Unit of the Week: Vindicator

[Jolemai]

Welcome to part three of the Blood Angels Unit of the Week Series!

Following the release of the 8^th edition Codex, there is no better time to discuss all the units we have access to. Each week a different unit will appear, with the idea being that we discuss how best to use that model on the battlefield. Where part one will focus on the unique BA units and part two will focus on BA units that are new to this edition of the Codex, part three will discuss how to get the best use the generic units from the past that are still with us (and that many of us have in our armies still).

Note, this isn't to lament any nerfs, etc, from previous editions; the rules are as they are so try to unlock its potential for those who wish to use them all the same. Similarly, this thread is only for using the option being discussed; it matters not if you feel something is a better choice as such comments aren't constructive to the topic and shall be removed.

Without further ado, here's this week's entry:

Vindicator

Vindicator, Xenith

What are you thoughts here folks? How best would you use a Vindicator?

• To compliment a list, or to build a list around? Will the beta rules affect your list(s)?
• Will you be running multiple units?
• What optional weapons choices are you taking and does the above affect how you run them?
• Are you buffing this unit? If so, how?
• Stratagems of note?

Over to you.

Please note that the Deimos Pattern Vindicator Laser Destroyer will be discussed elsewhere.

Edited December 16, 2019 by Jolemai

[Jolemai]

Should you want your model on display here (or on another thread from the series), then submit a photo here please.

[The Unseen]

I don't know if the Vindicater is worth it, but I can attest to how ridiculous the demolisher cannon on Russes are now.

Common opponent of mine is running Catachan ones.

So firing 2d6 shots, and may reroll 1 or both of the shot #, hitting on 3s rerolling 1s because tank commanders are silly.

2 of them and the Hammer of Sunderance is absolutely brutal. One of those tanks killed 7 intercessors buffed with the 5+++ from the SoS.

 

For us, only d6 shots, hitting on 4s if you move makes it "iffy".

If you want a vehicle to use a cp reroll on its shot #, catechism of fire for +1 to hit, and big guns never tire though, it'll probably kill whatever you point it at.

D6 damage is no joke.

 

But a quad las predator or contemptor mortis is probably a better choice.

 

Maybe in a list focusing on armor saturation as a cheap ish source of T8 with a threatening weapon.

Edited December 10, 2019 by The Unseen

[Xenith]

Damage cap of 36 (D6 shots at D6 damage) is pretty crazy. Needs some support though, as above. I've yet to use one in 8th, but am looking forward to trying it!

[CaptainHelion]

I used these quite liberally prior to the shot boost, and I've always rated them quite highly. For the points you pay, you get a very scary, reasonably fast, reasonably tough, piece of armour. Not the most deadly of things, but s10 AP-1 and d6 Damage is the sort of thing that really helps put pressure on your opponent; no one wants that floating around unmolested.

I'm not sure they're the most points efficient option, but I rather strongly recommend them. As ever, if you're taking one, take two. One is None, but Two is a Few.

[Xenith]

Should you want your model on display here (or on another thread from the series), then submit a photo here please.

 

I reposted Wall of Terra on the Photo Op page.

[Jolemai]

No one giving Linebreaker stratagem a whirl these days?

[Hintzy]

Based on precedent from an FAQ on an ability similar to the Linebreaker stratagem you could advance your three Vindicators, pop smoke, and still use the stratagem because it's not a shooting attack. Interesting at least.

[9x19 Parabellum]

Just remember you're as likely to do 1 damage as you are to do 36.  Too swingy for me, and they just don't hollar "Blood Angels". 

[Xenith]

Just remember you're as likely to do 1 damage as you are to do 36. Too swingy for me, and they just don't hollar "Blood Angels".

Indeed, but we don't take weapons out units because they may do no damage at all. That said, you average 4 shots, 2 hits if you move, likely one goes through for 4 damage. Kind of underwhelming.

[Khorneeq]

I like vindi but haven't played it since gun upgrade. Possible damage output soubds great

[Majkhel]

Vindi gets to use it's siege shield (+10pts) in 9th to get +1 to save rolls.

[Karhedron]

9th has brought several minor buffs to the Vindi. Blast means you get more reliable firepower, at least when firing at larger units. The fact that vehicles can move and fire at full effect is definitely a benefit with that short ranged gun. And T8 with a potential 2+ save with the Siege Shield makes it pretty durable. It is also a lot cheaper than the new Gladiators. Granted it is still very swingy with D6 for both shots and damage but I think the various buffs mean it is likely to be swinging in our favour a little more often. Could be worth a second look.

[Brother Cruoris]

Isn't the siege shield a vindicator option or can it be taken by the WW too?

 

Ignore me. Missread your post. =P

Edited October 21, 2020 by Brother Cruoris

[Xenith]

Blast is a big boon, as you say, still very swingy against single models, but if you burn a cp to reroll the shots you still have a Mac damage of 36 from one shot. Possibly will see more use V death guard to force them to roll more resilient saves if you can inflict more damage than they have wounds.