Thursday, December 31, 2009

Happy New Year - 2010!


As you can see this is my first post in nearly a month and oddly enough, will be my last post of the year (and decade - yikes). Needless to say the hustle and bustle of Christmas took it's toll and kept me away from blogging, gaming, painting, etc. Well Christmas is done and we survived another one. Now it's time to get ready to settle in a face the long winter ahead. It's also time for a resolution or two...so here I go:

1. Blog more
2. Play more
3. Paint more
4. Model more

Done. But seriously, Best Wishes to everyone for a safe, prosperous and Happy New Year. May all of your wishes come true!

Friday, December 4, 2009

Blade Friday - Part 1


The smokin' hot Jill Wagner, played vampire hunter Krista Starr on Blade: The Series, did a short stint on SG: Atlantis and had a starring in the cheesy, yet entertaining SyFy Original movie, Splinter. She's also the Lincoln Mercury girl. What a hottie!!!

Thursday, December 3, 2009

20-second Hobby Update

My Crimson Fists came in the mail and they look great. I even took a day or so to build another Tactical Squad for that army. I also finished another Grey Hunters Pack for my Space Wolves army. I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of my copy of the Warhammer Fantasy Roleplaying game. I'm thinking of bribing my wife, sister and brother-in-law into giving the game a try. My sister is always begging us to come over for game night. I just might use this as leverage. I primed up a unit of High Elf Archers for my fantasy army and am nearly finished assembling a unit of Silver Helms. Finally, I also started a Galadhrim LoTR force as well, so those models are on the table. Anyway, that's it for now. Man, too much work and not enough hours in a day.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

...One more model


Okay, so my my copy of the Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay Game is on the way and I can't wait to get it. I know that I said that I had to suspend my game spending, but I started thinking that I should start looking through my Fantasy minis to see what I've got. I know the game comes with a bunch of 'standees', but I know right now, I would much rather have a hand-painted miniature on the table. Call it RPG nostalgia, but back in my DnD days, I had a bunch of old Grenadier minis that we used to play with. Anyway, I just had to get one more model that I had my eye on for a long time. I thought that Empire Captain from direct-only was too cool, so I picked up the phone and placed the order. What a bad-ass looking model!

Monday, November 30, 2009

New Audio book from Black Library


Last week, I picked up the new audio book from Black Library, Thunder from Fenris by Nick Kyme. In short, I loved it. A great Space Wolf short story. The story focuses on the Thunder Wolf cavalry and their hunt for a battle brother who has succumbed to the Curse of the Wulfen.

It's also works great as a motivational tool when building or painting space wolves.

Last Gaming Purchase of 2009


With the Christmas shopping season here, I'm going to have to curtail my hobby spending. But I thought that I could squeeze in one last purchase before the end of the year. I have long been a fan of Roleplaying Games, but have not had the opportunity to some time to play. I had thumbed through the last edition of WFRP, and felt out of place. The percentile dice system was different from the traditional d20 system common to D&D. So I decided to stick to tabletop gaming. Until now.

The new, completely re-vamped WFRP game, from what I've read is such a far-cry your standard RPG, that I am curious beyond measure. Fantasy Flight games has been tasked with bringing the Old World setting to roleplaying gamers this time around. I've always liked the flavor and feel of Warhammer Fantasy, so I definitely want the chance play this game.

Anyway, as with all Fantasy Flight games the price tag this time around is pretty steep, $99.00. But I checked out ebay and found a new boxed set for $69.99. Can't wait to see it.


Thursday, November 26, 2009

Happy Thanksgiving


Just want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

New Crimson Fists Items




Games Workshop has been on a Crimson Fists kick of late. I found these bits packs just added to their online store. They look much nicer than the older version. The Fist icon is identical to the transfer that's included on the decal sheets. I'm also liking the Tactical packs and the Tank packs. Needless to say I ordered some. I've been working on my Space Wolves, but it's time for a little break so I can give my Crimson Fists some attention. Don't want to get bored.

I maxed out a second Tactical Squad and I'm putting together the Dread and a unit of Terminators or about to go under the block.

