Best Blood Angels Starter Sets: Unleash the Fury of the Angels of Death
The Blood Angels are among the most iconic and beloved factions in the Warhammer 40k universe. Known for their noble bearing, tragic history, and unparalleled ferocity in battle, these Space Marines make for a visually stunning and tactically diverse army. In this guide.
If you’re new to the hobby or looking to start a Blood Angels army, you might be wondering which starter sets are the best investment. We’ll walk you through the top Blood Angels starter sets, providing detailed product descriptions, contents, and tips for building a powerful force.
Interested in a more general army? Have a look at the Best Beginner Sets for Warhammer
Key Takeaways:
- Best Blood Angels starter sets for beginners
- Comprehensive guide to essential Blood Angels units
- Detailed product descriptions and contents
- Tips for building a powerful Blood Angels army
- Tactics and strategies for using Blood Angels on the battlefield
Already decided they are your choice? Excellent! Make sure to get your paints ready with the Blood Angels Paint Starter Set
Why Choose Blood Angels?
Before we dive into the starter sets, let’s take a moment to appreciate why the Blood Angels are such a compelling choice for both new and experienced players:
- Rich Lore: The Blood Angels have a deep, tragic history that adds depth and flavor to your army.
- Iconic Aesthetics: With their striking red armor and angelic motifs, Blood Angels are visually stunning on the tabletop.
- Versatile Playstyle: Blood Angels excel in close combat but also have strong shooting options, making them adaptable to various strategies.
Essential Blood Angels Units
To build a well-rounded Blood Angels army, you’ll want to include a mix of the following unit types:
- HQ: Leaders like Commander Dante provide powerful buffs and inspire your troops.
- Troops: The backbone of your army, units like Intercessors hold objectives and deal consistent damage.
- Elites: Specialized units such as Death Company and Sanguinary Guard add a punch to your force.
- Fast Attack: Jump pack-equipped units like Inceptors and Suppressors provide mobility and firepower.
- Heavy Support: Dreadnoughts and other heavy-hitters bring the pain to your enemies.
Best Blood Angels Starter Sets
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore the best Blood Angels starter sets to kickstart your collection.
More interested in 3D printing your own army? Have a gander at the Best 3D Printers for Miniatures
Best Blood Angels Starter Sets: Combat Patrol: Blood Angels
The Combat Patrol: Blood Angels set is an excellent entry point for beginners. This set includes:
- 1 Primaris Librarian (HQ)
- 5 Primaris Intercessors (Troops)
- 5 Primaris Incursors/Infiltrators (Troops)
- 3 Primaris Aggressors (Heavy Support)
- 1 Impulsor (Transport)
With a mix of infantry, heavy support, and a transport, this set provides a solid foundation for your army. The included Primaris Librarian can unleash devastating psychic powers, while the Aggressors bring the pain with their auto bolt storm gauntlets.
On the battlefield, use the Impulsor to quickly transport your Intercessors or Incursors to key objectives, while the Librarian and Aggressors provide support.
The Incursors’ concealed positions ability allows them to set up forward and harass enemy units, while the Intercessors’ bolt rifles offer reliable firepower.
Looking to learn how to get that metallic shine onto your marines? Checkout How to Airbrush Metallics on Miniatures
Best Blood Angels Starter Sets: Blood Angels: Death Company
No Blood Angels army is complete without the Death Company. These black-armored warriors, consumed by the Black Rage, are a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. This 94-piece kit includes:
- 5 Death Company Marines
- Jump packs and backpacks
- Various weapon options (bolters, bolt pistols, chainswords, etc.)
Use this kit to add a fearsome melee threat to your army. The Death Company’s increased strength and attacks make them a devastating addition to any Blood Angels force.
In battle, equip your Death Company with jump packs and send them hurtling towards the enemy lines. Their sheer speed and ferocity can disrupt your opponent’s plans and eliminate key targets.
Pair them with a Sanguinary Priest for added durability and watch them carve through enemy units with ease.
Need help with some new paints? View our article for the Best Beginner Paint Sets for Miniatures
Best Blood Angels Starter Sets: Commander Dante
As the Chapter Master of the Blood Angels, Commander Dante is an awe-inspiring leader for your army. This multipart plastic kit includes:
- Commander Dante in Primaris armor
- Axe Mortalis and Perdition Pistol
- Custom jump pack and death mask of Sanguinius
Fielding Commander Dante allows you to re-roll hit rolls of 1 for all Blood Angels units within 6″. His formidable wargear and ability to Deep Strike make him a powerful addition to your force.
On the tabletop, use Dante’s Death Mask ability to inflict a -1 penalty on enemy units within 3″, making it harder for them to hit your Blood Angels. Deep strike Dante near a key objective or enemy unit, and watch as he tears through them with the Axe Mortalis.
His mere presence inspires nearby Blood Angels units to fight with increased determination and skill.
