How to Build a Death Guard Rhino

In the grim darkness of the far future, there's nothing quite as awe-inspiring as the rhythmic tread of a Death Guard Rhino rumbling across the battlefield. A true icon of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, this armored beast is not just a durable and mobile transport, but a symbol of resilience and brute force. So, how do you bring this much-loved model to life? Let's dive into the process of making a Death Guard Rhino, complete with tips, tricks, and a few helpful shortcuts.

First things first, you're going to need the right tools and materials. A basic Hobby kit will suffice: super glue, Games Workshop's Citadel paints, a craft knife, fine-grit sandpaper, and a good-quality paintbrush. For the Rhino model itself, you can find it in the 'Death Guard' or 'Speed Freeks' box sets, or as a standalone model. Ready to start building? Let's get into the detail.

The Assault Vehicle: Basic Construction

The Death Guard Rhino kit comprises around 70 components, including the main hull, front and rear sponsons, tracks, hatch, and various weapon options. The assembly process is quite straightforward, but there are a few key areas to focus on.

Firstly, ensure you dry fit all parts before gluing. This helps you avoid any potential issues with poor fitting. For the chassis, start by gluing the side and rear panels in place, followed by the front panels. Take care to align the-panel edges neatly to ensure a smooth, flush finish. Next, attach the etched detail plates to the front and sides of the Rhino, applying the tiniest drop of superglue in the designated spots.

Weapon Options: The Chainsword

A staple of the Death Guard, the Chainsword adds a delightful touch of brutality to your Rhino. To attach, first identify the mounting point on the left-side sponson. Glue the Chainsword's mounting bracket in place, then carefully insert the Chainsword itself, ensuring it sits securely and points in the correct direction.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can magnetize the Chainsword to allow for quick swap-outs. This involves drilling out the mounting bracket and magnet, then attaching the magnet and modeller's putty to the Chainsword. Now, you can simply click the Chainsword in and out as desired.

The Minqar, a Death Guard Exclusive

In true Death Guard tradition, your Rhino can sport a noxious Minqar. This bubo-infused microwave emitter is typically attached to the Rhino's right sponson. First, glue the Minqar's support pylon to the sponson, taking care to align it correctly. Then, attach the Minqar itself, ensuring it sits securely and points in the right direction.

As with the Chainsword, you can magnetize the Minqar for easy swap-outs. Following the same process as above, you can switch between the Minqar and other weapons, such as a Multi-Melta, with ease.

Detailing: Basing and Final Touches

With the main assembly complete, it's time to add those extra details that make your Rhino truly unique. Start by attaching the track guards, which are placed either side of the Rhino hull. Then, move on to the hatch, complete with its retro-futuristic controls and dials. Glue this into place on the Rhino's roof, taken care to ensure it sits flush with the hull.

The final step in construction is adding the tracks. These are long and can be quite fiddly, so take your time. begins by glue gunning the track's ends together to create a loop. Then, using a small dab of superglue, affix the track's inside edge to the underside of the Rhino. Hold in place for a few seconds to ensure a strong bond.

Basing: From Battlefield to Graveyard World

Basing your Rhino adds that final touch of individuality. Start by gluing your Rhino to a suitable base, either 40mm or 50mm, depending on your preference. Then, using a mix of sand, flock, and any other fine debris you prefer, create a battlefield-appropriate base. For the Death Guard, consider adding scenic elements that reflect their Nurgle-themed aesthetics, such as contaminated pools or writhing maggots.

Another popular basing technique is to paint your Rhino with an undercoat of Citadel's texture spray -'Adeptus Mechanicus Icarus Arc Pistons', perhaps - then dry-brush with 'Leadbelcher' before applying weathering powders to create that battle-worn effect. Don't forget to add statuary or other scenic elements to really bring your base to life.

The Final Touches: Weathering and Custom Touches

Once based, it's time to add those final weathering effects that turn a new Rhino into a seasoned war machine. Start by applying a wash of 'Nuln Oil' or 'Agrax Earthshade' to pick out any crevices and panel lines. Then, using a dry-brush technique, add 'Leadbelcher' to the raised edges to really bring out the details.

For those all-important custom touches, consider adding squad markings or a personalized vehicle number. Using your finest paintbrush, carefully paint these details onto your Rhino. The Death Guard is known for its eccentricity, so feel free to let your imagination run wild.

With your Death Guard Rhino complete, it's ready to rumble across any tabletop battlefield. Remember, each model is a unique opportunity to express your creativity and hobbyist skill. As you progress on your Warhammer journey, you'll find the joy lies not just in victory - but in the crafting, the building, the painting. Now go forth, and may your Rhino always roll.