GW has also added a Crimson Fists historical scenario, as well as an updated background on the chapter. An excellent resource for CF fans.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Quick Product Review - Krylon Primer


Due to my increased role as Mr. Mom (the wife has been working a lot of hours), I've spent zero time working on anything gaming related, so I haven't had much to report on. However, I would like share a favorite product of mine. One I use extensively on my models. I've been a pretty loyal fan of GW products, despite their unreasonable prices - but the one item that I cannot bring myself to buy is their black primer, which is a spray version of their Chaos Black paint. I've resorted to a much cheaper brand, that is, in my opinon a way better value for the money. Krylon Flat Black Primer runs about $4 - $5 a can at the local hobby store. If you can find it at a Wal-mart, it's about $3. Aside from the price the other big thing for me is how fast it dries. It goes on smooth and in a fine mist, which dries to the touch in about 4 minutes. If you're into working fast, this is a great primer.

I found the GW product much thicker and heavier, which results in a longer dry time and can tend to run and obscure detail if you're not careful and this hobby is way too expensive to waste materials on.
Finally, the primer comes in White, Grey and a host of other colors. I highly recommend this product, especially in these stressful economic times.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Star Trek Friday


Jim Kirk's mom. Who knew she was that hot?

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Cool Terrain Piece


Based on a tip I read somewhere on a blog, I found this cool piece of terrain in the pet section of my local Wal-mart for $10.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Happy Halloween


Just want to wish everyone out there a safe and Happy Halloween!!!

Friday, October 30, 2009

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Space Wolf Update #4


I've made a couple of alterations on the list, deciding to drop the Lone Wolf in place of a Dreadnought, deciding (for this phase to drop the Vindicator), and go with a 5 WG in Terminator armour instead of 4 and expanding the Blood Claws to 10 instead of 9.

The main reason that I've dropped the Vindicator for the time being is that nearly every Space Wolf item from FW is backordered, and I wanted the Rhino doors for the tanks (let me know if anyone out there wants to unload any FW Space Wolf stuff - it would be faster than FW).

Anyway, I finished the two Grey Hunters packs, my Blood Claws, Njal, the Rhino and the Dreadnought. I only have the Long Fangs, Wolf Guard and Swift Claws to go. I'm working on painting a test model right now. My first go around will be to use White Primer, and maybe a 50/50 mix of Shadow Grey and Space Wolves Grey as a basecoat and then go from there. I'm curious as to what everyone else is doing.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Stargate Universe


I've been tuning into the new Stargate Universe show on Syfy. It's definitely different than it's predecessors. Much darker and more serious than the others. While it's taking some getting used to, I do like what I've seen so far. Although, they can use a little more action. Anybody else see the show yet? I did find tonight's episode, 'Light' pretty intense. Well written.

Vampire Friday


One of he hottest vampires around (not THE hottest - that spot's reserved for Kate Beckinsale), but Julie Benz is certainly free to bite me.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Happy Birthday!


Had a birthday a couple of days ago and my sister-in-law and brother-in-law got me the perfect gift: a GW gift card! My only dilemma is how to spend it. Do I add another Wolf Pack, more Wolf Guard? Canis Wolfborn? or do I pick up a Predator? Any thoughts?

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Space Wolf Update #3


So the work continues on my Space Wolves and I'm still having a blast assembling every model. Sound wierd, I know. But to help with my inspiration, I surf the web daily looking for new ideas for different poses and conversions. Thanks to all of those gamers out there that post your work. It truly helps - but that's what this community is all about.

I ordered a few accessories from FW, but it's been three weeks. A prompt reply from their support staff explained that due to the Space Wolves release, they are quickly running out of SW stock. I ordered a set of Land Raider Doors and a set of Brass Etched symbols. I've seen those used to 'wolf up' many a generic models.


