kyle Trayah – Thousand Sons Grand Coven – One Thicc Grand Tournament – 5-0
Click to see list
Big Bad Beetleborgs (2000 points)
Thousand Sons
Strike Force (2000 points)
Grand Coven
CHARACTERS
Exalted Sorcerer on Disc of Tzeentch (115 points)
- 1x Arcane Fire
1x Force weapon
1x Inferno bolt pistol
1x Prosperine khopesh - Enhancement: Incandaeum
Infernal Master (110 points)
- 1x Fires of the Abyss
1x Force weapon
1x Inferno bolt pistol - Enhancement: Eldritch Vortex of E’Taph
Infernal Master (85 points)
- 1x Fires of the Abyss
1x Force weapon
1x Inferno bolt pistol
Magnus the Red (420 points)
- Warlord
- 1x Blade of Magnus
1x Gaze of Magnus
1x Tzeentch’s Firestorm
Sorcerer (95 points)
- 1x Force weapon
1x Inferno bolt pistol
1x Pandaemonic Delusion
1x Prosperine khopesh - Enhancement: Umbralefic Crystal
Tzaangor Shaman (55 points)
- 1x Baleful Devolution
1x Force stave
BATTLELINE
Rubric Marines (100 points)
- 1x Aspiring Sorcerer
- 1x Force weapon
1x Malefic Curse
1x Warpflame pistol - 4x Rubric Marine
- 4x Close combat weapon
1x Icon of Flame
1x Soulreaper cannon
3x Warpflamer
Rubric Marines (100 points)
- 1x Aspiring Sorcerer
- 1x Force weapon
1x Malefic Curse
1x Warpflame pistol - 4x Rubric Marine
- 4x Close combat weapon
1x Icon of Flame
1x Soulreaper cannon
3x Warpflamer
Rubric Marines (100 points)
- 1x Aspiring Sorcerer
- 1x Force weapon
1x Malefic Curse
1x Warpflame pistol - 4x Rubric Marine
- 4x Close combat weapon
1x Icon of Flame
1x Soulreaper cannon
3x Warpflamer
DEDICATED TRANSPORTS
Chaos Rhino (90 points)
- 1x Armoured tracks
1x Havoc launcher
1x Inferno combi-bolter
1x Inferno combi-weapon
OTHER DATASHEETS
Mutalith Vortex Beast (160 points)
- 1x Betentacled maw
1x Mutalith claws
1x Warp vortex
Mutalith Vortex Beast (160 points)
- 1x Betentacled maw
1x Mutalith claws
1x Warp vortex
Mutalith Vortex Beast (160 points)
- 1x Betentacled maw
1x Mutalith claws
1x Warp vortex
Tzaangor Enlightened with Fatecaster Greatbows (80 points)
- 1x Aviarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Fatecaster greatbow - 5x Enlightened
- 5x Close combat weapon
5x Fatecaster greatbow
Tzaangor Enlightened with Fatecaster Greatbows (50 points)
- 1x Aviarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Fatecaster greatbow - 2x Enlightened
- 2x Close combat weapon
2x Fatecaster greatbow
Tzaangor Enlightened with Fatecaster Greatbows (50 points)
- 1x Aviarch
- 1x Close combat weapon
1x Fatecaster greatbow - 2x Enlightened
- 2x Close combat weapon
2x Fatecaster greatbow
Tzaangors (70 points)
- 1x Twistbray
- 1x Tzaangor blades
- 9x Tzaangor
- 9x Tzaangor blades
Exported with App Version: v1.38.0 (90), Data Version: v651
Not a shock to see Magnus and friends land in this list for August. Thousand Sons didn’t have a great month as far as winning events, but some of their players like Kyle here managed to push them to top finishes. Grand Coven continues to feel like the go-to detachment outshining the rest for it’s ability to maximize Magnus who may be one of, if not THE best unit in the game presently. I expect Thousand Sons to rise even higher now in the post-August dataslate world. This is an army that has the potential to enter into the dangerous dreaded “S Tier” category which would make them a prime target for nerfs. Time will tell.
Final Thoughts
August was an interesting month and while we saw plenty of top finishes for the Knights and Death Guard, there were still plenty of other armies out there proving they can hang in that meta. Many of these top 10 competitive 40K lists are suited to position well after the points nerfs to those 3 factions where every other opponent at a Major event won’t be Imperial Knights, Chaos Knights or Death Guard anymore. The Fall season looks like it might be an exciting time and Tau is the army I think should be on everyone’s radar going into this brave new meta.
If you’re new to the game or want to improve quickly, grab my FREE eBook: Forging Your Path to Victory: A Beginner’s Guide to Competitive 40K.
Want to see if your army list could be good enough to end up in a top 10 competitive 40K lists post like this? Check out my army list review package under my Coaching options and let’s elevate your game!
See you on the tabletop.
