Chaos Knights: Returning To Warhammer 40k & Magnetizing Guide!

Dec 5, 2025 by Alex Johnson 63 views

Diving Back into the Grim Darkness of the Far Future

Returning to Warhammer 40,000 (40k) after some time away is like stepping back into a familiar, yet ever-evolving, universe. The smell of plastic glue, the anticipation of rolling dice, and the thrill of strategic warfare – it's a hobby that grips you, sometimes lets go, and then inevitably pulls you back in. For me, that pull has recently been the Chaos Knights. Their imposing presence, the narrative of fallen nobility, and the sheer destructive power they bring to the tabletop are incredibly appealing. Getting back into the hobby isn't just about the game itself; it's also about the community, the painting, the converting, and the satisfaction of building and fielding an army you're proud of. This article will discuss my journey back into the hobby, specifically focusing on Chaos Knights and a crucial aspect of building any 40k army: magnetization. I will also share some useful insights to help anyone else getting back into the game. The 40k universe is vast and can be quite intimidating, so feel free to start small. Don't feel pressured to buy everything at once; build up your forces gradually, and don't be afraid to experiment with different units and strategies. Building and painting models is a journey, and the most important thing is to enjoy the process. The first step, of course, is picking an army, and for me, the choice was easy: the Chaos Knights. These towering war machines, corrupted by the forces of Chaos, represent a fantastic blend of brutal power and grimdark aesthetics. Their towering presence on the battlefield, the wealth of customization options, and the opportunity to delve into their lore made them irresistible. If you are new or just getting back to the hobby, you will find a supportive community ready to share tips, tricks, and enthusiasm for the hobby.

Why Chaos Knights? A Quick Recap

Chaos Knights offer a unique and exciting playstyle that sets them apart from other factions. They are all about overwhelming firepower and close-combat brutality. Their towering war machines can be equipped with devastating weapons, allowing you to tailor your army to your preferred playstyle. Whether you want to blast your enemies from afar or charge into close combat, Chaos Knights offer a range of options. The rich lore surrounding the Chaos Knights also adds to their appeal. They are not merely destructive machines; they are fallen nobles who have sworn allegiance to the Chaos Gods. This background provides a wealth of narrative potential. The chance to create your own knightly houses, develop their backstories, and use them on the tabletop adds a unique layer of immersion to the hobby. The miniatures themselves are a joy to work with. The models are highly detailed, offering plenty of opportunities for customization and personalization. From the choice of weapons and armor to the paint scheme and basing, the possibilities are endless. Plus, building and painting them is really fun. And now, the true gem of Chaos Knights. With the Chaos Knights you get big models! They are massive and demand attention on the battlefield. This is a very fun army to play with. This makes them a great option for people coming back into the game and players wanting a new army to build. These are just some of the reasons why I chose to return to Warhammer 40,000 with the Chaos Knights – and why you might consider them too.

The Magnetization Manifesto: Why It's a Game Changer

Now, let's talk about the real meat and potatoes: magnetization. This is the art of embedding magnets into your miniatures to allow for swapping out weapons and other components. It's a skill that elevates your hobby experience to another level. Think of it as a significant investment in versatility, allowing you to adapt your army to different battlefield scenarios and unit configurations. It offers a lot of benefits. It extends the longevity of your miniatures, and makes you enjoy the hobby even more. Magnetization isn't just about convenience; it's about maximizing your investment in the hobby. Warhammer 40k miniatures are not cheap. Magnetizing your models allows you to change their loadouts, which saves money in the long run. If you want to try out different weapons or configurations, you don't need to buy entire new kits. You can simply swap out the magnetized components. It allows you to tailor your army to different missions and opponents. You can easily adapt your army list to counter your opponent's strategies, ensuring that you're always prepared for battle. From a hobby perspective, magnetization adds a layer of depth and satisfaction to the building process. It's rewarding to build a model with precision, knowing that you can change its appearance and functionality. It’s also an excellent way to improve your modeling skills. The more you magnetize, the better you become at planning, drilling, and gluing. However, there is a learning curve, so don't be discouraged if your first few attempts aren't perfect. The goal is to make your models more versatile and fun to play with. Magnetization isn't about perfection; it's about functionality. Even simple techniques can make a big difference in the long run. There are many resources, tutorials, and communities dedicated to the art of magnetization. Take advantage of these resources to learn new techniques and solve any problems you may encounter. Magnetizing your miniatures also gives you a deeper connection to the hobby. It's not just about assembling and painting the models; it's about crafting them to meet your specific needs. It's about taking ownership of your army and bringing your vision to life.