Friday, October 16, 2009

Jumper Friday


Rachel Bilson from 'Jumper'

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Another Space Wolf Update







I finished building the first Grey Hunters Pack, Njal and the Rhino. For the Grey Hunters I was able to mix generic SM bits along with the new SW stuff with surprising ease. I know GW keeps saying that and so are many of the folks out there building space wolves as well. But experience has taught me is that I’ve got to see it to believe it. Some of the torso or belt bits on the new sprues are awesome and can really dress up a standard SM. I’ll have to post some pics of that experiment. But anyway, back on topic. I was also very successful in giving each model its own look and that’s just at the assembly level. There will of course be more opportunities once the models go under the brush, so I’m looking forward (for once) to actually painting them. I’m already well on my way through the second Grey Hunters Pack.

For the Rhino – again for the first time in a long while, I actually had fun building that too. I have found that I’m starting to look forward to the challenge of making every model unique. I did a couple of things differently than I normally do this time around. I decided to use the ‘gunner-required’ stormbolter instead of the shorter ‘automated’ version. I was going to actually add a gunner, but the hatch cover in the open position would not work. I also angled the smoke launchers to the side just a bit. Nothing major but again, I was looking to change things up a tad. Finally, I added some Space Wolf and fantasy Dwarf bits to make it look a lit more SW-like.

Friday, October 9, 2009

Ape Friday


Estella Warren - Planet of the Apes (2001)

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Vampire Counts - Quick Update

Last night, I tore myself away from my Space Wolves and finally broke ground on the Vampire Counts army. I've got the first unit of Skeleton Warriors assembled and I should have Mannfred assembled by tomorrow and I've begun work on the Grave Guard. I still need to take a closer look at the Blood Knights. I usually examine all of the components of a kit to see what I've got to work with so there's no surprises. I also need a couple more boxes of Skeletons, which I'll pick up this weekend.

The skeletons were surprisingly easy to assemble despite their fragile look. There wasn't much in the way of mold lines or flash and there's a vast array of bits left over that can be used for terrain or other models.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Space Wolf - 1500 WiP List


I'm working on putting an army list together, so this is very much a work in progress. The list is more based on the models that I currently have on hand more than anything else. I'll add/expand units as models become available. It's also a modified version of Phil Kelly's list over at GW.

Njal Stormcaller w/ runic Terminator Armour

Lone Wolf in Terminator armour and twin Wolf Claws


Wolf Guard Pack
WG in Terminator armour and twin Wolf Claws
WG in Terminator armour, with assault cannon and chainfist
WG in Terminator armour with Thunder hammer and Storm shield
WG in Terminator armour with Powerfist and stormbolter
WG in power armour with Thunder hammer

8 Grey Hunters with melta gun and plasma pistol

8 Grey Hunters with plasma gun, power fist, and Wolf Standard

9 Blood Claws with power weapon

3 Swiftclaw Bikers with melta gun and power fist

6 Long Fangs with 2 heavy bolters, 2 lascannons, and 1 missile launcher

1 Vindicator

1 Rhino (Blood Claws)

Total Points - 1485

Monday, October 5, 2009

Grey Hunter Elrik Bloodeye



I finally had a minute to sit down and actually mess around with the Wolf Pack kit. I can't get over how much stuff is in there! There are so many options, it's practically impossible to duplicate any single model. The only thing that I'm not happy with is how the backpacks are attached to the sprues - right on the exhaust nozzles. That makes for a trimming nightmare. I screwed up the first one, so I had to go with a plastic wolf's head backpack. I need to be careful on the next one.

Anyway, here's a shot of my first SW Grey Hunter. I present Wolf-Brother Elrik Bloodeye. Elrik has served in Lord Ragnar's Great Company for over five decades and has distinguished himself on the battlefield time and time again. Elrik lost his eye to battling Dark Eldar pirates in the Shadow Nebula (I totally made that up).

The new Space Wolf models are awesome and great fun to build. I only hope that my imagination can keep up with the army as it grows.

Space Wolves - Army List Question


I was working on my list and comparing it to the 2k list in the latest White Dwarf and noticed that the Grey Hunters pack has the wrong point total. At least according to the Codex if I read it right.

