Kitbashing An Execrator A Warhammer 40k Project
Introduction: Unleashing the Execrator - A Kitbashing Project
In the grim darkness of the far future, there is only war. And in the world of Warhammer 40,000, the forces of Chaos stand as a constant threat to the Imperium of Man. Among these forces, the Chaos Knights are terrifying engines of destruction, towering war machines piloted by fallen nobles consumed by dark pacts and a lust for power. My journey into the world of Chaos Knights began with a desire to field a truly unique and imposing force on the tabletop. This led me to the Execrator, a devastating variant armed with a massive plasma decimator, capable of unleashing torrents of superheated energy upon its foes. However, acquiring an Execrator can be a challenge, and so I embarked on a kitbashing project to bring this behemoth to life. Kitbashing, the art of combining parts from different model kits to create something entirely new, is a beloved aspect of the hobby for many Warhammer enthusiasts. It allows for unparalleled customization and the opportunity to create truly one-of-a-kind miniatures. The main challenge with this project was the plasma decimator which is a large weapon that must be built from scratch or converted from existing parts. This article details my experience kitbashing an Execrator in preparation for an upcoming supplement, documenting the process, challenges, and ultimate satisfaction of bringing this war machine to life.
This project is not just about creating a model; it's about embracing the spirit of the hobby, the creativity, and the personal touch that makes each miniature unique. In the world of Warhammer 40,000, the forces of Chaos are known for their mutations and unique appearances, making them perfect candidates for kitbashing projects. The Execrator, with its focus on raw firepower and destructive energy, lends itself well to creative interpretations and personalized touches. The goal of this project is to create a model that not only looks impressive on the tabletop but also tells a story – a story of a Chaos Knight consumed by the power of the warp, wielding a weapon capable of obliterating entire formations. Assembling a model from different parts requires careful planning, a keen eye for aesthetics, and a willingness to experiment. The challenge lies in seamlessly integrating disparate components into a cohesive whole, creating a miniature that looks both imposing and believable. The process of kitbashing is also a learning experience, pushing the modeler to develop new techniques, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for the intricacies of miniature design. The end result is not just a game piece, but a testament to the modeler's creativity and dedication.
Planning and Parts Acquisition: The Foundation of the Kitbash
Before diving into the actual construction, the planning and parts acquisition phase is crucial for any successful kitbashing project. This stage involves identifying the core components, determining the overall aesthetic, and sourcing the necessary bits and pieces. For my Execrator project, I started with the base Chaos Knight model, which provides the fundamental structure and pose. From there, the focus shifted to the defining feature of the Execrator: the plasma decimator. This weapon, a massive cannon capable of unleashing devastating blasts of superheated plasma, is the centerpiece of the model and requires careful consideration in its design and construction. My initial plan involved using parts from various kits, including other Warhammer 40,000 vehicles and terrain pieces, to create the plasma decimator. The challenge was to create a weapon that not only looked imposing but also fit seamlessly onto the Knight's arm mount. This required careful measurements, test fitting, and a healthy dose of improvisation.
Beyond the plasma decimator, I also wanted to add unique details to the model that would reflect its Chaos allegiance and give it a distinct personality. This involved sourcing extra armor plates, spikes, chains, and other decorative elements from various Chaos-themed kits. Websites like eBay and bits retailers became invaluable resources for tracking down specific parts and expanding the available pool of options. The planning phase also involved sketching out rough concepts and experimenting with different configurations. I used digital tools to create mock-ups of the model, allowing me to visualize the final result and identify potential issues before committing to any permanent modifications. This iterative process of planning, sketching, and sourcing parts is essential for ensuring a cohesive and satisfying end result. The key is to have a clear vision of the final model while remaining flexible and open to new ideas as the project progresses. The careful selection of parts, combined with a well-defined plan, lays the foundation for a successful kitbashing project, ensuring that the final model is both visually striking and mechanically sound. This phase also allows for experimentation and the exploration of different design possibilities, making the kitbashing process a creative and engaging endeavor.
Constructing the Plasma Decimator: The Heart of the Execrator
The centerpiece of the Execrator, the plasma decimator, required the most significant effort and creativity in this kitbashing project. Building this weapon from scratch or converting it from existing parts presented a unique challenge, demanding a combination of technical skill and artistic vision. I began by establishing the overall size and shape of the plasma decimator, aiming for a weapon that was both imposing and believable within the Warhammer 40,000 universe. This involved taking measurements from the Knight's arm mount and sketching out different designs to determine the optimal proportions. My approach involved utilizing a combination of plasticard, a versatile material for model building, and various bits and pieces from other kits. Plasticard allowed me to create the core structure of the weapon, while the additional components added detail and texture. The main body of the plasma decimator was constructed from multiple layers of plasticard, carefully cut and glued together to form a cylindrical shape. This provided a solid base for the weapon and allowed me to add further details, such as vents, conduits, and armored plates.
To create the distinctive plasma coils, I used clear plastic tubing, which was then filled with colored resin to achieve the desired glowing effect. These coils were carefully positioned along the length of the decimator, adding a sense of raw power and energy. The muzzles of the weapon were constructed from a combination of plasticard and parts from heavy weapons kits, ensuring that they looked both menacing and functional. Throughout the construction process, I constantly test-fitted the plasma decimator onto the Knight's arm mount, making adjustments as needed to ensure a seamless fit. This iterative approach is crucial for any kitbashing project, as it allows for early detection of potential issues and ensures that the final model looks cohesive and well-proportioned. The process of constructing the plasma decimator was both challenging and rewarding, pushing me to develop new techniques and problem-solving skills. The end result is a weapon that is not only visually impressive but also a testament to the creativity and dedication that goes into a successful kitbashing project. The plasma decimator truly is the heart of the Execrator, embodying the raw power and destructive potential of this fearsome war machine. It sets the tone for the entire model, making it a focal point that draws the eye and commands attention on the tabletop. Its construction process demonstrates the possibilities that kitbashing offers, allowing for the creation of truly unique and personalized miniatures.