The Magnetization Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let's break down the basic steps to magnetizing your Chaos Knights. First, you need a few essential supplies: small magnets (neodymium magnets are the best), a pin vise or hand drill, a drill bit sized to your magnets (a 2mm drill bit is usually perfect), super glue (gel is best), and a hobby knife. With your supplies ready, here's how to do it:

Planning is Key: Before you reach for the glue, identify which parts of the model you want to magnetize. For Chaos Knights, this usually means the weapon arms and carapace weapons. The goal is to make sure you have enough space for your magnets and that the magnets are well-placed. Mark the location of the magnets with a pencil.
Drilling Time: This is where your pin vise or hand drill comes in. Slowly and carefully drill holes into the parts you want to magnetize. Make sure the holes are deep enough to accommodate the magnets, but not so deep that you risk damaging the model. It's best to drill a little at a time to avoid errors. Check the fit of the magnet as you drill.
Gluing the Magnets: Apply a small amount of super glue to the holes you've drilled. Use gel super glue to make sure the magnet stays in place. Insert the magnets, making sure they are oriented correctly (all the magnets must attract each other, not repel). Remember to keep track of the polarity of the magnets!
Dry Fitting and Adjustments: Allow the glue to dry completely before you start assembling your model. Dry-fit the magnetized parts to ensure they fit together properly. Make any necessary adjustments or modifications before moving on to the next step. If your magnets are not aligned correctly, you can try to remove them with a hobby knife and re-glue them.
Repeat and Assemble: Repeat the process for all the parts you want to magnetize. Assemble the rest of the model, and then you'll have a fully magnetized Chaos Knight ready for battle!

Magnetizing Chaos Knights: Specific Tips and Tricks

Chaos Knights models provide ample opportunity for magnetization. Here are some specific tips and tricks for making the process smoother:

Weapon Arms: The arms of the Chaos Knights are the primary area for magnetization. Typically, you'll want to magnetize the shoulder sockets and the weapon itself. The arms' flat surfaces are perfect for this. Remember to test the fit before you glue anything.
Carapace Weapons: Many Chaos Knights have weapons mounted on their carapace. These are also prime candidates for magnetization. The carapace is usually spacious enough to accommodate the magnets.
Size Matters: Use the smallest magnets possible that still provide a strong hold. This will make it easier to hide the magnets and avoid disrupting the model's appearance. 3mm x 1mm magnets are a good starting point.
Test Fit: Always test the fit of your magnetized parts before you glue the magnets in place. This will help you identify any potential problems before they become permanent. Ensure that the magnets align properly and that the parts fit together as you planned.
Use a Jig: Consider using a jig to help with magnet placement. A jig is a simple device that helps you align the magnets correctly. This is particularly helpful when working on multiple models or if you are new to the process.
Reinforcement: In some cases, you may need to reinforce the bond between the magnets and the model. This can be done with additional glue or by adding small pieces of plastic to provide extra support. If the magnets are not strong enough, you can use more magnets, but remember to keep the models visually appealing.
Patience is Key: Magnetization can take some time, so take your time and don't rush the process. If you make a mistake, don't worry. You can always remove the magnets and try again. Don’t be afraid to experiment, and enjoy the process.
Consider Pre-built Kits: If you're not comfortable with drilling or have limited time, you can also find pre-built magnetization kits online specifically for Chaos Knights. These kits usually include pre-drilled parts and magnets, which can save you time and effort.

Painting Your Magnetized Knights: A Symphony of Steel and Chaos

Once your Chaos Knights are magnetized, the fun really begins: the painting! Painting magnetized models presents some unique opportunities and challenges. Here are a few tips to make your painting process easier and more enjoyable:

Prime Before Assembly (Mostly): Prime the individual components before you glue them together. This will make it easier to reach all the nooks and crannies. You can fully assemble a part, prime it, and paint it separately, but remember to let the paint dry completely before assembling the model.
Basecoating: Start with a solid basecoat. This will provide a foundation for your other colors. Choose colors that complement your chosen Chaos Knight house. Consider using an airbrush for a smooth and even basecoat.
Layering: Apply several thin layers of paint to build up the color and create depth. Don't be afraid to experiment with different shades and tones. Layering is a great way to add realism and dimension to your models. Remember to let each layer dry completely before applying the next one.
Detailing: Add details such as highlights, shadows, and weathering effects. These details will bring your models to life. Consider adding battle damage to emphasize the Chaos Knights' brutal nature. The key is to add small details that make your model unique.
Weathering: Don't be afraid to weather your models. This will add to their gritty, battle-worn look. Use techniques such as dry brushing and washes to create realistic weathering effects. Consider using pigments to create realistic dust and dirt effects.
Varnish: Protect your painted models with a layer of varnish. This will help to prevent chipping and wear. Choose a varnish that suits your needs. Matte varnish will give your models a more realistic look, while gloss varnish will give them a shiny appearance.
Handle with Care: Be careful when handling your magnetized models. The magnets can be strong, so be careful not to damage the paint. Try to avoid touching the painted surfaces. Store your models in a safe place to prevent damage.

Conclusion: Embrace the Chaos!

Getting back into Warhammer 40,000 with Chaos Knights is a rewarding experience. The combination of powerful models, the complex lore, and the vibrant community makes it a compelling choice for returning players. Magnetization is a crucial skill that will make your hobby experience more enjoyable. By following these tips and techniques, you can build a versatile and adaptable army that is ready for any challenge. Remember, the journey into the grim darkness of the far future is a long one, and there is always something new to learn and discover. So, grab your dice, your brushes, and your magnets, and prepare to unleash the fury of the Chaos Knights upon the galaxy! Embrace the chaos, enjoy the hobby, and most importantly, have fun!

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