According to the GH entry in the Codex, if there are ten models in the pack, the unit made add another special weapon at no extra cost. That said, shouldn't the total point cost for the pack be reduced by 10 points? Just want to make sure that I have it right.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Wolves come to Chicago


I made my early morning trek out to the Bunker this morning. One of the staffers was in very early due to a Bloodbowl tournament, so he was kind enough to let me in to pick up the new Codex.

I headed home with a Codex, a box of Wolfguard Terminators and a Wolfpack kit, which was about all my budget can handle this week (damn mortgage!). I've spent most of my down time reading the background section of the codex today, but I did open the boxes to inspect the sprues and I've got to say, I'm going to have blast building these models. During the course of next week, I'll have a working army list and will begin building the models.

I did glance ahead at the list entries and couldn't find any upgrade for twin wolf claws, yet I've seen pictures of Wolf Guard with a pair. Do you have purchase two Wolf Claws individually?

Friday, October 2, 2009

Space Wolves - Getting Started

A couple of models arrived in the mail the other day, so I decided to get to work on them right away.




The Wolf Guard required a little bit of work to secure the model to the base. The blister includes a metal terrain base with Ork icons that the model would stand on. The model was cast with a peg under it's right foot which is supposed to fit into the hole drilled through the metal base. But the peg was no where near snug enough to support the weight of the model. So I removed the peg, drilled holes in the bottom of the foot and the base (which had glued to a standard infantry base) all the way through and used some brass rod to secure.

I also received Ulrik the Slayer in the maild, which a single piece assembly (except for the backpack). I glued him to the base and gave him a couple coats of primer. I didn't attach the back pack yet as it would make the wolf cape difficult if not impossible to paint.

New Space Wolves


I hate to say it, but this weekend the new Space Wolves are coming out and they are way too cool NOT to collect. I know that's not the first time that I've made that statement, but I've been wanting to start this army for a while now. I'm a big fan of Norse mythology and this Space Marine chapter is right up my alley. I grew up reading Thor and probably read Beowulf a half dozen times. And needless to say, the 13th Warrior and Pathfinder are two of my favorite films. So the way I see it, it's only right that I collect an army of these barbaric, but noble warriors.

What does that mean for my Crimson Fists? I'm not sure. I can't promise that I won't become disenchanted with the new Space Wolves eventually, but from what I've seen and read, they play quite differently from any other non-codex chapter. I like the sound of that. I've never played them before, so I don't have any comparison to make between the old and new. I'll have to play a couple of games and see how I like them. But I'm sure that I'm not the only gamer out there chompin' at the bit, despite the numerous projects sitting on his workbench. But anyway, keep checking back because I'll be throwing up some Vampire Counts and Space Wolves stuff over the next couple of weeks.

SG*U Friday


I love Fridays, especially this week! I had an unusually stressful week with work and I'm looking forward to a weekend of non-work. But I'm also excited because the new Stargate series begins tonight. Speaking of which, the beautiful Ming-Na will be part of the cast. Mmm Mmm good.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Vampire Counts List


It's October which means Halloween. So in the spirit of one of the coolest holidays, I've decided to start a Vampire Counts army. I quickly came up with a list on my lunch hour. I've already got most of the stuff, I just have to build it and play it. Let me know what you think.

Count Mannfred w/ nightmare, Book of Arkhan
Vampire - flying horror, Sword of Might, Black Wrist-bands of Gold
20 Skeletons w/ cmd (x2)
10 Dire Wolves (x2)
1 Bat Swarm (3 bases)
20 Grave Guard w/ cmd, Banner of Barrows
5 Blood Knights w/ cmd, Banner of the Dead Legion

1,995 points, 90 models
Except for the Bat Swarms and a box of skeletons, I've got everything I need, so the investment will be minimal.

Friday, September 25, 2009

New Blog - Old Fang Keep

Hey all,

Check out this new blog:

http://oldfangkeep.blogspot.com

Haunted Friday


I've been a fan of Ghosthunters since the first season, but I became a HUGE fan in Season 3 when the lovely Kris Williams joined the team.

