Orks in 6th : Battlewagons

I want to start talking about the Orks since (at least for me) they seem easier to comprehend how they function in 6th edition. I also want to start from specifics before I move on to any general conclusions.

So, the mighty Battlewagons. They've been a staple for my army for a while now and I've been relying on them to deliver my Boyz in to the enemy lines. They gave me mobility (almost a guaranteed second turn charge) and they were very durable if you tagged along a Mek with a Kustom Force Field for the ride. So how has this changed with 6th edition?

First of all , like all other vehicles out there, Battlewagons are so much easier to destroy now. Sure, they have 4 Hull points but that's not much if you think about it. With the increased mobility (Flyers, FMC) this edition brings, it's very easy to get some side/rear armour shots on the Battlewagons even from the first turn and that munches the hull points away very fast. Take in to account that KFF only gives a 5+ cover save (and generally most of the saves you'll be getting are going to be 5+), so you can't rely on them for their survival.

Also, Battlewagons are going to explode much easier these days . With +2 on the damage roll table for AP1 weapons, +1 for AP2 weapons, still having +1 for being open topped and how much easier they are going to get hit in close combat (with AP2 close combat weapons too) you can see that they won't stay around for long. To add insult to injury, now the hits the passengers of an open topped vehicle that explodes are Strength 4. You could potentially lose half your squad from an explosion. Not good at all!

Let's look at the logistics of charge range. Our test subject is charging on the second turn with a Waaagh!(assuming your opponent didn't come near you).

5th Edition: 13''+13''+3''+D6''+6 = 36'' - 41''

6th Edition : 19'' + 7'' + 6'' + 2D6'' = 34 - 44''

Pretty much the same eh? With a bit of luck it's even better.

Well, the main problem is that if you want to keep up with 5th edition range you have to move 19'' inches in the first turn. That pushes you way too forward, way too early. Now the Battlewagon is going to be in a dire position. In range of everyone's meltaguns and offering loads of shots on it's side (even rear) armour. Maybe half of the Boyz die in the ensuing explosion and now they are stuck in a crater with 5+ cover save. Are they going to survive the opponents shooting? Probably not. Also if you consider the lethality of 6th edition (more shooting, less cover saves) I think that just 20 Boyz just won't cut it.

I think Battlewagons took a hit in this edition. Easier to kill, more dangerous for their passengers and not that useful overall. I am very used playing them and I love the models but I think I will have to let them go for the time being. 

Stay tuned for more of my thoughts concerning the orks very soon!