Space Marines not your style? Have a look at the Best Necron Starter Sets to take your army in a different direction!
Best Blood Angels Starter Sets: Furioso Dreadnought
Dreadnoughts are the venerable ancients of the Space Marines, and the Furioso Dreadnought is a Blood Angels icon. This versatile kit can be assembled as a:
- Furioso Dreadnought
- Librarian Dreadnought
- Death Company Dreadnought
With multiple weapon options like frag cannons and blood talons, the Furioso Dreadnought brings heavy firepower and melee might to the battlefield.
In battle, position your Furioso Dreadnought to control key areas of the battlefield. Its durability and firepower make it an excellent anchor for your lines.
If assembled as a Death Company Dreadnought, send it crashing into enemy units to disrupt their formation and deal massive damage.
The Librarian Dreadnought variant can provide psychic support, buffing nearby units or unleashing devastating powers upon the enemy.
Read here for the fascinating lore around the Blood Angels
Best Blood Angels Starter Sets: Death Company Intercessors
Even the Primaris Marines are not immune to the Black Rage. The Death Company Intercessors kit allows you to add these formidable warriors to your army. This set includes:
- 5 Death Company Intercessors
- Bolt rifle variants (standard, auto, stalker)
- Blood Angels Primaris upgrade frame
Armed with bolt rifles and wearing the iconic black armor, Death Company Intercessors provide a durable and hard-hitting Troops choice for your Blood Angels army.
On the battlefield, use your Death Company Intercessors to hold key objectives or advance on enemy positions. Their increased durability and firepower make them a reliable choice for any mission.
Consider equipping them with auto bolt rifles for increased volume of fire, or stalker bolt rifles for long-range engagements.
Decided that the Emperor is false? The Imperium is corrupt? (Duh!) – Glory to Khorne! Get the Khorne Starter Sets now!
Unleashing the Fury of the Blood Angels
As you deploy your Blood Angels army, keep these tactics in mind:
- Hammer and Anvil: Use your durable units, like Intercessors and Dreadnoughts, to hold the line while your fast-moving units, like Death Company and Sanguinary Guard, flank the enemy and deliver a crushing blow.
- Descent of Angels: Take advantage of your jump pack units’ mobility to deep strike behind enemy lines, disrupting their plans and targeting vulnerable units.
- Synergize Your Buffs: Position your Sanguinary Priests and Librarians to provide maximum support to your frontline units. Their abilities can turn the tide of battle in your favor.
- Embrace the Black Rage: Your Death Company units are your most fearsome assets. Use them aggressively to overwhelm your opponent and break their morale.
Want to learn more about the Space Marines? Read here for What Are Space Marines?
Building Your Blood Angels Army
As you expand your collection beyond these starter sets, keep the following tips in mind:
- Focus on Synergy: Choose units that complement each other’s strengths and cover weaknesses.
- Consider Your Playstyle: Do you prefer a more aggressive, melee-focused approach, or a balanced force with strong shooting? Let your playstyle guide your purchases.
- Paint with Pride: The Blood Angels’ red armor is a defining feature. Take your time to paint your miniatures with care, and they’ll look stunning on the tabletop. Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel for painting tutorials!
If you’re looking for an in depth painting tutorial we reccomend heading over to Goonhammer!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I mix Primaris and Firstborn units in my Blood Angels army?
A: Absolutely! Many Blood Angels players choose to include both Primaris and Firstborn units for a diverse and flavorful force.
Q: Are Blood Angels a good choice for competitive play?
A: Yes, Blood Angels can be competitive with the right build. Their strong melee capabilities and durable units make them a threat on the tabletop.
Q: What are some must-have units for a Blood Angels army?
A: In addition to the units in the starter sets, consider adding Sanguinary Guard, Sanguinary Priests, and Mephiston to your collection.
Q: How can I learn more about Blood Angels lore?
A: The novels “Dante” and “Devastation of Baal” by Guy Haley are excellent sources for Blood Angels lore. You can also find information in the Blood Angels Codex Supplement.
Q: What are some alternative color schemes for Blood Angels?
A: While the traditional red armor is most common, some players choose to paint their Blood Angels in metallic gold, black, or even white. The Flesh Tearers, a Blood Angels successor chapter, wear black and red armor.
Conclusion
Starting a Blood Angels army is an exciting journey for any Warhammer 40k lover. With the starter sets and units discussed in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to building a powerful and visually striking force.
Remember to choose units that synergize with your playstyle, and don’t forget to take pride in painting your models.
As you lead your Blood Angels to victory, embrace their unique playstyle and rich lore. These noble warriors are more than just Space Marines; they are the embodiment of the Imperium’s might and the legacy of their Primarch, Sanguinius.
In the words of Sanguinius himself, “We are the sons of the Angel. Let us descend upon the foe, and show them what it means to face the wrath of the Blood Angels!”
Related posts:
Black Templars: Unwavering Guardians of the Emperor’s Light
