Warhammer 40K Raven Guard Miniatures & Models

The Shadows of Deliverance: A Comprehensive Look at Raven Guard Warhammer 40K Figurines

Welcome, masters of stealth and strategy!

If the Raven Guard have caught your eye, you’re likely captivated by their expertise in covert operations and hit-and-run tactics. These Space Marines are not just warriors—they are the Emperor’s silent blades, striking from the shadows to decimate their enemies before disappearing without a trace.

Let’s dive into the mysterious world of the Raven Guard and explore the detailed miniatures that embody their elusive and deadly nature on the battlefield.

Who are the Raven Guard?

The Raven Guard are one of the First Founding Legions, created by the Emperor during the Great Crusade. Led by their Primarch, Corvus Corax, they are known for their mastery of stealth, infiltration, and guerrilla warfare. Unlike other Space Marine Chapters that rely on brute force, the Raven Guard excel in precision strikes, using surprise and subterfuge to outmaneuver and annihilate their foes. Their jet-black armor and avian iconography are symbols of their affinity for the shadows and their predatory nature.

The Masters of Ambush and Their Role

The Raven Guard specialize in covert operations, deploying where their enemies least expect them. They strike swiftly and decisively, using their superior mobility and tactical acumen to outflank and destroy key targets. On the battlefield, they are known for their hit-and-run tactics, often deploying via jump packs or grav-chutes to engage the enemy before melting back into the shadows. Their ability to disappear as quickly as they arrive makes them a force to be feared by any who face them.

From Corvus Corax to Vanguard Veterans: Key Raven Guard Units in Warhammer 40K

To effectively lead the Raven Guard, it’s crucial to understand the roles of their most iconic units.

HQ: The Silent Leaders

• Corvus Corax: The Primarch of the Raven Guard, Corvus Corax is a master of stealth and guerrilla tactics. His presence on the battlefield is both inspiring and terrifying, as he leads his sons in precise, surgical strikes that leave the enemy reeling.
• Kayvaan Shrike: The current Chapter Master, Shrike is a living embodiment of the Raven Guard’s combat doctrine. Wielding lightning claws and equipped with a jump pack, Shrike leads his forces from the front, striking fear into the hearts of his enemies.

Troops: The Swift and Silent

• Infiltrator Squad: These Primaris Marines are the eyes and ears of the Raven Guard, operating behind enemy lines to gather intelligence and set the stage for the Chapter’s assaults. Their advanced equipment allows them to remain unseen while providing critical support to their brothers.
• Intercessor Squad: Forming the backbone of the Raven Guard’s forces, these versatile Marines are adept at both ranged and close combat. Their ability to quickly adapt to changing battlefield conditions makes them invaluable in the Chapter’s hit-and-run tactics.

Elites: The Executioners

• Vanguard Veterans: Equipped with jump packs and a variety of melee weapons, these elite warriors are the Raven Guard’s shock troops, capable of striking deep into enemy lines and eliminating key targets with precision and speed.
• Reiver Squad: Specialists in terror tactics, Reivers are deployed to disrupt and demoralize the enemy. Their fearsome appearance and close-combat prowess make them a psychological weapon as much as a physical one.

Fast Attack: Striking from the Skies

• Assault Squad: These Marines excel in close-quarters combat, using their jump packs to quickly close the distance to the enemy and unleash devastating assaults. Their mobility allows them to outflank and outmaneuver even the most prepared foes.
• Bike Squad: Fast and versatile, Bike Squads provide the Raven Guard with the speed necessary to strike swiftly and retreat just as quickly, making them ideal for hit-and-run attacks.

Heavy Support: Precision Firepower

• Devastator Squad: Equipped with heavy weapons, Devastators deliver powerful ranged support, neutralizing enemy armor and fortifications from a distance, ensuring that the Raven Guard’s strikes hit their mark.
• Centurion Devastator Squad: These walking tanks bring overwhelming firepower to the battlefield, equipped with heavy bolters and grav-cannons, they are the hammer that crushes the enemy after the Raven Guard’s initial strikes.

Flyers: Command of the Air

• Stormtalon Gunship: The Stormtalon provides close air support for the Raven Guard, delivering rapid strikes from above and ensuring air superiority over the battlefield.

Considering a Pre-made Raven Guard Army?

Before committing to the shadowy ranks of the Raven Guard, consider the advantages and potential drawbacks of starting with a pre-made army.

Pros of a Pre-made Raven Guard Army:

• Quick Setup: A pre-made army lets you dive into the game faster, avoiding the time-consuming process of assembling and painting individual models.
• Consistent Theme: These armies capture the iconic black armor and stealthy aesthetic of the Raven Guard, maintaining a unified and striking appearance on the battlefield.
• Cost-Effective: Purchasing a complete army set can be more economical than buying individual units separately.
• Beginner-Friendly: For newcomers, a pre-made army offers a balanced force that is ready to play, making it easier to learn the game and its strategies.
• Immediate Play: Pre-assembled and often pre-painted, these armies let you jump straight into battle without delay.

Cons of a Pre-made Raven Guard Army:

• Limited Customization: Pre-made armies might limit your ability to personalize your force with different units or paint schemes.
• Not Tailored to Your Playstyle: Some units in a pre-made army might not suit your preferred tactics, potentially requiring additional purchases to optimize.
• Quality Variance: If purchased second-hand, the quality of assembly and painting can vary, which might not meet your standards.

Where to Buy Warhammer 40K Raven Guard Models

• Games Workshop Stores: Get high-quality, authentic models directly from the source, with access to exclusive releases and expert advice.
• Local Hobby Shops: Supporting local stores helps build community and often provides access to both new and pre-owned models.
• Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and other specialized shops that sell pre-owned miniatures are great resources for finding deals on Raven Guard models.
• Gaming Communities: Online forums and social media groups often have buy/sell/trade sections where you can find models and connect with other players for tips and advice.