The T'au Empire Pathfinder Team has long been a staple for players who value speed, precision, and advanced scouting tactics on the battlefield. In this review, we'll dissect the kit itself, from sprues to assembly, and provide a step-by-step painting guide to help you get the most out of these agile warriors. Whether you're a seasoned T'au commander or just starting your first Warhammer 40k T'au army, this guide covers everything you need to know.
We'll also touch on how the Pathfinder Team fits into the current meta, what makes them a must-have for objective control, and how to customize your models to stand out. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of what this kit offers and how to paint it to a tabletop standard quickly.
What's in the Box?
The T'au Empire Pathfinder Team kit is a multi-part plastic set that builds ten Pathfinders, each with a variety of weapon options. You'll find sprues packed with details, including the iconic pulse carbines, markerlights, and a dedicated drone or two. The kit also includes a wealth of accessories like backpacks, antennae, and sensor equipment, allowing for plenty of customization.
One of the standout features is the inclusion of the new Pathfinder Shas'ui, who can be equipped with a pulse accelerator drone or a grav-inhibitor drone, adding tactical flexibility. The plastic quality is top-notch, with crisp details and easy-to-cut gates. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, assembly is straightforward, though we recommend dry-fitting pieces before gluing.
- Ten highly detailed Pathfinder models
- Multiple weapon options including pulse carbines and rail rifles
- Includes drones and support equipment
- Easy-to-follow instructions with clear part numbers
Step-by-Step Assembly Tips
Before you start, ensure you have a sharp hobby knife and plastic glue. Begin by cleaning up the parts with a file or sanding stick to remove mold lines. Pay special attention to the legs and arms, as these are the most visible. We recommend assembling the torso and legs first, then attaching the arms and weapons. The heads can be left off until after painting for easier access.
For the drones, consider magnetizing the top turret to swap between different configurations. This adds versatility to your force. Also, be mindful of the antennae—they're delicate, so handle them with care. If you're looking for a quicker build, you can skip the shoulder pads and extra gear, but we think the added detail is worth the effort.
- Use Tamiya Extra Thin Cement for a clean bond
- Consider painting sub-assemblies for hard-to-reach areas
- Magnetize drone weapons for flexibility
Painting Guide: Tabletop Standard in Easy Steps
For a classic T'au color scheme, start with a base coat of Corax White or Grey Seer spray. Apply a layer of Tau Light Ochre for the main armor panels, leaving the under-suit in a darker tone like Rhinox Hide or Mournfang Brown. Use a fine brush to pick out details like lenses and sensors with a bright color, such as Mephiston Red or a glowing green.
To add depth, use a wash like Agrax Earthshade or Nuln Oil in the recesses. After that, apply a highlight of Ungor Flesh or a lighter ochre to the edges. For the cloth parts, a simple drybrush of a lighter brown can work wonders. Don't forget to paint the base—use a texture paint like Armageddon Dust and drybrush with Tyrant Skull for a desert look.
If you're looking for a more advanced technique, consider using an airbrush for smooth gradients on the larger panels. But even with a brush, this scheme is achievable. For the drones, a simple metallic scheme with a colored stripe can make them pop.
- Prime with a light color to make the ochre pop
- Use a fine detail brush for lenses and sensors
- Apply a wash to add depth quickly
Gameplay and Tactical Role in Warhammer 40k
In the current edition, Pathfinders are invaluable for their Markerlight ability, which allows them to tag enemy units, granting your other units re-rolls to hit. This makes them a force multiplier, especially when combined with a Commander or Crisis Suits. Their Scout move and Infiltrator ability let them secure early objectives and control the board.
Equipping them with rail rifles can give them anti-tank punch, while the drones provide mobility and protection. They're a glass cannon, so keep them in cover and use their speed to reposition. In a T'au army, they synergize well with units like the 30MM ARMORED CORE VI FIRES OF RUBICON #04 RaD CC-2000 Orbiter, which can provide additional fire support.
30MM ARMORED CORE VI FIRES OF RUBICON #04 RaD CC-2000 Orbiter
If you're expanding your T'au collection, consider pairing your Pathfinders with a Combat Patrol box or other units to build a balanced force. The Pathfinder Team is a solid addition to any T'au list, offering both utility and firepower.
Customization and Conversion Ideas
The Pathfinder kit is a converter's dream. With a bit of green stuff, you can create dynamic poses or even convert them into a different cadre. For instance, you could use the legs from a Crisis Suit to make a more heavily armored scout. The spare parts from other kits, like the Gundam Marker - Brush Type Black GM20, can add weathering details to your models.
Gundam Marker - Brush Type Black GM20
Another idea is to use the drone parts to create a unique markerlight drone or a shield drone. You can also swap the heads with those from other T'au kits to add variety. The key is to experiment and make the models your own.
Final Verdict
The T'au Empire Pathfinder Team is an excellent kit that offers great value for both new and veteran hobbyists. The build is enjoyable, the painting potential is high, and their gameplay role is crucial. If you're into T'au, this is a must-have. For those looking to add to their collection, consider the Warhammer 40000: Combat Patrol: Death Guard as a contrast, or the Mr. Color Paint C393 Russian Aircraft Blue II 10ml for a unique color scheme.
Overall, we highly recommend this kit. It's a fantastic addition to any Warhammer 40k T'au army and provides hours of hobby enjoyment.
Whether you're a T'au veteran or a newcomer, the Pathfinder Team is an essential purchase. Its versatility on the tabletop and in your hobby time makes it a standout kit. Be sure to check out our store for this and other T'au units to bolster your forces.
