Of course the models have been updated, with new Dark Angels and upgrades to better match the chonky Primaris scale. I still think these have more character though.
I've been somewhat underwhelmed by the new Dark Angel models and lore. Which is a relief as I already have a ton of Primaris to paint so I don't need any other temptations
But I long ago came to the conclusion this was just a painting project. The rules for Astartes are a little too complex for me with Space Marine Codex and Dark Angel Codex Supplements. Too expensive n'all.
But I love these guys and they look great alongside the other 5 I painted in May 2020.
Although, part of me does like the idea of them all rocking up in their Land Raider Redeemer.
At some point I might need a Chaplain in Terminator Armour to go with them but no urgency.
Here's my assault terminators.
I went with molten metal lightning claws. On the one hand [claw?] I think they are awesome - the absolute best choice I could have made and the best effort at painting molten metal I've done.
Genuinely I look at them and I see the blades as good as any tutorial I've watched explaining how to paint the technique.
Anon the other hand [claw?] they just look like I've dry-brushed the edges black! 😂
It seems like there isn't much effort there, but there both was and wasn't.
It too k a fair bit but it was much easier this time. I have some WiPs I'll share later that might help give a clue to myself how easy it was, should I ever decide to do it again - I will.
The Deathwing banner felt like a monumental challenge, but again it was much easier than I expected. It doesn't quite match my lore.
I would have liked to do it as Ferron Proxima, with the angel dark skinned, but I feared it might look odd against the knowledge of how it's supposed to look. Like the image was in negative. Gort, the squad sergeant is great, even if his own banner is a little underwhelming in comparison.
The ex-Deathwatch veteran and 'come-at-me' bro
Command and heavy weapons.
On the left we have an original metal Rogue Trader[ish] era Grey Knight terminator with lightning claws. About 75% of the paintwork is original from no later than 1992 - 32 years as a WiP. Plasma Cannon and Apothecary [which I believe has been removed from the codex...].
Heavy Flamer and Company Champion.
Even the Apothecary's Storm Bolter Bayonet is red hot! Although the Champion's Halberd wears it somewhat better.
Plasma Cannon and lightning claws - the longest WiP I think I'll ever do!