Monday, September 21, 2009

Fast Crimson Fist Update

Okay, with the new school year in full swing, my kids have been keeping me busy. But I did finish expanding out 2nd Squad and completed two Rhinos. I decided to go with a standard Terminator Squad instead of the Assault Termies that you saw a while back. I'm going to shelve those temporarily. I have also completed assembly of a Dreadnought and will be ready to paint. After this, I'm going with a Scout Squad w/ master scout sgt and maybe a Land Raider.

Friday, September 18, 2009

Charisma Friday


One of the sexiest women to come out of Vegas!

Friday, September 11, 2009

Shark Friday!


So I was watching the 1999 Sci Fi thriller (or should I say Syfy) Deep Blue Sea last night and Saffron Burrows found one sexy way to fight off a genetically enhanced mutant shark. I wish I could find a better still shot, but this was the best I could do. I guess you'll have to just check out the movie for yourself. There's something about a hot, wet, sun-tanned babe in her underwear that makes me want to go shark fishin'. Enjoy.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Space Hulk - Mission XIII

Games Workshop has just posted the thirteenth mission for Space Hulk. Click here to download the PDF. Mission XIII is not really a mission, but rather a series of steps to help you design your own missions. The PDF is a template to record your mission rules, objectives, etc. as well as to record your map on a grid.

While not what I expected, it's still a decent guideline for creating your own. Man, the ideas are already coming to me. But the only thing that stinks about the article by GW is that, they only placed the template in downloadable PDF form. I would have loved a downloadable version of the article in it's entirity.

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Space Hulk - Review


As this is my first exposure to the game of Space Hulk in any of it's incarnations, I've got quite a bit to comment on. Let me first echo the words of most gamers out there and say that this game is awesome! Truly one of GW's best products - I hope it doesn't end here. I think it would be a tremendously bad business decision on their part. Give the people what they want - more Space Hulk!!!!

Okay enough of that. On to what my thoughts are on the game. The overall quality of the product is definitely first rate. Not hard to see why it was priced at $100!! Nicely sculpted models and well designed tiles and counters.

Models
These are some of the best space marine models ever to come off GW's line. The detail is phenomenal and the poses are truly heroic. With regard to the space marines each model is unique with no duplicates. The space marine sprues had all components numbers, so it was impossible to mix up the parts. Everything snapped together well and each part fit tightly. No need to glue anything. The only down side I had with the models is there are too many smaller badges and decorations that could snap off if one isn't careful. I suggest packing them away and using standard kits as stand-ins if your playing the game with a younger crowd. If GW is serious about not producing any more sets, it would be a shame to damage such well crafted pieces. I used a small dab of Krazy Glue to reinforce any delicate stems or decorations. The Genestealer models are a bit more forgiving and there are 11 poses (except for the Broodlord, which is unique) with two of each sculpt. Also, these all fit together nicely with little or no trouble. The set that I had showed very little flash or mold lines.

Game Tiles/Counters
Again, definitely first rate work. Very thick card stock with great detail on the tiles. I thought that I would find it difficult to set up the game board, but the Mission Book (despite the smaller image) was sharp enough to identify each tile for placement. So it was pretty easy getting the map set up. I separated the tiles into categories (rooms, 3 space corridors, 4 space corridors, T-junctions, etc). Then it was easier to hunt down the proper pieces. When punching out each counter or tile, I would suggest punching it out from the bottom up. It seems there less of a risk of ripping off the top later of the counter.

Rulebook
I found the rules very clear and there was, in my opinion very little content that could be misinterpreted or misunderstood. Almost every aspect of the rules were covered in text as well as full color visual examples. Even a neanderthal like me could understand them. All actions were clearly identified for ease of reference. If you're looking to preserve the boxed set, run to Kinko's, get some copies and throw 'em in sheet protectors. Also, a quick reference sheet on the back really helps speed up game play. The rules are quick to pick up, which is good. I tried a couple of games out with my oldest daughter and we ran through it in stages. First, just getting the hang of the turn sequence and combat. Then running through it again (same mission) and adding the other rules like Overwatch and Guard. For right now, we don't use the timer until we get the rules down.