Assembling and Detailing the Knight: Bringing the Vision to Life
With the plasma decimator constructed, the next stage of the project involved assembling and detailing the Knight itself. This phase is where the individual components come together to form a cohesive whole, and where the model's personality and character truly begin to emerge. Starting with the base Chaos Knight model, I carefully assembled the main body, legs, and arm structure, ensuring that all joints were securely glued and properly aligned. This provided a solid foundation for the additional details and modifications that would follow. One of the key aspects of this stage was integrating the plasma decimator onto the Knight's arm mount. This required careful planning and precision, as the weapon's weight and size could potentially affect the model's stability and pose. I used a combination of plastic glue and pinning techniques to ensure a secure and durable connection, allowing the Knight to wield its massive weapon without issue.
Once the plasma decimator was attached, I began adding additional details and modifications to the Knight's armor plates. This involved using plasticard, extra bits, and various tools to create a more personalized and Chaos-themed appearance. Spikes, chains, and additional armor plates were strategically added to the model, enhancing its menacing silhouette and reinforcing its allegiance to the dark gods. I also used sculpting putty to fill gaps, smooth transitions, and add unique details, such as battle damage and warp-infused mutations. This process of adding details is where the model really comes to life, transforming from a collection of parts into a characterful war machine. The careful placement of each detail, from the spikes on the armor to the chains draped across the body, contributes to the overall narrative and personality of the model. The key is to strike a balance between adding enough detail to create visual interest without overcrowding the model or detracting from its overall form. Assembling and detailing the Knight is a time-consuming process, but it is also one of the most rewarding aspects of kitbashing. It is where the vision for the model truly takes shape, and where the modeler's creativity and skill are fully expressed. The end result is not just a game piece but a work of art, a testament to the dedication and passion that goes into the hobby.
Painting and Finishing: The Final Touches
The final stage of the kitbashing project involves painting and finishing the model, bringing it to life with color and texture. This is where the model's personality and character are fully realized, and where it transforms from a collection of plastic parts into a menacing war machine ready for the tabletop. Before painting, I carefully cleaned the model to remove any dust, fingerprints, or residue from the assembly process. This ensures that the paint adheres properly and that the final finish is smooth and even. I then applied a primer coat, which provides a consistent base for the subsequent layers of paint. For my Execrator, I chose a dark, metallic color scheme, reflecting its Chaos allegiance and the brutal nature of its plasma weaponry. This involved using a combination of spray paints and brush-on acrylics to achieve the desired effect.
The base coat was applied using a metallic black spray paint, providing a solid foundation for the rest of the color scheme. I then used drybrushing techniques to highlight the edges and raised areas of the armor, creating a sense of depth and realism. Details such as the plasma coils and weapon muzzles were painted with vibrant, contrasting colors, adding visual interest and drawing attention to the model's key features. Weathering and battle damage were added using a combination of washes, drybrushing, and sponging techniques, creating a sense of wear and tear that reflects the model's history and experiences on the battlefield. This is a crucial step in bringing the model to life, as it adds character and tells a story about the war machine's past. The painting process also involved adding decals and transfers, such as Chaos symbols and unit markings, further enhancing the model's appearance and lore. These small details can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the model, adding depth and narrative richness.
Once the painting was complete, I applied a protective varnish to the model, sealing the paint and ensuring its durability. This also provides a consistent sheen to the model, enhancing its visual appeal. Finally, I based the model using a combination of sand, rocks, and other materials, creating a realistic and immersive environment. The base is an integral part of the overall presentation of the model, grounding it in the world and adding to its sense of scale and presence. The painting and finishing stage is a time-consuming process, but it is also one of the most satisfying aspects of the hobby. It is where the model truly comes to life, transforming from a collection of plastic parts into a work of art. The careful attention to detail, the use of color and texture, and the addition of weathering and battle damage all contribute to the model's overall character and personality. The end result is not just a game piece but a representation of the modeler's creativity, skill, and passion for the hobby.
Conclusion: The Triumph of Kitbashing - An Execrator Ready for War
The journey of kitbashing an Execrator has been a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience. From the initial planning and parts acquisition to the final painting and finishing touches, each stage has demanded creativity, problem-solving skills, and a dedication to the craft. The end result is a unique and imposing war machine, ready to unleash its devastating plasma decimator upon the foes of Chaos. This project has not only expanded my skills as a modeler but has also deepened my appreciation for the art of kitbashing. The ability to combine parts from different kits, to create something entirely new, is a testament to the versatility and creativity of the Warhammer 40,000 hobby.
The Execrator stands as a symbol of the endless possibilities that kitbashing offers, allowing modelers to bring their visions to life and create truly one-of-a-kind miniatures. As I prepare for the upcoming supplement, I am confident that this kitbashed Execrator will be a formidable force on the tabletop. Its imposing presence and devastating firepower will undoubtedly make it a focal point of my Chaos Knights army. More than just a game piece, this model represents a personal triumph – a testament to the dedication, skill, and passion that goes into the hobby. The journey of kitbashing is not just about creating a model; it is about embracing the creative process, pushing boundaries, and bringing a unique vision to life. The Execrator stands as a proud example of what can be achieved with imagination, skill, and a love for the hobby. I hope this article inspires others to embark on their own kitbashing projects, to explore the endless possibilities, and to experience the satisfaction of bringing their own unique creations to the tabletop.