Mission Book
What can I say, the fluff is freakin' awesome. In fact, after reading that, I jumped online and bought a copy of the Space Hulk Novel. There's just the right amount of backgound to get a non-40k player hooked. There was also some history on the Blood Angels chapter. Those creative players could easily come up with a similar background for alternate chapters in order to play the game. Each mission (there's twelve) is laid out with a full color page for the map set up. Finally, the Mission Book contains a background for each of the Terminator models.

Accessories/Box
The box bottom has color images of many of the models and a small Painting Guide, showing which colors were used for the models. I like the bone colored dice, although, other players might use their own set of dice if the color doesn't suit them. The time is a simple hourglass, but the word out there is that it isn't really a full three minutes, so you might consider an egg time or stop watch.

Final Comments - All in all, I really love this game and it was definitely worth every penny of my investment. I went through a couple of games and it can be quite addictive. Can't wait to take another crack at it. I'm going to read through the rules again to see what I missed or got wrong and then have another go at it. I'll hold off on painting them for now. I'm thinking of an alternate color scheme for the genestealers. I definitely recommend this game for every GW fan and I sincerely hope that this isn't the last we see of Space Hulk from Games Workshop. But hey, how about re-doing Warhammer Quest!!

Friday, September 4, 2009

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Space Hulk Thursday!

F-I-N-A-L-L-Y!!! At long last, I am in possession of my very own copy of Space Hulk! After work, I thought I'd put a call into the Battle Bunker and see if I can whine my way into getting my copy distributed to me today. Lo and behold, the red shirts there, without so much as an arguement, tell me to come right in and pick it up!

I just got home and I've locked myself in a room so I can savor every second of opening the box in peace. I won't post pics, as my fellow bloggers have already done so, but I'll throw up a quick post tomorrow with my initial thoughts. Then I'll recruit my 11 year old daughter and try and get a couple of games in.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Wednesday Rant

Gamers all over the internet are posting pics and reviews of their newly arrived Space Hulk games. So I popped into my local GW store where my game was to be delivered and checked with the staff. They did acknowledge that they received a substantial number of copies of the game, but will not be putting them out until Saturday. Of course, when I requested that I get mine now, it was explained to me that I couldn't have it until the store received the invoices. Some paperwork screw of some sort.

So despite the fact that I paid for my copy in advance and had it shipped to the store, I am being penalized. At the risk of sounding like a spoiled brat, why can't I have mine, just like everybody else? GW took my money quick enough.

Monday, August 31, 2009

Assault Terminators - WIP


So I started working on my Terminator Squad. I originally wanted a standard squad with a heavy flamer or assault cannon, but the Assault Squad was all that I had on hand and at $50 a box, I was willing to put that one off. Any way, I got the legs and torsos together nad I've decided to go with 3 lightning claws and 2 thunder hammers. This round will be nothing fancy. In fact, I modeled them after the examples on the box. I'm hoping to start painting them by the end of the week.

Friday, August 28, 2009

Rubio's 500 - Done!!


I finally finished my first 500 points of Crimson Fists. It took a while, but I really feel like I've accomplished something. My first COMPLETELY PAINTED army, albeit a small one. Okay, take a look and enjoy, while I head downstairs and get to work on my next unit.

Zombie Friday


I sat down and watched Night of the Living Dead (3D), a cheesy version released back in 1996. That's 90 minutes of my life that I will never get back. But what kept my attention was this little hottie. Granted, she wasn't real sexy, with her hair all matted, but I knew there was something about her. So, I decided to google the young lady. Here's what I found.

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Predator - Done



...well 99% done. After looking at these shots, the tank looks a little too pristine. So I'm going to add some highlights on the edges and maybe some scrapes or weathering and then that should do it.

This tank is called the Righteous Blade, and the Black Templar iconography represents it's participation in the Declates crusade. Maybe I should hand paint a few more honors on her hull.

I've also finished painting the 10-man Tac Squad and theres about 3 models left to paint on the 5-man squad, then I'm done with the 500 point list. I think, in honor of Space Hulk, I'll paint up a squad of Terminators.